China has announced a naval operation off the coast of Taiwan, passing through Japanese and Philippine waters
This was reported by the Chinese Ministry of Transport and the state-run Global Times. Taiwan has already described the Chinese coastguard’s actions as a provocation.
China has announced a special maritime law enforcement operation in the waters east of Taiwan.
According to the Chinese Ministry of Transport, the operation was organised jointly with the maritime safety authorities of Guangdong and Fujian provinces, as well as navigation support agencies and rescue services in the East China Sea.
Beijing stated that the aim of the operation is to step up patrols and law enforcement activities in remote maritime areas, strengthen control over shipping in key waters, ensure the safety of maritime traffic, and protect state rights and interests.
Why China launched the operation
The Chinese Ministry of Transport stated that these actions were a response to Japan and the Philippines’ intention to begin negotiations on the delimitation of maritime zones east of Taiwan.
Beijing believes that this area infringes upon its maritime rights and interests.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that the actions of Japan and the Philippines allegedly contravene the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
According to her, China claims an exclusive economic zone in these waters, so any demarcation of maritime boundaries cannot take place without Beijing’s involvement.
How Taiwan reacted
Taiwan has criticised the intensification of Chinese patrols off its east coast.
Taiwan’s Defence Minister Wellington Ku described such actions as a provocative act and an element of cognitive warfare.
According to Reuters, Chinese naval operations began following announcements of talks between Japan and the Philippines regarding maritime borders. The Taiwanese coastguard dispatched its vessels to drive out the Chinese ships, and they eventually left the area on Monday night.
What led up to this
The day before, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stated that, due to its geographical proximity, the country would inevitably be drawn into any potential military conflict surrounding Taiwan.
Against this backdrop, Japan and the Philippines have stepped up security cooperation, whilst China has intensified its rhetoric regarding the waters near Taiwan.
Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory, although Taipei rejects these claims and asserts that the island’s future can only be determined by its inhabitants.
What is important
Despite the wording about a “special operation”, China’s statements do not refer to the declaration of a military operation, but to maritime law enforcement and patrol activities.
At the same time, these actions are taking place against a backdrop of rising tensions around Taiwan, increased activity by the Chinese coastguard, and disputes over maritime zones in the region.
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