July 2020 - Taiwan Special Weapons News

International community praises Lee Teng-hui (update) CNA 31 Jul 2020 -- The international community on Thursday mourned the passing of Taiwan's former president Lee Teng-hui (李登輝), who succumbed to multiple organ failure at the age of 97, lauding him for his role in leading Taiwan onto the path of democracy.
Lee remembered as initiator of 'quiet revolution' in Taiwan CNA 31 Jul 2020 -- Former President Lee Teng-hui (李登輝) is being remembered as an initiator of a "quiet revolution" during his 12-year presidency, carrying out six rounds of constitutional reforms that laid a solid foundation for Taiwan to peacefully transition from a dictatorship to a democracy.
'Two-state' theory considered Lee Teng-hui's main political legacy CNA 31 Jul 2020 -- The "two-state" theory proposed by former President Lee Teng-hui (李登輝) in 1999, which characterized the Republic of China (Taiwan) and China as two different jurisdictions, is considered one of his major political legacies as it emphasized Taiwan's national identity.
Taiwan Mourns Death of 'Mr Democracy,' Former President Lee Teng-hui Radio Free Asia 31 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan on Friday mourned the death of its former president Lee Teng-hui, widely regarded as the man who brought about the island's democratic transition.
Lee Teng-hui dies; pivotal figure in Taiwan's transition to democracy CNA 30 Jul 2020 -- Lee Teng-hui (李登輝), who guided Taiwan through a rapid and peaceful transition to democracy while serving as Taiwan's president from 1988 to 2000, has died at the age of 97.
On the Passing of Former Taiwan President Lee Teng-hui US Dept. of State 30 Jul 2020
'Godfather of Taiwan secessionism' dies at 97 Global Times 30 Jul 2020 -- Former Taiwan leader, also known as the "Godfather of Taiwan secessionism," Lee Teng-hui, has died at the age of 97, a Taiwan hospital announced on Thursday.
U.S. lawmaker introduces Taiwan Invasion Prevention Act CNA 30 Jul 2020 -- U.S. Congressman Ted Yoho on Wednesday announced the introduction of the Taiwan Invasion Prevention Act, which would authorize the United States to respond militarily if China resorts to the use of force against Taiwan.
No new COVID-19 cases reported in Taiwan Wednesday CNA 29 Jul 2020 -- No new COVID-19 cases were reported in Taiwan on Wednesday after two consecutive days of imported infections that hiked the total number of cases to 467 since the pandemic began late last year.
No need to test all arrivals in Taiwan for COVID-19: CECC CNA 29 Jul 2020 -- The Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Wednesday there is no need to test all arrivals in Taiwan for COVID-19, as current quarantine regulations have proven to be successful in disease prevention.
Hospital dismisses rumors of former Taiwan leader Lee Teng-hui's death Global Times 29 Jul 2020 -- A Taipei hospital has dismissed rumors claiming that former Taiwan leader Lee Teng-hui has died after he choked while drinking milk in February, saying he is still under treatment.
Taiwan tests 189 contacts identified in suspected domestic COVID-19 case CNA 28 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan health authorities have tested 189 people who may have come into contact with a migrant worker that tested positive for COVID-19 shortly after he returned to Thailand last week, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Tuesday.
Taiwan records five new imported COVID-19 cases CNA 28 Jul 2020 -- Five people who returned to Taiwan on Sunday have tested positive for the COVID-19 coronavirus, bringing the total number of cases in the country since the start of the pandemic to 467, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Tuesday.
Taiwan military hopes to be invited to 2020 RIMPAC as observer CNA 28 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan is still hoping to receive an invitation to participate as an observer in the world's largest international maritime drill to be staged next month, a Ministry of National Defense (MND) spokesman said Tuesday.
Control Yuan orders corrective measures over Black Hawk crash CNA 28 Jul 2020 -- The Control Yuan on Tuesday made public its demands that the Ministry of National Defense (MND) and Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA) under the transportation ministry take steps to correct major errors that contributed to a helicopter crash in January in which eight military officers were killed.
