cross-strait tensions 結果共75筆

Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih criticized the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for their mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic during a live presidential debate. Hou specifically targeted DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te, accusing him of neglect during the outbreak. Hou further claimed that Lai focused on issues surrounding his family home’s illegal expansion claim instead of caring for the public. As the former mayor of New Taipei City, Hou stated that any pandemic-related advice proposed to the central government was denied. He also criticized the DPP government for shortages of anti-epidemic supplies and food safety issues. Hou emphasized the need to establish a special investigation team to probe malpractices in the DPP’s pandemic approach. Additionally, he questioned Lai’s advocacy for Taiwanese independence, suggesting that it could escalate cross-strait tensions. Hou criticized Lai’s tactics as underestimating the intelligence of the Taiwanese people and disrespecting the Republic of China (Taiwan). He portrayed Lai as ungrateful and not trustworthy for Taiwan.

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.

As Taiwan’s 2024 election nears, discussions intensify on the island’s future, with a focus on young voters and the impact of China’s actions. A recent forum at NTNU delved into these critical issues, highlighting the role of Taiwan’s youth in shaping a democratic future amid escalating cross-strait tensions.

Explore the insights from the ＂Taiwan Goes to The Polls＂ roundtable organized by ICRT and TVBS World Taiwan, discussing the dynamics of Taiwan’s 2024 presidential election, the role of polls, China’s influence, and international implications.

Kuomintang presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih and running mate Chao Shao-kang reaffirmed that Beijing has not renounced the use of force against Taiwan, emphasizing the importance of Taiwan’s democracy in countering Chinese pressure. In an interview with NBC, Hou stated that Taiwan’s future should be determined by its 23 million inhabitants, asserting that Taiwan is an independent sovereign country. Hou advocated for preparedness without provocation and maintaining a deterrence capability amid growing tensions. Chao stressed the necessity of peace for cross-strait development, with strength as a crucial support. He emphasized the importance of U.S. support for Taiwan’s defense measures. Hou also highlighted the critical role of the U.S. in Taiwan’s self-defense efforts and expressed confidence in the deepening of the Taiwan-U.S. relationship. Chao argued that Taiwan’s democracy will inevitably influence mainland China, challenging the Chinese government to explain why democracy cannot thrive in a place with a shared heritage and culture across the Strait.

KMT vice presidential candidate Chao Shao-kang criticizes the DPP’s absolute control of Taiwan’s governance, blaming it for causing chaos in the nation. Chao highlights the DPP’s warnings that a KMT majority would undermine checks and balances, leaving Taiwan ＂hollowed out＂. He argues that the DPP’s eight years in power have resulted in a financial deficit, increased cross-strait tensions, and the loss of nine diplomatic allies. Chao also points to a 19-month decline in export markets, exacerbating wealth inequality and housing issues. He attributes these outcomes to the DPP’s dominance from the presidency to the legislature, arguing that local governments focus on infrastructure projects unrelated to Taiwan’s political influence.

Former Senior Director for Asian Affairs at the National Security Council and CEO of the United States Studies Centre, Michael Jonathan Green, emphasizes that Taiwan’s recent extension of military service to one year is a significant indication of its commitment to defense. Green warns that any reversal of this decision would raise concerns in both the United States and Japan. As tensions rise across the Taiwan Strait, the main concern for the U.S. is Taiwan’s vulnerability to Chinese pressure or military action. By extending military conscription, Taiwan is demonstrating its political will to counter Beijing’s intimidation. The United States, Japan, and Australia believe that Taiwan’s efforts to stabilize the situation and prevent war are commendable. Green highlights that any threat posed by China to Taiwan could jeopardize security across the entire First Island Chain, impacting nations like the US, Canada, Japan, the Philippines, Australia, and New Zealand. Green, who has served in the Bush Administration and was part of the U.S. bipartisan delegation that visited Taiwan in March, stresses the critical importance of Taiwan’s resolve for self-defense.

The upcoming Taiwanese presidential election on January 13, 2024, has been dubbed ＂2024’s most influential election in Asia＂ by Nikkei Asia. Three tickets are vying for the presidency and vice-presidency: the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) with Lai Ching-te and Hsiao Bi-khim, the Kuomintang (KMT) with Hou Yu-ih and Jaw Shaw-kong, and the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) with Ko Wen-je and Cynthia Wu. The election takes place amidst heightened global tensions and increasing cross-strait strains. The DPP advocates for fortified self-defense, the KMT promotes benign communication and economic ties with China, and the TPP leans towards dialogue with China. The KMT’s cross-strait policy stance has been criticized as less convincing compared to that of the DPP. The election will test whether Taiwanese voters will stand firm in defending their sovereignty against China’s growing influence.

In a recent discussion with TVBS commentator Wenchi Yu, former AIT Chair Richard Bush delves into the complexities of Taiwan’s political landscape amidst rising cross-strait tensions and the upcoming 2024 presidential elections. He addresses China’s evolving coercion tactics and the U.S.’s readiness for any developments following Taiwan’s elections.

Explore the insights of Enoch Wu, founder of the Forward Alliance, on the emerging civil defense movement in Taiwan. Amid increasing tensions and challenges, Wu highlights the critical role of community resilience and preparation in national defense.

