Taiwan has urged Japan and the Philippines to ensure that their discussions regarding maritime boundaries and Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) do not compromise Taiwan’s rights and interests in adjacent waters. This appeal comes after Japan and the Philippines announced plans to negotiate their maritime boundaries and continental shelf claims according to international law. Experts have noted that some of the proposed zones overlap with areas claimed by Taiwan, raising concerns in Taipei.
Taiwanese officials have received assurances from both Japan and the Philippines that any future agreements will not legally bind third parties and will adhere to established international legal principles. In response, Taiwan’s government is committed to ongoing engagement with these countries to protect its maritime interests, which include fishing rights and resource access in the region. Current agreements with Japan and the Philippines are reportedly still in effect.
This development occurs against a backdrop of rising 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 firmly rejected these claims, maintaining its stance on sovereignty and maritime jurisdiction. The situation highlights the complex and often contentious nature of maritime boundary negotiations in the region.
Meanwhile, Philippine officials have clarified that formal negotiations with Japan have not yet started, indicating that it is premature to predict the potential impact of any future agreements on fishing rights or territorial claims. Both countries seem to be proceeding cautiously, aware of the delicate balance required to address overlapping claims while respecting international norms.