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Taichung mayor embarks on US high-tech tour
Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen embarks on a 10-day U.S. tour to boost high-tech ties, while Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an plans a September visit. Amid the U.S. election season, the KMT seeks to deepen dialogue on security and trade with both major U.S. parties, emphasizing a strategy of defense and dialogue for regional stability.
2024/07/22 16:11
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Taiwan’s DPP urges China to halt military threats
Explore the latest on Taiwan-China relations: DPP spokesperson Cho Kuan-ting urges China to halt military threats and engage in dialogue, emphasizing peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.
2024/06/03 14:53
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Executive Yuan to challenge recent legislative amendments
Explore the latest on Taiwan’s political scene: The Executive Yuan plans to request a reconsideration of recent legislative amendments, aiming for resolution through dialogue. Learn about the legal framework and historical context.
2024/05/30 16:07
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President Lai urges dialogue after legislative amendments
Discover the latest on Taiwan’s legislative reforms as the Presidential Office voices concerns over the passage of controversial bills, highlighting a call for dialogue and potential constitutional challenges.
2024/05/29 13:47
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DPP condemns China’s military drills around Taiwan
Explore the latest on Taiwan-China tensions: The DPP criticizes China’s military exercises around Taiwan, calling for peace and dialogue. Read more on the implications for regional stability.
2024/05/23 18:24
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Taiwan’s DPP accuses speaker of democratic regression
Explore the latest on Taiwan’s political turmoil: DPP lawmakers protest against Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu, accusing him of undermining democracy, amid calls for dialogue and concerns over Taiwan’s future.
2024/05/21 11:11
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Tsai welcomes EU delegation to boost Taiwan cooperation
President Tsai Ing-wen meets with European Green Party delegation to strengthen cooperation in response to authoritarian threats. European Parliament member Reinhard Bütikofer leads the delegation to enhance Taiwan-EU partnership.
2024/03/26 16:06
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Taiwan Premier advocates for peaceful cross-strait dialogue
Premier Chen Chien-jen of Taiwan expresses willingness for peaceful democratic talks on equal terms in cross-strait exchanges during the Legislative Yuan’s general policy interpellation. Lawmaker Lin Te-fu from the Kuomintang (KMT) highlights tensions in cross-strait relations and calls for dialogue, citing the lack of official communication and progress in the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) since 2015. Premier Chen emphasizes Taiwan’s economic growth potential and expanding market reach in New Southbound, Western, and East Asian countries.
2024/03/15 18:49
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Taiwan leaders embrace dialogue for national unity
Taiwan People’s Party Chairman Ko Wen-je accepts President Tsai Ing-wen’s invitation for dialogue on critical national issues, emphasizing support for partisan reconciliation and cross-strait peace. Their meeting, the first since 2018, sparks public interest and discussions on political communication platforms and key national issues.
2024/03/15 17:56
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Taiwan’s Premier urges cross-party unity on national issues
Taiwan Premier Chen Chien-jen emphasizes bipartisan cooperation on key national issues, such as labor insurance and arms procurement, during a legislative inquiry. President Tsai Ing-wen’s meeting with Taiwan People’s Party Chairman Ko Wen-je highlights the importance of unity among political parties. Chen underscores the government’s commitment to cross-party dialogue, showcasing Taiwan’s democratic maturity.
2024/03/15 17:28
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Taiwan VP affirms commitment to peace amid China challenges
Taiwanese Vice President Lai Ching-te emphasizes Taiwan’s commitment to peace, equality, democracy, and dialogue in the face of challenges from China. Lai meets with a U.S. delegation led by Representative Mike Gallagher to strengthen Taiwan’s national defense and security. Gallagher expresses continuous support for a deeper Taiwan-U.S. relationship, highlighting the integral bond between the two countries amid China’s ambitions. The meeting underscores Taiwan’s resolve to engage in peaceful, equal, democratic dialogue and protect its sovereignty.
2024/02/22 15:58
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KMT legislative nominees to hold key talks with TPP
Kuomintang (KMT) legislative speaker and deputy speaker candidates, Han Kuo-yu and Johnny Chiang, are scheduled to meet with Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) caucus and eight lawmakers on January 29. The dialogue is expected to last approximately 35 minutes and will be followed by a media conference. The TPP has emerged as a key minority party after the legislative elections on January 13. However, the party has not declared its support for either the incumbent Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidates or the KMT for the legislative speaker race. The TPP has launched four demands for parliamentary reform, emphasizing transparency and openness in political values.
