Government 結果共524筆

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.

KMT presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih proposes a third wave of democratic reforms and a coalition government, inviting individuals outside of the KMT such as TPP candidate Ko Wen-je and Foxconn founder Terry Gou. He criticizes DPP candidate Lai Ching-te for lack of transparency regarding the Medigen Covid-19 vaccine and accuses the DPP of improper governance and corruption. The campaign rally in Tainan attracted 50,000 supporters with prominent KMT officials in attendance.

The Taiwanese government has optimized the income tax system, allowing certain individuals and families to be exempt from income tax. Single individuals renting housing with a yearly income below NT$626,000 will not have to pay individual income tax when filing next year. Additionally, families with two parents and two young children and an annual income below NT$1.641 million will also be exempt. Approximately 47% or 3.05 million Taiwanese households were exempt from income tax in 2021 due to the optimized scheme, which includes increased deductions. Minister of Finance Chuang Tsui-yun clarified that this exemption is not due to poverty. The deductible amount for single individuals renting outside their home area making less than NT$626,000 could exempt them from taxes. For two-income families renting a house, the deductible amount on income tax could reach NT$1.072 million, while a family of four with two children under six could deduct up to NT$1.641 million. If they live with seniors aged 70 or older, the deductible amount could exceed NT$2 million.

Taiwan’s donation for disaster relief in Japan after a powerful earthquake has garnered gratitude from Japanese netizens. The government announced a donation of 60 million Japanese yen (NT＄13 million) on Jan. 4, prompting comments from Japanese internet users expressing gratitude for Taiwan’s consistent support during times of distress. The funds will aid Japan’s government in relief and reconstruction efforts, with Taiwan’s Executive Yuan setting up an account to facilitate domestic and international donations. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and related units in Taiwan remain in close contact with Japan, ready to provide further aid as the death toll rises and the search for missing individuals continues.

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.

The 2024 Taiwan Lantern Festival is returning to Tainan for the first time since 2008, taking place from Feb. 24 to March 10. The main lantern, ＂Dragon Comes to Taiwan,＂ was unveiled by the Ministry of Transportation and Communications’ Tourism Administration. Inspired by the dragons on the stone columns at the Tainan Grand Mazu Temple, the 18-meter-tall dragon lantern is accompanied by a 22-meter main lantern. This year’s lantern design transforms the dragon into a small round lantern with the same pronunciation as the Taiwanese snack ＂xiaolongbao,＂ adding a touch of tradition and children’s anticipation. The festival will illuminate the ＂High-Speed Rail Lantern Area＂ and ＂Anping Lantern Area＂ in Tainan. In celebration of Tainan’s 400th anniversary, the city government will light up the ＂Anping Lantern Area＂ in advance on Feb. 3, allowing residents and tourists to enjoy the spectacle during the Lunar New Year holiday. Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-che expressed high hopes for the festival, praising the main lantern design for its unique representation of Tainan and Taiwan’s lantern festival through a blend of culture, nostalgia, and playful creativity.

Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih emphasizes the need for greater school safety and government attention to adolescent crime. Responding to his running mate Jaw Shaw-kong’s comments on a talk show, Hou proposes amendments to the juvenile incident handling law, taking inspiration from Japanese laws. He vows to prevent gang incursion into schools and increase criminal responsibility for those involved in crimes. Hou also advocates for supporting teachers and implementing guidance mechanisms. His zero-tolerance policy towards school safety issues reflects his commitment to preventing similar events in the future.

Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai and the president of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) have announced the future establishment of an NYCU branch campus in Kaohsiung. The new campus aims to recruit masters and doctoral students in the semiconductor and AI industries, providing high-end talents for Kaohsiung’s growing sectors. The campus plans to start recruiting for the 2025 academic year. NYCU president Lin Chi-hung cited two main reasons for establishing the branch: nurturing top talents and trailblazing research, and aligning with national talent cultivation policies. The new campus is conveniently located near Taiwan High Speed Rail’s Zuoying Station and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC). It offers 15 professional meeting rooms, a 500-seat international conference hall, and a large exhibition hall accommodating 1,000 people. The Kaohsiung city government and NYCU have signed a cooperation agreement, and the new campus will be housed in the existing Garden Villa Hotel and the Civil Service Development Institute, following Ministry of Education regulations for campuses.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has begun distributing COVID-19 rapid test kits to travelers at Taoyuan International Airport in Taipei. The kits are available in the reception areas and exit halls of both terminals, and each traveler is eligible to receive one kit regardless of age. The decision was made in response to the increasing rates of respiratory diseases worldwide. The CDC Deputy Director-General, Philip Lo, stated that the peak of the COVID-19 surge in Taiwan is expected to be in mid-to-late January, with a possible rise after the Lunar New Year holidays. Travelers have expressed appreciation for the policy, with many noting how thoughtful and helpful the Taiwanese government is. The distribution of test kits may continue after the Lunar New Year holidays, depending on the international and domestic pandemic conditions.

Taiwan braces for its January 13 elections, with no party poised for a legislative majority. The race will decide the president and all 113 parliamentary seats, setting the stage for potential cooperation challenges.

Premier Chen Chien-jen discusses the pricing process and confidentiality agreements surrounding Medigen vaccines, stating that negotiations with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) are ongoing. As a publicly listed company, any decisions about publicizing the government contract require shareholders’ approval. Chen emphasizes the government’s belief in vaccination as the best measure against the pandemic. Medigen had positive results from phase one trials and clinical experiments, leading to phase two development. The World Health Organization (WHO) conducted unity trials with four other countries after being unable to proceed with phase three trials due to Taiwan’s low COVID-19 case statistics. Chen disputes rumors about a 30-year embargo on clinical results, calling it fake news and clarifying that all official documents have a preservation period. He also refutes accusations that over a thousand Medigen shareholders are members of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), calling them ＂imaginary numerical figures.＂ Chen hopes to disclose the information as soon as possible to maintain public trust, but it can only happen after negotiations and respecting existing confidentiality agreements.

