New Zealand and Australia Naval Ships Navigate Taiwan Strait Amidst Regional Tensions

New Zealand and Australian naval vessels sailed through the Taiwan Strait, termed as a routine operation by New Zealand Defence Minister Judith Collins. This marks the first New Zealand transit since 2017. The move, signifying commitment to international law, occurs amidst rising tensions over the strait's sovereignty claimed by China.

Naval vessels from New Zealand and Australia navigated the Taiwan Strait on Wednesday, confirmed New Zealand Defence Minister Judith Collins on Thursday. Collins emphasized that the transit, starting at 2 pm local time, adhered strictly to international law and was a routine operation.

Collins highlighted that it was the first transit by a New Zealand naval ship through the strait since 2017. Australia's Department of Defence echoed the 'routine' nature of the mission, signaling a commitment to a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

China has always claimed full sovereignty over the Taiwan Strait, countering international views of it as an international waterway. The transit comes at a time of heightened military activities by China around Taiwan and marks a continued tension in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)