Government 結果共518筆

Tuvalu’s Finance Minister Seve Paeniu has stated that the nation will review its diplomatic relationship with Taiwan following its recent election. Concerns have been raised regarding the bilateral relationship with Taiwan and the security and migration pact with Australia. This marks the first time a Tuvaluan official has suggested the possibility of abandoning its diplomatic ties with Taiwan, which have been in place since 1979, and switching allegiance to Beijing. The decision will depend on which partner country can support Tuvalu’s developmental priorities and expectations.

Tainan City Mayor Huang Wei-che has given schools in the city the authority to determine their own holiday schedules based on student count and weather conditions. While winter vacation has already started for junior high and elementary schools, students attending tutoring and after-school programs will continue classes unless the schools themselves decide to give them days off. The Tainan City Government is also taking steps to support the homeless population by providing warm clothing and hot meals. They have urged the homeless to seek shelter in available accommodations, with adequate bed spaces promised. Currently, there are 219 registered homeless people in Tainan City, with 130 living on the streets and the rest placed in local facilities. Rehabilitation centers have been set up in the South District and Xinying District to provide support and help these individuals rebuild their lives.

Recently elected Democratic Progressive Party President Lai Ching-te shares his experiences and expectations with newly inaugurated legislators, urging them to act as a bridge between the government and the people. Lai emphasizes the importance of hard work and teamwork in driving national development, and gives three pieces of advice to first-time lawmakers. He encourages them to become a new force for the nation, stay true to their original intentions, engage in professional questioning, and implement their ideals. Lai draws from his personal experience as a legislator, highlighting the importance of learning from others’ experiences and continuously improving professional expertise.

A citizens’ preference poll conducted by the Taiwan Public Opinion Foundation (TPOF) revealed that 47.3% of respondents were generally pleased with the outcome of the elections, in which the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) candidate won the presidency but failed to secure a majority in the legislature. The poll results, announced by TPOF on Jan. 23, showed a mixed outlook, with 15.3% very pleased, 32% somewhat pleased, 23.4% slightly displeased, and 9.1% not pleased. Additionally, nearly 60% of respondents agreed with the idea of forming a coalition government in the absence of a single party gaining a majority. The survey, conducted from Jan. 15-17 by Focus Survey Research on behalf of TPOF, utilized a dual-frame random sampling design, targeting Taiwanese residents aged 20 and above through 70% landline and 30% mobile calls. The margin of error is 2.98 percentage points with a 95% level of confidence.

The Minister of Economic Affairs, Wang Mei-hua, plans to help Taiwan Power Company (Taipower) seek budgetary support from the Executive Yuan to alleviate its financial distress. Taipower reached out to the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) for assistance, citing escalating international fuel prices caused by the Russia-Ukraine war. Other global power companies, such as Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), and Électricité de France (EDF), have already experienced significant price hikes. Taipower’s rates are relatively low compared to the cost of power generation, resulting in policy-driven losses. As of 2023, Taipower has accumulated losses of NT$382.6 billion due to absorbing price increases to protect Taiwan from global inflation. The MOEA disclosed that Taipower and the CPC Corporation have discrepancies in predicting natural gas prices, leading Taipower to observe international coal prices for cost estimates in 2024. While mitigating Taipower’s financial woes in the short term poses challenges, Wang aims to prevent further losses. The MOEA will assist Taipower in lobbying the government for budget support once financial situation estimates are finalized. The decision to adjust electricity prices will be made by the Electricity Price Review Committee.

Explore how Taiwan is positioned in the global geothermal energy landscape. Professor Song Sheng-rong categorizes leading nations and advocates for robust policies to unlock Taiwan’s vast underground potential, aiming to elevate the island into a sustainable energy powerhouse.

New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-ih personally visits homeless individuals, distributing cold-weather supplies to aid the less fortunate during the winter chill. The city government has initiated cold-weather care protocols, providing temporary housing and resources for the homeless. District offices, volunteer groups, and community chiefs proactively comfort solitary seniors by phone, providing cold-weather health information and checking on their well-being. The government also reminds residents to prioritize line safety and ventilation when using heating equipment or water heaters to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. These measures aim to ensure a safe and comfortable winter season for all in New Taipei City.

In Taiwan, private universities like Tamkang University are merging departments due to declining student numbers and birth rates. Experts question the effectiveness of these mergers while education groups call for government support to maintain teaching quality and protect teacher and student rights.

