cooperation 結果共202筆

The San Francisco overseas Chinese community hosted a New Year flag-raising ceremony, with Fremont Mayor Lily Mei encouraging the next generation to run for office and speak out for Asians. Mei also urged the community to vote robustly in the upcoming T U.S.-Taiwan relations and reminded them not to underestimate individual power. Director-General Scott Lai of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in San Francisco reviewed Taiwan’s accomplishments last year, highlighting its rise in various indices, ranking second in freedom in Asia and sixth in global competitiveness. Lai also noted the meeting between Morris Chang, founder of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), and key U.S. officials at the 2023 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, praising it as a symbol of U.S. executive branch support for Taiwan. However, Lai acknowledged challenges lie ahead for Taiwan, particularly in its tourism, sightseeing, and restaurant industries’ recovery, as well as social issues such as declining birthrates and wealth disparity. Lai assured that the government would take a more proactive and responsible stance to make positive changes felt by the public.

President Tsai Ing-wen criticizes China’s one-sided trade barriers and emphasizes that bilateral trade relations should not be used as a political tool in her New Year’s address. The tariff preference for certain products under the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) has been suspended as of Jan. 1, 2024. Tsai notes China’s intervention in elections and expresses confidence in the people of Taiwan to make wise decisions. She argues that Taiwan’s industries already have global exposure and are gradually reducing reliance on China. Tsai believes that while the economic benefits of the ECFA are limited, diversifying risks and global positioning are important for Taiwan’s industries. She highlights that China often imposes unilateral trade barriers on other countries for political reasons, citing examples of punitive tariffs and import bans on Lithuania and Australia due to their friendly relationship with Taiwan and criticism of China’s human rights policy in Xinjiang.

In this story, Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential nominee Lai Ching-te criticizes the outdated policy views of Kuomintang’s (KMT) presidential candidate, Hou Yu-ih, during a presidential debate. Lai emphasizes the need for abandoning outdated policies and upgrading past efforts to comprehend and master the rapidly changing world. He outlines his policy principles, including boosting national projects, enhancing defense, economic and democratic ties, and maintaining dignified, equal cooperation with China. Lai believes that the 2024 presidential election will determine whether Taiwan aligns with democracies or authoritarian entities, and he highlights that voting for him and his running mate Hsiao Bi-khim is the only option to continue collaborating with democratic allies.

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.

Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih challenges the effectiveness of President Tsai Ing-wen’s foreign policy, questioning its impact on Taiwan-China communication, severed relations with former allies, extended military service, and increased risk of Chinese fighter jets breaching Taiwan’s airspace. The three presidential contenders, including Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te and Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) candidate Ko Wen-je, discuss U.S.-Taiwan relations and their stance on President Tsai’s policy. Hou questions DPP’s handling of tainted politics during their time in power and highlights his support for the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA). He also addresses concerns over cross-strait flight operations and employment difficulties for Chinese students in Taiwan. Hou pledges to follow the Constitution of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and maintain administrative neutrality without relying on any side.

DPP vice presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim reassures students in Hsinchu City that protecting Taiwan’s democratic freedom is in the mutual interest of Taiwan and the United States. She addresses concerns about the history of Chiang Kai-shek’s pro-American stance and Donald Trump’s seemingly unfriendly attitude toward Taiwan. Hsiao emphasizes the importance of promoting Taiwan-U.S. relations with Taiwan at the heart of the process, identifying mutual benefits to strengthen Taiwan. She states that her approach in Washington would not interfere with or comment on the competition between U.S. parties, but rather focus on maintaining Taiwanese interests. Hsiao acknowledges that while Trump may use certain political language, as long as cooperation between Taiwan and the U.S. continues and Taiwanese interests are protected, it would be sufficient. The discussion also touches on concerns about subsidies for private high schools, with Hsiao emphasizing the importance of educational equity and Lai Ching-te’s intention to work towards making senior high school education free.

DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te has proposed a comprehensive national vision, emphasizing unity, safety, and cross-strait cooperation based on mutual respect if elected. Lai aims to establish a transparent government by combating corruption, including illegal drugs and arms dealing, fraud, and embezzlement. He also plans to boost Taiwan’s economy by supporting the growth of small and medium enterprises in high-tech industries. Lai is committed to education equity, with plans to waive high school and vocational school fees and provide financial aid to private university students. He also pledges to improve long-term care facilities and services through the implementation of Long-term Care 3.0. Lai and his running mate, Hsiao Bi-khim, are dedicated to caring for the people, protecting Taiwan’s security, and advancing its development.

