Taiwan Rejects China's Maritime Claims After Coast Guard Patrol
Taiwan rejected China's maritime jurisdiction claims after two Chinese coast guard vessels patrolled waters east of the island, accusing Beijing of harassment.
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Taiwan has rejected China's claims of maritime jurisdiction following a Chinese coast guard patrol off the island's eastern coast, accusing Beijing of using law enforcement operations to assert control over disputed waters.
Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration said two Chinese vessels, Hushi (CCG 1308) and Meishan (CCG 2303), conducted patrols in the area on October 31.
Taiwanese authorities deployed the Ji An patrol vessel and other coast guard assets to monitor the Chinese ships throughout their operations.
China described the deployment as a routine law enforcement patrol aimed at protecting its maritime rights and interests.
Taiwan rejected Beijing's claims, asserting that it holds sovereign rights and jurisdiction over its eastern exclusive economic zone.
The Coast Guard Administration also accused Chinese vessels of using radio communications to harass ships operating in the area.
Taiwanese officials warned that repeated Chinese coast guard operations could normalize Beijing's presence in waters Taipei considers under its jurisdiction.
China has increased coast guard activity east of Taiwan since June, raising concerns among Taiwanese officials that the operations could support preparations for a potential maritime blockade.
Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its territory, while Taipei rejects China's sovereignty claims.
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