On June 1, China’s coast guard said it had carried out “law enforcement” patrols in waters east of Taiwan, framing the operation as a response to newly announced maritime boundary delimitation talks between Japan and the Philippines.
Beijing described the patrols as a countermeasure to what it called “unilateral” maritime delimitation discussions between Tokyo and Manila. Chinese authorities stated that the deployment was carried out “in accordance with the law” and was intended to safeguard China’s “sovereign rights and interests”.
Although no precise coordinates were disclosed, officials emphasized that the patrols were necessary in response to developments they argue affect disputed maritime areas.
The move followed an agreement between Tokyo and Manila to begin formal talks on defining their exclusive economic zones and continental shelf boundaries. Both governments maintain that the process is consistent with international law and aims to clarify overlapping maritime claims in the region.
The initiative forms part of a broader expansion of security cooperation between Japan and the Philippines, including discussions on intelligence sharing and closer defense coordination amid rising regional tensions.
Beijing has strongly objected to the negotiations, labeling them “illegal” and “null and void”. Chinese officials argue that the talks infringe on its maritime rights in waters east of Taiwan and have urged both countries to halt actions they say could undermine regional stability.
