China's Economic Ambitions: Crossing the Strait to Kinmen

Taiwan is closely monitoring Beijing's plans to integrate Kinmen into China's economic blueprint. Concerns are mounting over potential loss of sovereignty, heightened by China's infrastructure developments near the islands. The plenum's outcomes could escalate Taiwan-Beijing tensions, as China aims for economic control of strategically positioned regions.

Taiwan is on high alert as China contemplates integrating the Kinmen islands into its economic blueprint, a move that could threaten Taiwan's sovereignty. The ongoing discussions at the Communist Party's plenum have put Taiwanese officials on their toes as they await potential implications of the five-year development plan.

For years, China has employed a mix of incentives and threats towards the Kinmen islands, offering resources like gas and electricity while making frequent incursions with coast guard vessels. This strategic location makes Kinmen especially susceptible to China's economic and political influence, intensifying concerns in Taipei.

As infrastructure projects near completion, including a controversial bridge to Kinmen and a new Xiamen airport, fears of increased Chinese jurisdiction are growing. The prospect of China exerting administrative power over Kinmen remains a contentious issue that could deepen cross-strait divisions.

(With inputs from agencies.)