Beijing ramps up coastguard patrols and scientific surveys near Taiwan

There has been weeks of increased activity near the island following maritime boundary talks between Japan and the Philippines

He said the formation had strengthened control over the waters since last month, safeguarding the rights and interests of Chinese citizens.

“The China Coast Guard will continue to strengthen law enforcement patrols in waters under Chinese jurisdiction, resolutely safeguarding national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights,” Jiang said.

Beijing sees Taiwan as part of China and has not ruled out the use of force to achieve reunification. Most countries, including the United States, do not recognise Taiwan as an independent state, but Washington is opposed to any attempt to take the self-ruled island by force and is legally committed to supplying it with weapons.