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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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Philippines president breaks norms with Taiwan congrats
Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. breaks tradition by congratulating Taiwan’s president-elect Lai Ching-te on his victory, a rare gesture due to the Philippines’ adherence to the "One-China policy" since 1975. Marcos Jr., in his social media post, referred to Lai as "Taiwan’s president" for the first time since taking office. He expressed his hopes for stronger ties between the two nations, emphasizing collaboration, mutual interests, peace, and prosperity in the future.
2024/01/16 12:06
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Taiwan’s president-elect Lai Ching-te meets U.S. delegation
President-elect Lai Ching-te met with a U.S. delegation, expressing Taiwan’s commitment to peace in the Taiwan Strait. He thanked the U.S. for their congratulations and support, and pledged to work with the U.S. and like-minded allies to maintain stability. The delegation included Stephen Hadley and James Steinberg, who emphasized the consistent U.S. policy towards Taiwan. They also met with other Taiwanese politicians, including New Taipei’s mayor and representatives from the Taiwan People’s Party and Kuomintang.
2024/01/16 11:26
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U.S. delegation arrives in Taiwan one day after elections
A U.S. delegation, including former Deputy Secretary of State James B. Steinberg and American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Chair Laura Rosenberger, met with President Tsai Ing-wen and President-elect Lai Ching-te, as well as other Taiwanese government officials, two days after Taiwan’s presidential and legislative elections.
2024/01/15 16:38
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KMT emphasizes peace, economy, and defense in election plan
Taiwan’s KMT presidential and vice presidential candidates outline their election strategy, emphasizing peace, communication, and economic resilience, just days before the general elections.
2024/01/11 19:13
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Jaw Shaw-kong urges China for peace ahead of elections
Kuomintang (KMT) vice-presidential candidate Jaw Shaw-kong has called on China’s Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) and the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) to demonstrate goodwill ahead of Taiwan’s elections. He urged them to refrain from sending military aircraft across the median line of the Taiwan Strait, advocating for peace in the region. Jaw’s plea comes after a Newsweek report revealed that 1,709 Chinese military aircraft entered Taiwan’s air defense identification zone in 2023, representing a 76% increase from the previous year. Although the number decreased to 80 in December, military aircraft continued to intrude in 2024. Jaw specifically named the TAO in his message, asking them to relay it to the PLA. The persistent disruptions by China with military aircraft, ships, and floating balloons have heightened tensions as Taiwan’s final presidential election of 2024 approaches, affecting both the electorate and candidates and reflecting the complex dynamics of cross-strait relations and the election.
2024/01/07 15:59
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Taiwan’s allies voice support as China ramps up intimidation
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.
2024/01/07 14:56
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Taiwan detects CCP military presence ahead of 2024 election
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.
2024/01/07 12:14
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Report: Hou Yu-ih’s victory could ease Taiwan-China tensions
If Kuomintang (KMT) candidate Hou Yu-ih wins the election, Taiwan’s political and economic situation could undergo significant changes, potentially easing tensions with China, according to a report by Nikkei Asia. Hou, a former police officer, has risen quickly in the political scene and is seen as a "law and order" poster child. Many Taiwanese voters are tired of President Tsai Ing-wen’s eight-year reign, especially regarding the increasing threat from China and slowing economic growth. Hou frames the election as a choice between peace and war, emphasizing the need to maintain good cross-strait relations. He accepts the 1992 Consensus and promises to restart the Cross-Strait Service Trade Agreement (CSSTA). Additionally, Hou advocates for a tough stance against crime and opposes the abolition of the death penalty, vowing to execute capital punishment if elected.
2024/01/06 16:09
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DPP’s Lai Ching-te stresses global impact of Taiwan vote
Lai Ching-te, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate, highlighted the significance of every citizen’s vote in shaping the world’s future during an election rally in Xihu, Changhua County. He emphasized the importance of supporting democracy and the future, stating that Taiwan’s presidential election holds the key to the nation’s course and the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region.
