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President Lai’s first overseas trip still in planning stages
Discover the latest on President Lai Ching-te’s first overseas trip, including the planning stages and considerations for U.S. transits during an election year, as Taiwan navigates international diplomacy.
2024/07/11 15:28
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Ko Wen-je criticizes Lai Ching-te’s disregard for law
Explore the intense critique by Taiwan People’s Party Chairman Ko Wen-je, who compares President Lai Ching-te’s actions to Adolf Hitler, emphasizing the importance of law and checks in democracy.
2024/06/26 15:05
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KMT Chairman Eric Chu warns against early election talks
KMT Chairman Eric Chu warns against premature discussions on local elections and presidential elections, emphasizing unity and public sentiment. Collaboration with the TPP and legislative operations are highlighted as priorities.
2024/02/27 15:30
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Evan Medeiros analyzes US, China changing domestic politics
Former NSC senior director Evan Medeiros delves into US-China dynamics, highlighting Congress’s focus on China issues and Xi Jinping’s domestic policy shifts. As the US elections approach, Medeiros urges resilience and diversification in global relations.
2024/02/21 17:28
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Taiwan and Lithuania strengthen ties in defense of democracy
Legislative Speaker You Si-kun met with a Lithuanian delegation led by Matas Maldeikis, chairman of the Lithuania-Taiwan parliamentary friendship group. The meeting highlighted Taiwan’s recent election, which had a voter turnout of over 70%, as a clear message from the Taiwanese people to defend democratic freedom and national sovereignty. The delegation included three deputy speakers of the Lithuanian parliament and eight other cross-party lawmakers. Speaker You noted that 2024 is a "super election year" globally, with Taiwan being the second country to hold elections this year. He also expressed his wishes for Lithuania’s upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections in May and October 2024. The speaker emphasized that elections represent the "possibility of choice," "freedom to participate in politics," and "protection of speech," which are rights unfathomable under authoritarian rule. He called on global democratic allies to unite in facing authoritarian challenges and safeguarding democracy and prosperity worldwide. Speaker You expressed gratitude for Lithuania’s support and highlighted the countries’ cooperation on humanitarian aid, particularly in helping Ukrainian students return to school.
2024/01/26 18:06
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DPP win may prompt escalated activities from Beijing
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.
2024/01/18 10:27
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DPP grapples with TikTok dilemma: To ban or not to ban
The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Secretary-General Hsu Li-ming expressed concern over the use of TikTok, stating that it is a difficult issue that the party cannot ban or use. He suggested that the party should consider strengthening its presence on alternative new media platforms like YouTube and Instagram for better public engagement. These comments were made during the party’s first central meeting after the recent presidential and legislative elections. Another party member, Hsu Shu-hua, acknowledged the DPP’s lack of engagement with young people and technology, including popular trends on TikTok, but argued against a ban, stating that it would be ineffective and that the issue should be confronted directly. Party member Wang Ting-yu recommended treating TikTok as a matter of national security and studying how Western countries have dealt with the platform. Legislator Hsu Chih-chieh echoed this sentiment, pointing out that democratic nations like the U.S. and the UK have imposed certain restrictions on TikTok. He urged Taiwan to take more precautions and learn from the policies of other democratic countries to safeguard itself against informational warfare. Secretary-General Hsu Li-ming emphasized the importance of dialogue and cooperation with civil society groups and the effective use of online platforms like Instagram, short videos, and TikTok, urging these actions to be taken now and not just during elections.
2024/01/18 10:21
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Taiwan’s CEC fights back against election fraud rumors
The Central Election Commission (CEC) has called for a legal investigation into rumors of election fraud following the recent presidential and legislative elections in Taiwan. False messages about election corruption have been spreading online, with influencers like YouTuber Alisasa and Bit King being accused of defaming the CEC and election staff. The CEC has gathered evidence and held a press conference to address these rumors, emphasizing that the election had ended and that supervisors recommended by various parties oversaw the voting and counting process. The CEC urged the public not to spread rumors that could harm Taiwan’s democratic achievements and encouraged individuals with evidence to submit it to the relevant legal authorities. Fabricating and spreading false information carries legal consequences, and the CEC called on citizens to defend Taiwan’s democracy and resist election rumors.
