Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung is slamming Beijing's claims of sovereignty
over waters east of Taiwan - saying China is using its own interpretation of
law enforcement as ‌a pretext to pursue expansion.

Lin said Beijing has no right to intervene in matters concerning the waters
east of Taiwan, whether they involve Taiwan's sovereignty or jurisdiction...
China's actions are clear evidence that it is a "problem-maker" that is
damaging the status quo.

Cabinet Secretary-General Xavier Chang also condemned Beijing's sovereignty
claims over waters east of Taiwan - adding the actions not only endanger
​Taiwan's sovereignty, but also violate international laws and international
conventions.

Chinese coast guard vessels have been carying out what Beijing calls a
"special maritime law enforcement operation" in the area since this past
weekend.

They've demanded that commercial shipping provide information concerning
their point of origin ​and destination and informing ships that it has
jurisdiction over the area.

China's state media has reported the operation was in response to Japan and
the Philippines announcing maritime boundary delimitation negotiations -
which it said "seriously violates China's territorial sovereignty and
maritime rights and interests."