January 2021 - Taiwan Special Weapons News

Taiwan records two new imported COVID-19 cases, no local cases CNA 31 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan on Sunday confirmed two new imported cases of COVID-19 and reported no locally transmitted cases, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
COVID-19 patient had been to New Taipei, Taoyuan restaurants CNA 31 Jan 2021 -- A man confirmed with COVID-19 on Saturday had visited Jiufen Old Street in New Taipei as well as several restaurants in Taoyuan, although Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) officials stressed Sunday that he was unlikely to have been infectious during that period.
Chinese, U.S. military aircraft fly near Taiwan's airspace CNA 31 Jan 2021 -- Five Chinese military aircraft flew into Taiwan's southwest air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Sunday, the same day the Ministry of National Defense (MND) revealed a United States military reconnaissance aircraft was monitored flying close to Taiwan's airspace.
Recent Chinese intrusions into Taiwan's ADIZ aimed at U.S.: analyst CNA 31 Jan 2021 -- Amid Beijing's frequent air sorties into Taiwan's southwest air defense identification zone (ADIZ), the two largest maneuvers on Jan. 23 and 24 were directed more at the new Joe Biden administration of the United States than Taiwan, according to an expert with a government-funded think tank in Taiwan.
PLA holds exercises near Taiwan Straits almost daily in Jan, warning on 'independence' Global Times 31 Jan 2021 -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) reportedly sent warplanes for exercises near the Taiwan Straits almost every day of the first month of 2021, and analysts said that the Chinese mainland has talked the talk by warning that "Taiwan independence" means war, and it is also walking the walk by preparing to fight the possible war through exercises, so foreign and Taiwan secessionist forces should not miscalculate.
Taiwan likely to face delay in EU vaccine delivery: health minister CNA 30 Jan 2021 -- Health Minister Chen Shih-chung (陳時中) said Saturday that Taiwan could face delays in the delivery of a COVID-19 vaccine from British-Swedish vaccine developer AstraZeneca, after the European Union (EU) introduced tighter rules on vaccine exports a day earlier.
Taiwan cluster infection leads to four new cases, one death (update) CNA 30 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan reported four more domestic COVID-19 cases linked to a recent cluster infection at Taoyuan General Hospital on Saturday, including one death, bringing the total number of cases related to the cluster to 19, according to health authorities.
Resolution passed to evaluate changing national emblem CNA 30 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan's Legislative Yuan on Friday passed a resolution instructing the Ministry of the Interior to evaluate the possibility of changing the Republic of China's (Taiwan) national emblem, which is based on the party emblem of the opposition Kuomintang (KMT).
U.S. must 'impose costs' for China's threats to Taiwan: official CNA 30 Jan 2021 -- The United States must be prepared to "impose costs" on China for its bellicosity and threats toward Taiwan, as well its actions in Hong Kong and Xinjiang, U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said on Friday.
Taiwan records four new imported cases of COVID-19 CNA 29 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan reported four new imported cases of COVID-19 on Friday, with three of the infected individuals arriving in Taiwan from the Philippines and one coming from South Africa, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
'Taiwan independence' means war not empty threat: Global Times editorial Global Times 29 Jan 2021 -- Wu Qian, spokesperson of China's Ministry of National Defense, sternly warned on Thursday that "Taiwan independence" means war. Both the island of Taiwan and the US responded to his remarks. Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said on Thursday that the Pentagon "sees no reason why tensions over Taiwan need to lead to anything like confrontation." He reaffirmed the US' "obligations under the Taiwan Relations Act" and the US military "remains ready in all respects to meet our security commitments in the region."
U.S. will meet security commitments to Taiwan, region: Pentagon CNA 29 Jan 2021 -- The United States will continue to fulfill its commitments to Taiwan's self-defense needs and to the security of the Indo-Pacific region, U.S. Department of Defense spokesman John Kirby said Thursday.
Pentagon backs Taiwan, says tensions with China should not lead to 'confrontation' Press TV 29 Jan 2021 -- The Pentagon has reaffirmed its long-standing support for Taiwan's self-defense after China said independence for the self-ruled island "means war."