Kuomintang (KMT) presidential contender Hou Yu-ih criticizes the ruling Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP’s) past claims about the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) and cross-strait communication. He questions the DPP candidate’s analogy of ＂three links＂ and direct flights to a ＂Trojan horse leading to a massacre＂ and challenges the Agriculture Minister’s role in Chinese approvals for Taiwan’s grouper fish export. Hou argues that unresolved quarantine issues could harm Taiwanese farmers and suggests direct negotiations with China. He also criticizes Lai’s ＂Taiwan independence＂ stance, claiming it lacks practical understanding of cross-strait relations. If elected, Hou promises to continue ECFA negotiations to reduce China’s tariffs on Taiwan’s industries. He believes that adhering to the Constitution and the Act Governing Relations between Taiwan and China will maintain peace between the straits.

The termination of the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) has raised concerns about its impact on Taiwan’s petrochemical industry. However, corporate entities in Taiwan have stated that the impact has been limited. This is due to Taiwan’s efforts to reduce its dependency on China for exports, as China increases its domestic supply of petrochemical products. Taiwanese firms are expanding into other export markets and focusing on enhancing the competitiveness of their high-value products. The move is a response to China’s accusations of discriminatory bans and restrictive measures on Chinese products, which China’s Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council sees as violating the ECFA. The ECFA’s ＂Early Harvest List＂ included 88 tax reductions on Taiwan’s petrochemical industry by China. With the suspension of tariff privileges, these corporations anticipate that the tax rate on associated products could rise from the current 0% to between 2% and 10%.

The Customs Tariff Commission of China’s State Council has announced that starting from January 1 next year, it will suspend the application of preferential tariffs for 12 categories of chemically imported goods from Taiwan, including propylene and paraxylene. China claims that Taiwan violates ECFA regulations by imposing discriminatory trade measures for products exported from China, and a trade barrier investigation by China’s Ministry of Commerce confirmed these restrictions as a trade barrier. Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) accuses China of political manipulation and bypassing WTO dispute mechanisms. The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) states that the export value of ECFA’s early harvest list to China has been decreasing, projected to retract to pre-ECFA levels by year-end. The MOEA proposes managing cross-strait economic disputes under the WTO mechanism and encourages China to do the same.

China has announced the suspension of preferential tariffs on certain products under the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA), potentially impacting cross-strait trade. Li Zhenguang, deputy dean of the Taiwan Research Institute at Beijing Union University, suggests that this move could lead to the complete termination of the ECFA, creating uncertainty for the future. Tang Yonghong, deputy director of the Taiwan Research Center at Xiamen University, considers the suspension to be moderate and emphasizes that China will respond with corresponding measures if Taiwan imposes trade bans or limitations. The development of cross-strait trade is contingent on the relationship between the two sides, with trade being affected if relations become confrontational. China’s suspension of tariff concessions for 12 imported items is seen as a warning to Taiwan in defense of the ＂1992 Consensus,＂ indicating China’s unwavering stance on cross-strait relations.

DPP vice-presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim emphasized the importance of strength in maintaining Taiwan’s status quo and preventing bullying. She highlighted the current state and prospects of U.S.-Taiwan relations, noting that U.S. policy has consistently supported maintaining the status quo and opposing the use of force. Hsiao mentioned that under Xi Jinping’s leadership, the U.S. has shifted to view China competitively but does not seek a new Cold War. She emphasized critical issues of peace, security, and economic cooperation in Taiwan-U.S. ties, including the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade. Hsiao underscored Taiwan’s determination to defend itself, citing the national defense budget and military modernization reforms. She referred to herself as a ＂cat warrior＂ and advocated for government reform and a balanced international stance. Hsiao urged that Taiwan not become a divisive issue between American political parties and emphasized the need for a proper balance amidst U.S.-China competition to ensure Taiwan’s safe and steady progression.

