The Coast Guard Administration held an opening ceremony on Monday to mark the completion of a dredging and wharf renovation project on Taiping Island. Recently, Kuomintang legislators have called on President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) to visit the island before the end of her term and reaffirm Taiwan’s sovereignty over the territory.
Taiping Island, also known as Itu Aba, is the largest island that forms part of the Spratly Islands archipelago. Vietnam, China and the Philippines have also made competing claims over the island.
Premier Chen Chien-jen (陳建仁) stated in an interview on Tuesday that Taiping Island and its nearby waters are part of Taiwan’s territory. However, recent acts by China have threatened the stability of the region. Chen called on China to cease the disruptive behavior. He reassured the public not to worry. Should there be any changes, the government will respond accordingly. He adds that Taiwan will continue to work with like-minded countries to safeguard peace in the region.
Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Legislator Chuang Jui-hsiung (莊瑞雄) says appropriate planning is required should President Tsai visit Taiping Island. He believes that the national security team will evaluate the matter and adds that it is also an issue of timing. Chuang says given the provocation by China in the South China Sea, Taiwan should work with the international community and its allies now instead of creating more problems by engaging in a shouting match with regional countries.