Greek security provider Diaplous Group is warning ships transiting the Taiwan Strait to exercise caution as tensions rise following US House of Representatives speaker Nancy Pelosi’s arrival in Taipei.
The company said Chinese military planes and warships have approached the line, while US warships were positioned east of the island and in the Philippines Sea.
“China and the US have major interests in the region, and tensions have been raised over the past few days,” Diaplous said.
“The ongoing standoff between the US and China over Taiwan has thrown a spotlight on growing risks to a primary route for ships passing from China, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan to points west.”
In order to prevent “merchant vessels from becoming a pretext for the use of military force”, the company said ships should always remain in international waters while transiting the 204 km waterway, ensure automatic identification data systems are on and continuously transmitting and stay in contact with vessel operators and local agents.
Further, Diaplous said ships should review maritime law and the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea and keep extra lookouts on the bridge.
Pelosi and other members of Congress landed in Taiwan on Tuesday in a move she said “honours America’s unwavering commitment to supporting Taiwan’s vibrant democracy” but touched off condemnations from Beijing which said the visit infringes on China's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The trip, part of a wider tour of East Asia, was reportedly not listed on her itinerary, though the visit was speculated on for weeks.
In addition to China’s complaints, US President Joe Biden cautioned Pelosi about visiting the island.
