Chinese research vessels have repeatedly entered Palau's waters, sparking security concerns

(Central News Agency, Taipei, 14th) Foreign media reported that following the unauthorized research and survey activities by Chinese vessels in Palau's exclusive economic zone in May, Palau has accused China of another similar intrusion in July, following the launch of a submarine-launched ballistic missile into the Pacific, raising security concerns. Palau is a diplomatic ally of Taiwan.

Radio France Internationale (RFI) Chinese website reported on the 13th, citing the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), that Palau has lodged a diplomatic protest with China, stating that such activities undermine Palau's sovereignty and disregard the 'rules-based order' that all countries should abide by.

In late May, a Chinese research vessel entered Palau's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) for 74 kilometers without an invitation from Palau and sailed slowly in Palauan waters for about 14 hours, raising security concerns among Palauan authorities.

The Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported that the research vessel is the 89-meter-long icebreaker 'Ji Di'. Chinese state media previously reported that the 'Ji Di' was launched in 2024 and is mainly used for environmental monitoring and marine surveys, equipped with drones and underwater vehicles, capable of conducting seafloor mapping and collecting data on marine minerals, ocean currents, and ecosystems.

Palauan President Surangel Whipps Jr. stated that Chinese research vessels entered Palau's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and conducted activities without invitation; what are they looking for? And what is their ultimate intention?

Moreover, the 'Ji Di' intrusion incident is not an isolated case. Similar incidents occurred in 2018, 2024, and 2025. In 2023, Chinese vessels were also accused of operating in the area of Palau's submarine cables.

Whipps stated that the most recent similar incident occurred in July, just after China launched a submarine-launched ballistic missile into the Pacific. However, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation stated it could not independently verify this incident.

Whipps said: 'They were surveying above our fiber optic cables and dropping equipment into the water, which is a security risk for us.'

According to the 'Pacific Islands Security Center', a think tank that tracks vessels and geopolitical activities in the region, 16 Chinese research vessels have been sent to the North Pacific this year. (Editor: Feng Zhao/Chen Chenggong) 1150814