Indonesian patrol ships have successfully driven away a Chinese coast guard vessel for the second time in three days from a disputed area in the South China Sea. The incident occurred as the Chinese ship approached the MV Geo Coral, disrupting a seismic data survey being conducted by Indonesia's state energy company PT Pertamina. The area in question is claimed by both Indonesia and China.
Responding to the Indonesian statement, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated that the Coast Guard vessel was carrying out routine patrols in waters under Chinese jurisdiction. China expressed readiness to engage in communication and consultation with Indonesia through diplomatic channels to address maritime differences between the two countries.
The overlapping territorial claims stem from China's 'nine-dash line,' which extends into Indonesia's exclusive economic zone from the Natuna Islands. While Indonesia does not have a formal territorial dispute with China over the South China Sea, it has been increasingly vigilant in protecting its rights in the region.
Indonesian authorities reported that the Chinese coast guard ship, CCG 5402, was first detected near the MV Geo Coral on Monday. Following communication with the Chinese crew, Indonesian coast guard and navy ships intervened to drive the vessel away. A similar incident occurred on Wednesday when the Chinese ship once again approached the survey site and was subsequently forced to leave.
Video footage released by the Indonesian Maritime Security Agency captured the radio exchange between Indonesian and Chinese coast guard officers. The Chinese officer asserted China's authority over the Nansha islands and adjacent waters, while the Indonesian officer emphasized Indonesia's Exclusive Economic Zone.
Clashes at sea between China and its maritime neighbors have become more frequent in recent years, particularly with the Philippines and Vietnam. China's activities near the Natuna Islands and its construction of islands in the South China Sea have heightened tensions, prompting responses from the U.S. and other countries to assert freedom of navigation rights.
Despite an international arbitration ruling in 2016 that invalidated much of China's claims in the South China Sea, China has disregarded the decision and continued its activities in the region. China has previously cited 'traditional fishing rights' to justify its presence in disputed waters.