Two new imported COVID-19 cases reported in Taiwan CNA 28 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan on Thursday confirmed two new imported cases of COVID-19 and reported no locally transmitted cases for the fourth consecutive day, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan ranked 3rd worldwide for COVID-19 performance CNA 28 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan has been listed among the top three countries in the world for its successful handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, ranking third behind New Zealand and Vietnam, according to an index published Thursday by the Lowry Institute of Australia.
Genome sequencing shows latest domestic COVID case linked to cluster CNA 28 Jan 2021 -- Although it is still unknown how the two latest domestic COVID-19 cases in Taiwan became infected, genome sequencing has shown that one of them is linked to the cluster infection at Taoyuan General Hospital, Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) officials said Thursday.
No notification from U.S. on suspension of arms deals to Taiwan: MOFA CNA 28 Jan 2021 -- The government has not received any notification from the U.S. that it will put a hold on its weapons sales to Taiwan, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) spokeswoman Joanne Ou (歐江安) said Thursday.
U.S. must help Taiwan stave off China aggression: Biden's U.N. pick CNA 28 Jan 2021 -- The United States must help Taiwan push back against Chinese efforts to compromise its security, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, nominee for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, said Wednesday.
Six Chinese warplanes enter Taiwan's ADIZ CNA 28 Jan 2021 -- Six Chinese fighter jets entered Taiwan's southwest air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Thursday, the fifth day Beijing has sent at least four aircraft into the airspace since U.S. President Joe Biden took office.
"Taiwan Independence" bubble will not make any wave : Defense Spokesperson PLA Daily 28 Jan 2021 -- "Taiwan is an inalienable part of China, and the Taiwan question is China's internal affair, which allows no interference from the outside," Senior Colonel Wu Qian, a spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of National Defense (MND), said in a monthly regular press conference on Thursday.
'Independence means war', China warns self-ruled Taiwan Press TV 28 Jan 2021 -- The Chinese government has sternly warned Taiwan over its secessionist activities, saying "independence means war" and that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China.
PLA aircraft deployment near Taiwan 'a warning to foreign forces' PLA Daily 27 Jan 2021 -- A PLA military aircraft operating in airspace near Taiwan is a warning to foreign forces to stop interfering in China's internal affairs, Zhu Fenglian, a spokeswoman for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said on Wednesday.
Taiwan reports three new imported cases of COVID-19 CNA 27 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan on Wednesday confirmed three new imported cases of COVID-19 and reported no locally transmitted cases for the third consecutive day, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Quarantine, testing continue in bid to control Taoyuan COVID cluster CNA 27 Jan 2021 -- A total of 3,482 people linked to a cluster of COVID-19 cases at Taoyuan General Hospital are currently in quarantine, and more tests will be conducted among the medical staff in the coming weeks, Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) officials said Wednesday.
DPP slammed for claims of mainland "forcing" Taiwan businessmen to get vaccinated Global Times 27 Jan 2021 -- The Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council has blasted the Democratic Progressive Party authority and pro-secessionist media on the island of Taiwan for creating and spreading rumors that the Chinese mainland was making businessmen from Taiwan in the mainland take "semi-forced" COVID-19 vaccination.
Navy unveils new assault speedboat in Kaohsiung drill CNA 27 Jan 2021 -- The Navy on Wednesday showed the public for the first time a locally built assault speedboat that will be used by the military to defend harbors and counter terrorists, pirates and hijackers at sea.
Taiwan's display of new missile 'wrongly boosts courage of secessionists' Global Times 27 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan island's air force on Tuesday conducted a series of exercises, including showcasing a new missile and threatening to attack the Chinese mainland, with mainland experts saying on Wednesday the display of the weapon wrongly boosted the courage of secessionists, and risked accidents amid ongoing exercises by the People's Liberation Army (PLA) near the island. They also said the missile would not even be used if a war breaks out.
Four Chinese military planes enter Taiwan's ADIZ CNA 27 Jan 2021 -- Four Chinese military aircraft entered Taiwan's southwest air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Wednesday, according to Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MDN).
