China Coast Guard navigates for first time in Taiwan’s ‘prohibited waters’

Chinese Coast Guard vessels have entered what Taiwan calls “prohibited waters” near the Kinmen Islands, effectively controlled by Taiwan. Taiwan’s media say it is the first time China Coast Guard ships, which fall under the command of the country’s military, have entered the waters.

The Coast Guard reported on its website on Friday that it conducted patrols in waters near the islands based on Chinese law. It posted a photograph of the area with a red line indicating a shipping route.

Taiwan’s Central News Agency said the route is drawn inside what Taiwan declares as prohibited and restricted waters. Local Taiwan media said four China Coast Guard vessels entered the prohibited waters for the first time. Earlier in February, a Chinese marine surveillance vessel was also spotted in the region.

China is demanding that Taiwan apologize and take responsibility for a mishap involving a Chinese fishing boat off the Kinmen Islands on February 14. Two Chinese fishers died after their capsized boat while being pursued by Taiwan’s coast guard.

The China Coast Guard has announced that it will continue to strengthen its patrols for law enforcement, suggesting further Chinese navigation within the waters. China is mounting pressure on Taiwan’s government led by the Democratic Progressive Party.