KMT vice presidential candidate Jaw Shaw-kong vows to be a vocal advocate for issues if elected. He emphasizes the critical choice between war and peace in the upcoming 2024 election and urges voters to support the KMT for political integrity and cross-strait peace. Jaw appeals to KMT supporters to concentrate their votes for a hopeful future and peaceful cross-strait relations. He highlights the complementary strengths of his partnership with KMT presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih, with a focus on different regions. Jaw criticizes the DPP for exacerbating cross-strait tensions while promising no war. If elected, he plans to reinstate the Special Investigation Division to probe potential corruption issues related to the procurement of masks, vaccines, eggs, and submarines.

The ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) is facing criticism from non-ruling parties for its failures in improving cross-strait relations, with accusations that the DPP has pushed Taiwan towards the risk of war. DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-tei has responded by outlining a four-pillar approach to maintaining cross-strait peace, which includes strengthening national defense and security, boosting Taiwan’s key industries, standing with democratic camps, and engaging in cooperative relationships with China. Lai emphasizes that the upcoming election represents a battle between democracy and autocracy and highlights Taiwan’s ongoing fight for democracy. He asserts his determination to safeguard Taiwan’s democracy and protect the nation’s security and interests.

The number of Japanese tourists visiting Taiwan has only recovered to 33% of pre-pandemic levels in the first half of 2023. One reason for this is the depreciation of the Japanese yen, but the major concern is the growing cross-strait tensions. The instability in the Taiwan Strait has created unease among Japanese tourists. Maintaining stability and peace in the Taiwan Strait is a key task for the new line-up of top government leaders. Another contributing factor to Japan’s decreased tourism in Taiwan is the rising interest in South Korea, including its Korean pop culture, local delicacies, casinos, and cosmetic surgery services, despite its more expensive cost to visit after the pandemic.

Recent events in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait have heightened regional tensions, with a clash between Chinese and Philippine vessels and China’s aggressive posturing towards Taiwan’s sovereignty, raising concerns ahead of the Biden-Xi meeting.

Taiwan Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng announced that the nation’s mandatory military service may require some conscripts to serve on outlying islands. Chiu clarified that not all outlying islands have sufficient military resources, which may result in individuals being assigned there. During a special report by the Legislative Yuan’s Foreign and National Defense Committee, Chiu emphasized the need for firearms to be used silently to avoid detection amidst cross-strait tensions. He also addressed the possibility of extending the service period for mandatory service, indicating that this would require careful consideration and that willing and qualified individuals might serve in specific combat units. Chiu noted that obliging recruitment for combat units is a multidimensional process involving several steps and insurance issues. The military will continue to monitor different scenarios and work towards the most efficient conscription system.

Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) has revived the ROTC program to enhance its military capabilities amid growing cross-strait tensions. Students receive full government subsidies, with five years of army service upon graduation. This development aims to address the pressing need for more military personnel.

Taiwan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Joseph Wu, expresses deep regret over former President Ma Ying-jeou’s suggestion that certain U.S. factions are using Taiwan’s semiconductor industry as a weapon, and condemns Ma for aligning himself with Chinese positions. Wu emphasizes the Taiwanese government’s position and the importance of garnering international support in the face of rising cross-strait tensions.

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an calls for a comprehensive civil defense plan amid a decline and aging of personnel. The plea comes as Taiwan faces increasing cross-strait tensions and as the National Police Agency seeks to recruit younger volunteers.

China’s Ministry of Commerce has extended its trade barrier investigation into Taiwan’s trade restrictions towards the mainland. Originally set to conclude on Oct. 12, 2023, the investigation will now end on Jan. 12, 2024, a day before Taiwan’s 2024 general elections. The investigation, authorized under the Foreign Trade Law and the Foreign Trade Barrier Investigation Rules of China, targets 2,455 items blocked by Taiwan from mainland importation, including agricultural products, petrochemicals, and textiles. The extended analysis is expected to heighten tensions between China and Taiwan in the run-up to Taiwan’s crucial elections next year.

Taiwan’s Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng expresses concern over recent unusual PLA activities. The country remains vigilant amid rising tensions in the region. #TaiwanMilitary #PLA #CrossStrait

Rising cross-strait tensions have become a concern for many democracies around the world. As China increases its military drills surrounding Taiwan, former U.S. Defense Secretary Mark Esper advises Taiwan to boost its defense budget to enhance asymmetric warfare capabilities. 

Taiwan’s Air Force weighs the possibility of extending the service life of Mirage 2000 fighter jets by 20 years. Experts debate the need for longevity vs. modernization as the nation navigates cross-strait tensions. Learn more about the Mirage 2000 extension debate.

Amid soaring cross-strait tensions and the approaching Han Kuang exercises, TVBS Meeting Room host Wenchi Yu invited former U.S. Secretary of State Mark Esper and Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu to discuss the best approach for the country: bolstering Taiwan’s military defenses or seeking more engagement with China.

Former Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou departed from Taoyuan International Airport on Monday (April 24) for Europe, where he will deliver talks on geo-politics and address rising cross-strait tensions in the region.

Cross strait tensions have been on the rise in recent years. Now, with North Korea firing off missiles near Japan, the U.S. is stepping up to upgrade the defense in Asia-Pacific areas.