The Fujian Coast Guard, a branch of the China Coast Guard responsible for patrolling the waters off the coast of Fujian province, conducted routine law enforcement patrols in the waters near Jinmen, an island administered by Taiwan that is located just a few kilometers off the coast of mainland China. This information was released by the China Coast Guard on Thursday evening.

The CCG stated that since September, the Fujian Coast Guard has organized vessel formations to continuously strengthen law enforcement patrols in the waters near Jinmen. This has further enhanced their control over the relevant maritime areas. These patrols are part of a broader effort by the Chinese government to assert its sovereignty over the Taiwan Strait, which it considers to be an integral part of its territory.

The patrols have effectively safeguarded the legitimate rights and interests, as well as the safety of life and property, of Chinese fishermen, including those from Taiwan. They have also strongly ensured the normal navigation and operational order in the waters between Xiamen, a major city in Fujian province, and Jinmen.

The increased patrols by the Fujian Coast Guard come amid heightened tensions between China and Taiwan. China has been increasingly assertive in its claims over Taiwan, which it considers to be a breakaway province. Taiwan, on the other hand, maintains that it is an independent country and has vowed to defend its sovereignty.

The United States, which has a long-standing policy of supporting Taiwan's self-defense, has expressed concern over China's increased military activity near Taiwan. The US has also called on China to refrain from taking any actions that could destabilize the region.

The situation in the Taiwan Strait is complex and volatile. The increased patrols by the Fujian Coast Guard are just one of the many factors that could contribute to a further escalation of tensions between China and Taiwan. It remains to be seen how this situation will develop in the coming months and years.