The American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) stated the US and Taiwan coast guards are coordinating on search, rescue, disaster relief, and maritime law enforcement in an undated post Tuesday.
The US released the photo weeks after China's government announced that its coastguard had begun routine law enforcement patrols in waters east of Taiwan.
Analysts said the timing of the US photo underscored Washington’s support for Taiwan. Some analysts say new law enforcement operations by China could quickly escalate into a blockade of Taiwan.