China on Monday urged Canada to strictly hold back frontline troops from taking any risky and provocative actions.

A People's Liberation Army Su-30 fighter takes part in a drill near the East China Sea in September 2016. (File photo: Xinhua)

Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Wu Qian made the remarks after Canada’s military accused Chinese air force of “unprofessional” behavior during recent encounters in international airspace.

Wu said by using implementing UN Security Council resolutions as an excuse, Canadian military aircraft have intensified their close reconnaissance and provocations against China, jeopardizing China's national security and endangering the safety of frontline personnel on both sides.

"In response to the provocative behavior and unfriendly operation of Canada, the Chinese military promptly took reasonable and professional measures, and has also lodged stern representations to Canada through diplomatic channels," he said.

(Compiled by Xu Ruohan)