Taiwan scrambles to trace possible domestic COVID-19 case contacts CNA 27 Jul 2020 -- Health authorities are currently trying to track down all people who may have come in contact with a Thai migrant worker found to be infected with COVID-19 after he returned to Thailand last week, the Central Epidemic Command Center said Monday.
Thai national found to have COVID-19 after returning from Taiwan CNA 27 Jul 2020 -- The Thai government on Monday announced four newly confirmed cases of COVID-19 coronavirus infection, including one involving a Thai migrant worker who returned on July 21 from Taiwan.
Four more imported COVID-19 cases confirmed in Taiwan: CECC CNA 27 Jul 2020 -- Four people who recently returned from overseas have tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total number of cases in Taiwan since the start of the pandemic to 462, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Monday.
Cruise tourism resumes in Taiwan but only to domestic ports CNA 26 Jul 2020 -- A cruise ship carrying 1,200 passengers set sail from Keelung Port on Sunday, on the first commercial sea tour since Taiwan imposed travel restrictions due to the COVID-19, the Maritime and Port Bureau said.
Taiwan to screen all arrivals from the Philippines for COVID-19 CNA 24 Jul 2020 -- All passengers arriving from the Philippines will have to undergo mandatory testing for COVID-19 starting Sunday because of the rising number of imported cases from the country, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Friday.
Three new imported COVID-19 cases reported in Taiwan CNA 24 Jul 2020 -- Three people who recently returned from the Philippines have tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total number of cases in Taiwan since the start of the pandemic to 458, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Friday.
U.S. Senate passes 2021 NDAA, with provisions to support Taiwan CNA 24 Jul 2020 -- The United States Senate on Thursday passed its version of the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), including provisions that support the strengthening of Taiwan's military and further cooperation on efforts to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.
Cabinet presents additional NT$210 billion budget for COVID-19 relief CNA 23 Jul 2020 -- The Cabinet on Thursday finalized a plan to allocate an additional NT$210 billion (US$7.13 billion) budget to the government's COVID-19 relief fund.
Taiwan closely monitors U.S.-China tensions: President Tsai CNA 23 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan's government will closely monitor the development of the latest round of the Washington-Beijing frictions and take necessary actions to respond to the situation, President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) said on Thursday.
Taiwan will deal with Hong Kong visa issue based on parity: MAC CNA 23 Jul 2020 -- The Taiwan government said Thursday that it will deal with the issue of work permits for Hong Kong officials based on the principles of parity and reciprocity, after several Taiwanese officials in Hong Kong were denied work visa extensions and had to return home.
Taiwan reaches 101 days with no new local COVID-19 cases CNA 22 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan reached 101 days with no new local cases of COVID-19, despite a handful of new imported cases throughout the past week, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Wednesday.
Taiwan to allow return of all final year international students CNA 22 Jul 2020 -- Final year foreign students who have been stranded abroad due to Taiwan's border restrictions amid the COVID-19 pandemic will be permitted to return, with immediate effect, the Ministry of Education (MOE) said Wednesday.
Taiwan to budget NT$18.7b for COVID-19 vaccine CNA 22 Jul 2020 -- The Taiwan government will allocate NT$18.7 billion (US$635.6 million) for the development or procurement of a COVID-19 vaccine, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Wednesday.
Hong Kong and Australia removed from low risk category: CECC CNA 22 Jul 2020 -- Hong Kong and Australia have been removed from a list of COVID-19 low risk countries and regions due to a recent spike in new cases, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Wednesday.
Taiwan to allow entry of foreign nationals seeking medical care CNA 22 Jul 2020 -- Starting Aug. 1, foreign visitors seeking medical care will be allowed to enter Taiwan, once they meet certain requirements, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Wednesday.
Taiwan among first countries listed in Jordan's border reopening CNA 22 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan is among the first 22 countries listed by the Kingdom of Jordan in its announcement of the reopening of its borders in August, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Wednesday.
