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US Coast Guard monitors Chinese Arctic-bound research ships in Bering Sea
The Coast Guard said it was the first time Chinese vessels had transited the waters this year, while reiterating that foreign ships can operate in the US EEZ under international law.
The United States Coast Guard said it closely tracked Chinese polar expedition vessels transiting the Bering Sea as they headed to the Arctic Ocean last week, citing concerns about Beijing’s geopolitical ambitions in the region.
According to the Coast Guard, the US Coast Guard Cutter Munro monitored the Chinese research ships Xuelong and Xuelong 2 as they traveled northbound through the US exclusive economic zone, and toward the Arctic via the Bering Sea extended continental shelf.
The Coast Guard said the transit was the first time Chinese vessels had moved through the waters this year, noting that foreign vessels are allowed to operate in the EEZ and continental shelf in line with international law.
The US Coast Guard added that it remains vigilant to ensure such activities comply with established international law, even though countries hold sovereignty rights over natural resources and economic activities within their EEZ.