U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Chief Says China’s New Maritime Rule ‘Very Concerning’

Vice Adm. Michael McAllister, the U.S. Coast Guard’s top commander in the Pacific, recently said China’s new maritime reporting requirement was “very concerning” and violated “international agreements and norms.” In fact, McAllister added, if China chose to enforce the requirement, it would “begin to build foundations for instability and potential conflicts.” He expressed his concerns during a press briefing on Sept. 3. Foreign vessels entering what Beijing considers its “territorial waters” would be required to report their detailed information—including ship name, call sign, last and next port call, and current position—to China’s Maritime Safety Administration, according to the agency’s notice…