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Lin Fei-fan named deputy secretary-general of Taiwan’s NSC
Discover the latest reshuffle in Taiwan’s administration as Lin Fei-fan, a key figure in the Sunflower Student Movement, is appointed deputy secretary-general of the National Security Council ahead of President-elect Lai Ching-te’s inauguration. This move, part of a broader administrative change, signals a blend of continuity and new directions for Taiwan’s future.
2024/05/15 09:27
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Taiwan thanks allies for support in Taiwan Strait stability
Taipei’s Presidential Office spokesperson Olivia Lin thanks U.S., Japanese, and Philippine leaders for supporting peace in the Taiwan Strait and recognizing Taiwan’s contributions to Indo-Pacific stability. The U.S.-Japan and U.S.-Japan-Philippines summits highlight the global consensus on the importance of peace in the region amidst rising authoritarianism. Lin commits Taiwan to strengthening self-defense and international cooperation for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
2024/04/12 15:29
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Tsai stands by defense minister despite resignation offer
Presidential Office Spokesperson Olivia Lin confirms Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng’s apology to President Tsai Ing-wen over a family-related issue and his verbal resignation offer. Tsai opts for Chiu to stay due to regional security concerns. Chiu’s son’s sex scandal triggers a National Security Bureau investigation. Speculation arises over Chiu’s resignation after missing a key event. Defense Ministry remains silent on the matter. Chiu’s absence from a legislative meeting fuels rumors of his potential leave.
2024/03/29 16:22
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U.S. delegation to attend Taiwan presidential inauguration
The U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee Chair, Michael McCaul, plans to lead a delegation to Taiwan for President-elect Lai Ching-te’s inauguration on May 20. The event, expected to be on a scale similar to President Tsai Ing-wen’s 2016 inauguration, will see representatives from Taiwan’s diplomatic allies, including the United States and Japan, in attendance. Plans for the ceremony are still being finalized, according to Presidential Office spokesperson Olivia Lin.
2024/03/08 11:19
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TAO doubts Lai’s claims of lowering cross-strait war risk
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.
2023/12/27 16:28
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TAO urges Taiwan to uphold peace, reject independence
The Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) spokesperson, Chen Binhua, emphasized the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait during a press conference. Chen suggested that if Taiwan adhered to the 1992 Consensus and opposed independence, cross-strait relations could return to a peaceful track. He called for both sides of the Strait to work together to uphold peace and stability for cross-strait prosperity. Chen’s statement aligns with recent remarks by Kuomintang’s (KMT) presidential candidate, Hou Yu-ih, who pledged to improve cross-strait relations through discussions and collaborations. Chen also criticized the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for promoting Taiwan’s independence, refusing to acknowledge the 1992 Consensus, and colluding with foreign forces. He argued that these actions have caused tension and made Taiwan a source of instability in the region.
2023/12/27 14:31
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Tsai Ing-wen offers condolences, aid to Gansu quake victims
Taipei’s Presidential Office spokesperson, Olivia Lin, conveyed President Tsai Ing-wen’s concerns and condolences following a devastating earthquake in China’s Gansu province on December 18. The magnitude 6.2 earthquake resulted in at least 111 deaths, 236 injuries, and significant property damage. President Tsai expressed sympathies to the victims’ families and tasked the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and the Mainland Affairs Office (MAO) to offer aid. She also posted messages on the social media platform X (previously known as Twitter) in both simplified Chinese and English to convey her condolences. President Tsai hopes for a smooth rescue and recovery process in Gansu, allowing affected individuals to return to normalcy swiftly.
2023/12/19 16:16
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DPP’s Lai unveils video, stresses global Taiwan role
The campaign office of Lai Ching-te, Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) presidential candidate, has released a new video titled "Taiwan in the world," highlighting Taiwan’s reduced dependence on China and its increasing global recognition. Pan Men-an, head of the DPP’s campaign headquarters, expressed concern over opposition parties’ attempts to marginalize Taiwan and emphasized the significance of the 2024 election in determining Taiwan’s alignment with either the world or China. The video emphasizes Taiwan’s democratic development through international engagement and value-based diplomacy, while also strengthening ties with other nations. Lai’s campaign office spokesperson, Tai Wei-shan, pointed out that Taiwan’s trade dependence on China decreased from 40 percent during former President Ma Ying-jeou’s presidency to 34 percent. Additionally, a report by The Economist in August stated that under President Tsai Ing-wen’s seven-year rule, Taiwan has become the 21st largest economy globally, surpassing South Korea in terms of gross domestic product (GDP) per capita. Lai’s campaign office underscores the importance of the 2024 election in shaping Taiwan’s future trajectory and urges the public to make the right choice.
