Chinese state media on Wednesday reported that the U.S. Navy’s USS Ralph Johnson destroyer and USNS Bowditch survey ship passed through the Taiwan Strait between Monday and Wednesday. The disclosure raised concerns as China rarely reports ships passing in the Strait, and neither the U.S. nor Taiwan had confirmed the details.
In response, the Defense Ministry emphasized the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Ministry Spokesperson Sun Li-fang (孫立方) assured the public that there is a close and coordinated mechanism between both sides to manage the overall situation but declined to provide specific details on military cooperation with allied countries, citing the sensitive nature of military and security agreements.
Regarding China’s protest over U.S. military presence in the Taiwan Strait, the Defense Ministry pointed out that surrounding nations recognize which party is escalating tensions and reiterated support for freedom of navigation in the Taiwan Strait.
The Defense Ministry also expressed optimism about actions that promote regional peace and stability, following Japanese media reports that the U.S. and Japan will hold a defense meeting in late March to address China’s influence and strengthen Japan’s southwestern defense.