Kinmen, TaiwanCNN
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In the waters surrounding Kinmen, a group of outlying islands controlled by Taiwan but located near China, tensions persist two weeks after Taiwan’s coast guard pursued unidentified vessels. China’s coast guard ships have been increasingly entering Taiwan’s prohibited or restricted waters, disputing the designated boundaries.
Recent tensions have impacted activities in Kinmen, with fishing boats temporarily grounded due to restrictions. While boat tours continue under closer supervision by Taiwan’s coast guard, residents carry on with their daily routines unfazed by the geopolitical tensions.
Despite its history as a military frontline against Chinese aggression, Kinmen remains relatively calm. Residents navigate the quiet streets, unaffected by the ongoing disputes between Taiwan and mainland China. The reopening of a high school post-Lunar New Year break signifies normalcy for the locals.
Having weathered conflicts between Mao Zedong’s Communist regime and Chiang Kai-shek’s Nationalist government, Kinmen residents like Hung Ho-cheng exhibit a nonchalant attitude towards the current standoff. The island, once a battleground, now stands as a symbol of resilience in the face of past adversities.
During the Cold War, Kinmen endured relentless attacks from Mao’s forces, enduring extensive shelling and amphibious assaults. Despite the turbulent history, the island has transitioned into a potential gateway for peaceful exchanges between Taiwan and China.
Recent incidents, including the presence of Chinese vessels in the area and heightened security measures, indicate a shift towards a more strained relationship between the two sides. China’s actions in the region have raised concerns about Taiwan’s maritime control and the use of coercive tactics in the “gray zone.”
While tensions persist, Kinmen’s tourism industry faces uncertainties, with fears of dwindling visitors due to security concerns. The recent encounter between Chinese coast guard officers and Taiwanese tourists has sparked unease among locals and tourists alike.
As Kinmen grapples with the repercussions of the recent events, residents hope for a peaceful resolution to avoid any escalation into conflict. The uncertainty surrounding cross-strait relations underscores the island’s vulnerability to external forces beyond its control, echoing past memories of wartime hardships.