Defense Minister Kao Kuang-chi said on Wednesday that the ministry is on top of the situation in the South China Sea. Kao was speaking in light of a recent patrol of the United States warship, USS Lassen, within 12 nautical miles of China’s artificial islands in the area. The US vessel has since left the disputed area.
Kao explained the situation at the Legislature, “Everyone can be sure that the defense ministry is on top of the situation. We will continue to abide by the principles of our sovereignty, avoid disputes, and work together peacefully to jointly develop the South China Sea.”
Meanwhile, the media asked if Taiwan has given any suggestions to the US to avoid heightened tension in the area. Kao said Taiwan and the US are communicating well on the issue.
The South China Sea has overlapping claims by many countries including China, Taiwan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei. China has backed its claims with island-building and naval patrol and the area has become one of potential conflict with global consequences. About one-third of the world’s ships sail through the area. Many believe there are vast oil and gas resources beneath the South China Sea.