Source: Taiwan Today
Date: May 24, 2016
Taiwan and Japan agreed to set up a marine cooperation dialogue mechanism under the
CGA vessel Yilan continues patrolling the waters of Okinotori May 20 in the West Pacific. (Courtesy of CGA)
framework of Taipei City-based Association of East Asian Relations and Tokyo-headquartered counterpart Interchange Association, Japan, with the first round of talks scheduled for July and expected to cover issues of mutual interest spanning emergency rescue, environmental protection and scientific research, according to Cabinet spokesman Tung Chen-yuan May 23.
“The two sides should not take any action that would add to tensions but should engage in constructive dialogue and promote cooperation in marine affairs,” Tung said. “Maintaining friendly ties with Japan is very important to Taiwan’s overall foreign relations.”
The Tsai Ing-wen administration will respect the decision of the U.N. Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf regarding the international legal status of Okinotori and does not take a specific legal position on the issue, Tung added.
Regarding patrols in the waters surrounding Okinotori by two Coast Guard Administration vessels and one Fisheries Agency vessel, the CGA said they would continue until the end of the month and—depending on future developments—the area may be included in its annual patrol mission. [FULL STORY]