PLA drills 'a stern warning' to Taiwan, safeguard prospect of peaceful reunification Global Times 27 Jan 2021 -- By conducting combat exercises in the Taiwan Straits, the Chinese mainland is sending a warning to Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party secessionist authority and the US, experts said, as the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office said the recent drills are "a stern warning to deter foreign forces and Taiwan secessionists."
China says military exercises near Taiwan 'solemn warning' Press TV 27 Jan 2021 -- China says its military exercises near Taiwan are a "solemn warning" to secessionist factions in the self-ruled island and their foreign supporters.
Taiwan's Ban on Chinese COVID-19 Vaccines Will Remain, Despite Report Radio Free Asia 26 Jan 2021 -- The democratic island of Taiwan has reiterated a ban on imports of COVID-19 vaccines made in China, as repeated incursions by the People's Liberation Army (PLA) into its air defense zone in recent days stoked simmering regional tensions.
Taiwan records one new imported case of COVID-19 CNA 26 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan reported one new imported case of COVID-19 on Tuesday, a Taiwanese national who arrived from Mexico on Jan. 24, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Air Force showcases Taiwan-made long-range cruise missile in drill CNA 26 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan's Air Force on Tuesday conducted a rare public drill of loading a type of locally made cruise missiles that reportedly has a range within reach of coastal Chinese provinces to one of its fighters, amid increasing military threats from the other side of the Taiwan Strait.
Infection source of two latest domestic COVID-19 cases remains unknown CNA 25 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan health officials said Monday that they have not yet identified how the two latest domestic COVID-19 cases became infected, though they will conduct more tests to try to determine the infection source.
PLA continues large scale warplane exercises near Taiwan Global Times 25 Jan 2021 -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) reportedly continued large-scale warplane exercises near the island of Taiwan on Sunday by sending 15 warplanes, two more than on Saturday, as Chinese mainland analysts said Monday that the routine drills are becoming increasingly closer to real-life combat.
China Flexes Military Muscle to Biden With Incursions Near Taiwan Radio Free Asia 25 Jan 2021 -- China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) flew multiple aircraft into Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ) at the weekend, in a move analysts said was flexing military muscle at the start of the Biden administration.
Two more domestic COVID-19 cases confirmed in Taoyuan hospital cluster CNA 24 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan on Sunday recorded two more domestic COVID-19 cases linked to a recent cluster infection at Taoyuan General Hospital, where the number of cases has now increased to 15, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
US Carrier Strike Group Enters South China Sea Amid Tensions Between China, Taiwan Sputnik 24 Jan 2021 -- A US carrier strike group has entered the South China sea for routine operations, the US Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) announced on Sunday amid increased tensions between China and Taiwan.
US to Help Taiwan Maintain 'Self-Defense Capability,' State Department Says Sputnik 24 Jan 2021 -- The US State Department says Washington plans to strengthen ties with Taiwan, which China considers to be part of its territory.
PLA bomber swarm near Taiwan 'likely routine operations' Global Times 24 Jan 2021 -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) on Saturday reportedly dispatched 13 warplanes including eight H-6K bombers to locations in the middle of the island of Taiwan and the Dongsha Islands in the South China Sea, as the US aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt entered the South China Sea from the south of Taiwan on the same day for "routine operations," in a first since US President Joe Biden assumed office.
15 Chinese military planes enter Taiwan's ADIZ CNA 24 Jan 2021 -- China sent 15 military airplanes of five types into Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Sunday but they did not cross the median line that divides the Taiwan Strait, the Ministry of National Defense (MND) said.
China sends record-high number of planes over Taiwan to flex muscle CNA 24 Jan 2021 -- China sent a record-high number of military aircraft into Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Saturday, a move aimed at flexing its military muscle to new U.S. President Joe Biden, military experts said Saturday.
Biden's words to Beijing show continuity of U.S. foreign policy CNA 24 Jan 2021 -- A call made by the administration of new United States President Joe Biden asking China to stop its military coercion toward Taiwan shows continuity in U.S. foreign policy, experts said Sunday.
