HMS Spey's Strategic Sail Through Taiwan Strait
British Royal Navy vessel HMS Spey recently navigated through the Taiwan Strait in an action complying with international law, according to a Navy spokesperson. This marks the first such passage by a British warship since 2021. The move occurs amidst ongoing UK-China diplomatic efforts to improve relations.
A British Royal Navy patrol vessel, HMS Spey, has made a significant passage through the Taiwan Strait, the Navy confirmed on Thursday. This maneuver was part of a pre-planned deployment, strictly adhering to international law, as stated by a Navy spokesperson.
The Ministry of Defence did not specify the exact timing of this passage, which marks the first occurrence since HMS Richmond traversed the strait in 2021. At that time, the Chinese military shadowed and warned against the British vessel, underscoring the tension over the contested waters claimed by China as its territory.
This recent navigation occurs as Britain and China attempt to repair strained relations, with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer poised for a visit to Beijing later this year, marking the first official visit by a British leader in five years. The diplomatic trip is seen as an essential step in thawing bilateral ties.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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