China-Taiwan tensions 結果共104筆

Taiwan’s investment in China has reached its lowest point in a decade, making up just over 10% of the island’s total overseas direct investment, according to a report by Nikkei Asia. Recent official data from Taiwan reveals that foreign direct investments surged by 87% to reach $257 billion through November this year. However, investments in China plummeted by 34% to only $29 billion, representing a mere 12% of the total. Since 2010, Taiwanese investments in China have been steadily declining and are projected to drop below the lowest point recorded since 1999. In contrast, investments in the United States have increased ninefold to $96 billion, accounting for around 37% of the total outbound direct investment. Additionally, Taiwan’s direct investment in Germany has soared 25-fold to $39 billion, largely driven by the operations of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. Sun Ming-te, Director of the Business Development and Research Center at the Taiwan Institute of Economic Research (TIER), predicts that if tensions between the United States and China persist, Taiwan’s investment in China will continue to decline.

Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih criticized the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for their mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic during a live presidential debate. Hou specifically targeted DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te, accusing him of neglect during the outbreak. Hou further claimed that Lai focused on issues surrounding his family home’s illegal expansion claim instead of caring for the public. As the former mayor of New Taipei City, Hou stated that any pandemic-related advice proposed to the central government was denied. He also criticized the DPP government for shortages of anti-epidemic supplies and food safety issues. Hou emphasized the need to establish a special investigation team to probe malpractices in the DPP’s pandemic approach. Additionally, he questioned Lai’s advocacy for Taiwanese independence, suggesting that it could escalate cross-strait tensions. Hou criticized Lai’s tactics as underestimating the intelligence of the Taiwanese people and disrespecting the Republic of China (Taiwan). He portrayed Lai as ungrateful and not trustworthy for Taiwan.

The Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) spokesperson, Chen Binhua, expressed doubt over Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate Lai Ching-te’s claim that his election would reduce the risk of a cross-strait war. Chen highlighted the contradiction in Lai’s stance as a supporter of Taiwanese independence while believing his presidency would mitigate tensions. Chen emphasized the international consensus to uphold the One China principle and maintain peace. Lai dismissed claims that supporting him meant war as Chinese propaganda and argued that his policy aligns with international norms. Chen countered by citing the success of the ＂One Country, Two Systems＂ formula in Hong Kong. Chen also addressed investigations into bureau chiefs suspected of violating the Anti-Infiltration Act and concerns over Taiwanese living in China being unable to return to vote due to a recent outbreak. He expressed concern that if the DPP authorities deprived Taiwanese living in China of their voting rights, it would expose their autocratic and non-democratic character to the world.

As Taiwan’s 2024 election nears, discussions intensify on the island’s future, with a focus on young voters and the impact of China’s actions. A recent forum at NTNU delved into these critical issues, highlighting the role of Taiwan’s youth in shaping a democratic future amid escalating cross-strait tensions.

Explore the insights from the ＂Taiwan Goes to The Polls＂ roundtable organized by ICRT and TVBS World Taiwan, discussing the dynamics of Taiwan’s 2024 presidential election, the role of polls, China’s influence, and international implications.

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.

Former Senior Director for Asian Affairs at the National Security Council and CEO of the United States Studies Centre, Michael Jonathan Green, emphasizes that Taiwan’s recent extension of military service to one year is a significant indication of its commitment to defense. Green warns that any reversal of this decision would raise concerns in both the United States and Japan. As tensions rise across the Taiwan Strait, the main concern for the U.S. is Taiwan’s vulnerability to Chinese pressure or military action. By extending military conscription, Taiwan is demonstrating its political will to counter Beijing’s intimidation. The United States, Japan, and Australia believe that Taiwan’s efforts to stabilize the situation and prevent war are commendable. Green highlights that any threat posed by China to Taiwan could jeopardize security across the entire First Island Chain, impacting nations like the US, Canada, Japan, the Philippines, Australia, and New Zealand. Green, who has served in the Bush Administration and was part of the U.S. bipartisan delegation that visited Taiwan in March, stresses the critical importance of Taiwan’s resolve for self-defense.

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.

The upcoming Taiwanese presidential election on January 13, 2024, has been dubbed ＂2024’s most influential election in Asia＂ by Nikkei Asia. Three tickets are vying for the presidency and vice-presidency: the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) with Lai Ching-te and Hsiao Bi-khim, the Kuomintang (KMT) with Hou Yu-ih and Jaw Shaw-kong, and the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) with Ko Wen-je and Cynthia Wu. The election takes place amidst heightened global tensions and increasing cross-strait strains. The DPP advocates for fortified self-defense, the KMT promotes benign communication and economic ties with China, and the TPP leans towards dialogue with China. The KMT’s cross-strait policy stance has been criticized as less convincing compared to that of the DPP. The election will test whether Taiwanese voters will stand firm in defending their sovereignty against China’s growing influence.