U.S. defense secretary reaffirms commitment to sell arms to Taiwan CNA 22 Jul 2020 -- The United States will live up to its commitment to Taiwan by selling it weapons and holding exercises in the region as China becomes more aggressive and assertive toward the island, U.S. Secretary of Defense Mark Esper said Tuesday.
Cross-strait harmony better than hostility: Taipei mayor CNA 22 Jul 2020 -- Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) on Wednesday defended his "pragmatic" approach to relations with China, saying that "family harmony is better than family hostility" during an annual forum between the cities of Taipei and Shanghai.
Taiwan's Foreign Minister Claims Chinese Aircraft Flying Near Island 'Virtually a Daily Occurrence' Sputnik 22 Jul 2020 -- In recent comments to the press, Taiwanese Foreign Minister Joseph Wu claimed Chinese aircraft flying close to the island's areas of control is "virtually a daily occurrence." However, he failed to mention the US is also sending planes near Chinese airspace close to Taiwan on a daily basis.
Taiwan takes delivery of third indigenous ocean research ship CNA 21 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan's newest ocean research vessel was delivered Tuesday, marking a milestone in domestic shipbuilding and putting the country on track to improve its marine, climate and oceanographic research.
Low-intensity armed conflict possible across Taiwan Strait: analysts CNA 21 Jul 2020 -- Security analysts in Taipei said Tuesday that while conventional war between Taiwan and China is unlikely anytime soon, low-intensity conflict is a possibility.
Taiwan records fourth imported COVID-19 case in four days CNA 19 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan on Sunday recorded its fourth new imported COVID-19 case in four days as new infections increase across the world, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center.
Taiwan donates 100,000 face masks to Brazil to fight COVID-19 CNA 18 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan earlier this week donated 100,000 surgical face masks to Manaus, a city in Brazil which has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Taiwan records two new imported cases of COVID-19 CNA 17 Jul 2020 -- Two people who recently returned from the Philippines have tested positive for the COVID-19 coronavirus, bringing the total number of cases in Taiwan since the start of the pandemic to 454, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Friday.
Taiwan allows fifth extension of stay for foreign visitors CNA 17 Jul 2020 -- Foreign nationals who entered Taiwan as visitors on or before March 21 will be eligible to obtain another 30-day extension of stay, given that international flights have not yet fully resumed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Friday.
People from Taiwan can soon visit Guam without being quarantined CNA 17 Jul 2020 -- Short-stay travelers from Taiwan to Guam will no longer need to receive a COVID-19 test and self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival beginning July 24, the Taiwan representative of the Guam Visitors Bureau said Friday.
Top posts at Taiwan's HK office empty as ties get worse: sources CNA 17 Jul 2020 -- The acting director-general of Taiwan's representative office in Hong Kong has left the Chinese special administration region after its government refused to extend his work visa.
Taiwan's "Han Kuang Exercise" ends up with most military fatalities PLA Daily 17 Jul 2020 -- An OH-58D Kiowa light observation helicopter participating in the 36th Han Kuang exercise crashed on July 16, 2020, killing two pilots. United Daily News, a newspaper in Taiwan, reported that together with Taiwan marine corps' boat overturning accident, which killed two officers and left one in a coma, this year has seen the worst casualties in the history of the Han Kuang exercises.
One new imported case of COVID-19 recorded in Taiwan CNA 16 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan confirmed one new case of COVID-19 on Thursday, which was deemed to be imported, as the patient was a Taiwanese woman who recently returned from overseas, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
New military units join annual wargames for first time CNA 16 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan's new combined arms battalions on Thursday participated in the annual live-fire Han Kuang military exercises for the first time, to demonstrate their combat readiness and the battle leadership qualities of their commanders.
Taiwan military drilling with live fire for first time in 13 years Press TV 16 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan is conducting annual military maneuvers in which it is also drilling with live fire for the first time in 13 years, amid tensions with mainland China.
