China’s Boarding of Tourist Vessel Sparks Tensions with Taiwan

Tensions between China and Taiwan escalated following reports that a Chinese coast guard vessel boarded a Taiwanese tourist boat near the Kinmen archipelago. The incident lasted for about 32 minutes, prompting Taiwan to protest. The Ocean Affairs Council Minister emphasized that the incident had stirred panic and was against the interests of both sides.

Premier Chen Chien-jen called for a rational and cooperative approach to ease tensions in the region. China’s increased military activities in the area, coupled with patrols near Kinmen, have raised concerns, particularly after two Chinese fishermen drowned amid a confrontation with the Taiwanese coast guard. Despite Taiwan’s claim over Kinmen, China refuses to recognize it as a diplomatic issue, continuing to assert its territorial claims. This incident adds to the ongoing maritime tensions between the two sides, further complicating the already strained relationship.