Defense spokesman reprimands provocations by Canadian plane

China expressed firm opposition to the provocative actions of a Canadian warplane, which threatened China's national security, a spokesman for the Ministry of National Defense said on Monday.

"Canadian military aircraft have recently increased close reconnaissance and indulged in provocative actions with the pretext of implementing the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council," spokesman Senior Colonel Wu Qian said in a statement.

"That jeopardized China's national security and the safety of frontline staff on both sides. The Chinese military has responded immediately in a reasonable, strong, safe and professional way, and lodged complaints with the Canadian side via diplomatic channels."

The spokesman urged the Canadian side to take the matter seriously, strictly constrain its military and not take any risky or provocative action.

"Otherwise, the Canadian side will be responsible for all consequences," he said.

Earlier this month, Canada's military accused Chinese pilots of acting "unprofessionally" during recent encounters with its planes in "international airspace".

China's Foreign Ministry also opposed Canada's actions.

"We urge the Canadian side to recognize the objective facts and promote the normal development of China-Canada relations by practical action," said Zhao Lijian, spokesman for the ministry, at a daily news conference on Monday.