China’s Taiwan Affairs Office has issued a firm rebuttal against Taiwan’s maritime jurisdiction claims while warning against continued aggression toward mainland fishermen. Spokesperson Chen Binhua stated unequivocally that no “prohibited or restricted waters” exist in the sea area between Xiamen and Jinmen, emphasizing that these traditional fishing grounds have long been shared by fishermen from both sides of the Taiwan Strait.
During a Saturday briefing, Chen reinforced China’s territorial sovereignty, asserting that Taiwan along with its surrounding islands of Penghu, Jinmen, and Matsu are inseparable parts of Chinese territory. The spokesperson highlighted the historical context of these waters serving as common fishing grounds for decades, facilitating the livelihoods of fishing communities across the strait.
Chen defended the Chinese coast guard’s routine patrols as essential measures for maintaining maritime order and ensuring the safety of all fishermen operating in the area. The spokesperson called on Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party authorities to respect the established historical and factual realities of these shared fishing zones.
The warning came with a serious diplomatic message: Taiwan’s DPP administration must immediately cease what Beijing characterizes as unjustified detentions and aggressive actions against mainland fishermen. Chen concluded with a stern admonition that the DPP authorities would bear full responsibility for any consequences resulting from continued provocative measures in the contested waters.
