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Taiwan clarifies office name agreement with Lithuania
Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarifies the name of its representative office in Lithuania, emphasizing mutual agreement and democratic collaboration.
2024/11/05 22:00
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Taiwan updates travel warnings amid African mpox outbreak
Discover the latest travel warnings issued by Taiwan’s MOFA for seven countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, amid a rising mpox outbreak. Learn about the WHO’s emergency declaration and CDC advisories.
2024/08/20 16:12
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Ukrainian ex-lawmaker urges Taiwan to see China as a threat
Discover insights from Hanna Hopko, a former Ukrainian parliament member, on why Taiwan should learn from Ukraine’s experiences to recognize potential threats from China. The forum emphasized civil defense education and preparedness.
2024/05/22 17:32
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Japanese scholar analyzes Lai’s omission of ’One China’
Discover insights on Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s inaugural speech, where he omitted the "One China" principle, signaling wariness towards China, and emphasized Taiwan’s sovereignty. This analysis explores the implications for Taiwan’s political landscape and cross-strait relations.
2024/05/22 11:10
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Taiwan to welcome 50 foreign delegations for inauguration
Discover insights on Taiwan’s diplomatic engagement as Foreign Minister Joseph Wu announces that around 50 foreign delegations will attend President-elect Lai Ching-te’s inauguration on May 20, highlighting Taiwan’s democratic values and international relations.
2024/05/16 14:48
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Taiwan Premier advocates for peaceful cross-strait dialogue
Premier Chen Chien-jen of Taiwan expresses willingness for peaceful democratic talks on equal terms in cross-strait exchanges during the Legislative Yuan’s general policy interpellation. Lawmaker Lin Te-fu from the Kuomintang (KMT) highlights tensions in cross-strait relations and calls for dialogue, citing the lack of official communication and progress in the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) since 2015. Premier Chen emphasizes Taiwan’s economic growth potential and expanding market reach in New Southbound, Western, and East Asian countries.
2024/03/15 18:49
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Taiwan VP affirms commitment to peace amid China challenges
Taiwanese Vice President Lai Ching-te emphasizes Taiwan’s commitment to peace, equality, democracy, and dialogue in the face of challenges from China. Lai meets with a U.S. delegation led by Representative Mike Gallagher to strengthen Taiwan’s national defense and security. Gallagher expresses continuous support for a deeper Taiwan-U.S. relationship, highlighting the integral bond between the two countries amid China’s ambitions. The meeting underscores Taiwan’s resolve to engage in peaceful, equal, democratic dialogue and protect its sovereignty.
2024/02/22 15:58
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Taiwan monitors Tuvalu elections amid diplomatic tensions
Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) will closely monitor developments in Tuvalu post-election, as most elected officials have established frequent interactions and friendly stances with Taiwan, ensuring solid diplomatic ties. MOFA condemns China’s attempt to influence the election by buying off local media in Tuvalu. The loss of Tuvalu’s pro-Taiwan Prime Minister has sparked speculation about a potential shift in foreign policy and diplomatic alliance with Beijing. However, MOFA notes that the majority of elected Tuvalu officials maintain good relations with Taiwan and support upholding the amicable relations between the two countries. MOFA urges the international community to pay attention and counter autocratic dictatorial countries that manipulate elections in democratic states. This development reflects the ongoing competition between China and Taiwan for diplomatic allegiances in the Pacific region, with countries sometimes switching allegiances for economic or political support.
