Taiwan condemns China's first incursion of vessels around Taiping Island

Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has strongly condemned what it described as an "unprecedented" incursion by Chinese government vessels into the waters surrounding Taiping Island. The ministry labeled the actions an "open provocation" that violates international law and undermines regional peace and stability.

The incident occurred when two Chinese official ships, the Sansha Zhifa 301 patrol boat and the Sansha 2 supply vessel, were detected entering restricted waters near Taiping Island twice on Thursday morning. Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration reported the vessels made sudden, sharp turns during their brief entry.

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The irrational actions of the Chinese government infringe upon the island's sovereignty, undermine regional peace and stability, and have violated international law.

This latest action follows a pattern of alleged harassment by Chinese official ships targeting cargo vessels navigating freely in waters east of Taiwan. Taiwan's foreign ministry views this as a "new and malicious escalation of 'gray zone' operations," posing a serious threat to Taipei's sovereignty and maritime security. The ministry reiterated that the South China Sea islands, including Taiping Island, are integral parts of the Republic of China (Taiwan).

The incursion is seen within the context of recent Chinese activities in waters east of Taiwan, reportedly in response to maritime boundary negotiations between the Philippines and Japan. Taiping Island, located approximately 1,300 kilometers south of Taiwan, is one of the main territories effectively controlled by Taiwan in the South China Sea, a vital waterway through which about one-third of global maritime traffic passes.

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This series of harassment acts represents a serious threat to Taipei's sovereignty and maritime security.