2024/01/17 17:59
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Financial strains lead Nauru to sever ties with Taiwan
Taiwan expresses strong regret and denounces the Republic of Nauru’s decision to sever diplomatic relations and establish ties with China as misguided and not beneficial for its people or regional stability. The Taiwanese Presidential Office highlights that Beijing’s diplomatic suppression is seen as retaliation against democratic values and a challenge to international stability. This move by Nauru reduces Taiwan’s diplomatic allies to twelve, marking the loss of its tenth ally since Tsai Ing-wen became president in 2016. Financial shortfalls resulting from the closure of Australia’s Nauru Regional Processing Center and other factors, such as Nauru’s request for economic aid and the closure of the Nauru branch of the Australian Bendigo Bank, have contributed to the strained Taiwan-Nauru relations.
2024/01/16 11:27
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U.S. delegation arrives in Taiwan one day after elections
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.
2024/01/15 16:38
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Lai Ching-te vows to uphold democracy after winning election
In Taiwan’s latest presidential election, President-elect Lai Ching-te and Vice President-elect Hsiao Bi-khim commit to continuing President Tsai Ing-wen’s democratic legacy, facing legislative challenges and focusing on peaceful cross-strait relations.
2024/01/13 22:51
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Taiwan eagerly awaits new president, focus shifts to China
In Taiwan’s latest election, with a turnout expected to rival 2020’s, citizens eagerly await the announcement of their new president. The election’s outcome, especially its impact on Taiwan-China relations, is closely monitored.
2024/01/13 18:24
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President Tsai accused of illegal election day campaigning
During Taiwan’s presidential and legislative elections, President Tsai Ing-wen faced criticism after her official LINE account displayed election slogans of Lai Ching-te from the Democratic Progressive Party, leading to accusations of illegal campaigning. The image was later removed from the account. This incident prompted online users to question the authority of the Central Election Commission (CEC) and suggest filing complaints against the president. The CEC had previously warned that campaigning on social media platforms like LINE and Facebook was prohibited on polling day, with violators facing penalties ranging from NT$100,000 to NT$1 million. Political parties, candidates, and their employees or agents could face even higher penalties of NT$200,000 to NT$2 million. The investigation into this alleged violation could have significant financial consequences.
2024/01/13 14:20
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Taiwan braces for transformative general elections
Taiwan gears up for a pivotal general election on Jan. 13, featuring a three-way presidential race and significant legislative changes, signaling a major shift in the island’s political landscape.
2024/01/12 18:18
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Surgeon-turned-politician vies for presidency in Taiwan
In a significant moment for Taiwan’s democracy, TPP candidate Ko Wen-je rallied supporters in Taipei on the eve of the general elections, aiming to alter the long-standing political landscape dominated by KMT and DPP. His campaign, focusing on pragmatic reforms and targeting the youth vote, signifies a potential shift in Taiwan’s political dynamics.
2024/01/12 15:15
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KMT emphasizes peace, economy, and defense in election plan
Taiwan’s KMT presidential and vice presidential candidates outline their election strategy, emphasizing peace, communication, and economic resilience, just days before the general elections.
2024/01/11 19:13
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Taiwan gears up for critical legislative election
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.
2024/01/11 17:03
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Southern Taiwan emerges as key battleground in elections
The 2024 presidential election in Taiwan intensifies as political parties target southern regions. KMT’s Hou Yu-ih challenges DPP strongholds while the Taiwan People’s Party gains momentum. Stay updated on this historic election.
2024/01/08 17:25
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Supporter shaves Ko Wen-je’s face in hair
A barber in Changhua has gone viral after posting a video on Facebook of him shaving an image of Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je into a client’s hair. The detailed design, complete with Ko’s face, nose, eyes, glasses, suit, and tie, has sparked lively online discussions. The client had requested the unique haircut in preparation for attending an election rally for Ko Wen-je, but he has been advised by the Changhua County Election Commission to cover his hairdo, possibly with a cap, while voting due to rules prohibiting the display of candidate-related items within polling stations. This unconventional show of support for a presidential candidate has prompted discussions about the extreme measures other supporters are taking for their preferred candidates, such as a female enthusiast of Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te surprising him with a sudden kiss during a photo, and supporters of Kuomintang (KMT) candidate Hou Yu-ih waving the national flag at his events. The hairstyle news is another example of the enthusiastic participation of Taiwanese citizens in the elections, showcasing their support in diverse and creative ways.
