Taiwan President Lai Ching-te visited the frontline island of Kinmen to mark a key battle with Chinese forces and reiterated Taiwan’s rejection of being ruled by China’s Communist Party. China’s ongoing military maneuvers around Taiwan were seen as attempts to undermine regional peace and stability. Taiwan has controlled Kinmen since the Republic of China government fled in 1949, and tensions have persisted without a peace treaty.
Lai emphasized the importance of Taiwan’s free way of life and democracy, stating that Taiwan must resist China’s threats while hoping for peaceful development across the Taiwan Strait. He also spoke about the need to strengthen Taiwan’s military and sovereignty in the face of growing threats from Beijing. Taiwan plans to increase defense spending by 7.7% next year to enhance its deterrence capabilities.
The Taiwan Defense Ministry reported 27 Chinese military aircraft operating near the Taiwan Strait on the same day as Lai’s visit to Kinmen. Lai’s visit highlighted the historical significance of the second Taiwan Strait crisis and the importance of maintaining peace in the region. Kinmen, located close to Chinese-controlled territory, was the site of intense battles during the Cold War.
Despite tensions, Lai has expressed a willingness to engage in talks with China while emphasizing Taiwan’s right to determine its own future. There are efforts to reopen Kinmen to Chinese tourists as part of ongoing discussions between Taipei and Beijing. The historical significance of Kinmen’s resistance against Chinese forces in 1958 is commemorated annually as a symbol of Taiwan’s defense against external threats.
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