It should be noted that the Australian military aircraft chose not to take the clear path but instead intruded into someone else’s territory in the South China Sea, he said.
He added that China’s expulsion of the aircraft was entirely reasonable and lawful, beyond reproach, and a legitimate defence of national sovereignty and security.
“We urge Australia to abandon its risky and reckless behaviour, strictly restrain its front-line naval and air forces, and not act as a follower and enforcer, stirring up trouble in the South China Sea to the detriment of others and itself,” he said.