China warns the Netherlands to control its forces after East China Sea situation

China has told the Netherlands to strictly control its air and naval forces, warning that it will use firm countermeasures against any further infringements and provocations.

The latest statement was made by Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, a spokesman for the Chinese Defense Ministry, on Tuesday in Beijing as he responded to a request for comment on the Dutch Defense Ministry's accusation that Chinese military aircraft "created a potentially unsafe situation" surrounding a Dutch warship in the East China Sea on Friday.

"What the Dutch side said has aimed at covering its infringements on China's sovereignty and rights," he said.

On Friday, a helicopter sent by the Dutch frigate HNLMS Tromp conducted infringements and provocations in waters off the Chinese metropolis of Shanghai, and the Eastern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army then sent a voice warning and mobilized its aircraft to warn off the Tromp, according to him.

"Our actions were completely legitimate, reasonable and professional. It was the Dutch side, rather than the Chinese side, that created an unsafe situation," Zhang said. "The Dutch side lied that its ship was 'carrying out a UN mission' and flexed its force in the sea and airspace under our jurisdiction, creating tensions and damaging the friendly relations between the two countries."

China is strongly dissatisfied with the Dutch side's moves and have lodged solemn representations with them, the spokesman said.

"The Chinese military is always on high alert and will resolutely safeguard the national sovereignty, security and maritime rights and interests," he noted.

According to the Netherlands, the Tromp was operating in the East China Sea in support of a multinational coalition enforcing United Nations sanctions on North Korea, known as the Pacific Security Maritime Exchange.

The Dutch Defense Ministry said on Friday that two Chinese fighter jets circled the Tromp several times, while its marine patrol helicopter was "approached" by two Chinese warplanes and a helicopter during a patrol.