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Report unveils misconceptions on Taiwan’s political stance
A report by the German think-tank Friedrich-Naumann-Foundation for Freedom (FNF) argues that the issue between Taiwan and China is "not unification but forced unification." The report, written by National Taiwan University’s sociology Ph.D. candidate, Sie Da-wun, and FNF Global Innovation Hub’s Program Officer, Lai Yu-fen, challenges the common misinterpretation of Taiwanese political parties. They assert that assuming the Kuomintang (KMT) supports unification because it is pro-China and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) supports independence because it is anti-China is an oversimplification. The report highlights that since Taiwan’s democratization, the Taiwanese people have consistently opposed "annexation" or "unification" imposed by the Beijing government.
2024/01/04 14:54
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DPP candidate warns against China-backed election win
Taipei (TVBS News) - Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) presidential candidate Lai Ching-te warns against allowing a China-backed candidate to win the elections. Lai emphasizes that interference from Beijing through the Kuomintang (KMT) is evident and should not be tolerated. He believes that the best way to counter China’s intervention is to not elect the candidate whom China supports, as it could jeopardize Taiwan’s democracy. The Washington Post recently published an opinion piece suggesting that China is influencing Taiwan’s 2024 elections by feeding voters pro-KMT content through social media. The DPP’s director of international affairs interprets the report as indicating that the KMT is leaning towards China and receiving secret backing from Beijing.
2024/01/03 19:16
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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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Scholars predict halt to ECFA amid suspended tariff cuts
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.
2023/12/21 21:36
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MOFA thanks US for support amid China provocations
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) spokesperson expressed gratitude for the concern shown by friends in the U.S. Congress regarding Taiwan’s security. The U.S. military has observed increased provocative actions by China around the Taiwan Strait ahead of the Taiwanese presidential election. Admiral John Aquilino, head of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, has called for restraint from China, perceiving these actions as pressure tactics. U.S. Representative Mike Gallagher urged the Pentagon to provide a classified briefing on assisting Taiwan in deterring China. Taiwan is committed to bolstering its self-defense capabilities and pursuing peace through dialogue with Beijing authorities. Despite pressure, Taiwan will maintain a non-provocative stance while defending national sovereignty and democratic freedom. Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry expressed regret over China’s threats of countermeasures against U.S. firms involved in arms sales to Taiwan and emphasized the need for the U.S. to fulfill its security promises.
2023/12/20 11:08
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KMT’s Jaw answers students’ ’1992 Consensus’ questions
KMT vice presidential candidate Jaw Shaw-kong challenges the narrative of the "1992 Consensus," stating it was not used during cross-strait negotiations. He explains that the parties involved articulated their positions orally with no unified expression, and it was later that Su Chi introduced the term. Jaw also addresses the DPP’s stance on the "One China" policy, stating that the DPP urges Beijing to acknowledge "One China" as the Republic of China, a recognition unlikely from Beijing. He critiques the DPP’s performance over their 8-year tenure and suggests that the electorate could express dissatisfaction by transferring power to the KMT. Jaw acknowledges the contributions of Taiwanese businesses to China’s economic development and asserts that Taiwan could demand economic concessions from China. He questions the need for increased defense spending and extended conscription in Taiwan in the absence of an immediate threat, stating that conflict between the two sides should and must not occur.
2023/12/20 11:05
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Taiwan readies aid after Gansu Quake
Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen and Premier Chen Chien-jen have been alerted and instructed to prepare for emergency relief efforts following a magnitude 5.9 earthquake in Gansu Province, mainland China. The earthquake resulted in the deaths of 105 people and damage to 4,782 homes. Taiwan’s Minister of Interior, Lin Yu-chang, announced that a 160-member search and rescue team, including a structural engineer, doctors, nurses, and search dogs certified in International Search and Rescue Dog Organisation (IRO) rubble search, is ready to provide assistance. Communication has been established with mainland China through the Mainland Affairs Council to coordinate rescue needs. If requested, Taiwan’s National Fire Agency will collaborate with the Disaster Relief Foundation to activate a special charter flight mechanism for humanitarian rescue missions. Additionally, an earthquake in Qinghai Province resulted in the deaths of 13 individuals, bringing the total earthquake death toll in mainland China to 118. Taiwan’s quick mobilization demonstrates its readiness to provide humanitarian assistance despite the complex political relationship with Beijing.
2023/12/19 16:52
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China rebukes French media for ’misleading report’
The Chinese Embassy in France, FMPRC, criticized a Le Figaro report for its alleged falsehoods and bias against China’s actions in the South China Sea. The report, authored by Nicolas Barotte, highlighted China’s increasing aggression in the region. The FMPRC disputed the report’s claims, particularly regarding the territorial scope of the Philippines and the status of Taiwan. The FMPRC objected to Le Figaro’s portrayal of Taiwan as a separate entity from China. The embassy emphasized that Taiwan is an integral part of China and called for the media to respect China’s sovereignty and journalistic ethics.
