Mainland Chinese authorities reject criticism, saying deployments are necessary response to maritime border talks between Manila and Tokyo
2-MIN READ2-MIN ListenCaroline LinPublished: 10:12pm, 25 Jun 2026Beijing on Thursday rejected criticism from the United States and three European nations over its recent coastguard operations east of Taiwan, declaring the patrols were lawful and necessary to safeguard its maritime rights and regional order.The rebuke came a day after the US, Britain, France and Germany expressed concern over the coastguard deployments, saying the activities “threaten regional stability and the freedom of navigation and safety of international shipping”.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun dismissed the accusations, describing Beijing’s actions as a legitimate exercise of jurisdiction.
“The countries concerned should respect China’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and maritime rights and interests, and stop blurring right and wrong or distorting the facts,” Guo said.