Pilots of crashed chopper tried to avoid crashing into houses: Army CNA 16 Jul 2020 -- Two pilots of a military OH-58D helicopter did their best to avoid crashing into civilian houses before their chopper made a fatal crash-landing in northern Taiwan's Hsinchu Air Base Thursday afternoon, killing both of them, according to a senior Army official.
Two soldiers killed in chopper crash during military exercise CNA 16 Jul 2020 -- Two soldiers died when a military OH-58D helicopter crashed at an air base in Hsinchu on Thursday, during the annual Han Kuang exercises, according to the Army.
Taiwan's counter-landing drill with PLA in mind a 'naïve, meaningless show' Global Times 16 Jul 2020 -- A counter-landing drill, as part of Taiwan's annual Han Kuang exercises, was held on Thursday. It simulated a joint operation featuring land, naval and air troops against incoming landing forces, which obviously attempted to represent the Chinese mainland's People's Liberation Army (PLA).
Taiwan-EU Disagreement Reflects 'Mess' in Reopening Borders after COVID-19 VOA 15 Jul 2020 -- Analysts say a dispute between Taiwan and the European Union for its ban on Taiwanese travelers may typify future diplomatic squabbles among governments around the world as they seek consensus on allowing international travel amid the novel coronavirus pandemic.
Taiwan sees no new COVID-19 cases, mulling easing test rules CNA 15 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan reported no new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, keeping the total at 451 since the pandemic began late last year, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan to allow return of young Chinese children with residence permits CNA 15 Jul 2020 -- Chinese children under the age of 2, who hold long-term Taiwan residence permits, will be allowed to return to the country from Thursday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Chinese military firmly opposes U.S. arms sales to Taiwan PLA Daily 16 Jul 2020 -- The Chinese military Wednesday voiced strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to US plan of selling Patriot Advanced Capability-3 missiles to Taiwan. "This move by the US side seriously jeopardizes China's national sovereignty and security," said Senior Colonel Wu Qian, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense (MND).
Taiwan Navy fires live torpedo during drill for first time in 13 years CNA 15 Jul 2020 -- A live torpedo was fired from a Taiwan Navy submarine off the southeast coast of the island during a military drill Wednesday, marking the first time in 13 years that such weapons were deployed as part of the country's annual Han Kuang exercises.
Two Chinese spy ships spotted near Taiwan during military drill CNA 15 Jul 2020 -- Two Chinese reconnaissance vessels were seen off the east coast of Taiwan on Wednesday, during a live-fire exercise by Taiwan's armed forces, a military source told CNA.
Arms sales to Taiwan government-to-government deals: Lockheed Martin CNA 15 Jul 2020 -- U.S.-based weapons supplier Lockheed Martin has described arms sales to Taiwan as government to government deals, in response to China's threat to impose sanctions on the company for selling weapons to Taiwan.
China firmly opposes US arms sales to Taiwan: military spokesperson Global Times 15 Jul 2020 -- The Chinese defense ministry on Wednesday voiced strong dissatisfaction and opposition as to the recent approval by the US Department of State of a $620 million upgrade package for the Lockheed Martin-built PAC-3 missile system to Taiwan.
Taiwan backs U.S. opposition to use of force in South China Sea CNA 14 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) on Tuesday indicated its support for a statement issued by United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo opposing attempts to use coercion or force to settle disputes in the South China Sea.
Taiwan scrambles jets against simulated enemy attack in war games CNA 14 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan Air Force jets took to the skies Tuesday in an exercise to intercept a simulated air attack by hostile forces, on the second day of the annual live-fire Han Kuang war games.
Cross-strait military balance tilting in China favor: Tokyo report CNA 14 Jul 2020 -- The military balance in the Taiwan Strait is tilting in China's favor, and the gap is widening as the Chinese military modernizes its arsenal, according to an annual defense white paper released by Japan's defense ministry Tuesday.
Taiwan condemns China over threat to sanction U.S. arms dealer CNA 14 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan's foreign ministry on Tuesday condemned China after Beijing earlier in the day threatened to impose sanctions on a U.S. company over its involvement in selling weapons to the country.
