Taiwan has urged Japan and the Philippines to ensure that their ongoing talks regarding maritime boundaries and Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) do not compromise Taiwan’s rights and interests in the surrounding waters. This appeal comes after Japan and the Philippines announced plans to start negotiations to delineate their maritime boundaries and continental shelf claims, adhering to international law. Experts have pointed out that some of these proposed zones may overlap with areas claimed by Taiwan.
Officials from Taiwan have reported receiving assurances from Japan and the Philippines that any agreement reached will not be legally binding on third parties, and will adhere to established international legal principles. Taiwan’s government is committed to maintaining dialogue with both nations to protect its maritime interests, focusing on fishing rights and resource access in the region. They also highlighted that current agreements with Japan and the Philippines continue to be valid.
The discussions are set against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions, particularly following China’s assertion of claims over waters east of Taiwan and its subsequent coast guard patrols in the area. Taiwan has rejected these claims, standing firm on its stance regarding sovereignty and maritime jurisdiction.
Meanwhile, officials from the Philippines have indicated that formal negotiations have yet to begin. They emphasized that it is premature to predict the potential implications of any future agreement on fishing rights or territorial claims.