Taiwan Monitors China's Economic Plans for Kinmen

Taiwan is observing whether China will incorporate the Taiwan-controlled Kinmen islands in its new economic plan. These islands, remnants of historical conflicts, remain militarily and economically significant. Tensions rise with China's military activities and infrastructure projects near Kinmen, raising security concerns as cultural and economic ties intertwine.

Taiwan is vigilantly watching Beijing's discussions on possibly integrating the Taiwan-controlled Kinmen islands into China's upcoming five-year economic plan. These islands are steeped in historical tensions and remain strategically important in contemporary geopolitics.

During the Cold War, Kinmen was the target of sustained Chinese military aggression, but Taiwan held firm control. The islands now house both a significant military presence and serve as attractive tourist destinations. Despite attempts at normalisation with mainland China, such as ferry services introduced in 2001, the pressure persists.

Recent provocations include Chinese coast guard patrols and disputed air routes near the islands, igniting security concerns. These routes, opening near crowded civil aviation paths, have sparked fears over Taiwan's aviation safety. Additionally, a bridge project initiated by China further complicates the delicate economic and cultural ties that Kinmen shares with mainland Chinese cities.

(With inputs from agencies.)