2024/01/06 11:44
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Tsai Ing-wen upholds status quo across Taiwan Strait: MOFA
Taiwan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Joseph Wu, emphasized in an exclusive interview with CNN that Taiwan is a democratic nation and that the majority of its people wish to maintain the status quo across the Taiwan Strait. Wu discussed various topics, including the significance of Taiwan’s presidential elections for its democratic growth, national defense, Indo-Pacific conditions, and Taiwan-India relations. He highlighted President Tsai Ing-wen’s commitment to upholding the political status quo, which has gained international recognition. Wu also emphasized the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, as Taiwan produces 90% of the world’s semiconductor chips. He addressed the military threats from mainland China, stating that Taiwan is striving to enhance its defense capacities to deter aggression. Additionally, Wu expressed hopes to strengthen the connection between Taiwan and India in integrating their semiconductor supply chains through talent cultivation.
2024/01/05 16:14
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Lai Ching-te urges Taiwan to vote despite Chinese meddling
Taiwanese presidential candidate Lai Ching-te of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has called on the Taiwanese people to use their votes as a defense against what he considers the most serious Chinese interference in the upcoming elections. Lai emphasized that while China has interfered in Taiwan’s elections before, the current situation is the worst. He believes that the best way to counter this interference is to ensure that the candidate supported by China does not win. Lai urged citizens to stand up against this interference by using their ballots to continue Taiwan’s progress and guarantee societal stability, economic growth, and the well-being of its people. He positioned the DPP’s battle not only against opposition parties but also against the Chinese Communist Party, underscoring the importance of maintaining a majority in the legislative yuan to prevent potential government functioning disputes. Lai kicked off his election campaign across 22 counties and cities, stating that this election is crucial for Taiwan’s future and Indo-Pacific peace stability. He encouraged the people to maintain the spirit of the past, choose the right person, and follow the right path.
2024/01/03 15:45
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Foreign Minister Wu slams China’s aggression in Le Monde
Taiwan’s Foreign Minister, Joseph Wu, has condemned China’s violation of the military status quo across the Taiwan Strait in an interview with Le Monde. He accuses China of attempting to obscure Taiwan’s sovereignty and initiating a ’choose between peace or war’ cognition war. Wu emphasizes that China’s interference efforts are increasingly difficult to discern and contradict Taiwan’s attempts to maintain the status quo. He reiterates President Tsai Ing-wen’s cautious and responsible stance ahead of the presidential election and commits to strengthening defense forces to show that invading Taiwan would not be easy for China. Wu also criticizes China’s hybrid warfare, alleging that it seeks to convince the public that the upcoming election is a choice between conflict and economic slowdown or peace and prosperity. Le Monde notes that Wu has been actively raising global awareness of the risks of conflict in the Taiwan Strait through visits to Eastern Europe and Scandinavia.
2024/01/03 11:08
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KMT’s Hou Yu-ih blasts DPP for autocracy and corruption
Kuomintang’s (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih criticizes the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for alleged autocracy, incompetence, and widespread corruption. He singles out DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te as a complicit beneficiary of the party’s corrupt structure. Hou proposes a "New Taiwan Political Reform Movement" focused on governing with peace, dignity, fairness, integrity, and diligence. He suggests that Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) candidate Ko Wen-je could play a key role in this movement. Hou highlights the issues faced by the Taiwanese in the past eight years, such as fraud, corruption, democratic regression, and cross-strait tensions. He criticizes Lai for distancing himself from Taiwan’s independence and condemns the DPP over allegations of sexual harassment, corruption, and the new movement faction. Hou argues that the DPP’s disarray has eroded its trustworthiness among the Taiwanese. He outlines his aim of leading a clean governance team with capacity, courage, and fiscal propriety, in contrast to the DPP’s alleged autocracy. Hou asserts his capability and strength to form a coalition government, fulfilling the aspiration for an alternate ruling party.
2023/12/30 17:14
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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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TAO doubts Lai’s claims of lowering cross-strait war risk
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.