A new poll by ETtoday reveals a tight race in the upcoming 2024 presidential election in Taiwan. The Democratic Progressive Party’s Lai-Hsiao ticket, consisting of Lai Ching-te and Hsiao Bi-khim, leads with 35.9% support, slightly ahead of the Kuomintang’s Hou-Jaw ticket, comprised of Hou Yu-ih and Jaw Shaw-kong, at 34.7%. The Taiwan People’s Party’s Ko-Wu ticket, featuring Ko Wen-je and Cynthia Wu, trails behind with 19.6% support. Despite the close percentages, 44.3% of the public expresses confidence in the Lai-Hsiao ticket’s ability to win, compared to 30.1% for Hou-Jaw and 13.8% for Ko-Wu. Conversely, 40.5% of voters are certain they will not vote for Lai-Hsiao, while 27.3% reject Hou-Jaw and 20.6% turn away from Ko-Wu. In terms of non-constituency legislators, the KMT leads with 35% support, followed by the DPP with 31.3% and the TPP at 14.5%. The poll highlights public concern over Taiwan’s economic ties with China, particularly due to recent trade restrictions viewed as trade barriers and the suspension of the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) measures. Additionally, 47.1% of respondents worry that a Lai Ching-te presidency could worsen cross-strait economic and people-to-people exchanges, while 16.4% hold the same concern for Hou Yu-ih and 11.6% for Ko Wen-je. The poll, conducted from December 18 to 19, surveyed 1,224 respondents with a margin of error of plus or minus 2.8%. Compared to the previous poll from December 14 to 15, support for the Lai-Hsiao ticket dropped by 2.6 percentage points, while the Hou-Jaw ticket saw a minor decline of 0.4 percentage points, and the Ko-Wu ticket remained unchanged. The number of undecided voters increased to 9.8%, indicating the undecided nature of the electorate ahead of the presidential vote.

A new poll reveals that 40.5% of Taiwanese would definitely not vote for the Democratic Progressive Party’s Lai-Hsiao ticket (Lai Ching-te, Hsiao Bi-khim) in the upcoming 2024 presidential election. The survey also shows that 47.1% believe cross-strait economic and people-to-people exchanges could worsen under Lai Ching-te’s leadership. Lai-Hsiao currently leads with 35.9% support, followed closely by the Kuomintang’s Hou-Jaw ticket (Hou Yu-ih, Jaw Shaw-kong) with 34.7%, and the Taiwan People’s Party’s Ko-Wu ticket (Ko Wen-je, Cynthia Wu) at 19.6%. A small percentage plan to abstain or render their ballots invalid, and a significant portion remains undecided. Optimism for Lai-Hsiao winning stands at 44.3%, while 27.3% completely rule out voting for Hou-Jaw and 20.6% against Ko-Wu. Hou Yu-ih is believed to have a 16.4% impact on cross-strait relations, while Ko Wen-je holds an 11.6% influence. The poll was conducted from December 18-19, surveying 1,224 individuals from Taiwan and the Fujian area. It was funded by ETtoday and has a sampling error of ±2.8% at a 95% confidence level.

China criticizes a US arms sale to Taiwan worth $300 million, demanding an immediate halt to US military aid. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced the sale includes secure communications systems for Taiwan’s defense. China argues that the sale violates the One-China policy and the three joint communiques, particularly emphasizing the one from 1982. The spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense warns that any attempts to ＂use Taiwan to control China＂ will fail. China’s Foreign Ministry also launches a formal protest with the US and takes punitive measures against the involved companies.

President Tsai Ing-wen discusses her post-presidency plans, hinting at a possible teaching role after her term ends. Reflecting on her tenure, she acknowledges the challenges faced by Taiwan but highlights the stable growth and economic achievements during her governance. President Tsai expresses gratitude to her supporters and hopes for her successor to lead Taiwan to greater heights. Emphasizing the importance of presidential capability and political transformation, she commends the Democratic Progressive Party candidates for their steadfast execution of the ＂Tsai Ing-wen route.＂ President Tsai emphasizes the need for future leaders who are internationally trusted, capable of upholding peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, and maintaining global cooperation and trust.

The Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China (MOFCOM) has concluded its investigation into Taiwan’s ban on importing certain products from the mainland, deeming it a trade barrier. The investigation, conducted under the Foreign Trade Law and Foreign Trade Barrier Investigation Rules, found that the ban hinders cross-strait trade relations. The ban, which covers 2,455 Taiwanese goods including agricultural products, minerals, chemicals, and textiles, was announced by Beijing in April. Originally scheduled to release the findings on October 12, 2023, MOFCOM extended the deadline to January 12, 2024. Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) spokeswoman Zhu Fenglian criticized the ban, stating that it goes against the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA), which aims to reduce or eliminate tariffs and non-tariff barriers between the two sides. Zhu emphasized that such restrictions harm the interests of both sides and pledged support for measures based on the investigation’s results.

National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYMCU) has partnered with the American Climate Club (ACC) to establish the American Taiwan Climate Club. This collaboration aims to contribute to the global net-zero carbon emissions target by 2050. The two institutions have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to develop international carbon standards and propose a white paper on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) policies. NYMCU is committed to raising global citizens with sustainability awareness and plans to integrate the 17 Sustainable Development Goals into its academics and research. The partnership also has the potential to pave the way for Taiwan’s engagement in international carbon trading and promote green economic growth. The American Climate Club, registered in Texas, collaborates with government agencies, carbon reduction technology firms, carbon quality monitoring, carbon asset services, and climate and carbon finance funds. The newly formed American Taiwan Climate Club will focus on climate education, international cooperation, carbon project investment, carbon advisory services, and policy research to strengthen climate protection efforts.

