China asserts control in Kinmen waters, Taiwanese experts warn
- In Reports
- 09:48 PM, Mar 18, 2024
- Myind Staff
The constant encroachment of China into the waters surrounding Taiwan-held Kinmen is a strategic maneuver aimed at establishing “de facto” jurisdictional control in the area.
Four Chinese Coast Guard patrol vessels entered Kinmen’s waters. The Coast Guard Administration (CGA) closely monitored these incursions, issuing warnings until the Chinese ships departed.
In response, the China Coast Guard justified its actions on Friday, stating that its patrols in the waters off Kinmen were “legal,” CNA Taiwan reported.
Chieh Chung, a researcher at the Taiwan-based Association of Strategic Foresight, highlighted Beijing’s intentions to create a scenario of “shared jurisdiction” with Taiwan, ultimately seeking exclusive control over the area.
Chieh dismissed any connection between China’s actions and its handling of a recent incident involving the deaths of two Chinese nationals in a speedboat collision. He drew parallels to past events, notably Chinese Coast Guard activities around the disputed Diaoyutai Islands, claimed by Taiwan, China, and Japan.
However, Chieh emphasised that China has exercised restraint, understanding the potential for regional conflict arising from provocations over territories like the Diaoyutai Islands or Kinmen.
Su Tzu-yun, a research fellow at Taiwan’s Institute for National Defense and Security Research, has provided valuable insights into the recent intrusions by China into Taiwan's airspace and waters. According to Su, these actions are not isolated incidents but rather components of Beijing's wider strategy. He emphasizes that China employs a range of non-military tactics against Taiwan, including cognitive warfare and economic coercion.
Specifically addressing the recent Kinmen incident, Su characterizes Beijing's actions as falling within the realm of gray zone operations. Gray zone operations refer to activities that fall below the threshold of conventional military conflict but are aimed at achieving strategic objectives, such as undermining the sovereignty and legitimacy of Taiwan. By engaging in these operations, Beijing seeks to exert pressure on Taiwan while avoiding direct military confrontation.
Su's analysis underscores the complexity of the security landscape in the Taiwan Strait and highlights the importance of understanding China's multifaceted approach to its relations with Taiwan. By recognizing and addressing these non-military tactics, Taiwan can better defend its sovereignty and security in the face of challenges from Beijing.
Su warned that while Beijing may limit its use of new tactics against Taiwan, it is likely to increase the frequency of employing existing strategies. He urged the Taiwanese government to enhance its risk management capabilities to address potential conflicts effectively, Focus Taiwan reported.
Image Source: ANI
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