Indonesia Expels Chinese Vessel from Disputed South China Sea Waters

Indonesian coast guard repeatedly drove away a Chinese ship disrupting energy surveys in the North Natuna Sea, highlighting ongoing maritime tensions.

• The Chinese coast guard vessel CCG 5402 was expelled twice by Indonesia's Maritime Security Agency for disrupting a seismic survey by PT Pertamina in the North Natuna Sea.
• China claims sovereignty over the area based on its 'nine-dash line,' which overlaps with Indonesia's exclusive economic zone, despite a 2016 international ruling invalidating such claims.
• The incidents are seen as a test of the resolve of Indonesia's new administration under President Prabowo Subianto, who has pledged to defend national territory.
• China's foreign ministry expressed a desire for a diplomatic resolution, maintaining that their coast guard was operating within Chinese jurisdiction.
• Indonesia has increased patrols in the region to ensure the continuation of energy exploration activities and to assert its sovereign rights.

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