US Coast Guard Monitors Chinese Research Ships in Bering Sea EEZ
Quick Look
The US Coast Guard Cutter Munro actively monitored Chinese research ships Xuelong and Xuelong 2 as they transited northbound through the US exclusive economic zone and extended continental shelf in the Bering Sea towards the Arctic, marking the first such transit this year.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
The US Coast Guard Cutter Munro monitored Chinese research ships Xuelong and Xuelong 2 as they passed through the US exclusive economic zone and extended continental shelf in the Bering Sea towards the Arctic.
The US Coast Guard Cutter Munro actively monitored the Chinese research ships Xuelong and Xuelong 2 as they passed northbound through the US exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and extended continental shelf in the Bering Sea towards the Arctic, the US Coast Guard said last Friday.
The US Coast Guard also said it was the first time Chinese vessels had transited the waters this year.
Countries enjoy sovereignty rights over natural resources and economic activities within their EEZ, which extends up to 200 nautical miles from shore. But they do not possess full sovereignty over the water space.
The US Coast Guard said that while foreign vessels were permitted to operate within America’s EEZ and continental shelf in accordance with international law, the US Coast Guard “remains vigilant to ensure their activities comply with established international law”.
Open Questions
- What specific research activities were the Chinese ships conducting?
- What is China's long-term objective for increased presence in the Arctic?
