China launches new patrols east of Taiwan

China has initiated new patrols by its coast guard in waters east of Taiwan, a move that follows previous operations near the island that sparked protests from Taipei and raised concerns among several Western nations. The Chinese military operates near Taiwan almost daily, which Beijing considers part of its territory.

China has begun deploying its coast guard to enforce its territorial claims, a tactic Taiwan describes as "legalistic" and designed to strengthen its basis for action against Beijing. The Chinese Coast Guard stated that its fleet would conduct law enforcement patrols in the designated areas, reinforcing such patrols in waters it claims as its jurisdiction. The agency asserted its commitment to defending territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.

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China will strengthen such patrols in waters under its jurisdiction.

Meanwhile, Taiwan's Coast Guard reported tracking two Chinese vessels and deployed two of its own ships to monitor their movements. The Chinese vessels were reportedly about 54 nautical miles east of Hualien, a location housing a major Taiwanese air base, but remained outside restricted waters. Taiwan's Coast Guard emphasized its resolve to take all necessary measures to expel Chinese ships encroaching on its waters, thereby defending national sovereignty and ensuring the safety of its maritime areas.

This incident is the second time in approximately one month that China has dispatched coast guard vessels to the waters off the island's east coast. These actions risk further escalating diplomatic disputes that also involve the United States, France, Germany, and Britain.

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We will continue to take all necessary measures to expel Chinese ships that intrude into our waters, defend national sovereignty, and ensure the safety of our maritime areas.