2023/12/27 16:28
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TAO urges Taiwan to uphold peace, reject independence
The Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) spokesperson, Chen Binhua, emphasized the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait during a press conference. Chen suggested that if Taiwan adhered to the 1992 Consensus and opposed independence, cross-strait relations could return to a peaceful track. He called for both sides of the Strait to work together to uphold peace and stability for cross-strait prosperity. Chen’s statement aligns with recent remarks by Kuomintang’s (KMT) presidential candidate, Hou Yu-ih, who pledged to improve cross-strait relations through discussions and collaborations. Chen also criticized the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for promoting Taiwan’s independence, refusing to acknowledge the 1992 Consensus, and colluding with foreign forces. He argued that these actions have caused tension and made Taiwan a source of instability in the region.
2023/12/27 14:31
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MND optimistic about peace efforts in Strait region
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.
2023/12/26 18:13
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KMT’s Hou slams DPP’s ECFA ’poison pill’ claims
Kuomintang (KMT) presidential contender Hou Yu-ih criticizes the ruling Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP’s) past claims about the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) and cross-strait communication. He questions the DPP candidate’s analogy of "three links" and direct flights to a "Trojan horse leading to a massacre" and challenges the Agriculture Minister’s role in Chinese approvals for Taiwan’s grouper fish export. Hou argues that unresolved quarantine issues could harm Taiwanese farmers and suggests direct negotiations with China. He also criticizes Lai’s "Taiwan independence" stance, claiming it lacks practical understanding of cross-strait relations. If elected, Hou promises to continue ECFA negotiations to reduce China’s tariffs on Taiwan’s industries. He believes that adhering to the Constitution and the Act Governing Relations between Taiwan and China will maintain peace between the straits.
2023/12/26 16:44
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Taiwan can win international trust, says DPP’s Hsiao
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.
2023/12/26 11:39
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Ko accuses DPP, KMT of exploiting China relations for votes
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.
2023/12/26 11:21
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Verbal gaffes continue for KMT’s VP candidate Jaw Shaw-kong
During a campaign event in New Taipei City, Kuomintang (KMT) vice-presidential candidate Jaw Shaw-kong mistakenly referred to the election day on Jan. 13 as ’Jan. 15.’ He quickly corrected himself, stating that they would be a president-elect on Jan. 15 next year, which received enthusiastic applause from supporters. This is not the first verbal gaffe from Jaw, as he has made other slips of the tongue recently. He called out the rival Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te instead of his own party’s presidential hopeful Hou Yu-ih during a policy presentation by the Central Election Committee (CEC). Furthermore, he referred to former KMT chairman Johnny Chiang as a ’terrorist of peace for Taiwan’ instead of DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te during a campaign event in Taichung. Jaw also criticized the DPP’s governance record over the last eight years, arguing that their belief in a change of personnel and party now resonated with the DPP itself.
2023/12/26 11:10
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Ko Wen-je accuses China of meddling in Taiwan’s election
Presidential candidate Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) held a livestream on his YouTube channel to discuss China’s involvement in the elections. He accused China of producing fake polls in favor of the Kuomintang (KMT) party’s "Hou-Jaw" ticket, with the intention of committing electoral fraud. Ko warned voters that choosing the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) would increase the risk of war, while choosing the KMT would carry the threat of being influenced by mainland China. He questioned the motives behind the falsified polls and highlighted the DPP’s anti-China stance and the KMT’s reliance on Chinese influence. Ko positioned himself as a safer choice, promising to maintain peace and Taiwan’s independence.
2023/12/26 10:06
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KMT calls for pre-Christmas rally against DPP government
The Kuomintang (KMT) has called for a public rally in front of Taiwan’s Presidential Office Building on Saturday night, urging citizens to voice their dissatisfaction with the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government. This is the KMT’s first large-scale rally organized by the central committee. The KMT Secretary-General, Justin Huang, expressed the intention to rally constituents against corruption and dual-standard governance, striving for Taiwan’s national security, social justice, and economic prosperity. Huang hopes this rally will bring down the incompetent government and emphasized the KMT’s commitment to a final election victory. Among the three sets of presidential and vice-presidential candidates, Huang highlighted the "Hou-Jaw ticket" as the nation’s best option for peace.
2023/12/21 17:23