Geo-Strategic Trend - 18. page

Deutsche Welle’s Chinese edition recently reported that in February, a Chinese vessel was convicted of allegedly cutting one of Taiwan’s undersea telecommunication cables. Such incidents are viewed as part of Beijing’s “gray-zone tactics,” aimed at draining Taiwan’s resources. In response, Taiwan’s Coast Guard Administration has stepped up 24-hour surveillance in key waters and increased intelligence-sharing with allies.

The Taiwanese government has confirmed two suspected cases of cable sabotage involving Chinese vessels, including one in northern Taiwan. Precautionary measures were heightened after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, and further reinforced following suspected undersea sabotage in the Baltic Sea. Since then, Taiwan has conducted continuous patrols, though the operations have placed heavy strain on Coast Guard resources. Authorities are also monitoring nearly 400 Chinese-affiliated vessels, including cargo ships believed to be convertible for military use.

In March, Chinese researchers unveiled a compact deep-sea cable-cutting device capable of severing even the most durable underwater communication and power lines at depths of up to 4,000 meters.

Source: DW Chinese, September 12, 2025
https://tinyurl.com/yb32ujpc

On September 10, China announced that the State Council had approved the establishment of the Huangyan Island National Nature Reserve in Sansha City, Hainan Province. The reserve, covering 3,523 hectares, is intended to protect coral reef ecosystems. The area lies in the disputed South China Sea region of Scarborough Shoal (known as Huangyan Island in China and Panatag Shoal in the Philippines).

The Philippines condemned the move, claiming it is a pretext for China to assert control over Scarborough Shoal. On September 11, Manila issued a statement “strongly protesting” the reserve, reiterating its sovereignty over the area and exclusive rights to establish environmental protections there.

On the same day, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian reiterated that Huangyan Island is China’s inherent territory and that the creation of the reserve falls within China’s sovereign rights. He dismissed Manila’s accusations and urged the Philippines to cease provocative actions.

Source: VOA, September 12, 2025
https://www.voachinese.com/a/philippines-strongly-protests-china-s-plan-to-establish-a-nature-reserve-in-disputed-waters-of-the-south-china-sea-20250911/8064969.html

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung condemned anti-Chinese demonstrations in Seoul’s Myeongdong district during a cabinet meeting at the presidential office in Yongsan on September 8, characterizing such gatherings as disruptive behavior that exceeds the boundaries of free speech.

President Lee expressed concern over recent discriminatory rallies targeting tourists from specific countries, which he said were deliberately undermining bilateral relations. He requested response measures from relevant government departments regarding these demonstrations.

Minister of the Interior and Safety Yoon Ho-jung reported that authorities have strengthened security around diplomatic facilities and issued warnings to protest organizers. In response, President Lee directed government agencies to actively consider implementing sanctions against those involved.

The anti-Chinese demonstrations have been organized by far-right groups near the Chinese Embassy in Seoul’s Myeongdong area following South Korea’s 21st general election. These protests have created tensions with local businesses in the surrounding commercial district.

The president’s criticism highlights growing diplomatic concerns over the demonstrations, which appear to be straining South Korea’s relationship with China. By calling for potential sanctions and increased security measures, the government is signaling its intention to prevent further escalation of tensions that could damage bilateral ties.

The situation underscores the delicate balance South Korea must maintain in managing domestic political expression while preserving important international relationships in the region.

Source: Yonhap News Agency, September 9, 2025
https://cn.yna.co.kr/view/ACK20250909004200881