The Fujian Coast Guard initiated comprehensive law enforcement patrols in waters surrounding Taiwan Island and its affiliated Matsu and Wuqiu Islands on December 29, 2025, marking a significant development in cross-strait maritime operations. The patrols come as regional observers note increased activity in the Taiwan Strait this year.
Spokesperson Zhu Anqing of the East China Sea Bureau emphasized the patrols represent routine exercises of jurisdiction under the one-China principle. "These activities demonstrate our commitment to maintaining maritime order and safeguarding national sovereignty," Zhu stated during a press briefing.
Analysts suggest the timing coincides with broader efforts to strengthen maritime governance coordination across the Chinese mainland's coastal regions. While the patrols remain within recognized territorial waters, their scope underscores ongoing attention to cross-strait security dynamics as 2025 draws to a close.
