evidence: In June 2008, the "Three Links" between the PRC and ROC – direct shipping, direct post, and transportation – were restored between Fujian and Kinmen, representing a softening of tensions. Now, 44 ferries make the half-hour journey between Kinmen and Xiamen every day. Kinmen later cleared its beaches of landmines, and it recently opened a water pipeline which supplies fresh water from Fujian. "In my political career," boasted Kinmen Deputy Magistrate Wu Cheng-dian, "I have completed ‘Mission: Impossible’ three times." [...] "Kinmen used to be a battlefield," said Yvonne Yen, a professor at NQU’s Department of Business Administration. Residents "would rather have this place, a peaceful place." [...] "Kinmen should become a bridge of peace between Taiwan and Mainland China," said Chou Yang-sun, a professor of Chinese affairs at NQU. He insists that the New Three Links are "the best choice" to alleviate cross-strait tensions.