2023/12/19 15:31
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Taiwan monitors 6 PLA aircraft, 2 vessels near island
Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) has reported six instances of People’s Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft and two Chinese naval vessels near the Taiwan Strait between 6 a.m. on Sunday and 6 a.m. on Monday. In response, Taiwan’s military has deployed aircraft, ships, and missile systems for monitoring and appropriate response. The MND has also disclosed the sighting of two suspected Chinese weather balloons crossing the Taiwan Strait median line at the northern end. The balloons were approximately 110 nautical miles northwest of Keelung, flying below an altitude of about 27,000 feet, and drifting eastward. These developments occur amidst increased Chinese military activities around Taiwan, as Beijing considers the island a renegade province to be reunited with the mainland, by force if necessary.
2023/12/18 14:22
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MOFCOM ends probe, rules Taiwan’s import ban a trade barrier
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.
2023/12/15 16:11
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Hou and Chao: Taiwan must prepare, not provoke against China
Kuomintang presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih and running mate Chao Shao-kang reaffirmed that Beijing has not renounced the use of force against Taiwan, emphasizing the importance of Taiwan’s democracy in countering Chinese pressure. In an interview with NBC, Hou stated that Taiwan’s future should be determined by its 23 million inhabitants, asserting that Taiwan is an independent sovereign country. Hou advocated for preparedness without provocation and maintaining a deterrence capability amid growing tensions. Chao stressed the necessity of peace for cross-strait development, with strength as a crucial support. He emphasized the importance of U.S. support for Taiwan’s defense measures. Hou also highlighted the critical role of the U.S. in Taiwan’s self-defense efforts and expressed confidence in the deepening of the Taiwan-U.S. relationship. Chao argued that Taiwan’s democracy will inevitably influence mainland China, challenging the Chinese government to explain why democracy cannot thrive in a place with a shared heritage and culture across the Strait.
2023/12/11 20:30
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Beijing touts OBOR success as Italy formally pulls out
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.
2023/12/07 21:26
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Low risk of China attack if Lai wins: DPP campaign chief
In an interview, Yao Li-ming, the campaign chief for the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) presidential candidate Lai Ching-te, stated that if Lai were to win the presidency, the likelihood of a military attack from mainland China is low and the probability of cross-strait warfare is at its lowest. Yao analyzed that China may employ specific strategies in the last two weeks of the election to make Taiwanese voters perceive choosing Lai as "very dangerous," but the DPP has prepared for such scenarios. Yao drew an analogy, stating that if a bully knows that a person will resist to the death, they might not attack at all. Yao also noted that mainland China’s leader Xi Jinping did not mention a timetable for an attack on Taiwan during the recent Xi-Biden meeting, suggesting that Beijing would not rashly initiate conflict. The DPP is willing to interact with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) but cannot accept the preconditions of the "One China" principle set by Beijing. A re-elected DPP administration would send a clear message to China, emphasizing that any resolution to the Taiwan issue must involve the DPP. Yao also contended that a successive DPP administration would reflect the support of Taiwan’s younger generation and mainstream public opinion, revealing to Beijing the necessity of recognizing the DPP’s status. Regarding mainland China’s interference in the elections, Yao disclosed that the DPP is ready to confront any unusual situations that may arise, but specific suspicions cannot be made public at this time.
2023/12/04 19:56
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TAO spokesperson denies Beijing election meddling claims
The spokesperson for China’s Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO), Chen Binhua, denied allegations of Beijing interfering in Taiwan’s elections during a press conference. Chen dismissed the claims made by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) as baseless rumors and accused the ruling party in Taiwan of misleading the electorate. Taiwan’s national security agencies have repeatedly warned about interference from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) as the country prepares for the 2024 presidential election. In recent investigations, members of the "Union of Chinese Nationalists" in Kaohsiung were accused of accepting funds from the TAO for political activities in mainland China. The association is suspected of promoting specific political views and pan-blue support during their travels. The Ciaotou District Prosecutors Office has summoned 22 members for investigation, including individuals named Cheng and Ye, who are accused of violating Taiwan’s Anti-Infiltration Act and Public Officials Election and Recall Act. They have been released on bail with travel restrictions pending further investigation.