2024/01/29 10:59
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DPP urges Beijing to reassess cross-strait relations
The Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) China Affairs Department has called on Beijing to realistically confront cross-strait relations. This plea comes in response to a recent statement by China’s Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO), which claimed that the Taiwan election results do not represent the majority’s views and reiterated that "Taiwan is China’s Taiwan." Following Taiwan’s elections, Nauru, a Pacific island nation, severed diplomatic ties with Taiwan. The DPP criticized the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) for exploiting Nauru’s financial difficulties and coaxing the country into establishing diplomatic relations with China. The DPP’s China Affairs Department reaffirmed that its chairman, Lai Ching-te, has consistently stated his commitment to maintaining the status quo under the constitutional system of the Republic of China (R.O.C.). Lai advocated for dialogue and cooperation with China based on parity and dignity. The DPP’s China Affairs Department condemned the CCP’s suppressive measures against Taiwan and urged Chinese President Xi Jinping to publicly pledge not to unilaterally alter the status quo across the Taiwan Strait using military force. Despite Lai Ching-te’s stance on dialogue and cooperation, Beijing has continued to disregard Taiwan.
2024/01/18 10:39
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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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China sets 1992 Consensus as prerequisite for Taiwan talks
China’s Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) spokesperson, Chen Binhua, insists that cross-strait communication can only proceed based on the 1992 Consensus, which upholds the principle of one China. President-elect Lai Ching-te of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has called for dialogue instead of confrontation, emphasizing that cross-strait exchanges can minimize risks and achieve peace. However, TAO argues that the DPP’s insistence on Taiwanese independence hinders interactions with China. Professor Kuo Yu-jen of National Sun Yat-sen University (NSYSU) criticizes the KMT candidate’s acceptance of the 1992 Consensus but rejection of "one country, two systems" as naive and dangerous. Kuo highlights that the One China principle places Taiwan at a disadvantage in negotiations.
2024/01/17 16:42
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KMT vows to uphold legislative integrity
The Kuomintang (KMT) responds to proposals from the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) regarding future operations in the new legislature, promising to respect the opinions of the Legislative Yuan party groups. As the majority in parliament, the KMT pledges to provide vigorous oversight and advance the issues agreed upon in the cross-party meeting with the TPP on October 30th last year. Agreed matters include peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, resumption of cross-strait dialogue, environmental sustainability, national security, public health, and strengthening the legislature’s function under the existing constitutional system. The KMT emphasizes its unchanged vision for Taiwan’s future development. Additionally, they plan to scrutinize issues such as the controversy over the purchase contracts of the Medigen COVID-19 vaccine by the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government. The KMT welcomes those with similar political ideals to join in preventing authoritarian one-party rule and ensuring democracy aligns with the public’s wishes.
2024/01/16 15:10
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Cynthia Wu sheds ’Princess’ label, eyes Taiwan’s work reform
Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) vice-presidential candidate Cynthia Wu aims to tackle societal issues and improve Taiwan’s working environment. In an interview with Deutsche Welle, Wu characterizes the cooperation between Kuomintang (KMT) and China as too close, while the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) is overly confrontational. She believes the "1992 consensus" needs updating and suggests that China propose a new treaty to foster dialogue. Wu acknowledges her privileged background and welcomes the nickname "Princess" given by the media. She emphasizes her attention to economically vulnerable populations, drawing on her work experience in London and business travels in Asia, Brazil, India, and Kenya. Wu was chosen as the primary election partner by party chairperson Ko Wen-je for her business background and international investment experience.
2024/01/04 14:57
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Hou Yu-ih reiterates Taiwan independence opposition
Kuomintang’s presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih expressed his opposition to Taiwan’s independence and support for democratic freedom, rejecting "one country, two systems." During a debate, he criticized Democratic Progressive Party’s candidate Lai Ching-te for his vague policy toward China and questioned his remarks about sharing bubble tea with China’s president Xi Jinping. Hou emphasized that any consensus between Taiwan and China should be based on Taiwan’s Constitution and the basic cross-strait framework, clarifying that the 1992 Consensus does not imply recognition of "one country, two systems." He emphasized that the future of Taiwan should be decided by its 23 million citizens, engaging in dialogue under the constitutional framework to reduce risks. Hou also advocated for the development of Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities to maintain peace and suggested that cross-strait exchanges should start from the civil sector before moving to official government interactions to minimize risks.
2023/12/30 16:38
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MOFA thanks US for support amid China provocations
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.
