BEIJING: China has intensified tensions in the Indo-Pacific region after conducting coast guard patrols in waters east of Taiwan in response to planned maritime boundary negotiations between Japan and the Philippines.
According to China’s Coast Guard, the patrols were carried out as a “law enforcement” operation aimed at protecting what Beijing describes as its sovereign rights and interests. Chinese authorities strongly criticized the decision by Japan and the Philippines to begin formal discussions on delimiting maritime boundaries in areas that overlap with waters claimed by China.
The planned talks between Tokyo and Manila focus on defining the maritime boundary of their exclusive economic zones (EEZs) and continental shelves in accordance with international law. However, China argues that the waters east of Taiwan fall under its jurisdiction because Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory.
In a statement, China’s Coast Guard said the patrol operation was a necessary response to what it called unilateral actions by Japan and the Philippines. Chinese officials urged both countries to halt any activities that could affect China’s territorial claims.
Taiwan swiftly condemned Beijing’s actions, stating that China has no authority to conduct law enforcement operations in waters surrounding the self-governed island. Taiwan’s Coast Guard reported monitoring two Chinese vessels operating southeast of Orchid Island but said they did not enter restricted waters.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also rejected China’s objections to the Japan-Philippines negotiations, insisting that Beijing has no right to interfere in Taiwan’s territorial sovereignty or maritime jurisdiction. The ministry reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to defending its national security and maritime rights.
The dispute comes amid growing military and maritime activity around Taiwan. Chinese warships, military aircraft, and coast guard vessels regularly operate near the island, increasing concerns about regional stability and security.
In Japan, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara stated that any maritime boundary agreement reached between Japan and the Philippines would not be legally binding on third parties and therefore does not violate international law.
The latest development highlights ongoing tensions in the South China Sea and surrounding waters, where China’s territorial claims overlap with those of several countries, including the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia. Analysts warn that maritime disputes in the region continue to pose significant challenges to regional security and diplomatic relations.