2023/12/12 21:21
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DPP releases ’Cats and Dogs Love Taiwan’ LINE Sticker set
DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te has released a new set of LINE stickers titled "Cats and Dogs Love Taiwan" ahead of Taiwan’s upcoming elections. Collaborating with illustrator Stupid Sheep, Lai introduced this new set 10 months after their previous collaboration. The sticker pack includes illustrations of cats, dogs, and caricatures of Lai and his running mate Hsiao Bi-khim. Building on the popularity of the "cat and dog badge" illustrations, this release adds more design movements and patterns to the LINE platform. The cartoon versions of Lai and Hsiao feature iconic memes like "I want it all," aiming to appeal to both feline and canine fans and bring laughter to their supporter base. Lai’s campaign office spokesperson, Kuo Ya-hui, hopes that these new stickers will encourage supporters to download and join the "Taiwan side," regardless of their preference for cats or dogs.
2023/12/11 12:18
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DPP decries false media claims on presidential debates
The spokesperson for Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate Lai Ching-te’s campaign office expressed regret over inaccurate and malicious media reports about the upcoming presidential debates. The spokesperson demanded corrections from outlets that claimed certain media were favored during the debates and alleged a coalition aiming to gang up on fellow candidates Hou Yu-ih and Ko Wen-je. It was emphasized that the decision for 11 media organizations to jointly host the debates is a longstanding practice resulting from two rounds of negotiations without interference from any campaign offices. The spokesperson also highlighted misinformation circulated by China Times, one of the debate co-hosts, despite its involvement in the meetings. The 2024 presidential election debates are scheduled to be held at Public Television Service (PTS) on December 30 at 2 p.m., with the vice presidential debates tentatively scheduled for January 1, 2024, also at 2 p.m. The 11 media entities collaboratively organizing the debates include Central News Agency (CNA), China Times, Liberty Times, United Daily News, SET News, Taiwan Television, Formosa Television, Chinese Television System (CTS), Mirror Media, TVBS News, and Public Television Service. PTS will produce and broadcast the debates, including comprehensive sign language services for the hearing impaired.
2023/12/09 15:34
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DPP refutes KMT’s pro-U.S. allegations against Hsiao
The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) responded to allegations from the Kuomintang (KMT) that DPP vice presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim was excessively pro-American. Chen Shi-kai, spokesperson for DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te’s campaign office, criticized the KMT for its lack of understanding of economic trade issues and Taiwan-U.S. relations. The KMT, led by legislator candidate Hsu Chiao-hsin, accused Hsiao of being subservient to the U.S. during her time in Washington, citing a classified communication log documenting a bilateral meeting discussing the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity proposed by U.S. President Joe Biden. Chen defended Hsiao by highlighting recent milestones in Taiwan-U.S. cooperation, such as the signing of the Taiwan-U.S. 21st Century Trade Initiative and efforts to resolve double taxation issues. Chen criticized the KMT candidate for illegally disclosing classified documents for political gain and called for an explanation of the motives and authenticity of the disclosure. This defense by the DPP spokesperson reflects the tensions leading up to Taiwan’s presidential elections, with U.S.-Taiwan relations remaining a significant political issue. The political drama highlights the intensity of Taiwan’s electioneering, where U.S. ties and Taiwan’s global economic positioning are crucial issues for voters. The impact of these debates on public opinion remains to be seen as Taiwan prepares for the polls.
2023/12/06 20:33
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KMT, TPP leaders targeted in Taipei prosecutors’ probe
Former President Ma Ying-jeou’s office accuses Taipei District Prosecutor’s Office of contradicting President Tsai Ing-wen’s statement on noninterference in judiciary matters. The prosecutor’s office is investigating the Blue-White alliance, a collaboration between political parties, as an illicit "partition of interests." Defendants under investigation include Eric Chu, Chairman of the Kuomintang (KMT), Hou Yu-ih, the KMT’s presidential candidate, and Ko Wen-je, the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate. KMT spokesperson Yang Chih-yu criticizes the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for politicizing the judiciary and discrediting internationally common party cooperation models. Yang highlights previous instances of the DPP’s involvement in similar political arrangements, raising questions about a double standard.