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.

NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang announces collaboration with Vietnamese technological firms to support Vietnam in AI talent cultivation and digital infrastructure development. Huang expresses interest in establishing a base in Vietnam during a meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh. NVIDIA has already invested around US＄250 million in Vietnam and recognizes the country’s potential in the IT sector. Huang identifies Viettel Telecom, FPT Software, Vingroup, and VNG Corporation as specific partners for expanded cooperation.

The George Washington University Professor Robert Sutter argues that Taiwan’s elections have little impact on U.S. policy towards the island, but the upcoming U.S. presidential election in 2024 could be significant. Both political parties in the U.S. and Congress have prioritized defending American interests and countering China’s actions, with Taiwan playing an increasingly important role. Taiwan’s strategic position, high-tech development, democratic politics, and free market economy have influenced the international order and led to stronger U.S. support. Sutter predicts that if Lai Ching-te, the Democratic Progressive Party presidential candidate, wins the election, U.S.-Taiwan cooperation will further deepen. However, Sutter also suggests that the 2024 U.S. election, particularly if a candidate with an ＂America First＂ stance like Donald Trump prevails, could bring a shift in U.S. policy consistency towards Taiwan and pose challenges in countering China’s provocations.

Alexander Yui, Taiwan’s new representative to the United States, arrived in Washington D.C. on Monday (Dec. 11), to assume his post. Ingrid Larson, the managing director of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), welcomed him at the airport. Yui’s arrival follows the resignation of former representative Hsiao Bi-khim on Nov. 20. Yui, who had recently become the top envoy to the EU and Belgium, was chosen to replace Hsiao. Yui emphasized security, economic and trade cooperation, and Taiwan’s international space as the key aspects of Taiwan-U.S. relations. He highlighted the need to safeguard Taiwan’s upcoming election from external influences. Yui committed to deepening Taiwan-U.S. relations by building on Hsiao’s work and collaborating with his embassy team. Laura Rosenberger, chair of AIT, expressed confidence in Yui’s experience and anticipated further development and strengthening of the bilateral partnership.

Taiwan’s Minister of Economic Affairs, Wang Mei-hua, has confirmed that discussions will soon take place with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) regarding the inauguration date for its Kumamoto fab. The progress of TSMC’s Kumamoto fab is said to be outpacing other global expansion efforts. Wang expressed gratitude for the support provided by Japan’s central and local government authorities in establishing the plant. Equipment installation is already underway at TSMC’s Kumamoto site, with trial production set to begin in April 2024. The opening ceremony may be scheduled as early as February 24. Wang emphasized the importance of reinforcing cooperation between Taiwan and Japan, particularly in the semiconductor supply chain, and encouraged mutual investment to foster closer bilateral relations.

The U.S. House Armed Services Committee has agreed to include provisions in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24 NDAA) to assist in the training of Taiwan’s armed forces. The bill, with a budget of ＵＳUS＄876.8 billion, requires the U.S. Department of Defense to develop a comprehensive training and advisory program for Taiwan’s military. The program will only proceed with the consent of the Secretary of State and after consultations with Taiwanese officials. The legislation aims to enhance Taiwan’s multilayered defense capabilities, including asymmetric defense strategies and interoperability with U.S. forces. It also promotes cybersecurity cooperation and the protection of military networks. The NDAA mandates biannual reporting on China’s military developments in Taiwan, Southeast Asia, and the South China Sea. Additionally, a classified report will evaluate the absorption of U.S.-provided military capabilities by Taiwan’s armed forces. After approval by Congress, President Joe Biden is expected to sign the bill into law, strengthening U.S.-Taiwan defense relations.

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman, Wang Wenbin, strongly opposes Italy’s decision to withdraw from China’s Belt and Road Initiative (OBOR), dismissing attempts to smear the global infrastructure project. Wang emphasizes that OBOR has expanded to over 150 countries since its establishment and asserts that it is the most popular international public product and the largest platform for international cooperation. He points to the 3rd Belt and Road Forum, which was attended by representatives from 151 countries and 41 international organizations, as evidence of the initiative’s global appeal and influence. Wang firmly rejects any negative portrayal of OBOR and emphasizes China’s preference for cooperation rather than forming divisive blocs.