Taiwan security 結果共209筆

China’s military intimidation of Taiwan ahead of the presidential election has been warned by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). A joint statement by the US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Daniel Kritenbrink, Japanese Deputy Minister and Director-General, Kobe Yasuhiro, and Republic of Korea Deputy Minister, Chung Byung-won, expressed support for Taiwan during a three-way dialogue in Washington. China’s recent military threats towards Taiwan, including deploying balloons across the Taiwan strait, violating airspace, and suspending parts of the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA), have raised concerns among the international community. MOFA has raised suspicions of attempts to influence the election and emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to cooperation with the US, Japan, and South Korea to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.

The Taiwanese Ministry of National Defense (MND) has reported the detection of eight military aircraft and six naval vessels of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in the past 24 hours. Additionally, an unidentified balloon crossed the Taiwan Strait median line. The MND denounced China’s activities, which consistently undermine regional stability, and expressed its commitment to maintaining peace and national security. The Republic of China Armed Forces will monitor and respond to CCP military and naval activities to safeguard Taiwan’s sovereignty. Despite interference from the Chinese PLA, the MND remains determined to uphold Taiwan’s state security and regional stability.

U.S. National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications, John Kirby, affirms American support for Taiwan’s democracy and urges parties outside Taiwan not to interfere with its democratic process. This comes after Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense reported detecting three balloons from the Chinese Communist Party crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait. Following the incident, there were multiple incursions by Chinese aircraft and vessels observed in the area. The Taiwanese military will take appropriate measures based on the nature and potential hazard of the balloons. Although Kirby couldn’t verify the balloon reports, he reiterates U.S. support for Taiwan’s democracy and looks forward to free, fair, and transparent elections. He also warns against any external force attempting to interfere with the Taiwanese elections and urges parties outside Taiwan not to meddle with its democratic process.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Agriculture is recruiting four dog handlers for its Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency. The positions offer a starting salary of NT＄37,769 per month, plus an additional NT＄7,700 allowance for outstations. Handlers must have at least one year of related experience and be available for shifts and business travel. They also need a good understanding of dogs, an outgoing personality, and the ability to work independently. The positions are divided among Taipei Songshan Airport, Taoyuan International Airport, and Kinmen Shuitou Pier, with potential relocation to Kaohsiung Airport or Taichung Airport.

Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) vice presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim attended an educational discussion in Taipei, where she shared plans for the National Project of Hope. The project aims to address issues of ’inverse distribution’ in education, particularly the financial burden on underprivileged children attending private universities. Hsiao emphasized the importance of nurturing global citizenry among children and connecting them to the world through digital tools. She also stressed the need for a friendly learning environment, anti-bullying initiatives, drug education, gender equality teachings, and addressing security concerns within campuses. Hsiao proposed creating a friendly environment for socio-economically disadvantaged students, reflecting Taiwan’s diversity and inclusivity. She called for the elevation of the quality of special education, advancement of higher education and vocational development, and a change in public perception about it. Hsiao suggested that private universities provide tuition assistance to alleviate the financial burden on poorer students. In terms of foreign affairs, she highlighted her efforts to sign an educational Memorandum of Understanding while stationed in the U.S., offering scholarship opportunities and encouraging Americans to learn Mandarin and visit Taiwan for Taiwan’s global integration.

Taipei mayoral candidate Ko Wen-je criticized the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) governance in Taiwan, pointing out various shortcomings such as shortages of land, water, electricity, talent, and labor during Lai Ching-te’s tenure as premier. Ko also claimed that Taiwan is currently lacking eggs, pork, vaccines, health screening resources, and even toilet paper. He further highlighted present issues including low birthrates, national security risks from an aging population, wage stagnation, inflation, slow industrial transformation, and high housing costs. Ko accused the government of not allocating special budgets for expenditures, resulting in an alleged surplus of NT＄900 billion, and criticized their lack of transparency. He expressed disappointment with the DPP’s failure to address issues left by the Kuomintang (KMT) after eight years in power. Additionally, Ko mentioned that Taiwanese people generally feel insecure about the current status of the Taiwan Strait, which has caused societal discord, political factions, and cross-strait unrest.

The Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate, Hou Yu-ih, listed the ten major policy failures of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) during a livestream presidential debate. These failures include ineffective energy policies, food safety violations, deteriorated public security, debt burdening future generations, critical issues in people’s livelihoods, housing injustice, rising cross-strait military threats, plummeting wages, skyrocketing house prices, and ineffective pandemic responses. Hou elaborated on specific examples such as solar power corruption, tainted food black market dealings, overspending on ＂forward-looking＂ infrastructures, a lack of electricity and water, regulatory failure in the National Communications Commission (NCC), failed social housing policies, the threatening potential of military conflict, income inequality at a ten-year high, and around 20,000 deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hou expressed regret over his opponent, DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te’s campaign methods, accusing him of slander and displaying incompetence and unscrupulousness. Hou confirmed his opposition to Taiwanese independence while claiming that Lai advocated for it. He also criticized former Taipei Mayor and current Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je for not responding to this issue. Hou emphasized his lifelong pledge to remain loyal to the Republic of China’s flag and safeguard Taiwan’s democratic freedom.

The Minister of Education, Pan Wen-chung, has announced measures to ensure school safety following a brutal throat-slitting incident at a New Taipei City school. Premier Chen Chien-jen has directed the education ministry to provide psychological aid for students and staff, as well as enhance personnel and funding. Representatives from the Judicial Yuan, six municipalities, civil organizations, teachers, and parents will collaborate to prevent future tragedies. The government plans to reevaluate counseling and assessment mechanisms in intermediary education. Additionally, the potential addition of security staff in schools is being discussed. The assailant student has been detained, and the investigation will proceed according to the Juvenile Justice Act.

Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense expresses optimism for stability and peace in the Taiwan Strait region, emphasizing its global significance. The ministry views all measures conducive to peace and stability positively. This follows a video conference between the US Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman and his Chinese counterpart, discussing global and regional security issues.

DPP vice-presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim expressed confidence in Taiwan’s ability to gain international trust and recognition despite global pressures. She emphasized the importance of maintaining a diplomatic balance, using the analogy of a cat’s sense of balance. Hsiao also highlighted the need for a fair and balanced Taiwan-U.S. trade relationship. She believes that promoting mutual benefits between Taiwan and the U.S., including in areas of national security and economics, will safeguard Taiwan’s democratic freedoms. Hsiao acknowledged the differences between Taiwan and Israel but suggested that Taiwan could learn from Israel’s innovations in military training. She also emphasized the extension of compulsory military service in Taiwan to ensure peace and build strength.

Taiwan’s People Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je warns that both the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the Kuomintang (KMT) are using China to their advantage in the upcoming 2024 presidential election. While the DPP incites anti-China sentiments for votes, the KMT strengthens ties with China. Ko suggests that if the KMT comes to power, Taiwan could be ＂bought by China,＂ leading to intense debates. He emphasizes the importance of Taiwan’s autonomy and cross-strait peace, but asserts that autonomy is a prerequisite. Ko advocates for increased defense spending and strategic thinking to ensure Taiwan’s security. He concludes that choosing him as president would guarantee peace and safeguard Taiwan’s sovereignty.

The Ministry of National Defense in Taiwan is preparing for the upcoming presidential and legislative elections on Jan. 13, 2024, by upgrading its security readiness for 40 hours. This will take place from 5 p.m. on Jan. 12 until 8 a.m. on Jan. 14. Around 5,000 military personnel may not be able to cast their votes, similar to the 2020 general elections. However, the number of naval and air force personnel, 24-hour on-call missile units, and air force operations management on standby is expected to exceed that of 2020. The ministry has ordered its forces to compile rosters for Election Day and implement rotation measures for combat readiness to ensure the voting rights of military personnel. Due to tense military situations caused by periodic crossings of the median line of the strait by People’s Liberation Army vessels and aircraft since August last year, there may be more naval and air force personnel on standby compared to the 2020 presidential election. Typically, soldiers stationed far from their registered residences vote in the morning and then return to their camps before noon to switch with standby soldiers who then go out to vote.

