China firmly opposes provocative acts on 'freedom of navigation' pretext

BEIJING -- A Chinese defense spokesperson on Saturday expressed firm opposition to other countries' actions aimed at provoking China or harming China's sovereignty on the pretext of "freedom of navigation."

Wu Qian, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks in response to a question about two German warships sailing through the Taiwan Strait on Friday, citing "freedom of navigation."

Naval and air force troops of the People's Liberation Army Eastern Theater Command monitored the warships throughout the transit, Wu said, noting that freedom of navigation does not equal willful trespassing, nor should it be used to provoke China or harm China's sovereignty and security.

The Chinese military remains on high alert and will take all necessary measures to resolutely defend China's national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and firmly safeguard peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, he said.