The Kaohsiung City Government has announced the return of the beloved yellow rubber ducks to the southern Taiwan port city after a decade away. The ＂2024 Kaohsiung Wonderland Winter Fair＂ will take place at Kaohsiung Port Pier 17 from Jan. 27 to Feb. 25. The fair will feature two rubber ducks and various attractions, including inflatable installations, interactive art displays, circus acts, and children’s theater performances. The yellow rubber duck first toured Taiwan in 2013 and attracted almost 3.9 million tourists to visit Kaohsiung.

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.

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an emphasizes the need for the Kuomintang (KMT) to gain public recognition through tangible accomplishments. Chiang believes that political achievements are crucial in obtaining public endorsement and is willing to provide suggestions to build trust among young people in the KMT. Regarding the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and its presidential candidate Lai Ching-te’s withdrawal from the New Tide faction, Chiang clarifies that it is an internal matter for the DPP. He expresses hope that the future central government will prioritize national affairs over politics.

Taiwan’s Premier Chen Chien-jen and his cabinet have tendered their resignations, which were approved during a cabinet meeting. The resignations await confirmation by the president for a new government to take charge on May 20. The premier is expected to step down before the first legislative assembly after the current legislators’ term expires. The executive branch will continue to push its policy agenda during this transitional period, aiming to work with the new legislative body to promote policies beneficial to the nation and its citizens. Chen Chien-jen launched significant policies during his term, including cash handouts, education subsidies, and safety measures for a sustainable automobile society. He also emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to defense capabilities and democracy through the successful submarine launch and the resumption of one-year military service.

The Taiwanese Executive Yuan vows to stabilize the stock market amidst recent fluctuations, according to Cabinet Spokesman Lin Tze-luen. Lin reiterates the commitment to policy implementation during the caretaker period after the cabinet’s resignation. The government remains focused on achieving net zero emissions by 2050 and will continue discussions on energy issues. The upcoming electricity tariff review meeting will maintain established adjustment mechanisms. Despite recent downturns, Taiwan’s economic fundamentals are solid, expressing confidence in economic recovery.

Following the victory of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in Taiwan’s presidential election, a report by the Asia Society Policy Institute (ASPI) suggests that Beijing might escalate activities in gray zone areas. The report highlights Taiwan’s increased geopolitical prominence and its pivotal role in semiconductor manufacturing, making the stability of the Taiwan Strait a key concern for the U.S. and other Western nations. The report also notes that Vice President Lai Ching-te won the election by over 40% of votes, breaking the trend of switching ruling parties every eight years since direct presidential elections were implemented in 1996. The victorious DPP aims to strengthen Taiwan’s defenses and relations with like-minded nations while resisting negotiations with Beijing. Additionally, the party seeks to reduce Taiwan’s trade dependency on China and strengthen ties with significant partners such as Australia, Europe, and Japan. With no party securing a majority in the legislative assembly, the DPP faces a ＂minority government and majority opposition＂ scenario, which could hinder the government’s legislative and budgeting process and impact Taiwan-U.S. ties. Despite the election, cross-strait relations and regional tensions are unlikely to undergo fundamental changes. Taiwan’s vital position in semiconductor manufacturing and geopolitics ensures its continued rise in importance, with the U.S. and Western nations playing a crucial role in maintaining stability in the Taiwan Strait. The upcoming U.S. presidential election in November is expected to significantly impact the U.S.-China-Taiwan triangle, and a potential return of former President Trump to the White House might please Beijing, according to the report.

Premier Chen Chien-jen’s planned mass resignation was averted by President Tsai Ing-wen, leading to concerns of potential government paralysis as the old cabinet faces a new legislature. Kuomintang (KMT) legislator Lee De-wei warned of a standstill, while DPP legislator Chung Chia-pin argued for the president’s right to choose cabinet members. The government’s decision to stay in office until May 20 could have significant consequences with the new legislature commencing on Feb. 1.

President Lai Ching-te has announced his departure from the New Tide faction of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) following the conclusion of the 2024 presidential race. The decision was supported by the New Tide office, recognizing the president’s role in leading the government and symbolizing party unity. Discussions about Lai’s withdrawal began prior to the election, making it unnecessary to explore who initiated the departure. Former legislator Tuan Yi-kang expressed that it is better for the country if President Lai, as the head of state, is no longer a member of New Tide. The New Tide faction, established in 1983, is one of the main factions within the DPP and consists of editors and writers from ＂The Movement＂ magazine. Known for its firm beliefs and strict discipline, the faction is considered the most combat-ready within the DPP. The decision of President Lai is further emphasized by frequent public criticisms from Ko Wen-je, chairman of the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP), who has targeted issues of corruption and fraud within the New Tide faction.

