U.S 結果共488筆

Taiwan has received 462,800 doses of Novavax’s XBB vaccine, with distribution starting on January 9, 2023, according to the Taiwan Centers for Diseases Control (CDC). In May of this year, Taiwan categorized Covid-19 as a class 4 endemic disease, similar to seasonal flu. The decision was based on clinical trial reports and immunization recommendations from the U.S., the European Union (EU), and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW). Unvaccinated individuals are advised to receive two doses of 0.5mL each, administered at least four weeks apart. Those who have already received a COVID-19 vaccine should receive a single dose of 0.5mL, provided at least three months have passed since their last dose. The domestically available XBB vaccine includes those produced by Moderna and Novavax, and recipients can choose either brand for vaccination.

Taiwan’s investment in China has reached its lowest point in a decade, making up just over 10% of the island’s total overseas direct investment, according to a report by Nikkei Asia. Recent official data from Taiwan reveals that foreign direct investments surged by 87% to reach $257 billion through November this year. However, investments in China plummeted by 34% to only $29 billion, representing a mere 12% of the total. Since 2010, Taiwanese investments in China have been steadily declining and are projected to drop below the lowest point recorded since 1999. In contrast, investments in the United States have increased ninefold to $96 billion, accounting for around 37% of the total outbound direct investment. Additionally, Taiwan’s direct investment in Germany has soared 25-fold to $39 billion, largely driven by the operations of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. Sun Ming-te, Director of the Business Development and Research Center at the Taiwan Institute of Economic Research (TIER), predicts that if tensions between the United States and China persist, Taiwan’s investment in China will continue to decline.

The story is about Lai Ching-te, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate, declaring that Taiwan is aligning with global democratic allies and will not follow the old path of the Kuomintang (KMT). Lai made this statement during a presidential candidate debate when questioned about Taiwan’s ability to remain neutral amid U.S.-China competition. He emphasized President Tsai’s diplomatic strategy and his own role in garnering international support for Taiwan. Lai also responded to criticism from KMT’s presidential candidate, Hou Yu-ih, regarding his assistance during the pandemic. Lai argued that Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je lacks real achievements compared to President Tsai’s performance.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has stated that Beijing is working to isolate Taiwan globally in response to criticisms made by Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih regarding Taiwan’s stagnant free trade agreements (FTA). During a presidential policy presentation, Hou criticized the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for its unsatisfactory economic performance and the lack of progress in bilateral and multilateral trade agreements. MOFA emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to global economic integration and bilateral economic cooperation, but highlighted the interference from China. MOFA believes that Taiwan’s ability to participate effectively in economic integration depends on its strength and global connections, especially as countries like the U.S. and European nations reassess their economic risks with China. MOFA urges all Taiwanese, regardless of political affiliation, to unite and enhance cooperation with like-minded nations in the face of external challenges.

In this story, Kuomintang (KMT) candidate Hou Yu-ih expresses disapproval of foreign influence in Taiwan’s elections during a presidential debate. Hou criticizes the Anti-Infiltration Act and the potential politicization of the judiciary. He accuses Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislator Chao Tien-lin of pro-China bias without legal consequences and hints at undisclosed reception from Chinese authorities during Lai Ching-te’s visit to mainland China in 2017. Hou questions the DPP’s double standards and openly scrutinizes Lai, demanding their stance on U.S. disapproval of Taiwan’s independence. He labels Lai as a ＂pragmatic worker of Taiwan independence.＂

The 2024 presidential election in Taiwan will feature a live televised debate among the candidates, including Lai Ching-te of the Democratic Progressive Party, Hou Yu-ih of the Kuomintang, and Ko Wen-je of Taiwan’s People Party. The debate will consist of four rounds, including candidate speeches, media inquiries, inter-candidate questioning, and conclusions. Lai has criticized the KMT-TPP joint ticket and urged viewers to support him, while Hou has been preparing intensively for the debate to communicate his election concepts and political views. Ko has expressed his intention to question Lai on promoting Taiwan’s independence without U.S. government support. The debate will be co-hosted by Liberty Times Net and other media outlets and will be aired on Public Television Service, with Hu Yuan-hui serving as the host.