Biden administration urges Beijing to cease military pressure against Taipei CNA 24 Jan 2021 -- The new Joe Biden administration of the United States on Saturday called on China to stop its ongoing military coercion toward Taiwan while calling on both sides of the Strait to engage in peaceful dialogue.
13 Chinese warplanes intrude into Taiwan's ADIZ in single day CNA 23 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan's Air Force scrambled fighter jets as 13 Chinese warplanes intruded into Taiwan's southwest air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Saturday, the highest number observed in a single day this year, according to the Ministry of National Defense (MND).
Taiwan's Defence Ministry: 8 Chinese Bombers, 4 Fighters Have Breached Island's Air Defence ID Zone Sputnik 23 Jan 2021 -- The People's Republic of China and the Republic of China (the island nation better known as Taiwan, which Beijing considers to be a renegade province) have overlapping air defence identification zone claims in the East China Sea, with this overlap regularly sparking tensions.
PRC Military Pressure Against Taiwan Threatens Regional Peace and Stability US Dept. of State 23 Jan 2021 -- The United States notes with concern the pattern of ongoing PRC attempts to intimidate its neighbors, including Taiwan. We urge Beijing to cease its military, diplomatic, and economic pressure against Taiwan and instead engage in meaningful dialogue with Taiwan's democratically elected representatives.
Two new COVID-19 cases confirmed in Taoyuan hospital cluster CNA 22 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan on Friday recorded six imported and two new domestic cases of COVID-19, both linked to a cluster infection at Taoyuan General Hospital, where the number has now climbed to 12, according to health authorities.
High-risk patients from COVID-hit hospital under quarantine: CECC CNA 22 Jan 2021 -- Patients listed as high risk who have been discharged or transferred to other hospitals from Taoyuan General Hospital since Jan. 6 must go into quarantine because of COVID-19 fears, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Friday.
Taiwan reports two new imported COVID-19 cases CNA 21 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan on Thursday reported two new imported cases of COVID-19, both from the Philippines, but did not record any domestic transmissions for the first time in five days.
Taiwan records another new imported COVID-19 case CNA 21 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan on Thursday reported another imported case of COVID-19, involving a Danish national who arrived in the country for business purposes on Dec. 30, 2020, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to three that day.
Taoyuan hospital completes mass evacuation of patients CNA 21 Jan 2021 -- Taoyuan General Hospital in northern Taiwan has completed a mass evacuation of patients, including those confirmed to have COVID-19 in a cluster infection, so hospital buildings can be disinfected, Mayor Cheng Wen-tsang (鄭文燦) said Thursday.
President congratulates Biden on inauguration, reaffirms partnership CNA 21 Jan 2021 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) on Thursday congratulated the newly inaugurated U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris on their election victories and reaffirmed Taiwan's willingness to work with the new U.S. administration.
Taiwan Officially Represented at US Presidential Inauguration for First Time Since 1979 Sputnik 21 Jan 2021 -- Taiwanese envoy to the United States Hsiao Bi-khim was present during President Joe Biden's Wednesday inauguration ceremony, marking Taiwan's first formal representation in Washington since the US severed diplomatic ties with Taipei over 40 years ago.
Movements of Taoyuan hospital cluster infection patients released CNA 20 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan's health authorities on Wednesday released information on locations recently visited by three COVID-19 cases in a cluster infection in Taoyuan, including a seafood restaurant and a McDonalds outlet, in a bid to alert people who may have been exposed to someone with the coronavirus.
Hospitals asked to tighten visit controls as COVID-19 cases rise CNA 20 Jan 2021 -- All hospitals in Taiwan have been asked to tighten their restrictions on visits to inpatients, with immediate effect, amid a growing outbreak spawned by a cluster infection at Taoyuan General Hospital.
Taiwan hospital cluster infection leads to new COVID-19 case CNA 20 Jan 2021 -- Another domestically transmitted COVID-19 case linked to a recent cluster infection in Taoyuan General Hospital was confirmed on Wednesday, according to health authorities.
Biden to make sure Taiwan can defend itself: Blinken CNA 20 Jan 2021 -- The Joe Biden administration will maintain the United States' commitment to ensure that Taiwan has the ability to defend itself against aggression, said Antony Blinken, Biden's pick to head the U.S. Department of State.
