China accuses Australia of deliberate provocation in South China Sea

China said Friday that Australia was spreading “false narratives” by conducting a maritime patrol in the disputed South China Sea this week, provoking it on purpose. However, Australia insisted that its actions were in accordance with international law.

A Chinese PLA J-16 jet reportedly set off flares within 30 meters of a RAAF aircraft, according to Australia’s defense minister. The incident coincides with strained relations between the navy and air force, which Australia has described as dangerous.

The remarks made on Friday followed Australia’s “unsafe and unprofessional” actions against the patrol, which it claimed was on routine surveillance in international waters on Tuesday. Beijing disputes this account.

Australia deliberately infringed upon China’s rights in the South China Sea and provoked China, yet it was the villain who complained first, spreading false narratives,” said Zhang Xiaogang, a spokesperson for the Chinese defense ministry.

Zhang accused the Australian military aircraft of ignoring the main routes in the busy waterway, saying it “broke into the homes” of others, and adding that China’s response was reasonable and a legitimate defense of sovereignty.

“We urge Australia to abandon its illusion of speculation and adventure,” Zhang said.

He urged Australia to restrain its frontline naval and air forces, instead of “stirring up trouble” in the South China Sea to the detriment of others and itself.

Before the Chinese comments, Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told reporters, “We regard this action as unsafe. We’ve made that clear.” visits JAPANTODAY