China conducts law enforcement operation east of Taiwan

China has organized a special law enforcement operation in the waters to the east of Taiwan, according to the Xinhua news agency. The operation was described as a necessary response to the unilateral statement by Japan and the Philippines to begin negotiations on the delimitation of the maritime border east of Taiwan Island, which, according to China, seriously undermines its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.

The Fujian Provincial Maritime Safety Authority, the Guangdong Provincial Maritime Safety Authority, the East China Sea Shipping Support Center, and the East China Sea Rescue Authority participated in the maneuvers. The stated goals of the operation include fully exercising powers to ensure compliance with China's maritime administrative law, strengthening patrolling capabilities in deep waters, controlling the movement of ships in key waters, ensuring the safety of maritime traffic, and protecting national interests.

According to the report by Mehr News, citing Xinhua, the operation aims to assert China's claims in the region amid ongoing tensions over Taiwan's status. China considers Taiwan a part of its territory and opposes any external interference in the matter.