Summary
A New Zealand naval ship was watched by the Chinese navy while it was helping to enforce sanctions against North Korea. The ship, HMNZS Aotearoa, was tracked by seven Chinese ships in international waters. The operation was part of a United Nations effort to monitor illegal activities at sea connected to North Korea's nuclear programs.
Key Facts
- The New Zealand ship HMNZS Aotearoa was followed by seven Chinese naval ships.
- The operation took place in the East China Sea and the Yellow Sea.
- New Zealand ships are part of a United Nations effort to enforce sanctions on North Korea.
- China often monitors foreign military operations near its waters.
- During this mission, the New Zealand vessel covered 158,000 square miles of water.
- The mission stopped two possible illegal transfers and identified seven ships of interest.
- The Aotearoa encountered the Taiwanese ship ROCS Cheng Kung in the Taiwan Strait.
- China claims authority over the Taiwan Strait, where the U.S. and its allies conduct operations.