Taiwan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Joseph Wu, warns of China’s increasing interference and cognitive warfare tactics as Taiwan’s elections approach. China is using a ＂hybrid warfare＂ strategy involving military actions, economic pressure, disinformation campaigns, and unlawful financial flows to influence the election results. Taiwan’s government is actively countering these tactics by strengthening communication with the public, enhancing media literacy, and collaborating with public and private sectors. Wu calls for a united front among international allies to enhance democratic resilience and increase awareness of China’s unfriendly actions. This reflects Taiwan’s efforts to preserve its sovereignty and democratic values amid rising tensions with China.

In a recent discussion with TVBS commentator Wenchi Yu, former AIT Chair Richard Bush delves into the complexities of Taiwan’s political landscape amidst rising cross-strait tensions and the upcoming 2024 presidential elections. He addresses China’s evolving coercion tactics and the U.S.’s readiness for any developments following Taiwan’s elections.

Amid growing tensions between the U.S. and China, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen revealed that there is a significant divide between U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping regarding the global status of Taiwan. Despite the U.S. officially recognizing the Chinese Communist Party as the sole government of China, it maintains that Taiwan is an autonomous territory. The deadlock between Biden and Xi on the ＂Taiwan issue＂ could have severe military consequences, as China has deployed warships, drones, and bombers near Taiwan. Concerns are rising that this intimidating activity could lead to a head-on confrontation and spark a full-scale conflict. To address the risks, Biden proposed a $105 billion assistance package, including nearly $2 billion for security measures in Taiwan and the broader Indo-Pacific region.

In a pivotal summit in Woodside, California, Presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping discussed escalating U.S.-China tensions, focusing on Taiwan and the upcoming U.S. elections. The meeting, significant for its diplomatic communications, highlighted the ongoing complexities in U.S.-China relations and the looming concerns over Taiwan and election interference.

Morris Chang, TSMC founder, met with U.S. economic adviser Lael Brainard and Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the APEC summit to discuss strengthening U.S.-Taiwan economic relations amid heightened tensions between the U.S. and China.

The 2023 APEC summit between the U.S. and China in San Francisco highlights tensions in their relationship, particularly regarding Taiwan. Violent clashes between anti-Xi protestors and supporters of the Chinese president marred the day, with protestors outnumbered and overpowered. The summit aimed to address sensitive issues and find common ground, but the situation became increasingly tense. The White House reiterated its support for the one-China policy while expressing hopes for Taiwan’s development and freedom of choice in trade partners.

The ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) is facing criticism from non-ruling parties for its failures in improving cross-strait relations, with accusations that the DPP has pushed Taiwan towards the risk of war. DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-tei has responded by outlining a four-pillar approach to maintaining cross-strait peace, which includes strengthening national defense and security, boosting Taiwan’s key industries, standing with democratic camps, and engaging in cooperative relationships with China. Lai emphasizes that the upcoming election represents a battle between democracy and autocracy and highlights Taiwan’s ongoing fight for democracy. He asserts his determination to safeguard Taiwan’s democracy and protect the nation’s security and interests.

Recent events in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait have heightened regional tensions, with a clash between Chinese and Philippine vessels and China’s aggressive posturing towards Taiwan’s sovereignty, raising concerns ahead of the Biden-Xi meeting.

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.

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.

The All-Out Defense Mobilization Agency, in collaboration with Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense and Ministry of the Interior, is working to enhance citizens’ defense capability in response to a legislator’s proposal to arm every citizen in Taiwan. This comes as the Republic of China faces frequent military exercises from mainland China, leading to increased tensions in the Taiwan Strait. Authorities pledge to adjust civil defense team grouping to achieve the concept of all-out defense.

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.

Amidst rising tensions between the U.S., China, and Taiwan, Ambassador Kurt Tong of The Asia Group highlights the overlooked yet significant mutual benefits of U.S.-Taiwan trade and investment. Tong urges policymakers and the public to focus on economic opportunities that can lead to long-term profitable relationships between the U.S. and Taiwan.

China’s Ministry of Commerce has extended its trade barrier investigation into Taiwan’s trade restrictions towards the mainland. Originally set to conclude on Oct. 12, 2023, the investigation will now end on Jan. 12, 2024, a day before Taiwan’s 2024 general elections. The investigation, authorized under the Foreign Trade Law and the Foreign Trade Barrier Investigation Rules of China, targets 2,455 items blocked by Taiwan from mainland importation, including agricultural products, petrochemicals, and textiles. The extended analysis is expected to heighten tensions between China and Taiwan in the run-up to Taiwan’s crucial elections next year.

Rising cross-strait tensions have become a concern for many democracies around the world. As China increases its military drills surrounding Taiwan, former U.S. Defense Secretary Mark Esper advises Taiwan to boost its defense budget to enhance asymmetric warfare capabilities. 

Amid soaring cross-strait tensions and the approaching Han Kuang exercises, TVBS Meeting Room host Wenchi Yu invited former U.S. Secretary of State Mark Esper and Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu to discuss the best approach for the country: bolstering Taiwan’s military defenses or seeking more engagement with China.