Taiwan and China Reach Settlement Over Fishermen Deaths

Taiwan and China have agreed to settle the case of two Chinese fishermen who died in a maritime incident. After months of negotiations, the settlement aims to ease tensions in the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan's coast guard announced the agreement for the fishermen's families during a live broadcasted meeting.

Taiwan and China reached a settlement on Tuesday over the deaths of two Chinese fishermen in a maritime incident, a move that could reduce tensions in the Taiwan Strait. The agreement came after months of negotiations and aims to bring some closure to the families of the deceased fishermen.

'An agreement was reached during the negotiation today, thanks to continuous efforts made by both sides of the Strait,' said Taiwan Coast Guard Administration Deputy Director-General Hsieh Ching-chin in Kinmen. Both sides will actively implement the agreement as soon as possible, Hsieh added, noting a positive atmosphere at the meeting. His comments were broadcast live.

China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory, has increased military activities near the island, frequently entering its air defense identification zones. Chinese coast guard patrols around Taiwan-controlled Kinmen islands began in February after the fishermen's deaths. Taiwan has driven away Chinese coast guard boats intruding into its waters and accuses China of using 'grey zone' tactics that fall short of actual combat but test Taiwanese responses.

(With inputs from agencies.)