2023/12/04 21:34
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DPP alleges CCP offered Ko US$200M for Taiwan VP bid
The story discusses allegations made by Yao Li-ming, the campaign manager for Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate Lai Ching-te, regarding Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je’s claim of being offered US$200 million to run for the vice-presidential bid. Yao asserts that this is a clear instance of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) meddling in Taiwan’s elections. The press conference titled "The Unclarified US$200 Million Doubt: Is Ko Wen-je Lying to Voters or Is It Chinese Intervention?" highlights the seriousness of the alleged criminal act and characterizes Ko as both a witness and a victim of Chinese interference. Yao suggests that only the CCP has the motive, capability, and suspicion to offer such a large sum, potentially aiming to support a Blue-White alliance. Lai’s spokesperson, Tai Wei-shan, raises suspicions about Ko’s silence on the issue and insinuates pressure from either the CCP or the Kuomintang (KMT). Tai calls on KMT presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih to clarify the KMT’s role in the alleged incidents. Additionally, Tai criticizes Hou’s proposals to reopen Taiwan to Chinese tourists and allow Chinese students to work in Taiwan, arguing that these policies would increase Taiwan’s reliance on China. The story also mentions investigations into the Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) inviting Taiwanese village chiefs on free trips to China as an example of election interference. Tai rebukes the KMT’s eagerness to make Taiwan dependent on China, claiming that it would hinder the country’s progress in connecting with the world and the international community.
2023/12/04 20:42
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Hou’s campaign team hits back over joint ticket polling
KMT presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih’s campaign office accuses TPP candidate Ko Wen-je of being inconsistent regarding the polling dispute during the attempted formation of a joint KMT-TPP ticket. Ko expressed dissatisfaction with the KMT’s internal politics and claimed that the majority of Taiwanese people desire a change in governance. Hou’s spokesperson refutes Ko’s narrative, stating that if polling numbers are within the margin of error, both candidates are considered equal. The spokesperson accuses Ko of refusing to accept scientific facts and remaining stuck in his contradictions.
2023/12/03 16:38
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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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Lai Pei-hsia has no plans to reapply for U.S. citizenship
Terry Gou’s running mate, Lai Pei-hsia, has no plans to reapply for U.S. citizenship, according to Gou’s campaign spokesperson. Press asked about Lai’s U.S. tax records, but it was deemed a private matter. Terry Gou announced his withdrawal from the presidential race through a statement image file, without further elaboration. Lai had previously renounced her U.S. citizenship to run for office alongside Gou.
2023/11/24 17:45
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Oppostion parties to meet at Grand Hyatt for collab talks
Presidential candidate Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) is scheduled to meet with his Kuomintang (KMT) rivals Hou Yu-ih and independent candidate Terry Gou at the Grand Hyatt Hotel after 4:30 p.m. on Thursday (Nov. 23). Initially, Gou wanted to host the talks at his residence but later agreed to change the venue to the Grand Hyatt Hotel. On the other hand, Hou insisted that the meeting should take place at former President Ma Ying-jeou’s office. Huang Shih-hsiu, the spokesperson for Gou’s office, stated that they would wait at the Grand Hyatt Hotel until a representative from Hou’s campaign arrived or until 5 a.m. the next morning. Ma Ying-jeou will be attending the talks as a witness, suggesting the significance of this meeting among the leading presidential contenders. The meet-up indicates a strategic discussion as Taiwan prepares for its next presidential election, with each candidate aiming to consolidate support and potentially discuss alliance formations that could impact the dynamics of the upcoming race.
2023/11/23 16:33
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China takes note of Blue-White coalition: TAO spokesperson
China’s Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) spokesperson, Zhu Fenglian, has called on the people of Taiwan and China to support the 1992 Consensus and oppose Taiwanese independence in order to restore peaceful development in cross-Strait relations. This statement was made during a regular press conference on Wednesday morning. Zhu also mentioned the potential Blue-White Coalition in the upcoming Taiwanese presidential election, emphasizing that peace, development, and cooperation represent the mainstream public opinion in Taiwan. Zhu further stated that mainland residents will only be able to travel to Taiwan when cross-Strait relations are on the correct track of peaceful development. This communication reflects China’s consistent stance on Taiwan, reaffirming its commitment to the 1992 Consensus and strong opposition to Taiwan’s independence. It is evident that China is closely monitoring Taiwan’s political dynamics in light of the upcoming election.