The Australian government was informed by Nauru before the Republic of Nauru announced its decision to sever diplomatic ties with Taiwan. However, the decision was not made after consulting with the Australian government. Australia respects Nauru’s sovereign decision. Taiwan accused China of enticing Nauru with financial incentives to sever ties, but China did not comment on the accusations. Nauru’s announcement came right after Taiwan’s presidential election, making it the 10th nation to break off relations during President Tsai Ing-wen’s tenure, leaving Taiwan with 12 diplomatic allies.

New Taipei City mayor Hou Yu-Ih pledges to support Taiwan Strait security and reassure the U.S. as an opposition party member after his presidential election defeat. He emphasizes the need for the newly elected government to carefully address global difficulties and stresses that Taiwan’s unity is crucial in facing future challenges. Hou dismisses claims that alleged fake polls by the Taiwan People’s Party caused the Kuomintang’s electoral defeat and urges acceptance of voters’ decision. Sun Yat-sen School President Chang Ya-chung calls for KMT chairman Eric Chu to step down, but Hou takes responsibility for the election failure as the commander of the campaign.

The Kuomintang (KMT) responds to proposals from the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) regarding future operations in the new legislature, promising to respect the opinions of the Legislative Yuan party groups. As the majority in parliament, the KMT pledges to provide vigorous oversight and advance the issues agreed upon in the cross-party meeting with the TPP on October 30th last year. Agreed matters include peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, resumption of cross-strait dialogue, environmental sustainability, national security, public health, and strengthening the legislature’s function under the existing constitutional system. The KMT emphasizes its unchanged vision for Taiwan’s future development. Additionally, they plan to scrutinize issues such as the controversy over the purchase contracts of the Medigen COVID-19 vaccine by the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government. The KMT welcomes those with similar political ideals to join in preventing authoritarian one-party rule and ensuring democracy aligns with the public’s wishes.

Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) strongly condemns Beijing’s attempt to lure the Republic of Nauru into resuming diplomatic relations, accusing China of disrupting international order through ＂dollar diplomacy.＂ The MAC criticizes China’s actions as an attempt to suppress Taiwan’s international status and sovereignty, despite its successful presidential election. Beijing’s attempts to snatch away Taiwan’s diplomatic allies will not earn it respect from the international community but will instead highlight Taiwan’s democratic achievements and contributions. The MAC calls on Beijing to stop this zero-sum thinking and emphasizes that the ROC government will continue to strengthen Taiwan’s resilience, unite society, and safeguard its international status and rights.

A U.S. delegation, including former Deputy Secretary of State James B. Steinberg and American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Chair Laura Rosenberger, met with President Tsai Ing-wen and President-elect Lai Ching-te, as well as other Taiwanese government officials, two days after Taiwan’s presidential and legislative elections.

Taiwan’s legislative election results from Jan. 13 show a close race, with the Kuomintang (KMT) gaining a slight lead over the Democratic Progress Party (DPP). The Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) also made gains. This article explores the implications of the election on Taiwan’s parliamentary dynamics and potential challenges in legislation and governance.

Taiwan is poised for significant political changes with its upcoming presidential and legislative elections on Jan. 13. The elections could result in a shift in legislative power, potentially leading to a divided minority government, and highlight the importance of inter-party cooperation in Taiwan’s political landscape.

Tigerair Taiwan transported six boxes of disaster relief goods, including winter blankets, to Japan following the devastating earthquake. Chairman Kevin Chen believes the airline’s extensive network and frequent flights can provide significant support to disaster areas. Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare has established a dedicated disaster relief account to receive donations. The Taiwan Development Association for Disaster Medical Teams, the first non-governmental organization from Taiwan, has entered the hard-hit Suzu City in Japan to provide medical relief. Relief efforts from Taiwanese civil groups continue, despite the Japanese government’s refusal of official aid from several countries. This demonstrates Taiwan’s commitment to assisting international neighbors in times of crisis.

Taiwan’s Executive Yuan spokesman, Lin Tzu-lun, announced that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 2.71% in December 2023. Due to the CPI surpassing the legal threshold for two consecutive years, the government supports increasing stipends for retired military, civil, and education personnel by at least 4%. Fixed pension benefits for these individuals will be adjusted to account for inflation. The Executive Yuan has allocated NT$4.4 billion in the 2024 central government budget as a reserve fund for price fluctuations. The necessary adjustment mechanisms have been initiated, with a specialized assessment panel deliberating on the rate adjustment. The government aims to complete the related processes and backtrace the adjustments to January 1, 2024, to ensure the living standards of retired personnel.