Lockheed Martin faces China's sanctions over Taiwan deal Global Times 14 Jul 2020 -- China will impose sanctions on US-based arms producer Lockheed Martin, the main contractor of the recertification of its Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) air defense missiles of the island of Taiwan.
China to slap sanctions on Lockheed Martin over Taiwan arms sale Press TV 14 Jul 2020 -- China says it will slap sanctions on major US military contractor Lockheed Martin Corp. in response to a deal to sell weapons to the self-ruled Chinese territory of Taiwan.
China Threatens Sanctions on Lockheed Martin Amid Planned US Arms Sales to Taiwan Sputnik 14 Jul 2020 -- On Thursday, the United States approved a $620mln recertification package to Taiwan for Patriot Advanced Capability-3 air defence missiles. The deal comes less than two months after the US approved a sale of torpedoes to the breakaway province.
Taiwan annual war games start with deployment of reserve forces CNA 13 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan's annual live-fire Han Kuang exercises (漢光演習) kicked off Monday with a simulated attack by China, to test the combat readiness of Taiwan's military and reserve forces.
Taiwan suspends consular services in India over COVID-19 concerns CNA 12 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan's representative office in India will suspend consular services from July 13-26 due to health concerns after the office recently received an application to enter Taiwan from an Indian national who tested positive for COVID-19.
Taiwan's combined arms battalions to debut in annual war games CNA 12 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan's annual Han Kuang military exercises (漢光演習) that begin Monday will feature the debut of Taiwan's combined arms battalions.
Public air raid drill coming Tuesday, but different from the past CNA 12 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan's annual public air drills will be held Tuesday afternoon, but pedestrians and vehicles will not be asked to stop in their tracks during the 30-minute exercise, according to the Ministry of National Defense.
Taiwan Preps for Possible End to Landmark Trade Deal with China VOA 11 Jul 2020 -- China now has the chance to reconsider its 10-year-old Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement with Taiwan, the biggest-ever trade pact between the two rivals, and a Chinese media outlet hints at the agreement's demise.
Taiwan reports two new imported COVID-19 cases CNA 10 Jul 2020 -- Two new COVID-19 cases were confirmed in Taiwan on Friday, both of which involved people who recently returned to Taiwan after spending months working overseas, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwanese travelers exempted from isolation upon arrival in U.K. CNA 10 Jul 2020 -- Taiwanese travelers to all four constituent countries of the United Kingdom will no longer need to self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival beginning Friday, a spokesperson for Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said.
U.S. approves Taiwan's PAC-3 air defense recertification request CNA 10 Jul 2020 -- The United States Department of State has approved a request by Taiwan for the recertification of its Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) air defense missiles, at an estimated cost of US$620 million.
US arms sales to Taiwan more 'symbolic' than of military value: expert Global Times 10 Jul 2020 -- After stirring up tensions in the Taiwan Straits by frequently sending military aircraft and warships near the island, and meeting countermeasures by the People's Liberation Army (PLA), the US on Thursday announced the approval of yet another arms deal to Taiwan involving the recertification of air defense missiles for $620 million.
US sells Patriot upgrade package to Taiwan to deter 'regional threats' Press TV 10 Jul 2020 -- The United States has approved a request from Taiwan to modernize the self-ruled island's Patriot surface-to-air missile systems to counter what it claims as "regional threats", amid escalating tensions between Beijing and Washington.
Taiwan's exclusion from WHO shows agency's deficiencies: Pompeo CNA 10 Jul 2020 -- The exclusion of Taiwan from the World Health Organization (WHO) is the evidence of the WHO's deficiencies, U.S. State Secretary Mike Pompeo said Thursday.
Scotland to lift mandatory quarantine for travelers from Taiwan CNA 09 Jul 2020 -- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Thursday that it welcomed a decision by the Scottish government to list Taiwan as one of the lower-risk destinations for COVID-19, which means that travelers arriving from Taiwan will be conditionally exempted from a 14-day quarantine requirement.