Presidential candidate Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) expresses support for President Tsai Ing-wen’s foreign policy but rejects her domestic policy agenda. During a televised debate, Ko emphasizes the need for Taiwan to establish its own position amid the U.S.-China confrontation. He cites former U.S. President Trump’s efforts to distance from China and quotes U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s stance on China. Ko, accompanied by his spouse Chen Pei-chi, appears in a black suit with a purple polka dot tie, wearing a Republic of China national emblem and KP badge.

Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih challenges the effectiveness of President Tsai Ing-wen’s foreign policy, questioning its impact on Taiwan-China communication, severed relations with former allies, extended military service, and increased risk of Chinese fighter jets breaching Taiwan’s airspace. The three presidential contenders, including Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te and Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) candidate Ko Wen-je, discuss U.S.-Taiwan relations and their stance on President Tsai’s policy. Hou questions DPP’s handling of tainted politics during their time in power and highlights his support for the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA). He also addresses concerns over cross-strait flight operations and employment difficulties for Chinese students in Taiwan. Hou pledges to follow the Constitution of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and maintain administrative neutrality without relying on any side.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has expressed concern over comments made by Ko Wen-je, Taiwan People’s Party presidential candidate, stating that they could potentially harm Taiwan’s diplomatic relationships and lead to misunderstandings. MOFA spokesperson Liu Yung-chien emphasized that there is no conflict between solidifying relations with allied countries and developing substantial relationships with non-allied nations. The foreign ministry’s approach is to contribute to both areas simultaneously, without prioritizing based on alliance status. Liu highlighted the vital support received from allies over the years, which has helped Taiwan participate in international organizations and advance its causes. He expressed gratitude for the moral courage and vocal support shown by these allies, and stated that any possible misunderstanding sparked by Ko’s remarks is not something the people of Taiwan wish to see. In a podcast interview, Ko remarked that the number of diplomatic allies had been misperceived, suggesting that Taiwan would still fare well even if the number went down to zero. Ko emphasized the importance of substantial relationships, citing Taiwan’s positive relationships with Japan and the U.S., despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties.

DPP vice presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim reassures students in Hsinchu City that protecting Taiwan’s democratic freedom is in the mutual interest of Taiwan and the United States. She addresses concerns about the history of Chiang Kai-shek’s pro-American stance and Donald Trump’s seemingly unfriendly attitude toward Taiwan. Hsiao emphasizes the importance of promoting Taiwan-U.S. relations with Taiwan at the heart of the process, identifying mutual benefits to strengthen Taiwan. She states that her approach in Washington would not interfere with or comment on the competition between U.S. parties, but rather focus on maintaining Taiwanese interests. Hsiao acknowledges that while Trump may use certain political language, as long as cooperation between Taiwan and the U.S. continues and Taiwanese interests are protected, it would be sufficient. The discussion also touches on concerns about subsidies for private high schools, with Hsiao emphasizing the importance of educational equity and Lai Ching-te’s intention to work towards making senior high school education free.

Taiwanese shipping companies Evergreen Marine Corp. and Yang Ming Marine Transport Corp. have chosen not to resume their Red Sea route following Maersk’s decision to do so. Maersk reinstated the route due to the ＂Red Sea crisis＂ caused by increased violence from Yemen’s Houthi rebels. The deployment of the multinational naval task forces under the U.S.-led Operation Prosperity Guardian (OPG) has allowed maritime trade to pass through the Red Sea/Gulf of Aden and resume using the Suez Canal. However, Maersk warns that the overall risk in the region has not been eliminated. The decision has led to concerns about container prices and resulted in a decline in Evergreen and Yang Ming’s stock prices. Freight rates for European and American shipping liners saw a significant increase after Maersk’s announcement.