2024/01/30 17:44
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Taiwan and Lithuania strengthen ties in defense of democracy
Legislative Speaker You Si-kun met with a Lithuanian delegation led by Matas Maldeikis, chairman of the Lithuania-Taiwan parliamentary friendship group. The meeting highlighted Taiwan’s recent election, which had a voter turnout of over 70%, as a clear message from the Taiwanese people to defend democratic freedom and national sovereignty. The delegation included three deputy speakers of the Lithuanian parliament and eight other cross-party lawmakers. Speaker You noted that 2024 is a "super election year" globally, with Taiwan being the second country to hold elections this year. He also expressed his wishes for Lithuania’s upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections in May and October 2024. The speaker emphasized that elections represent the "possibility of choice," "freedom to participate in politics," and "protection of speech," which are rights unfathomable under authoritarian rule. He called on global democratic allies to unite in facing authoritarian challenges and safeguarding democracy and prosperity worldwide. Speaker You expressed gratitude for Lithuania’s support and highlighted the countries’ cooperation on humanitarian aid, particularly in helping Ukrainian students return to school.
2024/01/26 18:06
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MOFA vows stronger ties with Tuvalu amid diplomatic rumors
Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has been closely cooperating with Tuvalu in various fields and will continue to strengthen such cooperation for mutual prosperity. MOFA’s remarks came after rumors that Tuvalu might establish diplomatic ties with China after its general election on Friday. Bikenibeu Paeniu, Tuvalu’s ambassador to Taiwan, suggested that Tuvalu might seek diplomatic recognition from Beijing after its Jan. 26 general election. Taiwan’s foreign ministry noted that numerous high-ranking officials from Tuvalu had congratulated Taiwan’s elected president and vice president after its democratic election and reiterated their commitment to preserving the friendship between the two countries. Some experts believe that Paeniu’s comments require further verification and cannot rule out the possibility that Tuvalu is using this as leverage to solicit support from Australia.
2024/01/22 12:13
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Premier vows precision in tackling TikTok misinformation
The Taiwanese government, led by Premier Chen Chien-jen, has emphasized its commitment to handling issues with the social media platform TikTok with precision. The government aims to address potential misinformation on social platforms to enhance public literacy and has warned of legal sanctions for spreading false information. The Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau recently established a Cognitive Warfare Research Center, which has raised concerns about potential infringements on freedom of speech. Chen highlighted the use of TikTok in advancing cognitive warfare efforts in some countries and the need for stricter government scrutiny. Taiwan has already banned the use of TikTok in government sectors since 2020. Chen argued that autocratic nations often exploit democratic societies’ free speech to influence elections through social media. He reiterated Taiwan’s status as a free and democratic country ruled by law, emphasizing the government’s responsibility to protect freedom of speech. Chen also highlighted the threats posed by spreading false or misinformation to reputation, health, privacy, societal stability, and national security. He called on democracies worldwide to approach this issue with caution.
2024/01/19 16:24
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DPP grapples with TikTok dilemma: To ban or not to ban
The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Secretary-General Hsu Li-ming expressed concern over the use of TikTok, stating that it is a difficult issue that the party cannot ban or use. He suggested that the party should consider strengthening its presence on alternative new media platforms like YouTube and Instagram for better public engagement. These comments were made during the party’s first central meeting after the recent presidential and legislative elections. Another party member, Hsu Shu-hua, acknowledged the DPP’s lack of engagement with young people and technology, including popular trends on TikTok, but argued against a ban, stating that it would be ineffective and that the issue should be confronted directly. Party member Wang Ting-yu recommended treating TikTok as a matter of national security and studying how Western countries have dealt with the platform. Legislator Hsu Chih-chieh echoed this sentiment, pointing out that democratic nations like the U.S. and the UK have imposed certain restrictions on TikTok. He urged Taiwan to take more precautions and learn from the policies of other democratic countries to safeguard itself against informational warfare. Secretary-General Hsu Li-ming emphasized the importance of dialogue and cooperation with civil society groups and the effective use of online platforms like Instagram, short videos, and TikTok, urging these actions to be taken now and not just during elections.
