China's coast will be authorized to open fire on foreign ships from February 1 to protect the national sovereignty of the country.

This follows from the adopted law on the Chinese maritime police, TASS reports referring to Tensun Xinweng.

According to this legal act, the maritime police can use firearms if there is evidence that the suspects are illegally transporting weapons, ammunition, materials representing state secrets, drugs, and other items and refuse to comply. The use of weapons is allowed if a foreign ship conducts the illegal economic activity in the water area of ​​China and ignores the requirements for inspection.

Sea-based airborne weapons can be used during anti-terrorist operations to prevent serious violent incidents, as well as amid attacks on ships and aircraft of law enforcement agencies. The coast guard is empowered now to open fire without warning in emergencies, but must minimize possible damage and loss of life.