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Orange Devils band returns to enthrall Taiwan fans
The renowned Orange Devils, Kyoto Tachibana Senior High School’s marching band, have returned to Taiwan, performing at the National Concert Hall on Dec. 14. They also performed at Taipei First Girls High School and surprised guests with a flash performance at a hotel in Xizhi District, New Taipei City. The band previously entertained crowds in Kaohsiung. The visiting students and staff were impressed by the warmth and support they received from the local Taiwanese community and Japanese residents. Their presence highlights the cultural exchange between Taiwan and Japan, celebrating shared passions and friendships across borders.
2023/12/12 18:01
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Kaohsiung, Japan deepen bond in trade, education, tourism
Chairman Mitsuo Ohashi of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association visited the Kaohsiung City government to discuss enhancing industry, education, and tourism cooperation exchanges with Mayor Chen Chi-Mai. Ohashi emphasized the significance of Kaohsiung in Japan’s relations with Taiwan. Mayor Chen expressed enthusiasm for deeper interactions between Taiwan and Japan, highlighting the crucial role of Taiwan’s semiconductor industry in global supply chain security. He cited the collaboration between Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) in Kaohsiung and Kumamoto, Japan, as an example of potential economic cooperation. Chen described the Taiwan-Japan relationship as a deepening bond, referencing their long-standing friendship and mutual support during crises. Ohashi, who visited Kaohsiung 40 years ago and has maintained connections with past Mayor Chen Chu and Taiwan’s representative to Japan, Frank Hsieh, expressed admiration for Kaohsiung’s recent development. He believes that Japan-Kaohsiung cooperation should extend to the private enterprise level and is hopeful for the future of Japanese-Taiwanese relations. Ohashi frequently speaks at the annual National Day reception at the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Representative Office in Japan, advocating for promoting friendly Japan-Taiwan relations as an example for the international community.
2023/12/12 17:58
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President Tsai cites Taiwan’s key role
President Tsai Ing-wen urges international support for Taiwan, citing its democratic values, importance in the global supply chain, and strategic geographical location. Reflecting on the Democratic Progressive Party’s success in Taoyuan City, Tsai highlights the party’s growing vote shares and her achievements in the area. As the electoral campaign continues, Tsai emphasizes the completion of the first phase of her political blueprint and the need for her party’s candidates to remain in power to implement future plans.
2023/12/12 17:56
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Hsiao Bi-khim advocates for DPP majority in legislature
Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) vice-presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim emphasized the importance of the DPP holding a majority in the legislature to ensure continuous progress for Taiwan. Speaking at a women’s support group event in Tucheng District, Hsiao highlighted her past achievements, including signing the inaugural agreements of the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade. She also mentioned that talks to prevent double taxation with the U.S. are nearing completion, which will enhance bilateral trade relations. Hsiao stressed the DPP government’s commitment to establishing friendly and commercial ties with the international community, urging a broader perspective beyond the focus on the 1992 Consensus. She expressed confidence in the foreign policy direction under President Tsai Ing-wen’s administration and the potential for a Lai-Hsiao team to continue this diplomatic route. Hsiao emphasized the symbolic significance of drawing number two in the election draw, representing integrity and steady advancement, and portraying the elections as a testament to Taiwan’s democratic strength. She reiterated the importance of a legislative majority for the DPP to implement stable and progressive policies, reducing resource drain from cross-party conflicts.
2023/12/12 13:26
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Hsiao pledges to uphold Tsai ing-wen’s ’Taiwan status quo’
Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) vice presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim pledges to uphold President Tsai Ing-wen’s policies, which include maintaining the status quo and refraining from pursuing Taiwanese independence. Hsiao expressed this commitment during a legislative rally in New Taipei, emphasizing that the status quo is the most widely accepted position among all parties. The Lai-Hsiao ticket aims to continue Tsai’s path and gain support from the international community. Hsiao also highlighted the importance of a stable foreign policy that does not succumb to pressure, ensuring the preservation of Taiwan’s current situation. Additionally, Hsiao and DPP candidate Lai Ching-te promise to carry forward the strong Taiwan-U.S. relationship established under Tsai’s leadership.