2024/01/18 10:21
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Premier Chen defends Medigen vaccine confidentiality deal
Premier Chen Chien-jen discusses the pricing process and confidentiality agreements surrounding Medigen vaccines, stating that negotiations with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) are ongoing. As a publicly listed company, any decisions about publicizing the government contract require shareholders’ approval. Chen emphasizes the government’s belief in vaccination as the best measure against the pandemic. Medigen had positive results from phase one trials and clinical experiments, leading to phase two development. The World Health Organization (WHO) conducted unity trials with four other countries after being unable to proceed with phase three trials due to Taiwan’s low COVID-19 case statistics. Chen disputes rumors about a 30-year embargo on clinical results, calling it fake news and clarifying that all official documents have a preservation period. He also refutes accusations that over a thousand Medigen shareholders are members of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), calling them "imaginary numerical figures." Chen hopes to disclose the information as soon as possible to maintain public trust, but it can only happen after negotiations and respecting existing confidentiality agreements.
2024/01/03 17:07
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MOFA counters criticism on Taiwan’s stalled FTAs
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has stated that Beijing is working to isolate Taiwan globally in response to criticisms made by Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih regarding Taiwan’s stagnant free trade agreements (FTA). During a presidential policy presentation, Hou criticized the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for its unsatisfactory economic performance and the lack of progress in bilateral and multilateral trade agreements. MOFA emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to global economic integration and bilateral economic cooperation, but highlighted the interference from China. MOFA believes that Taiwan’s ability to participate effectively in economic integration depends on its strength and global connections, especially as countries like the U.S. and European nations reassess their economic risks with China. MOFA urges all Taiwanese, regardless of political affiliation, to unite and enhance cooperation with like-minded nations in the face of external challenges.
2023/12/30 17:19
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Taiwan can learn from Israel’s military training: Hsiao
DPP vice-presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim praised Israel’s military service training and suggested that Taiwan could learn from their use of dual-use technology. Hsiao acknowledged the differences between the two countries in terms of military obligations and defense budgets. She emphasized the need for Taiwan to find its own path while learning from different countries, considering its unique historical and geopolitical context. Hsiao also advocated for extending Taiwan’s current four-month military service training period to a year, as many other nations do. She proposed that Taiwan could adopt advanced dual-use technology from other countries to provide servicemen with valuable skills and enhance their contributions to national defense.
2023/12/26 11:27
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TSMC to expand globally, retain roots in Taiwan: Hsiao
DPP vice-presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim visited the TSMC Museum of Innovation and stated that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) would remain based in Taiwan while expanding into trusted partner countries. Concerns about brain drain and technology outflow have arisen as TSMC expands globally. Hsiao emphasized that the first "T" in TSMC stands for Taiwan and highlighted the importance of strategic placement in partner countries. Drawing on her experience in the United States, Hsiao mentioned her efforts to prevent double taxation agreements, which benefit Taiwan’s talent and industries. Her visit and comments coincide with TSMC’s international strategies being closely scrutinized as it seeks to maintain its competitive edge in a complex geopolitical landscape.
2023/12/12 13:31
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MOFA thanks G7 for backing peace across Taiwan Strait
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of Taiwan welcomes and expresses gratitude for the joint statement made by G7 member countries, emphasizing the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. The G7 urged the peaceful resolution of cross-strait issues and opposed any attempts to change the status quo through force or coercion. MOFA highlighted China’s military expansion in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea, which poses a significant threat to security in the Indo-Pacific region. Throughout the year, various international statements have reiterated the centrality of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. MOFA emphasizes Taiwan’s key role in the Indo-Pacific and commits to continuing cooperation with the G7 to strengthen global democratic alliances against authoritarianism.
