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Ma Ying-jeou Foundation announces Chinese delegation visit
The Ma Ying-jeou Foundation announced the approval of a visit by students and faculty from seven Chinese universities. The delegation, including Olympic gold medalists, will visit Taiwan from Nov. 27 to Dec. 5, aiming to foster civilian exchanges amid cross-strait tensions.2024/11/15 14:29 -
Former president Ma Ying-jeou’s visit to China sparks debate
Former President Ma Ying-jeou’s upcoming second visit to China ignites debate among scholars on its implications for cross-strait relations. Some view it as a potential easing of tensions, while others interpret it as part of China’s united front strategy. Ma’s visit, scheduled from April 1 to 11, aims to engage with Chinese culture and students. The trip, in response to a mainland China invitation, is seen as an opportunity to bridge political divides and showcase diverse Taiwanese perspectives on cross-strait relations. However, critics like Taiwan Thinktank researcher Wu Se-chih perceive the visit as aligning with the Chinese Communist Party’s agenda to promote Chinese culture and influence Taiwanese society before the new president’s inauguration.2024/03/26 17:28 -
Hou Yu-ih challenges Tsai’s foreign policy effectiveness
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.2023/12/30 15:51 -
Taiwan to include mainland students in NHI program
Taiwan Premier Chen Chien-jen has announced that mainland Chinese students who have completed their academic registration for six months will be included in Taiwan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) program, similar to foreign and overseas Taiwanese students. The new policy is set to take effect on Feb. 1, 2024. Chen emphasized the universal value and fundamental human right of health, and highlighted that the new policy will aid in epidemic prevention efforts. The Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) will announce the new regulations in accordance with the Enforcement Rules of the National Health Insurance Act. Chen also urged related government bodies to prepare administrative procedures and effectively communicate with mainland students. Currently, overseas Taiwanese and foreign students who have resided in Taiwan for more than six months with a residence certificate can apply for NHI coverage through their schools. Foreign students are required to pay NT$826 per person per month for their NHI package.2023/11/23 17:49 -
Lai supports adding Chinese students to healthcare system
DPP chairman and presidential candidate Lai Ching-te has proposed including mainland Chinese students in Taiwan’s healthcare system, citing medical human rights and the strengthening of the epidemic prevention system. Lai’s plan, which treats mainland Chinese students as international students and includes them in the National Health Insurance (NHI) system, has faced objections from some party legislators. However, Lai has stated that after providing necessary clarification, fellow party members have generally accepted the idea. Lai has emphasized the human rights perspective of his proposal and distinguished it from criticism of the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) for nominating a legislator connected with China. Lai believes that including mainland Chinese students in the NHI system will make the healthcare network more comprehensive, especially after three years of pandemic prevention efforts.2023/11/13 12:14 -
Schools banning ’carrot knife’ toy due to safety concerns
Four regional governments in Taiwan, including Yunlin County, Keelung City, Hsinchu County, Miaoli County, and Taichung City, have banned the popular toy knife known as the "carrot knife" from schools due to safety concerns. The toy, originally from mainland China, gained popularity among Taiwanese students through social media platforms like TikTok and Xiaohongshu. The ban is primarily due to the pointed tip on the front end of the plastic retractable toy, which is seen as potentially dangerous. Taipei City and New Taipei City advise students not to bring the toys to school, while other municipalities require schools to enhance safety management and provide safety education.2023/11/02 21:11