The foreign ministry has reiterated Taiwan’s sovereignty over Taiping Island, an island in the South China Sea.
The island, also known as Itu Aba Island, is the largest natural island in the disputed Spratly chain. The Spratlys are also subject to claims by China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei. Interior Minister Chen Wei-zen visited Taiping Island on Saturday. There, he attended the completion ceremony for a lighthouse and wharf.
In a statement Monday, the foreign ministry said that Taiwan has controlled Taiping Island for many years. The statement said that Taiwan’s control over the island has been peaceful, and that Taiwan has not hindered free passage through nearby waters or airspace.
The foreign ministry says that Taiwanese infrastructure on the island is designed to supply those stationed there. In addition, Taiwanese facilities enhance scientific research in the Spratlys, help with emergency rescue missions, and promote environmental conservation on the island. The ministry says that the lighthouse on the island helps not only with resupply, but also guides ships safely through the area.
The foreign ministry statement called Interior Minister Chen Wei-zen’s visit an exercise of Taiwan’s sovereignty over Taiping Island. According to the statement, only Vietnam has objected to Chen’s visit.
In the statement, the foreign ministry asserted Taiwan’s sovereignty over the Spratlys, as well as the Paracel Islands, Pratas Islands, and Zhongsha Islands. All four island chains are contested groups in the South China Sea.
The ministry said that Taiwan’s sovereignty over these islands is supported by history, geography, and international law. However, the ministry said that Taiwan is willing to work with other countries on promoting peace, conservation, and development in the area.