Taiwan has lodged a protest against China following an incident where a tourist boat was boarded by the Chinese coast guard near the Kinmen archipelago. The boat, named King Xia, was carrying 11 crew members and 23 passengers when it was boarded for approximately 32 minutes on Monday. Taiwanese media reported that the boat was escorted back to Kinmen by Taiwan's coast guard before continuing its sightseeing voyage.
Ocean Affairs Council Minister Kuan Bi-ling expressed concerns over the incident, stating that it had caused distress among the people and was not in the best interest of both sides of the Taiwan Strait. Premier Chen Chien-jen emphasized the need to de-escalate tensions in the region, particularly following increased military activities by China after Taiwan's election of a pro-independence president earlier this year.
China has been stepping up patrols in the waters off Kinmen and its associated islands, with recent incidents including the drowning of two Chinese fishermen during a chase by the Taiwanese coast guard. Taiwan has claimed Kinmen as a restricted area primarily for military purposes, leading to clashes with fishermen from both Taiwan and China.
Beijing's refusal to recognize Taiwan as an independent political entity has further strained relations, with China aiming to bring Kinmen and other Taiwan-controlled islands into its sphere of influence. The ongoing military posturing and maritime activities in the region have heightened tensions, with Taiwan's Defense Ministry reporting frequent airspace and maritime intrusions by Chinese forces.
The situation remains volatile as both sides engage in shows of force, prompting concerns about the potential for further escalation in the Taiwan Strait. Efforts to maintain stability and promote peaceful communication between Taiwan and China are crucial to prevent any further incidents in the region.
