Ministry of National Defense Spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang Answers Reporters' Questions on Japanese Self-Defense Force Vessels Transiting the Taiwan Strait

Reporter: On April 17, a Japan Self-Defense Forces vessel transited the Taiwan Strait. What is your comment on this?

Zhang Xiaogang: The Japanese destroyer "Asahi" transited the Taiwan Strait, and the Eastern Theater Command organized naval and air forces to monitor it throughout the entire process, effectively maintaining control. We have made solemn representations to the Japanese side and expressed strong protests. This action by Japan is a deliberate provocation, a repeated mistake; what is their intention? Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has made erroneous statements regarding Taiwan and has yet to show any remorse. The Japan Self-Defense Forces' activities in the Taiwan Strait send the wrong signal to the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, which will only incite greater indignation among the Chinese people and further strengthen our resolve to counter Japan's provocative actions. We urge the Japanese side to recognize their mistakes, adhere to the One China principle and the spirit of the four political documents between China and Japan, and not to stray further down the wrong path. The Chinese military will always maintain a high level of readiness and resolutely counter all foreign interference attempts, safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity.