Browsing Tag

Taiwan

37 posts

Thousands evacuated as typhoon nears southern China, Vietnam

Tens of thousands of people were evacuated in southern China and Vietnam as Typhoon Talim approached, with powerful winds, storm surges, and heavy rains predicted to hit the coastal areas.

#MeToo wave sweeps Taiwan in long-awaited reckoning

Whistle-blower Chen Chien-jou’s #MeToo account of harassment sparked a movement in Taiwan, exposing gender inequality and prompting calls for change in the culture of victim-blaming.

Taiwan detects two Russian warships off its coast

Two Russian frigates spotted near Taiwan’s coast, prompting surveillance and military deployment by Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence.

US lawmakers approve Taiwan trade deal despite Chinese ire

US lawmakers pass an agreement to deepen economic relations with Taiwan, sparking a displeased response from Beijing.

Chinese carrier group passes through Taiwan Strait

China’s Shandong aircraft carrier led warships through Taiwan Strait; tensions rise with increased incursions and military activity.

Hong Kong artists mark Tiananmen quietly or overseas

Artistic expressions commemorating the Tiananmen Square crackdown have dwindled in Hong Kong since the implementation of the national security law in 2020. Public events and performances that once marked the anniversary have been suppressed, and artists face uncertainty and repercussions. Some artists have relocated their works to Taiwan, where they continue to foster a connection to the memory of Tiananmen and advocate for freedom and democracy. However, concerns persist over erasure and censorship in both Hong Kong and Taiwan.

Taiwan tribe despairs as drought shrinks bamboo crop

Avayi Vayayana, a tribal chief of the Tsou tribe in southern Taiwan, faces the challenges of declining bamboo shoot harvests due to erratic weather patterns and a severe drought. With rain arriving late and bamboo forests dying, the tribe is struggling. Some have turned to growing coffee as a new cash crop, but even that is not immune to the effects of climate change.

Taiwan, US to sign trade deal in Washington amidst growing pressure from China

The United States and Taiwan are set to sign a trade deal, sparking tensions with Beijing. The agreement aims to streamline customs, enhance regulatory procedures, and strengthen anticorruption measures. China strongly opposes any diplomatic relations involving Taiwan, which it considers its territory. Beijing’s military drills and aggressive rhetoric towards Taiwan have escalated in recent years. Bipartisan support for Taiwan exists in the United States, with politicians from both parties publicly engaging with Taiwanese officials.

Taiwan president vows to keep ‘status quo’ on cross-strait relations

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen reassured the nation that war is not an option in response to China’s increasing military pressure. She emphasized Taiwan’s determination to defend itself while maintaining calm and rationality. As Taiwan prepares for the next presidential election, the Democratic Progressive Party’s candidate, Vice President William Lai, advocates for independence, while the opposition party’s candidate, Mayor Hou Yu-ih, stresses the importance of dialogue and stability in the region. Beijing has warned against any move towards independence by Taiwan, threatening military action.

Taiwan’s Main Opposition Party Picks Popular Mayor As Presidential Candidate

The Beijing-friendly Kuomintang party in Taiwan nominated popular mayor Hou Yu-ih as its presidential candidate, setting the stage for a referendum on President Tsai-Ing-wen’s handling of China-Taiwan relations. Tsai rejects China’s territorial claim and has faced increased pressure, while the KMT seeks warmer ties. Hou emphasized safeguarding Taiwan and prosperity if elected, opposing Taiwan’s independence and the “one country, two systems” model. He was chosen over tech billionaire Terry Gou and will face Vice President William Lai, who supports Taiwan’s independence, in the election.