2023/12/12 13:15
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Taiwan thanks allies for support at COP28 side event
Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses gratitude to ministers from five diplomatic allies for advocating for Taiwan at COP28. Leaders from Paraguay, Palau, Saint Lucia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Tuvalu, and Eswatini voiced support for Taiwan at the World Climate Summit, marking another step forward for Taiwan’s international backing. Haiti’s Minister of Environment acknowledged Taiwan’s dedication to addressing climate change, while the Marshall Islands’ Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade affirmed Taiwan’s deserving of observer status in such forums. Guatemala’s Minister of Environment and Natural Resources showcased Taiwan’s contributions to climate change efforts, and Nauru’s Deputy Minister of Climate Change & National Resilience appreciated Taiwan’s support for the Just Transition fund in the Pacific. Taiwan emphasizes its eagerness to work with allies and urges the global community to support its meaningful participation in the UNFCCC.
2023/12/11 20:19
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Tsai thanks overseas Chinese for backing Taiwan globally
President Tsai Ing-wen expresses gratitude to the overseas Chinese community for their unwavering support and efforts in advocating for Taiwan’s inclusion in international organizations and expanding its global presence. During a reception for the "2023 North American Taiwanese Associations Delegation," President Tsai acknowledges the vital role of Taiwanese compatriots in forging connections between Taiwan, the U.S., and Canada. Despite challenges such as the pandemic and shifts in the international landscape, Taiwan has persistently promoted its policies, overcoming obstacles and strengthening the nation. President Tsai encourages the visiting delegation to frequently return to Taiwan, share their experiences with friends and family abroad, and enhance their understanding and support for Taiwan. Vice President Lai Ching-te also attends the event, joining President Tsai in greeting the delegation team members.
2023/12/07 10:50
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Hsiao defends U.S. diplomacy effort amid KMT criticism
DPP Vice Presidential Candidate Hsiao Bi-khim has stated that her diplomatic efforts in the United States have enhanced Taiwanese dignity. Responding to criticism from KMT legislator candidate Hsu Chiao-hsin, Hsiao defended her "battle cat diplomacy" approach, emphasizing the need for flexibility in Taiwan’s unique diplomatic situation. Despite setbacks, Hsiao believes Taiwan has gained increased support, trust, and respect from the international community. She also emphasized the importance of leveraging Taiwan’s democratic values, the kindness of its people, and its economic achievements to garner international support.
2023/12/06 20:37
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DPP alleges CCP offered Ko US$200M for Taiwan VP bid
The story discusses allegations made by Yao Li-ming, the campaign manager for Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate Lai Ching-te, regarding Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je’s claim of being offered US$200 million to run for the vice-presidential bid. Yao asserts that this is a clear instance of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) meddling in Taiwan’s elections. The press conference titled "The Unclarified US$200 Million Doubt: Is Ko Wen-je Lying to Voters or Is It Chinese Intervention?" highlights the seriousness of the alleged criminal act and characterizes Ko as both a witness and a victim of Chinese interference. Yao suggests that only the CCP has the motive, capability, and suspicion to offer such a large sum, potentially aiming to support a Blue-White alliance. Lai’s spokesperson, Tai Wei-shan, raises suspicions about Ko’s silence on the issue and insinuates pressure from either the CCP or the Kuomintang (KMT). Tai calls on KMT presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih to clarify the KMT’s role in the alleged incidents. Additionally, Tai criticizes Hou’s proposals to reopen Taiwan to Chinese tourists and allow Chinese students to work in Taiwan, arguing that these policies would increase Taiwan’s reliance on China. The story also mentions investigations into the Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) inviting Taiwanese village chiefs on free trips to China as an example of election interference. Tai rebukes the KMT’s eagerness to make Taiwan dependent on China, claiming that it would hinder the country’s progress in connecting with the world and the international community.
