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Taiwan President Lai Ching-te is set to visit the Kinmen islands on Friday, marking his first trip to the sensitive region since taking office in May. The Kinmen islands, located near the Chinese coast, have been at the center of heightened tensions between Taipei and Beijing. This visit comes amid ongoing disputes and increased Chinese coast guard patrols in the area.
Taiwan has controlled the Kinmen and Matsu islands since 1949, when the defeated Republic of China government retreated to Taipei following the Chinese Civil War. Despite the long-standing control, no formal peace treaty or armistice has been signed with Beijing. The region was a flashpoint during the Cold War, with significant military clashes occurring, including the intense bombardment during the Second Taiwan Strait Crisis in 1958.
Lai’s visit will coincide with events commemorating the 66th anniversary of the key military clash, which is internationally recognized as the beginning of the second Taiwan Strait crisis. President Lai has been vocal about Taiwan’s stance against Chinese aggression, asserting that Taiwan will not be intimidated by China’s threats.
“The immediate threat from China persists, but Taiwan remains resolute in defending its sovereignty,” Lai stated at a security forum in Taipei on Wednesday. China considers Taiwan a part of its territory and has repeatedly criticized Lai as a “separatist.” Lai, however, maintains that only Taiwan’s people have the right to determine their future, while also expressing willingness for dialogue with Beijing. The Kinmen islands, which face the Chinese cities of Xiamen and Quanzhou, are less than two kilometers from Chinese-controlled territory. During the 1958 crisis, Chinese forces attempted to seize Kinmen and Matsu through prolonged bombardment, including naval and air assaults. Taiwan, supported by U.S. military aid, managed to repel the attacks, leading to a stalemate. The anniversary of the successful defense is observed annually on August 23.
In anticipation of Lai’s visit, Taiwan’s defense ministry hosted a concert in Taipei celebrating the anniversary, with performances highlighting Taiwan’s resilience and military achievements during the crisis. Kinmen, once known as Quemoy, remains a popular tourist destination today, though it continues to host a significant military presence.