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More conscripts to outlying islands possible: Taiwan MND
Taiwan Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng announced that the nation’s mandatory military service may require some conscripts to serve on outlying islands. Chiu clarified that not all outlying islands have sufficient military resources, which may result in individuals being assigned there. During a special report by the Legislative Yuan’s Foreign and National Defense Committee, Chiu emphasized the need for firearms to be used silently to avoid detection amidst cross-strait tensions. He also addressed the possibility of extending the service period for mandatory service, indicating that this would require careful consideration and that willing and qualified individuals might serve in specific combat units. Chiu noted that obliging recruitment for combat units is a multidimensional process involving several steps and insurance issues. The military will continue to monitor different scenarios and work towards the most efficient conscription system.2023/10/30 14:00 -
Reviving ROTC: Taiwan’s new approach to military recruitment
Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) has revived the ROTC program to enhance its military capabilities amid growing cross-strait tensions. Students receive full government subsidies, with five years of army service upon graduation. This development aims to address the pressing need for more military personnel.2023/10/19 02:00 -
MOFA criticizes Ma Ying-jeou for controversial remarks
Taiwan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Joseph Wu, expresses deep regret over former President Ma Ying-jeou’s suggestion that certain U.S. factions are using Taiwan’s semiconductor industry as a weapon, and condemns Ma for aligning himself with Chinese positions. Wu emphasizes the Taiwanese government’s position and the importance of garnering international support in the face of rising cross-strait tensions.2023/10/18 17:06 -
Taiwan’s civil defense personnel aging, decreasing
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an calls for a comprehensive civil defense plan amid a decline and aging of personnel. The plea comes as Taiwan faces increasing cross-strait tensions and as the National Police Agency seeks to recruit younger volunteers.2023/10/15 16:43 -
Investigation into Taiwan’s trade restrictions extended
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.2023/10/09 16:03 -
Defense minister concerned over unusual PLA activities
Taiwan’s Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng expresses concern over recent unusual PLA activities. The country remains vigilant amid rising tensions in the region. #TaiwanMilitary #PLA #CrossStrait2023/09/22 21:47 -
Ex-US defense secretary: Taiwan should boost defense budget
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.2023/08/25 17:48 -
Taiwan mulls extending Dassault Mirage fighter jets’ service
Taiwan’s Air Force weighs the possibility of extending the service life of Mirage 2000 fighter jets by 20 years. Experts debate the need for longevity vs. modernization as the nation navigates cross-strait tensions. Learn more about the Mirage 2000 extension debate.2023/08/14 17:23 -
Experts ponder Taiwan’s optimal approach to China
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.2023/07/18 18:52 -
Ex-President Ma heads to Europe to talk geopolitics
Former Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou departed from Taoyuan International Airport on Monday (April 24) for Europe, where he will deliver talks on geo-politics and address rising cross-strait tensions in the region.2023/04/25 16:06 -
U.S. military upgrades defense systems in Asia-Pacific
Cross strait tensions have been on the rise in recent years. Now, with North Korea firing off missiles near Japan, the U.S. is stepping up to upgrade the defense in Asia-Pacific areas.2022/11/10 18:16