Reference News Network reported on November 27 that Hong Kong’s Asia Times website published an article on November 25 that the Canadian Navy’s activities in the Western Pacific have increased significantly over the past two years, and warships flying the maple leaf flag have become a common sight in this unstable region. However, although Canada is an ally with the United States, which is increasingly worried about China, the idea that Ottawa is sending a navy there to challenge Beijing is grossly exaggerated. Canada is cautious about challenging China on the South China Sea issue.
According to reports, Blair Saltaire, the commander of the Canadian frigate Calgary, said that Canada hopes to send one or two warships to the area every year. There has been speculation that Canada is ready to join the 'Freedom of Navigation' operation initiated by the United States in the waters surrounding China.
According to the article, the Canadian Ministry of National Defense stated that the Royal Canadian Navy is a force deployed globally. It operates independently in accordance with Canadian defense policies and provides support to allies and partners to promote security and stability around the world.
The article pointed out that, in addition, when talking about the controversial East China Sea and South China Sea issues, the Canadian Ministry of Defense is very cautious. The Canadian Department of Defense emphasized that although “Canada supports the principles of freedom of navigation and overflight in accordance with international law, including the rights of coastal countries, Canada generally does not comment on foreign maritime borders or territorial disputes.”
According to the article, Dave Perry, deputy director of the Canadian Institute of Global Affairs, pointed out that Canada refers to its military deployments in the Asia-Pacific region as 'existence patrols' and does not use the term 'freedom of navigation', which is meaningful. .
The article mentioned that last month, the 'Calgary' and the Canadian naval supply ship 'Asterix' sailed through the South China Sea together. Up to now, Canadian 'Halifax'-class frigates have conducted anti-submarine warfare exercises with American and Japanese ships in the waters surrounding Japan and have carried out multilateral operations.