Cabinet plans to add NT$200 billion for COVID-19 relief CNA 09 Jul 2020 -- Premier Su Tseng-chang (蘇貞昌) on Thursday directed that the government's COVID-19 relief funds be expanded by adding an additional budget of approximately NT$200 billion (US$6.79 billion), according to Cabinet spokesman Ting Yi-ming (丁怡銘).
Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States (TECRO) - Repair and Recertification of Patriot Advanced Capability-3 Missiles DSCA 09 Jul 2020 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States (TECRO) of Recertification of Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) missiles for an estimated cost of $620 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
Taiwan military stages live-fire drill ahead of annual war games CNA 09 Jul 2020 -- A live-fire rehearsal, simulating a Chinese invasion by sea, was staged in Taichung on Thursday, in preparation for the start of the annual Han Kuang war games next week.
Reopening of Taiwan office in Guam not military-related: MOFA CNA 09 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan's decision to reopen its representative office in Guam was not based on military considerations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Thursday, following analyses to the contrary by security experts.
Taiwan's goal of joining WHO 'unchanged' after U.S. withdrawal: MOFA CNA 09 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan's goal of joining the World Health Organization (WHO), as well as attending its annual World Health Assembly (WHA), remains "unchanged" despite the United States' decision to withdraw from the global health body, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) reiterated on Thursday.
Taiwan urges citizens to reconsider traveling to China CNA 09 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan's top government agency in charge of China affairs on Thursday called on Taiwanese nationals to avoid traveling to Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau, citing the increased risk of facing prosecution on allegations of violating the newly implemented Hong Kong national security law.
Taiwan sees no new COVID-19 cases for fifth straight day CNA 08 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan went a fifth straight day without a COVID-19 case on Wednesday, keeping the total at 449 since the pandemic began late last year, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan mulls denying entry to priority list business travelers CNA 08 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan may soon close its doors to incoming business travelers from Japan, South Korea, and Australia because of new coronavirus COVID-19 spikes in those countries, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) Wednesday.
People in home quarantine now allowed 2-hour visits with sick relatives CNA 08 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan has eased its home quarantine rules to allow the attendance of family funerals and visits of up to two hours with seriously ill relatives, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Wednesday.
Taiwan passport 33rd most powerful in the world: survey CNA 08 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan's passport has been ranked the 33rd most powerful globally, as it allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 146 destinations around the world, according to a survey released Tuesday by the London-based citizenship and residence advisory firm Henley & Partners.
DPP's plot to meddle in HK affairs slammed People's Daily 08 Jul 2020 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson Tuesday said Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has once again exposed its evil intentions to interfere in Hong Kong affairs, create chaos in Hong Kong and seek "Taiwan independence."
China finding ways to block U.S. officials' visits to Taiwan: FBI CNA 08 Jul 2020 -- China is using all means at its disposal to prevent American government officials from visiting Taiwan as part of its efforts to influence Washington, a top United States intelligence official said Tuesday.
FDA considers NT$1bn for clinical trials of COVID-19 vaccines CNA 07 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan's government will formalize plans by the end of July to allocate NT$1 billion (US$33.9 million) to hold clinical trials of COVID-19 vaccine candidates with the goal of developing an effective vaccine by the first quarter of 2021, according to the head of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
240 Vietnamese repatriated from Taiwan on second charter flight CNA 07 Jul 2020 -- The Vietnamese government on Tuesday repatriated 240 citizens stranded in Taiwan due to the COVID-19 pandemic on a government-contracted charter flight, the second such flight for Vietnamese nationals since the coronavirus outbreak.
Taiwan will counter new rule in HK security law if necessary: Tsai CNA 07 Jul 2020 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) said Tuesday that if necessary, her administration will consider countermeasures to the newly implemented rules under Hong Kong's national security law, which state that authorities there can ask Taiwanese "political groups" to provide evidence in the investigation of potential violators.
Taiwan Would Welcome Visit by Tibet's Dalai Lama, Foreign Ministry Says Radio Free Asia 06 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan would welcome a visit by exiled Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, a foreign ministry spokesperson said on Monday, adding that any invitation would be handled under "relevant rules" if a request to visit is received.
Taiwan slams Chinese criticism of Somaliland ties CNA 07 Jul 2020 -- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) on Tuesday reemphasized that Taiwan is not part of China and has every right to pursue relations with other countries, following Beijing's criticism of the nation's establishment of ties with Somaliland.
Taiwan's Success in Combating the Coronavirus Gains International Attention Radio Free Asia 06 Jul 2020 -- With the coronavirus spreading through the world, Taiwan's success in containing it early on has gained international attention.
Taiwan to deepen ties with Somaliland amid China intervention CNA 06 Jul 2020 -- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) on Monday reiterated Taiwan and Somaliland's intention to deepen bilateral relations after a media report revealed multiple attempts by Beijing to persuade the self-declared state not to establish ties with Taiwan.
Health experts push COVID-19 testing for all inbound passengers CNA 06 Jul 2020 -- Public health experts on Monday called for Taiwan to allow all incoming passengers to be given the option of testing for COVID-19 instead of just following the current 14-day mandatory quarantine.
Taiwan suspends raiding craft landing drill after fatal accident CNA 06 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan's military will temporarily halt landing drills involving inflatable raiding crafts pending safety reassessments, following a fatal accident on July 3, a Navy official said on Monday.
Taiwan-China Diplomatic Competition Comes to Somaliland VOA 06 Jul 2020 -- Somaliland, a self-declared independent region of Somalia in east Africa, has formally recognized Taiwan, another government that lacks United Nations recognition.
Why Hong Kongers Who Fear China Won't Flood Into Nearby, Democratic Taiwan VOA 06 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan opened a government office this month to help Hong Kong citizens apply for residency as China passed a security law that worries people in the former British colony who have protested over the past year against Beijing's rule. Taiwan would offer a democratic haven free of any prosecution.
Second soldier dies after anti-landing drill accident CNA 05 Jul 2020 -- A solider who fell overboard during a military anti-landing drill last week died in hospital Sunday, bringing the death toll to two in the boat accident that occurred off the coast of Kaohsiung in southern Taiwan.
Supervisor of fatal military drill commits suicide: Navy CNA 05 Jul 2020 -- One of the supervisors of a Navy anti-landing drill in Taiwan that went fatally wrong on Friday has committed suicide, the military said Sunday.
One of three Marine soldiers critically wounded in landing drill dies CNA 05 Jul 2020 -- One of the soldiers who fell overboard during a military drill on Friday passed away early Sunday, the Navy Command said in a statement.
Somaliland appoints first envoy to Taiwan CNA 05 Jul 2020 -- The self-declared African state of Somaliland has appointed senior diplomat Mohamed Omar Hagi Mohamoud as its first representative to Taiwan, according to a post on social media by Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Saturday.
U.K. includes Taiwan among its safe travel corridors CNA 04 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan has been included by the United Kingdom in its safe travel corridors from which travelers to England will no longer need to self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival beginning July 10, according to a notice posted on the U.K.'s government portal.
Landing drill accident caused by surge waves: Navy CNA 04 Jul 2020 -- The capsizing of a boat Friday during a Navy landing drill was caused by an unexpected surge of waves, Taiwan's military said Saturday, citing the initial findings of an investigation into the accident that left three soldiers critically injured.
Chinese military aircraft enters Taiwan's ADIZ CNA 04 Jul 2020 -- A Chinese military aircraft entered Taiwan's southwest air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Saturday, before being chased off by Taiwanese patrol planes, according to the Air Force Command Headquarters.
Millions of Taiwanese Could be at Risk From China's Draconian Security Law: DPP Radio Free Asia 03 Jul 2020 -- A top official in Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has warned the island's 23 million residents to think carefully before traveling to Hong Kong or China in the wake of Hong Kong's draconian national security law, which targets acts or speech seen as subversive by China anywhere in the world, as the U.S. upgrades its military commitment to the island's defense.
