China accused Australia of distorting facts and using inflammatory rhetoric after a mid-air encounter between the two countries’ military aircraft, urging Canberra to avoid actions that could undermine bilateral ties.

Beijing lodged “stern representations” with Australian authorities following Canberra’s claim that a Chinese aircraft intercepted an Australian patrol plane in an “unsafe and unprofessional” manner over the South China Sea on Sunday. Australia said the PLA-AF Su-35 fighter jet released flares in close proximity to the Royal Australian Air Force plane.

The incident adds tension to already strained relations between the two nations, highlighting the growing sensitivity in the South China Sea as both countries conduct routine patrols and military operations in contested waters.