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.

DPP vice presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim visited Hsinchu on Dec. 25, emphasizing that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s (TSMC) decision to establish a factory in the United States was driven by client demand rather than government influence. Hsiao refrained from commenting on TSMC’s internal affairs but acknowledged the company’s understanding of its customers’ need for a U.S. factory. As someone with a strong American background, Hsiao mentioned her American friends’ interest in TSMC’s investments in the U.S. She also highlighted the increased attention Taiwan has received globally and the influx of visitors, some specifically requesting to visit Hsinchu and TSMC. Hsiao took the opportunity to engage with the youth and gain more recognition among them.

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.

The Ministry of Environment (MOENW) has recognized 59 Taiwanese and American eco-friendly schools for their successful integration of environmental education practices. This year’s tally of green flag certifications, which signify a long-term commitment to sustainability, is the highest on record. Taoyuan had the most certified schools with six. The green flag certificates symbolize the extensive efforts and dedication to fostering sustainable principles and active engagement within the school environment. The ＂Taiwan-American Eco-School Partnership Program,＂ jointly promoted by the MOENW and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) since 2014, aims to cultivate student autonomy in participating in environmental protection discussions and decision-making. The Ministry of Education (MOE) joined the effort in 2021. The MOENW is dedicated to aligning Taiwan’s eco-friendly schools with global standards and increasing the number of schools participating in eco-friendly programs.

U.S. Department of State English language specialist Maureen Rooney visited Heti Elementary School in Kaohsiung to introduce American holiday traditions to students through an interactive English language program. Rooney’s effortless English and expressive body language helped the children overcome their anxiety about fully English-taught lessons. The course, rich with audiovisual aids, guided students through the historical context of Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations, enhancing their understanding of cultural nuances. Using the festive tune ＂12 Days of Christmas,＂ Rooney stimulated thoughtful discussions among students about the meaning of gifts and encouraged heartfelt English expressions of gratitude and well wishes for their families. HTPS Principal Tu Chang-lin expressed gratitude for the American Institute in Taiwan’s collaboration with U.S. officials in advancing bilingual education at the school, highlighting the value of such cultural learning opportunities to enrich the students’ English proficiency.

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.

Taiwan’s investments in New Southbound countries in the first 11 months of 2023 have surpassed investments in Mainland China, according to the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA). Investments in the New Southbound countries reached US＄5.13 billion, a 7.26% year-on-year increase, outstripping investments in Mainland China, which stood at US＄2.96 billion. This trend is driven by the supply chain diversification, accelerated by the U.S.-China trade war and major manufacturers’ strategies to decentralize operations. Investments in New Southbound countries now account for around 20% of Taiwan’s total overseas investments, whereas China accounts for approximately 11.5%. From January to November 2023, there were 2,102 approved cases of overseas-focused investments by Taiwanese and foreign entities, a decrease of 8.89% compared to last year. The amount invested reached about US＄10.8 billion (approximately NT＄323.7 billion), the second-highest for the period in the last 15 years but still representing a 13.04% decline from the previous year. Investments from New Southbound countries into Taiwan saw 609 approved cases within the same timeframe, an annual increase of 41.30%. The investment totaled approximately US＄2.5 billion (about NT＄75.7 billion), up 25.20% from the previous year, with the most significant inflows originating from Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia. On a broader scale, the 504 approved cases of outbound investments from Taiwan marked a 2.44% annual increase, surging by 145.61% financially to roughly US＄22.8 billion (approximately NT＄684.4 billion). Investments in New Southbound countries revealed 195 approved cases, rising by 35.42% year-on-year, totaling around US＄5.1 billion (approximately NT＄ 154.1 billion) and constituting 20% of Taiwan’s total foreign investments. Singapore, Vietnam, and Thailand were the leading recipients. Conversely, approved investments in Mainland China amounted to 305 cases, down by 7.58%, with the approved investment sum decreasing by 33.91% to approximately US＄2.96 billion (about NT＄88.9 billion). Mainland Chinese investments in Taiwan experienced a 45.45% decline in approved cases to 24, with the investment figure falling 21.65% to about US＄27.4 million (approximately NT＄821.6 million).

