Taiwan says its sovereignty cannot be 'violated', as China ends coast guard patrol

Taiwan's coast guard firmly stated that its maritime sovereignty cannot be "violated" by Chinese attempts to assert jurisdiction in its waters. This declaration follows China's conclusion of a patrol operation off Taiwan's eastern coast.

China, which claims Taiwan as its territory, initiated the patrol after Japan and the Philippines announced formal talks on their maritime boundaries. Chinese state media reported the patrol involved inspecting vessels and rectifying violations. The operation also included hydrographic surveys and inspections of undersea cable areas.

Taiwan's coast guard asserted that Beijing lacks jurisdiction in these waters. They declared that Taiwanese vessels would "forcefully drive them away" whenever Chinese ships appear, ensuring the freedom and safety of navigation. "Our nation's maritime sovereignty cannot be violated," the statement read. "Any country that asserts jurisdiction will be expelled without exception."

China consistently denies Taiwan's sovereignty, with its warships and aircraft frequently operating around the island. Taiwan's government maintains that only its people can determine their future. President Lai Ching-te has repeatedly offered dialogue with China, but Beijing has dismissed him as a "separatist."

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Our nation's maritime sovereignty cannot be violated. Any country that asserts jurisdiction will be expelled without exception.