The Environmental Protection Bureau of the Kaohsiung City Government has clarified that the recruitment paths for full-time and part-time cleaning staff are different, which is why they need to consider temporary work applicants before those from previous years. This comes after Kaohsiung City Councilor Lina Chen led a press conference with individuals claiming to be on the waiting list for the city’s cleaning crew, who passed the ＂Kaohsiung City Official Cleaning Staff＂ exam two years ago but have not yet received a position. The Bureau emphasized that the different recruitment avenues do not infringe upon part-time workers’ rights. The recent cleaning staff recruitment attracted over 7,400 applicants for 850 positions, and some candidates on the waiting list are still waiting for an opportunity to work at the Bureau. The bureau recruited 172 official cleaners and drivers, with an additional 678 on the waiting list, of whom only half have been employed so far. The bureau began recruiting part-time staff earlier this year, even though the previous list of alternates has not yet been fully filled. Deputy Director Kao Tsung-yung explained that the previous test was for full-time staff, while the current recruitment is for temporary personnel. The Bureau has announced the eighth round of 100 alternates’ roster and will continue to do so in April, July, and October. Those on the waiting list will still need to wait for their chance.

Taiwanese presidential candidate Lai Ching-te of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has called on the Taiwanese people to use their votes as a defense against what he considers the most serious Chinese interference in the upcoming elections. Lai emphasized that while China has interfered in Taiwan’s elections before, the current situation is the worst. He believes that the best way to counter this interference is to ensure that the candidate supported by China does not win. Lai urged citizens to stand up against this interference by using their ballots to continue Taiwan’s progress and guarantee societal stability, economic growth, and the well-being of its people. He positioned the DPP’s battle not only against opposition parties but also against the Chinese Communist Party, underscoring the importance of maintaining a majority in the legislative yuan to prevent potential government functioning disputes. Lai kicked off his election campaign across 22 counties and cities, stating that this election is crucial for Taiwan’s future and Indo-Pacific peace stability. He encouraged the people to maintain the spirit of the past, choose the right person, and follow the right path.

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.

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an discusses efforts to bring Taylor Swift to Taipei for a concert, following last year’s failed plans due to geopolitical tensions. Negotiations are underway for a possible concert at Taipei Dome as part of Taylor Swift’s Asian Tour this year. Chiang emphasizes the city government’s commitment to making this happen and promises to announce further developments. He also criticizes the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and highlights the need for a peaceful and prosperous environment. Despite challenges, Chiang’s team prioritizes the interests and rights of the public and welcomes the economic benefits of hosting the concert.

President Tsai Ing-wen praises outstanding civil employees from 2023 for their contributions to national progress and societal stability. Accompanied by Premier Chen Chien-jen and Examination Yuan President Huang Jong-tsun, Tsai acknowledges the awardees at the Presidential Office for their exemplary efforts and achievements. She emphasizes the significance of public servants in providing enhanced public services and overall national development. Tsai expresses gratitude for their commitment and encourages them to share their workplace innovation experiences with others.

A survey conducted by ETtoday revealed that 73.5% of respondents oppose the abolition of the death penalty, while 21.8% support its abolition. Among those opposing, 52.1% were vehemently against the notion, with 21.4% somewhat against it. Among advocates for abolition, 14.1% were strong supporters, and 7.7% moderately so. The survey also found that 85.0% of interviewees believe current laws excessively protect offenders, with 47.2% considering the protection extremely excessive and 36.8% believing it is merely excessive. Only 3.1% thought the protection was insufficient. The recent fatal slashing of a junior high school student in New Taipei has brought the issue of capital punishment back into the spotlight. In response to the tragedy, 41.4% of respondents primarily blame parents or guardians, 25.1% the central government, 17.4% school management, and 12.0% the local government. The survey was conducted from Dec. 31 to Jan. 1, with a valid sample size of 1,557 targeting Taiwanese aged 20 and above. The margin of error was plus or minus 2.48%. The survey was delivered via a mobile text message link to an online questionnaire and sample weighting was done using population statistics provided by the Ministry of the Interior.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has reported that 547 Taiwanese people are currently stranded in Japan following a 7.6 magnitude earthquake in Ishikawa Prefecture. All Taiwanese tour group members have been confirmed safe. Tourists from four travel agencies, including Colatour, Lion Travel, Richmond Tours, and Star Travel, were affected by the disaster. Additionally, 20 individual travelers are stuck at Niigata Airport due to its closure. The earthquake has resulted in at least six fatalities, dozens of injuries, and severe damage, including house fires, collapses, road fractures, and airport closures. More than 30,000 homes in Ishikawa and 1,100 homes in Niigata are without power, with disruption to water supplies. Taiwan’s Ministry of the Interior is preparing an international rescue team to dispatch to Japan, and the Japanese government has been informed of Taiwan’s readiness to help. MOFA advises Taiwanese citizens to contact the consulate in Osaka for assistance.

Get ready for the annual New Year’s Eve party in Kaohsiung and the 999-second firework display at E-DA Theme Park. Traffic restrictions and temporary parking bans will be in effect, with a sweeping ban on automobiles and motorcycles entering the city. The Kaohsiung City Government has increased bus, metro, light rail, and railway services to accommodate the festivities.

President Tsai Ing-wen defends her economic policies against accusations of creating future debt burdens, emphasizing that her administration’s actions are investments for the future. She asserts that her government has maintained fiscal discipline and reduced the country’s debt ratio, ultimately alleviating any excessive burden on future generations.