2023/12/20 11:08
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Nikkei tags Taiwan vote as ’2024’s key election in Asia’
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.
2023/12/07 16:36
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Ko Wen-je vows to continue Tsai’s ’Taiwan Strait policy’
Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je expresses his commitment to maintaining President Tsai Ing-wen’s foreign policy trajectory in an exclusive interview. Ko advocates for friendly communication across the Taiwan Strait and emphasizes Taiwan’s opportunity to normalize its country status on the world stage. While Ko criticizes the Democratic Progressive Party’s mindset towards China, he believes Taiwan should not consider China an enemy. He emphasizes the need for Taiwan to maintain its self-defense capabilities and proposes a pragmatic approach to military strategy and international challenges. Ko compares his neutrality to his experience in emergency medicine and prioritizes care over political affiliations. He asserts the necessity for balance among the outcomes acceptable to the U.S. and China in navigating Taiwan’s international relations.
2023/12/07 16:15
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CNFI to host economic forum with presidential hopefuls
The Chinese National Federation of Industries (CNFI) will host the "2023 Taiwan Economic Development Forum — Dialogue with Future National Leaders" on Nov. 27, 29-30. The forum aims to address critical issues for Taiwan’s economic development, including industrial development, energy, environmental protection, labor force, taxation, international trade, cross-strait economic relations, long-term care, and social insurance. Key candidates for the upcoming presidential election, including Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) Chairman Ko Wen-je, Kuomintang (KMT) New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih, and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate Lai Ching-te, will present their policies and participate in discussions. The forum will be presided over by CNFI Chairman Matthew F.C. Miau, Chinese National Association of Industry and Commerce (CNAIC) Chairman Thomas Wu, and General Chamber of Commerce of the Republic of China (ROCCOC) Chairman Paul Hsu. The event will take place at the Taipei International Convention Center (TICC).
2023/11/24 18:10
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Hsiao Bi-khim opposes war, urges cross-strait dialogue
Hsiao Bi-khim, the vice-presidential candidate for Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party, expressed her opposition to using war as a solution to cross-strait issues. She emphasized the necessity of dialogue as the only viable method for resolution. Hsiao voiced her support for the four pillars of peace proposed by DPP’s presidential candidate, Lai Ching-te. These pillars include strengthening Taiwan’s deterrence capabilities, ensuring economic security, establishing partnerships with global democratic nations, and maintaining a stable, principled cross-strait relationship. Hsiao has been blacklisted by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) due to her support for Taiwanese independence, but she highlighted that other international advocates for democracy and human rights have faced similar sanctions from the CCP. Despite this, Hsiao remains committed to protecting Taiwan’s democracy and maintaining an open attitude towards cross-strait dialogue. She emphasized the importance of preserving the status quo and seeking global support to uphold peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
2023/11/24 18:05
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Premier lauds Hsiao Bi-khim’s achievements in Washington
Premier Chen Chien-jen praises the performance of Hsiao Bi-khim, Taiwan’s representative to the U.S., emphasizing her recognized contributions by both American and Taiwanese authorities. Chen commends Hsiao’s collaboration with Democratic Progressive Party’s presidential candidate Lai Ching-te, which has led to significant progress in Taiwan-U.S. relations. Former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi publicly praised Hsiao’s outstanding performance. Chen believes Hsiao is a suitable candidate for the upcoming elections and will respect the party’s decision on her successor. In response to the recent protest march by medical personnel, Chen assures that the government deeply cares about the rights and interests of healthcare workers and is willing to engage in dialogue. The establishment of a regular communication channel has been agreed upon, and discussions on the demands of medical personnel are underway to provide better rights protection and a safer working environment.
2023/11/20 17:48
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Hou respects Ko Wen-je’s decision on eventual alliance
Kuomintang’s presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih respects the decision of Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je, regardless of the outcome of the Blue-White alliance. Hou attended an event in Chiayi County with Chiayi County Magistrate Weng Chang-liang and DPP Legislator Tsai Yi-yu. Ko Wen-je announced that he will continue to run as the presidential candidate for the Taiwan People’s Party. Hou chose not to comment on this or on Ko’s meeting with Terry Gou. When asked about a statement by the spokesperson for DPP’s Lai Ching-te that China has no plans to invade Taiwan in 2027 or 2030, Hou questioned whether Lai Ching-te now trusts Xi Jinping. Hou believes in sincere dialogue to minimize risk and restart cross-strait interactions, emphasizing the importance of Taiwan’s own defense capabilities.
2023/11/20 16:54