Germany has summoned China’s ambassador to Berlin after a Chinese ship aimed a laser at a German military aircraft during an EU mission in the Red Sea, officials have confirmed.
The incident, which took place on Sunday, has sparked outrage and concern among German officials, who have called for an immediate explanation from the Chinese government.
According to reports, the German military aircraft was conducting a routine surveillance flight as part of the EU’s Operation Atalanta, which aims to combat piracy in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The aircraft was flying over international waters when it was targeted by a Chinese ship, which aimed a laser at it multiple times.
The laser, which is believed to be a non-lethal weapon, can cause temporary blindness and disorientation if aimed directly at the eyes. This reckless and dangerous act by the Chinese ship has put the safety of the German military personnel at risk and is a clear violation of international law.
In response to the incident, the German Foreign Ministry summoned China’s ambassador to Berlin and expressed their strong condemnation of the actions of the Chinese ship. The ministry also demanded an immediate explanation from the Chinese government and called for measures to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.
This is not the first time that China has been involved in such provocative and dangerous actions. In 2018, a Chinese warship aimed a laser at a US military aircraft in the Pacific, causing similar concerns and condemnation from the international community.
The use of lasers as weapons is a serious matter and should not be taken lightly. It is a violation of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which prohibits the use of weapons that can cause permanent blindness. Such actions also go against the principles of responsible and peaceful behavior in international waters.
The German government has also expressed its concern over the increasing presence of Chinese military vessels in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. This incident has raised questions about China’s intentions and actions in the region, and the need for transparency and respect for international laws and norms.
The safety and security of all ships and aircraft in international waters must be ensured, and any aggressive or provocative actions must be condemned and prevented. The EU’s Operation Atalanta is a crucial mission in maintaining the safety of these waters, and any interference or obstruction must not be tolerated.
Germany’s response to this incident is a clear message to China that such actions will not be tolerated, and the safety of its military personnel and international laws must be respected. The German government has also called on the Chinese government to take immediate measures to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.
The incident has also sparked concerns about the growing tensions between China and the EU. Germany, as a key member of the EU, has always maintained a strong and positive relationship with China, but such actions can strain the ties between the two nations.
In conclusion, Germany’s swift and firm response to the incident involving the Chinese ship is a clear indication of its commitment to upholding international laws and ensuring the safety of its military personnel. The Chinese government must take responsibility for its actions and take measures to prevent such incidents from happening in the future. The EU and its member states must also continue to work together to maintain peace and security in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
