Beijing, Sep 12 (AP) China's latest aircraft carrier, the Fujian, recently navigated the Taiwan Strait, according to an official statement from the navy on Friday. This strategic waterway separates China from Taiwan, a self-governing island that Beijing insists should eventually fall under its jurisdiction. The passage of the Fujian is seen as a potential signal to the US and other supporters of Taiwan, albeit China has downplayed any direct diplomatic implications. The carrier is currently undergoing sea trials in preparation for commissioning and was reportedly en route to the South China Sea for training exercises and scientific research, the navy stated via a brief social media post. They emphasized that the carrier's movements were not intended as a threat to any other nation. A state media-affiliated social media account cited an expert highlighting that the Taiwan Strait is a logical and efficient route for the carrier's journey to its destination. This marks the first instance of the Fujian passing through this vital strait, according to details shared by the Yuyuantantian account. Historically, the US Navy and several allies have also navigated the strait to discourage any forceful attempts by Beijing to assert its claim on Taiwan. The historical context of Taiwan and China stems from the 1949 civil conflict when communist forces gained control of mainland China, prompting the Nationalist government to retreat to Taiwan and establish a separate administration. Although the US does not officially recognize Taiwan's government, it continues to supply military equipment to aid its defense and advocates for peaceful resolutions to the cross-strait tensions, opposing military interventions. Last week, China's military declared it was on heightened alert following the passage of the Canadian frigate Quebec and the Australian destroyer Brisbane through the strait, accusing these vessels of provocative behavior that increased security concerns. On Thursday afternoon, Japan's military observed the Fujian, accompanied by two guided-missile destroyers, about 200 km from the Senkaku Islands—referred to as the Diaoyu Islands in China—a disputed area claimed by both nations. The carrier was reportedly heading towards the Taiwan Strait at that time. (AP)
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