Chinese warplanes again engaged in unsafe behavior by buzzing a Canadian helicopter and firing flares at it in the South China Sea, according to Defence Minister Bill Blair. The incident, which took place over international waters, put the crew in danger. This marks the second time in two weeks that Canada has accused China's air force of such behavior. In mid-October, Blair had already reported that a Chinese jet had dangerously approached a surveillance plane involved in a United Nations operation to enforce sanctions against North Korea.

These incidents highlight the growing tensions between Canada and China, particularly in relation to maritime activities. The Canadian government intends to express its concerns to Beijing over these alarming incidents. Defence Minister Bill Blair emphasized the need for safe and responsible behavior, urging China to adhere to international rules and norms. It is expected that diplomatic channels will be used to address these concerns and prevent any further escalation of tensions. China's actions in the South China Sea have been a cause for concern for many countries, as Beijing has been asserting its territorial claims and building militarized islands in the disputed region.

The international community has raised objections to these actions, emphasizing the importance of freedom of navigation and respect for international law. While Canada has not taken a side in the territorial disputes, it has been vocal in expressing its concerns over China's behavior, particularly when it poses a threat to Canadian personnel and international stability. As tensions continue to rise in the South China Sea, these latest incidents underscore the need for diplomatic efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the ongoing disputes.