Taiwan’s Coast Guard Sends Chinese Research Ship Packing Up

The coast guard in Taiwan says it has chased a Chinese research vessel away from waters close to the island. The ship, named “Tongji, ” is only a year old and was spotted 29 nautical miles southeast of Taiwan’s southern tip, just outside the country’s restricted zone. The Taiwanese officers observed it lowering ropes into the sea, likely to drop scientific instruments for a survey that they claim is illegal. In response, a coast guard ship moved in close enough to create a wake that interfered with the Chinese vessel. The Taiwanese ship also sent messages demanding that the “Tongji” leave immediately and stop any related activity. After retrieving its equipment, the Chinese ship turned back toward the open ocean.Taiwan’s officials say they kept watch on the vessel until Monday, when it finally departed. They accuse China of repeatedly sending ships that ignore international law and use so‑called “grey zone” tactics to pressure Taipei. The coast guard urged China to end these provocative moves. Chinese state media describe the “Tongji” as a versatile ship that can operate in all weather, carry remote‑controlled vehicles and laboratories, and even lay pipelines. The vessel is meant for marine geology, oceanography, chemistry, biology, and offshore engineering projects. Despite these civilian claims, Taiwan views any such activity near its waters as a threat. The incident is part of a broader pattern in which China, claiming Taiwan as its own territory, conducts regular military and non‑military operations around the island. Taipei insists these actions undermine its sovereignty and stability.