2024/01/07 16:31
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Jaw Shaw-kong urges China for peace ahead of elections
Kuomintang (KMT) vice-presidential candidate Jaw Shaw-kong has called on China’s Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) and the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) to demonstrate goodwill ahead of Taiwan’s elections. He urged them to refrain from sending military aircraft across the median line of the Taiwan Strait, advocating for peace in the region. Jaw’s plea comes after a Newsweek report revealed that 1,709 Chinese military aircraft entered Taiwan’s air defense identification zone in 2023, representing a 76% increase from the previous year. Although the number decreased to 80 in December, military aircraft continued to intrude in 2024. Jaw specifically named the TAO in his message, asking them to relay it to the PLA. The persistent disruptions by China with military aircraft, ships, and floating balloons have heightened tensions as Taiwan’s final presidential election of 2024 approaches, affecting both the electorate and candidates and reflecting the complex dynamics of cross-strait relations and the election.
2024/01/07 15:59
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KMT rallies in Taoyuan, urges strategic voting against TPP
KMT presidential and vice-presidential candidates, Hou Yu-íh and Jaw Shaw-kong, held a ’Victory Solidarity Rally’ in Taoyuan, urging voters to reject TPP candidate Ko Wen-je for strategic voting. The event drew nearly 100,000 attendees. Former Kaohsiung Mayor Han Kuo-yu criticized Ko as an ’air gun’ and emphasized the importance of victory. Han also condemned DPP candidates Lai Ching-te and Hsiao Bi-khim, claiming Lai had no qualification to run for the R.O.C.’s presidency. Han questioned how Lai, a miner’s child, could become Vice President without the protection of the ROC.
2024/01/07 11:31
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Jaw Shaw-kong takes unique stance to win over young voters
Kuomintang vice presidential candidate Jaw Shaw-kong, in a recent university Q&A session, stressed his individual stance separate from the KMT, aiming to attract young voters and promote reform within the party as Taiwan’s elections approach.
2024/01/06 17:12
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Taiwan ensures voting rights with election day off
Taiwan’s election day has been designated as a day off under the Labor Standards Act to protect workers’ voting rights. On January 13th, the 16th Presidential and Vice Presidential elections, as well as the 11th Legislative Yuan elections, will be held. Employers are required to grant a day off with regular pay to workers who have voting rights and are scheduled to work on election day. The day off is a continuous 24-hour period from midnight to noon and cannot be exchanged for another working day. If workers are needed on election day, employers must obtain their agreement and not impede their right to vote.
2024/01/06 11:23
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Dinosaur, frog costumes enliven election campaign trail
In the lead-up to Taiwan’s Jan. 13 elections, candidates from both the Taiwan People’s Party and Democratic Progressive Party showcase a unique blend of political seriousness and lighthearted fun, from supporters in dinosaur costumes to birthday celebrations on the campaign trail.
2024/01/05 17:26
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Tsai Ing-wen upholds status quo across Taiwan Strait: MOFA
Taiwan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Joseph Wu, emphasized in an exclusive interview with CNN that Taiwan is a democratic nation and that the majority of its people wish to maintain the status quo across the Taiwan Strait. Wu discussed various topics, including the significance of Taiwan’s presidential elections for its democratic growth, national defense, Indo-Pacific conditions, and Taiwan-India relations. He highlighted President Tsai Ing-wen’s commitment to upholding the political status quo, which has gained international recognition. Wu also emphasized the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, as Taiwan produces 90% of the world’s semiconductor chips. He addressed the military threats from mainland China, stating that Taiwan is striving to enhance its defense capacities to deter aggression. Additionally, Wu expressed hopes to strengthen the connection between Taiwan and India in integrating their semiconductor supply chains through talent cultivation.
2024/01/05 16:14