2023/12/04 20:42
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Ko Wen-je outlines cultural initiatives for ethnic groups
Presidential candidate Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) has proposed several cultural initiatives to strengthen the rights of various ethnic groups in Taiwan. He emphasized that Taiwan’s composition is primarily a result of self-identification among different groups, with 67% identifying as Fujianese, 19% as Hakka, 5% from various Chinese provinces, 2% indigenous Taiwanese, and 8% as "new residents" including migrant workers, professionals, new immigrants, second-generation immigrants, and foreign university students. Ko advocated for Taiwan to become a melting pot for diverse ethnic groups and proposed a law against ethnic discrimination. Specifically addressing the Hakka community, he unveiled proposals to preserve Hakka culture and position Taiwan as a global hub for Hakka society. Ko also presented policies to support Taiwan’s indigenous populations, including granting more rights and establishing tribal self-governance councils.
2023/11/16 17:07
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National Defense Intellectual Tour begins in Kaohsiung
The Navy’s 2023 National Defense Intellectual Tour began at Xinbin Camp in Gushan District, Kaohsiung City. Visitors had the opportunity to view naval ships, including the Yushan class, the ROCS Ta Chiang, and the Min Jiang-class minelayer, showcasing Taiwan’s maritime defense capabilities. The event featured a captivating performance by the R.O.C. Naval Academy Band and the 256th Battle Division Drum Team, receiving enthusiastic applause from the crowd. Attendees also had the chance to take photos with naval personnel. The annual tour aims to increase public understanding of the nation’s military capabilities and foster national pride and community support for the military.
2023/11/13 15:03
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U.K., Japan urge peaceful solutions in Taiwan Strait
The "2+2" meeting in Tokyo between the U.K. and Japan focused on maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. Both parties expressed opposition to any attempt to alter the status quo by force or coercion and called for peaceful solutions to the long-running dispute between Taiwan and China. They also expressed concerns over tensions in the South China Sea and East China Sea. The ministers urged China to act responsibly and cease aiding Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine. The political situations in Xinjiang, Tibet, and Hong Kong were also discussed, with a commitment to establishing stable and constructive relations through dialogue. The joint statement supported Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations, advocating for official membership where statehood is not required and observer status where it is. The U.K. and Japan reaffirmed their strong position and called for international support as the situation with Taiwan and China appears to worsen.
2023/11/10 21:48
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Lai leads DPP in Pride Parade, stands with LGBTQ+ community
DPP chairman and presidential candidate Lai Ching-te led his party in the 21st Taiwan Pride Parade, expressing support for marriage equality. Other presidential candidates, including KMT’s Hou Yu-ih, TPP’s Ko Wen-je, and Terry Gou, did not attend. Lai thanked those who have worked for same-sex marriage, noting that Taiwan is the first country in Asia to legalize it. Former Premier Su Tseng-chang celebrated Taiwan’s achievement and urged people to work together for more happiness. Previous attempts to pass marriage equality bills in 2006 and 2013 were unsuccessful, but the bill was finally passed in 2019.
2023/10/28 17:20
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DPP Chairman Lai Ching-te to join Taiwan Pride Parade
DPP Chairman and presidential hopeful, Lai Ching-te, is expected to attend the 21st Taiwan Pride Parade, demonstrating his support for the LGBTQ+ community. Lai has a history of advocating for LGBTQ+ rights during his tenure as the Mayor of Tainan and has continued to discuss gender equality issues as party chairman. He believes that Taiwan should lead as an example in terms of gender equality in Asia. The Taiwan Pride Parade, themed "Stand with Diversity," will be held at the Taipei City Hall Plaza.
2023/10/24 11:45
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Ma Ying-jeou urges global support for cross-strait dialogue
Former President Ma Ying-jeou spoke at New York University, urging the US and the global community to encourage cross-strait dialogue instead of making Taiwan "the next Ukraine." He disagreed with the suggestion of arming Taiwanese citizens with AK-47s and emphasized the need for the new president to oppose Taiwan’s independence and accept the 1992 Consensus for cross-strait peace.
2023/10/17 16:16
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Innovative performance showcases Taiwan’s artistic energy
The pandemic has forced many industries, such as the performing arts, to rethink their strategies to thrive in the post-pandemic world. Diabolo Dance Theatre has sized this opportunity to team up with Song Kun Performing Art Group to create "Island’s Sunrise" with the support of the Ministry of Culture.
2022/12/29 21:15