U.S. President Joe Biden has signed the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (FY2024 NDAA), which includes a comprehensive training program for Taiwan’s military. The program aims to enhance Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities and will be overseen by the U.S. Secretary of Defense. The legislation, which has received approval from both houses of the U.S. Congress, allocates a total of US＄886 billion for this purpose. The training program will focus on layered defense, asymmetric defense strategies, cross-communication between the U.S. and Taiwan’s military, information sharing, and the improvement of professional military education and civilian control over the military. Additionally, the act emphasizes collaboration between the U.S. and Taiwan on military cyber security and requires regular updates on Taiwan arm sales proceedings. It also mandates the Secretary of Defense to submit biannual reports to Congress on the military developments of the People’s Republic of China, particularly in areas such as Taiwan, Southeast Asia, and the South China Sea, covering topics such as weapon upgrades, procurement, and military operations.

The U.S. Air Force is actively exploring options to expedite the sale of F-16 fighter jets to Taiwan, with 136 upgraded aircraft already delivered and the final three on the way. An additional 66 new jets are scheduled to be delivered by the end of 2026. Concerns were raised by over 20 Republican members of Congress that the promised deliveries to Taiwan might be delayed due to commitments to Ukraine, Israel, and global security issues. Taiwan’s existing F-16 upgrade program has already faced significant delays due to a lack of crucial parts, and the delivery of the new jets has been postponed by over 15 months due to software development complexities. Lawmakers are committed to collaborating with the Pentagon to ensure the timely delivery of the jets, especially in light of China’s frequent military drills near Taiwan.

DPP vice-presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim emphasized the importance of strength in maintaining Taiwan’s status quo and preventing bullying. She highlighted the current state and prospects of U.S.-Taiwan relations, noting that U.S. policy has consistently supported maintaining the status quo and opposing the use of force. Hsiao mentioned that under Xi Jinping’s leadership, the U.S. has shifted to view China competitively but does not seek a new Cold War. She emphasized critical issues of peace, security, and economic cooperation in Taiwan-U.S. ties, including the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade. Hsiao underscored Taiwan’s determination to defend itself, citing the national defense budget and military modernization reforms. She referred to herself as a ＂cat warrior＂ and advocated for government reform and a balanced international stance. Hsiao urged that Taiwan not become a divisive issue between American political parties and emphasized the need for a proper balance amidst U.S.-China competition to ensure Taiwan’s safe and steady progression.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) spokesperson expressed gratitude for the concern shown by friends in the U.S. Congress regarding Taiwan’s security. The U.S. military has observed increased provocative actions by China around the Taiwan Strait ahead of the Taiwanese presidential election. Admiral John Aquilino, head of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, has called for restraint from China, perceiving these actions as pressure tactics. U.S. Representative Mike Gallagher urged the Pentagon to provide a classified briefing on assisting Taiwan in deterring China. Taiwan is committed to bolstering its self-defense capabilities and pursuing peace through dialogue with Beijing authorities. Despite pressure, Taiwan will maintain a non-provocative stance while defending national sovereignty and democratic freedom. Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry expressed regret over China’s threats of countermeasures against U.S. firms involved in arms sales to Taiwan and emphasized the need for the U.S. to fulfill its security promises.

China criticizes a US arms sale to Taiwan worth $300 million, demanding an immediate halt to US military aid. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced the sale includes secure communications systems for Taiwan’s defense. China argues that the sale violates the One-China policy and the three joint communiques, particularly emphasizing the one from 1982. The spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense warns that any attempts to ＂use Taiwan to control China＂ will fail. China’s Foreign Ministry also launches a formal protest with the US and takes punitive measures against the involved companies.

U.S. senators met in an unusual weekend session to amend border security policies, aiming to resolve the deadlock over assistance plans for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. Democratic centrist Senator Joe Manchin expressed optimism about the progress being made, stating that bipartisan negotiators and representatives from the White House recognize the seriousness of border issues and the need for repair. Independent Senator Kyrsten Sinema, Democrat Chris Murphy, Republican James Lankford, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, and other senior officials engaged in discussions to seek a compromise on border security policy revisions. While progress was reported, details were not disclosed. The crafting of the bill’s comprehensive text requires time for deliberation before the voting process can proceed.

The Taiwan Presidential Office expresses gratitude for the United States’ commitment to Taiwan’s security, as demonstrated by a new $300 million arms sale. The move deepens the U.S.-Taiwan security partnership and aims to ensure peace, stability, and prosperous development in the Taiwan Strait and the Indo-Pacific region. Taiwan will continue to enhance its national defense autonomy and uphold democratic values.

