TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration, Kinmen-Matsu-Penghu Branch (海巡署金馬澎分署) reported on Monday (Oct. 14) that China's coast guard vessels intruded into the waters around Beigan (北竿), Nangan (南竿), and Dongyin (東引) from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
China initiated its "Joint Sword-2024B" (聯合利劍－2024B) military exercises on Monday, prompting a swift response from Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration. Taiwan dispatched four patrol boats to monitor the four Chinese coast guard ships, identified by hull numbers 14602, 14507, 14509, and 14517, as they navigated restricted waters around Matsu.
Taiwanese authorities emphasized their enforcement stance through Chinese and English broadcasts, asserting sovereignty until the Chinese vessels exited the restricted zones by 6 p.m. The Kinmen-Matsu-Penghu Branch highlighted the prolonged presence of Chinese ships as a significant disruption to maritime order and safety, undermining regional peace and stability.
This year, China's coast guard has intruded into Kinmen and Matsu waters 46 times, prompting the branch to urge China to recognize the importance of peaceful cross-strait development.
The Coast Guard Administration reiterated its unwavering commitment to defending sovereignty, adhering to principles of non-provocation, non-conflict, non-evasion, and non-weakness to safeguard national maritime rights. The administration's firm stance underscores its dedication to maintaining peace in the face of ongoing tensions.