TSMC chairman Mark Liu’s upcoming retirement in 2024 has led investment experts to suggest that the semiconductor giant should slow down the progress of its new manufacturing facility in the United States. Industry analyst Jonah Cheng believes that TSMC’s policy direction will remain unchanged under the leadership of chief executive C.C. Wei, who is expected to succeed Liu as chairman. Cheng also proposes maintaining a dual leadership structure to cultivate successors from various backgrounds. Speculation suggests that Liu’s retirement may be linked to potential investment challenges in the company’s U.S. expansion. In response to these challenges, Cheng recommends a deceleration in the construction of TSMC’s second U.S. plant. He also highlights the need to assess the current downturn in the car market and economic outlook before proceeding with the German plant focused on automotive applications. Cheng suggests that the Japanese facility could be an optimal choice due to labor and power shortages in Taiwan, as well as cultural similarities and strong government support from Japan. TSMC’s primary obstacle, according to Cheng, is maintaining its leadership position in the semiconductor industry, especially after surpassing Intel. Additionally, the cyclical nature of the industry and the potential opportunities presented by the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) applications pose further challenges for the company.

Starlux Airlines has announced its participation in the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) PreCheck program, allowing qualified passengers to enjoy expedited security checks when traveling to or transiting through the United States. Eligible travelers on Starlux flights to the U.S. will have access to a dedicated security lane where they can keep their shoes, belts, light jackets, electronics, and liquids in their carry-on luggage. Passengers eligible for PreCheck will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) to provide when booking flights or during airport check-in. The program also extends its benefits to children aged 12 and under. TSA PreCheck is available at over 200 airports in the United States.

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.

Evergreen Marine Corp, a Taiwanese shipping company, has temporarily suspended its shipping services through the Red Sea due to security threats posed by Houthi militants. This decision comes after a series of attacks on commercial ships by the Yemen-based group, which has escalated tensions in the region. Evergreen joins other global shipping giants, including Orient Overseas Container Line, CMA CGM, Maersk Group, Hapag-Lloyd, and Mediterranean Shipping Company, in halting passage through the Red Sea. The attacks by the Houthis, aimed at blocking ships en route to Israel, have led to the interception of drones and missiles by the U.S. Navy, British Navy, and French Navy. In response to the exacerbating security situation, Evergreen has rerouted its ships from Asia to the Mediterranean and the U.S. East Coast to avoid the Red Sea. British Petroleum (BP) has also suspended its oil transit through the Red Sea due to increased risks.

Taiwan People’s Party presidential candidate Ko Wen-je criticizes the housing loan policies proposed by Kuomintang candidate Hou Yu-ih and Democratic Progressive Party candidate Lai Ching-te, deeming their focuses misplaced. Ko mocks Hou’s no-down-payment plan as a deferred payment scheme and questions Lai’s policy of extending the maximum loan period. He also dismisses Lai’s implications of corruption issues and counters with a list of Democratic Progressive Party corruption cases. Ko takes a dig at Lai over an illegal structure in his hometown, which has become a popular check-in spot online. In response to President Tsai Ing-wen’s sarcastic retort about stability, Ko acknowledges Tsai’s success in maintaining strong Taiwan-U.S. relations but disagrees with her domestic policies on cross-strait relations. Recently, Ko was seen replacing his original KP pin with the flag of the Republic of China, interpreted as an attempt to court the deep-blue vote. Ko clarifies that he simply received a batch of national flag pins and put one on, emphasizing that Taiwan is not owned by the Democratic Progressive Party and the national flag is not exclusive to the Kuomintang.