Recent reports from mainland state media indicate that there have been increased patrols along the southeastern coast amid escalating tensions. This is due to the large number of fishing vessels entering the strait and other regional waters, raising the risk of collisions with commercial ships. As many as 55,000 fishing vessels entered the East China Sea and South China Sea as the summer fishing moratorium ended.
The ministry has stepped up patrols to ensure transport safety in the area. The patrol operation covered a wider area this year, extending to the Taiwan Strait median line and the Taiwan Shoal. This move signifies Beijing’s aim to assert jurisdiction over the Taiwan Strait. Analysts believe similar operations may soon be extended to the South China Sea to protect fishing boats.
Tension has also escalated in the South China Sea between Beijing and Manila, with claims of ramming incidents. The Communist Party has pledged to improve joint management to tighten land defense, indicating Beijing’s commitment to safeguarding maritime interests.
These patrols serve as a ‘grey zone’ operation, allowing Beijing to assert influence without escalating to war. Analysts believe that the increased activities in these regions are part of Beijing’s larger strategy to protect its maritime interests.
[ad_2]
Source link