2023/12/07 20:59
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Hsiao confident in U.S. trust, backs Tsai’s policies
Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) vice-presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim expresses confidence in the trust the U.S. places in President Tsai Ing-wen and assures that her running mate, presidential candidate Lai Ching-te, will continue Tsai’s diplomatic policies if elected. Hsiao addresses concerns about the perception of the "Lai-Hsiao ticket" as strongly pro-Taiwan independence, emphasizing the focus should be on actions rather than political labels. She believes Taiwan’s consensus is to maintain the status quo and desires sustainable and healthy exchanges with China. Hsiao describes herself as a "cat warrior" and emphasizes the need for diplomacy to strike a balance that maximizes Taiwan’s international support and participation. She expresses a desire to speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping face-to-face, urging him to empathize with the aspirations of the Taiwanese people. Hsiao also mentions her intention to recommend Taiwan’s delicious agricultural products, such as Taiwanese mangoes, to Xi. This interview reaffirms the DPP’s commitment to Taiwan’s autonomy and the desire for friendly and reciprocal relations with neighboring countries, including China, based on compassion and mutual respect.
2023/11/26 13:54
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Lai Ching-te leads Taiwan election poll by narrow margin
The latest poll from the "Formosa" website reveals a close race in Taiwan’s presidential election, with Lai Ching-te of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) leading by a slim margin of 31.4%, followed closely by Hou Yu-ih of the Kuomintang (KMT) at 31.1%. Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) trails in third place with 25.2%, over 6 percentage points behind the front-runners. Former legislator Shen Fu-hsiung, speaking on TVBS Situation Room, analyzed the situation, highlighting that the close polling between Hou and Ko does not give Lai a significant advantage. However, he cautioned against calls for a collaboration between the KMT and TPP at this time. Shen further explained that in presidential system countries like Taiwan, cooperation talks are not typically pursued, unlike in parliamentary systems where post-election coalitions may form. With the widening gap in support between Hou and Ko, Shen urged political observers to abandon the idea of a pan-blue alliance. He also emphasized that if the KMT aims to surpass the DPP in the upcoming elections, they should focus on diminishing the TPP’s support and consolidating the pan-blue vote without relying on a formal alliance.
2023/11/25 14:04
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MOFA head warns of conflict amid authoritarian expansion
Taiwan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Joseph Wu, delivered a speech at Riga Stradins University in Latvia, clarifying Taiwan’s position amid tensions with China. Despite enduring military intimidation, diplomatic isolation, and economic threats from China, Taiwan remains committed to achieving peace through open conversation while being pragmatic and prepared for potential risks. Wu praised the diplomatic relationship between Taiwan and Latvia, as both countries share similar paths to democracy and the establishment of sovereign statehood. However, both countries face unprecedented security challenges, with a standoff between democracy and autocracy driving the current international conflict. Wu emphasized that established democracies cannot ignore the expansion of authoritarianism, which seeks to undermine the rules-based international order. In light of President Tsai’s decision to restore one-year military service, Wu stressed the importance of being armed to protect Taiwan’s freedom, as the cost of losing it is unbearable for a democratic society.
2023/11/08 20:13
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MOFA Minister Wu discusses Taiwan-China tensions on BBC
In an exclusive interview with BBC World Service flagship program Newshour, Taiwan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Joseph Wu, discussed the increasing disturbances in Taiwan-China relations. Minister Wu highlighted the significance of international support, citing the visit of then-US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi as a positive diplomatic move. He also drew attention to China’s efforts to hinder Taiwan’s participation in international events. Wu welcomed the wave of international visitors expressing support for Taiwan, including the Vice President of the European Parliament and legislative speakers from Czechia and Lithuania. He urged democratic countries to be vigilant against potential interference from China in the upcoming presidential election and to voice their discontent over sensitive issues. Minister Wu drew three valuable lessons from the Ukraine-Russia conflict, commending the Ukrainian people’s commitment to defending their homeland, acknowledging the effectiveness of asymmetric warfare tactics, and emphasizing the importance of global support for invaded nations.
2023/11/02 21:26
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Lai Ching-te presents Peace Plan to foreign officials
Taiwan Vice President Lai Ching-te addressed over 40 foreign diplomats and representatives from 30 countries at an information session organized by the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) International Affairs Department on Thursday (July 6).
2023/07/06 17:53