Facing Chinese pressure, Taiwan says it must be master of its own maritime information

Taiwan’s coast guard chief said on Monday that the island must be “the master of its own maritime information” and conduct its own ocean surveys, arguing that Taiwan’s fate depends on protecting its waters. Speaking at a sea drone forum in Tainan, Kuan Bi-ling of the Ocean Affairs Council said China has escalated harassment using coast guard and scientific research ships to press sovereignty and jurisdiction claims. China does not recognize Taiwan’s claims. Taiwan says these activities fall short of combat but aim to wear down its forces, and it says radio harassment targets merchant shipping. Kuan called for more equipment and intelligence. Reuters reported China sent another patrol Saturday off Taiwan’s east coast.