Nearly 60% of Taiwanese people support increasing the national defense budget to 3% of GDP, according to a survey released by the Institute for National Defense and Security Research (INDSR). The survey, conducted by the National Chengchi University Election Study Center, gathered 1,214 complete responses from November 12 to November 13. Around 9% of respondents believe the current defense budget is very insufficient, while 46% consider it to be insufficient, totaling approximately 55% who think the defense spending needs a boost. Additionally, nearly 60% of the full sample expressed approval for cutting other government expenditures to raise the defense budget, while around 41% would favor paying more taxes to achieve a defense budget constituting 3% of GDP.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has received formal notification from the U.S. government about the sale of tactical information systems worth approximately US＄300 million. This arms deal, the twelfth from the Biden administration to Taiwan since 2021, demonstrates the U.S.’s commitment to Taiwan’s defense needs. MOFA expressed gratitude for the U.S.’s continued fulfillment of its security commitments in accordance with the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances. The sale includes equipment, training, and technical support, which will enhance Taiwan’s national defense and deterrence capabilities. MOFA reiterated Taiwan’s determination to strengthen its self-defense capabilities, safeguard its territory, and preserve its democratic and free way of life in the face of China’s military expansion and provocation. The foreign ministry also emphasized the deepening security partnerships with the U.S. to uphold a rules-based international order and ensure peace, stability, and prosperity in the Taiwan Strait and the broader Indo-Pacific region.

Taiwan’s Social Protection Expenditure (SPE) for 2022 has reached a new high of NT$2.5342 trillion, according to the Directorate-General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics (DGBAS). This represents a 4.9% growth rate and an increase of NT$118.1 billion compared to the previous year. The DGBAS attributes the significant growth to factors such as increased costs related to COVID-19 vaccine procurement and vaccination efforts, higher National Health Insurance payments, and increased funding for childcare allowances and educational subsidies. Social security spending in Taiwan aims to mitigate risks or burdens associated with aging, disabilities, survivors, sickness and healthcare, childbirth, family and children, unemployment, occupational injuries, and housing, following the standards of the International Labor Organization (ILO).

As Taiwan prepares for its upcoming elections, media and academic leaders gather to discuss the crucial issues of national security, the role of China, and strategies to engage young voters. The event highlights the significance of accurate information and the impact of these elections on Taiwan’s future.

Chairman Mitsuo Ohashi of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association visited the Kaohsiung City government to discuss enhancing industry, education, and tourism cooperation exchanges with Mayor Chen Chi-Mai. Ohashi emphasized the significance of Kaohsiung in Japan’s relations with Taiwan. Mayor Chen expressed enthusiasm for deeper interactions between Taiwan and Japan, highlighting the crucial role of Taiwan’s semiconductor industry in global supply chain security. He cited the collaboration between Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) in Kaohsiung and Kumamoto, Japan, as an example of potential economic cooperation. Chen described the Taiwan-Japan relationship as a deepening bond, referencing their long-standing friendship and mutual support during crises. Ohashi, who visited Kaohsiung 40 years ago and has maintained connections with past Mayor Chen Chu and Taiwan’s representative to Japan, Frank Hsieh, expressed admiration for Kaohsiung’s recent development. He believes that Japan-Kaohsiung cooperation should extend to the private enterprise level and is hopeful for the future of Japanese-Taiwanese relations. Ohashi frequently speaks at the annual National Day reception at the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Representative Office in Japan, advocating for promoting friendly Japan-Taiwan relations as an example for the international community.

Alexander Yui, Taiwan’s new representative to the United States, arrived in Washington D.C. on Monday (Dec. 11), to assume his post. Ingrid Larson, the managing director of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), welcomed him at the airport. Yui’s arrival follows the resignation of former representative Hsiao Bi-khim on Nov. 20. Yui, who had recently become the top envoy to the EU and Belgium, was chosen to replace Hsiao. Yui emphasized security, economic and trade cooperation, and Taiwan’s international space as the key aspects of Taiwan-U.S. relations. He highlighted the need to safeguard Taiwan’s upcoming election from external influences. Yui committed to deepening Taiwan-U.S. relations by building on Hsiao’s work and collaborating with his embassy team. Laura Rosenberger, chair of AIT, expressed confidence in Yui’s experience and anticipated further development and strengthening of the bilateral partnership.