2023/11/29 14:12
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葛來儀「想像柯文哲與北京談判」 林飛帆:國際如何支持台灣
藍白合協商至今,雙方僵持不下,民眾黨總統參選人柯文哲昨日在記者會上就藍白協商未果表示下次不要一個人談,「因為我實在太容易說好啦、好啦」、「被人家誆了」。對此,美國外交政策專家葛來儀(Bonnie Glaser)就在社群平台上轉推相關文章,並諷刺「想像一下他是在跟北京談判」(Just imagine if he were negotiating with Beijing),民進黨前副秘書長林飛帆也在臉書上截圖轉貼葛來儀評論,並表示「一個能被國際社會信任的領導者很重要」。
2023/11/19 16:20
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Taiwan working on Chang-Biden meeting at APEC: NSC official
Taipei’s National Security Council Secretary-General Wellington Koo has announced plans for a face-to-face meeting between APEC representative Morris Chang and US President Joe Biden. The Taiwanese government aims to secure this meeting, which comes amid ongoing discussions on various issues between Washington and Beijing, including those related to Taiwan. Koo hinted at potential disagreements and counterclaims between Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, highlighting the sensitive nature of the meeting. However, Koo stated that Chang has not been tasked with delivering greetings or messages from Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen to Xi, emphasizing the importance of natural interactions.
2023/11/14 19:01
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Biden, Xi to discuss Taiwan at APEC meeting, says expert
U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to meet in San Francisco on November 15, with Taiwan as a key focus of their discussions, according to an expert from the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR). The meeting agenda includes four main issues: Taiwan, fentanyl containment, Israel-Hamas conflict, and climate change response. It is expected that Xi will seek Biden’s reiteration of the United States’ stance against Taiwan’s independence, as Beijing considers Taiwan a part of China and opposes its independence. Additionally, Xi may anticipate Biden’s affirmation that the U.S. does not favor any specific political party in the Taiwan presidential elections. This summit marks a direct face-to-face dialogue between the leaders since their talks during the G20 summit in Bali, Indonesia, in November 2022.
2023/11/09 12:34
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Stimson Center predicts result of US-China war over Taiwan
A potential war between the United States and Beijing over Taiwan could result in crippling losses for both sides, warns the Stimson Center. The article, titled "Is a Chinese Invasion of Taiwan the Most Likely Scenario?" highlights that a unilateral declaration of independence by Taiwan might trigger ground and aerial assaults from Beijing. A military simulation by the Center for Strategic and International Studies showed that a joint defense effort from the U.S., Japan, and Taiwan could repel a Chinese invasion but at devastating costs, including the loss of ships, aircraft, and troops. The war would also impact the U.S.’s global standing, hurt Taiwan’s economy, and potentially destabilize the Chinese Communist Party’s rule. China’s aerial superiority, with a ratio of 1900 to Taiwan’s 300, could result in airstrikes, missile and cyber attacks aimed at decimating Taiwan’s defenses and critical infrastructure. Simulations predict a rapid escalation of war, including potential bombing of U.S. military bases and a reciprocal U.S. attack on Chinese bases and navy. Any concrete steps taken towards official independence by Taiwan could serve as a catalyst prompting Beijing’s decision for forceful unification.
2023/10/28 18:23
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Foxconn audit is’ normal law enforcement action’: Beijing
China’s Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) has stated that the audit of Foxconn, a subsidiary of Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. Ltd, is a "normal law enforcement action." TAO Spokesperson Chu Feng-lien emphasized that China will continue to support Taiwanese businessmen and companies investing in mainland China. Chinese authorities aim to create a favorable development environment and improve policies for Taiwanese compatriots and businesses.
2023/10/26 15:04
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Tsai sets democratic path for interaction with Beijing
President Tsai Ing-wen’s final National Day speech emphasizes Taiwan’s approach to Beijing, global partnerships, and the quest for peaceful coexistence. Read her key points here.
2023/10/10 16:25
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China unveils new plan for cross-strait integration
Beijing’s new plan aims to foster closer integration between Taiwan and the Fujian province by promoting residency applications for Taiwanese, easing business sector restrictions, and encouraging property investment. Learn about the latest developments in Taiwan-Fujian relations.
2023/09/14 20:19
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Terry Gou: Taiwan’s resolve remains strong
Business tycoon Terry Gou sent a strong message to Beijing on Wednesday (Aug. 23), stating that the people of Taiwan will "not initiate a war, but will not back down from a fight either," in a speech at the Kinmen City Council to commemorate the 65th anniversary of the 823 Artillery Bombardment.
2023/08/23 16:27
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Lai Ching-te highlights security, peace during NY layover
Taiwan Vice President Lai Ching-te gave a speech to the Taiwanese-American community stressing the importance of the nation’s safety and peace in New York on Sunday (Aug. 13).
2023/08/14 17:36
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President Tsai shares concern after flooding deaths in China
Beijing and other regions in China are suffering widespread flooding and casualties due to the influence of Typhoon Doksuri’s cyclonic circulation, causing days of torrential rain.
2023/08/02 21:39
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U.S. business challenges in China: Interview with Ker Gibbs
American businesses have devised new strategies for the Chinese market despite the soaring tensions between Washington and Beijing, according to the former president of the American Chamber of Commerce Shanghai, Ker Gibbs.
2023/07/13 18:56