TAIPEI/BEIJING: Taiwan's defense ministry said this week that the Taiwan Strait does not belong to China, and any attempts to create tension in the area could harm global security. This statement came after China criticized Canada for sailing a warship through the strait.

The U.S. Navy and its allies, including Canada, Britain, and France, regularly sail through the Taiwan Strait, treating it as an international waterway. Taiwan agrees with this view, but China claims the strait as its territory.

Last week, the first U.S. Navy ships passed through the strait since President Trump took office, angering China. In response, China conducted military patrols. Taiwan's defense ministry said China is trying to falsely present the strait as an internal matter, while freedom of navigation by friendly countries proves it is an international route.

Taiwan also reported increased Chinese military activity near the island, with 41 Chinese aircraft and nine ships spotted in the past 24 hours.

China's military accused Canada of "stirring up trouble" by sailing a warship through the strait. However, Canada defended its actions, saying it was ensuring free navigation under international law. Taiwan welcomed Canada's move, calling it a strong statement in support of peace and open access to the strait.

Taiwan's government, elected democratically, rejects China's claim over the island and insists that only the people of Taiwan can decide their future.