China's military condemned Saturday the transit of two German Navy ships through the Taiwan Strait, saying that it increased security risk and sent the "wrong signal". Chinese forces also monitored and warned vessels.

China, which claims democratically-governed Taiwan as its territory, asserts that it is the only country to exercise sovereignty and jurisdiction in the strait. The United States and Taiwan both claim that the strait, a major shipping route where about half of container ships travel through the world, is an international waterway.

Eastern Theatre Command of the People's Liberation Army said that the passage by the two ships, a frigate as well as a supply ship was "public hype" and that their navy and air force monitored and warned the vessels throughout.

The Germans' behaviour is a security risk and sends a wrong message. The statement said that the troops in the theatre were always on high alert and would resolutely combat any threats or provocations.

In a separate press release, the Chinese embassy in Germany stated that it had "made representations" to Berlin, claiming Taiwan belonged solely to China. The democratically-elected government in Taipei rejects this position.

It said: "The issue of Taiwan isn't a question of 'freedom to navigate' but rather of China's territorial integrity and sovereignty."

The embassy said that the Taiwan Strait was Chinese waters and there were no "international waters" at all.

China urged Germany to avoid "interferences" that could jeopardize the healthy and stable growth of bilateral relations.

Taiwan's government claims that only the people of Taiwan can decide on their future.

U.S. Warships transit the Strait about once every two weeks, provoking Beijing's anger. Allies of the U.S., such as Canada and Britain, have also occasionally made transits.

China has intensified its military activities on the island in the last five years, including war games.

(source: Reuters)