2023/11/16 21:06
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Terry Gou remains open to cooperation with TPP’s Ko
Independent presidential candidate Terry Gou’s campaign office spokesperson, Chen Chia-yi, confirmed that the election coalition between the Kuomintang (KMT) and Taiwan’s People Party (TPP) does not prevent the TPP from forming an alliance with Gou. Chen emphasized that Gou’s commitment to a political turnover in 2024 remains unwavering and stated that discussions can take place between Gou and TPP’s presidential contender Ko Wen-je, as the two are not mutually exclusive. Gou’s campaign team aims to bring all parties to the table to communicate their goals without any preconditions, highlighting that unity is the key to winning the presidential election. Chen mentioned that Gou’s direction aligns with the 65% mainstream public opinion, which desires the removal of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Cooperation among opposition presidential candidates is seen as the ongoing effort leading up to candidate registration at the Central Election Commission from November 20 to November 24.
2023/11/16 15:20
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Ko Wen-je, Terry Gou’s dinner fuels alliance speculations
Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je was seen having a private dinner with independent presidential hopeful Terry Gou at Gou’s residence on November 8, sparking speculation about a potential political alliance. Despite the hour-long meeting, Ko denied the possibility of a "Ko-Gou pairing" but did not rule out a "Gou-Ko alliance." Ko’s campaign office spokesperson, Chen Chih-han, confirmed the meeting but did not disclose any details due to confidentiality reasons. Ko had previously expressed openness to collaborating with Gou if it benefits Taiwan and publicly announced his intention to meet with Gou again. Gou’s campaign office spokesperson, Chen Chia-yi, stated that Gou and Ko have a harmonious relationship, sharing common beliefs and arguments, and expressing their mutual commitment to power rotation in the 2024 election. While the specifics of the meeting remain undisclosed, both parties affirmed their dedication to Taiwan’s future, potentially setting the stage for future collaborations that could impact Taiwan’s political landscape leading up to the elections.
2023/11/09 15:59
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TPP calls for open, transparent collaboration with KMT
The Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate, Hou Yu-ih, has confirmed discussions with Taiwan People’s Party candidate. Ko Wen-je’s campaign office spokesperson Tai Yu-wen emphasized the need for close communication and timely responses from the KMT regarding establishing a transparent and open collaboration.
2023/10/11 17:00
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TAO criticizes DPP as ’destroyers of peace and stability’
The Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson criticizes the Democratic Progressive Party’s presidential candidate, Lai Ching-te, as a pro-Taiwan independence advocate, warning that it would bring misfortune to Taiwan’s future generations. The spokesperson also praises former president Ma Ying-jeou for boycotting the National Day ceremony, interpreting it as opposition to Taiwan independence.
2023/10/11 15:22
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Air Force fighter jets to escort Taiwan athletes back home
President Tsai Ing-wen has instructed the Air Force to accompany Taiwan’s heroic athletes on their return from the Hangzhou Asian Games. Taiwan secured an impressive 67 medals, including 19 gold, 20 silver, and 28 bronze, finishing 6th overall. This surpasses their pre-Games target and equals their gold medal tally from the 1998 Bangkok Asian Games. President Tsai expressed gratitude to all team members, including athletes, coaches, and support staff. The largest contingent of athletes is expected to return tonight at 9:30 p.m.
2023/10/09 16:55
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Presidential Office investigating bomb threat: spokesperson
The Presidential Office in Taipei received a bomb threat via email with the sender using the president’s name and a random email account. The matter was reported to the police, and an investigation is underway to trace the origin of the threatening email.
2023/09/27 11:42
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President Tsai takes short break for health reasons
The Presidential Office announced that President Tsai Ing-wen won’t attend planned events on Friday (July 28) due to health reasons. Reports suggest that Tsai had lost her voice, but Presidential Office Spokesperson Olivia Lin denied these allegations, saying she was just unwell.
2023/07/28 13:16