Taipei’s coast guard has increased patrols around its outlying islands to monitor the presence of Chinese vessels, particularly around the island of Kinmen. China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and regularly sends military assets near the island, including fighter jets, drones, and naval ships. In recent months, Chinese coast guard ships have also been spotted around Kinmen, which is just 5km from the Chinese city of Xiamen.
The Coast Guard Administration of Taipei stated that they have personnel patrolling around the clock to ensure the security of Taiwan’s three major outlying islands: Kinmen, Matsu, and Penghu. In anticipation of Lai Ching-te’s inauguration as Taiwan’s new president, the agency has implemented a powerful patrol operation to closely monitor any suspicious targets in the sea area surrounding the islands. They have emphasized that national security efforts will not be diminished during the important celebrations.
The tensions around Kinmen have escalated since Lai’s election in January, with China branding him a “dangerous separatist.” The proximity of Kinmen to the Chinese mainland makes it a sensitive area, with both sides closely monitoring any movements or actions in the region. The increased presence of Chinese vessels in the area has raised concerns about potential territorial disputes or security threats, prompting Taipei to boost its patrols to safeguard its outlying islands.
The heightened security measures around Kinmen reflect the complicated relationship between Taiwan and China, with Taipei seeking to assert its sovereignty while facing pressure from Beijing to reunify with the mainland. The ongoing military posturing and presence of Chinese assets near Taiwan’s outlying islands underscore the delicate balance of power in the region, with both sides maintaining a vigilant stance to protect their interests.
As Lai Ching-te assumes the role of Taiwan’s new president, the security situation around the outlying islands, particularly Kinmen, will likely remain a point of concern. The Coast Guard Administration’s efforts to increase patrols and monitor suspicious activities in the area demonstrate Taipei’s commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity and national security in the face of external threats. The region’s strategic importance and proximity to China make it a key area of focus for both sides as they navigate the complex dynamics of cross-strait relations.
