Photo Courtesy: REUTERS
China conducted another coast guard patrol in waters east of Taiwan on September 3, marking the third such operation since June. The China Coast Guard described the activity as a routine law-enforcement patrol intended to protect China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.
Taiwan’s Coast Guard Administration said it monitored the Chinese vessels and deployed its own ships in response. It rejected Beijing’s claim of jurisdiction over the area and accused China of using maritime operations to pressure the self-governed island.
China’s Ministry of Natural Resources also confirmed that it carried out a seabed survey east of Taiwan from August 10 to 31. According to Chinese state media, the survey examined the area’s geology and seabed structure for territorial planning and resource management.
China considers Taiwan part of its territory and does not recognize the island’s sovereignty claims. Taiwan’s government rejects Beijing’s position. The continued patrols and surveys reflect growing maritime activity around Taiwan, with both sides maintaining opposing claims over the surrounding waters.