Taiwan Rejects Chinese Shipping Restrictions

Taiwan has called China's attempt to regulate shipping in the Taiwan Strait during Typhoon Dolphin "ridiculous". According to Taipei, Beijing has no right to restrict access to international waters.

Chinese state media reported on Wednesday that ships heading north through the strait's southern entrance would be required to comply with new traffic regulations from Thursday evening. Vessels are to choose a safe place to shelter and follow the instructions of Chinese maritime authorities.

Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council described the announcement as a disregard for the international order. "Taiwan's own affairs need no meddling from the Chinese Communists", it stated.

Taiwan's Coast Guard has not detected any unusual movement of Chinese vessels or interference with maritime communications. It has urged commercial vessels to disregard any Chinese demands and report them immediately.

The typhoon is moving north of Taiwan and is expected to hit China's east coast on Saturday evening or Sunday morning.

Beijing considers both Taiwan and the strait to be part of its territory, a claim rejected by Taipei and Washington.

(Reuters, luc)