Key facts
- Taiwan's coast guard stated that Chinese coast guard ships have been harassing commercial vessels near Taiwan.
- Chinese ships broadcast messages asking for departure and destination information from passing commercial ships.
- Taiwanese ships responded that China has no jurisdiction in these waters and should cease harassment.
- The incidents occurred in waters east of Taiwan following China's response to Japan-Philippines maritime talks.
- Commercial ships maintained normal navigation and were not boarded or inspected.
- The U.S. State Department urged Beijing to cease pressure against Taiwan and engage in dialogue.
Taiwan's coast guard reported on Tuesday that Chinese coast guard vessels operating in waters near Taiwan have been "harassing" commercial shipping in recent days. The Chinese ships broadcast messages to passing commercial vessels, inquiring about their ports of departure and destination and asserting jurisdiction.
Taiwan's own coast guard vessels broadcast responses, stating that these were Taiwanese waters where China held no jurisdiction and urging the Chinese vessels to cease their actions. The incidents follow China's strong reaction to Japan and the Philippines initiating formal talks on their maritime boundaries, which China views as encroaching on waters off Taiwan.