Taiwan records new COVID-19 case for second day this week CNA 03 Jul 2020 -- A new case of the COVID-19 coronavirus disease was reported in Taiwan on Friday, marking a second day imported infections have been confirmed this week, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan lifts COVID-19 testing for foreign residents entering country CNA 03 Jul 2020 -- Foreign residents of Taiwan will no longer have to provide negative COVID-19 nucleic acid test results when entering the country starting Saturday, the Central Epidemic Command Center said Friday.
Taiwan's remdesivir stockpile contains 333 doses: CECC CNA 03 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan currently has a stockpile of over 300 doses of the new coronavirus COVID-19 medication remdesivir, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Friday.
3 in critical condition in Navy drill accident in southern Taiwan (update) CNA 03 Jul 2020 -- Two military officers and one soldier are in critical condition and a female sergeant is recovering at Kaohsiung Armed Forces General Hospital's Zuoying branch after their small boat capsized in waters off Kaohsiung during a Navy landing drill Friday morning.
U.S. House rep introduces Taiwan defense bill amid military tensions CNA 03 Jul 2020 -- United States Representative Mike Gallagher introduced the House version of the Taiwan Defense Act (TDA) on Wednesday amid Beijing's increased military activities around Taiwan, according to a press release issued by the congressman's office.
U.S. should grant full diplomatic recognition to Taiwan: Bolton CNA 03 Jul 2020 -- John Bolton, a former national security adviser to United States President Donald Trump, reiterated Thursday that the U.S. should exert "asymmetric" pressure on China, such as by giving full diplomatic recognition to Taiwan.
Taiwan adjusts rules on COVID-19 testing of foreign travelers CNA 02 Jul 2020 -- The Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) on Thursday slightly relaxed its regulations on the timeframe for COVID-19 testing of foreign nationals traveling to Taiwan.
Taiwanese man tests positive for COVID-19 on return from Mexico CNA 02 Jul 2020 -- A Taiwanese man was confirmed Thursday as the country's 448th COVID-19 case, two days after he returned from Mexico, where he works, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwanese fishermen's rights unaffected by islands' renaming: JTEA CNA 02 Jul 2020 -- The Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association (JTEA) assured Taiwan on Thursday that the renaming of an administrative district which encompassed the disputed Senkaku islands, called Diaoyutai Islands by Taipei, will not affect the fishing rights of Taiwanese fishermen.
Taiwan stages drill simulating response to an invasion by China CNA 02 Jul 2020 -- A large-scale anti-landing drill simulating Taiwan's response to a Chinese invasion was staged in central Taichung City on Thursday, in a live-fire rehearsal ahead of the annual Han Kuang military exercises.
Taiwan should continue strengthening ties with U.S. Congress: Bolton CNA 02 Jul 2020 -- Regardless of the outcome of the United States presidential election in November, Taiwan needs to continue working with members of Congress for support, former U.S. national security adviser John Bolton said Wednesday.
CECC reports no new cases of COVID-19, keeping total at 447 CNA 01 Jul 2020 -- Taiwan reported no new cases of the new coronavirus COVID-19 on Wednesday, leaving the total number of cases at 447 since the outbreak emerged late last year, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Government to subsidize COVID-19 vaccine research: health minister CNA 01 Jul 2020 -- The government has earmarked funds to help fund the research and development of a COVID-19 vaccine by Taiwanese companies, Health Minister Chen Shih-chung (陳時中) said Wednesday.
Navy holds live-fire bombing drill off eastern Taiwan CNA 01 Jul 2020 -- A fleet of F-16 fighter jets, carrying live MK-84 general purpose bombs, departed from Hualien Jiashan Air Base on Wednesday in a drill that simulated bombing enemy ships.
Mainland warns Taiwan against undermining stability of Hong Kong People's Daily 01 Jul 2020 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Tuesday warned the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authority in Taiwan not to undermine the prosperity and stability of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

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July 2020 - Taiwan Special Weapons News