Shift in U.S.-Taiwan Ties Unlikely Under Biden: Analysts Radio Free Asia 20 Jan 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden's pick for Secretary of State Antony Blinken has welcomed moves by the Trump administration to remove curbs on official contacts with the democratic island of Taiwan, although analysts said it remains to be seen whether the new administration will continue to move in the direction of greater recognition for the Taiwanese government.
Four more COVID-19 cases linked to Taoyuan hospital confirmed CNA 19 Jan 2021 -- Four more domestically transmitted COVID-19 cases linked to Taoyuan General Hospital under the Ministry of Health and Welfare were confirmed on Tuesday, including a migrant worker with an unclear source of infection.
COVID-19 cases went to traditional market, burger shop: CECC CNA 19 Jan 2021 -- The Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Tuesday that of the new COVID-19 cases, one had visited a traditional market in Taoyuan, while another works at a Mos Burger outlet in the same city.
Hospitals in northern Taiwan tighten visit controls amid COVID-19 CNA 19 Jan 2021 -- Major hospitals in Taoyuan and Taipei have tightened their restrictions on visits to inpatients following a rising COVID-19 outbreak in a cluster of domestic infections that began with a doctor who contracted the virus while treating a coronavirus patient at Taoyuan General Hospital.
Taiwan Army tests helicopter drone in airport defense drill CNA 19 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan's military on Tuesday tested the capabilities of its tactical helicopter drone for the first time, during an airport defense drill.
Taiwan conducts military drills Press TV 19 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan has conducted military drills in presumed preparation for potential military attacks.
Two Chinese military planes enter Taiwan's ADIZ CNA 19 Jan 2021 -- Chinese military aircraft entered Taiwan's southwest air defense identification zone (ADIZ) for the ninth straight day on Tuesday, according to Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND).
China Vows to Take Action Against US Officials for 'Nasty Behavior' in Regards to Taiwan VOA 19 Jan 2021 -- China says it will impose sanctions on U.S. officials who have engaged in what it described as "nasty behavior" over dealings with Taiwan.
Fifth domestic COVID-19 case confirmed in Taoyuan hospital cluster CNA 18 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan on Monday reported the fifth COVID-19 case in a domestic cluster infection at a hospital in Taoyuan, where four other medical workers were confirmed over the past week to be infected, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
CECC to set up 'command post' at hospital after 5 COVID-19 cases CNA 18 Jan 2021 -- The Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) announced Monday that it will set up a "command post" at a Taoyuan government hospital where five medical workers have tested positive for COVID-19, as well as implement additional safety measures to prevent further spread of the disease.
Annual work conference on Taiwan affairs stresses deterrence against Taiwan secessionist forces Global Times 19 Jan 2021 -- The Chinese mainland has listed deterrence against secessionist activities by "Taiwan independence" forces and interference by foreign forces as key work arrangements for the year 2021, said China's top political advisor at an annual work conference on Taiwan affairs.
Three Chinese military aircraft enter Taiwan's ADIZ CNA 18 Jan 2021 -- Three Chinese military aircraft entered Taiwan's southwest air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Monday, the eighth consecutive day there have been incursions, according to Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND).
China to impose sanctions on US officials who behaved badly on Taiwan question: FM Global Times 18 Jan 2021 -- China has decided to impose sanctions on related US officials who have behaved badly on Taiwan question: FM spokesperson Hua Chunying in response to the US moves to ease restrictions on exchanges with the island.
US officials face sanctions over 'nasty' Taiwan behavior: China Press TV 18 Jan 2021 -- China says the United States will pay a heavy price over its engagements with Taiwan, after Washington upgraded relations with the self-ruled Chinese island in defiance of Beijing.
Another contact of COVID-19-infected doctor tests positive CNA 17 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan reported a new domestically transmitted case of COVID-19 on Sunday involving a doctor who works in the same hospital as three other medical workers confirmed to have the disease over the past week, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
China revisions to defense law push Beijing closer to war: scholar CNA 17 Jan 2021 -- Beijing's recent amendments to its National Defense Law indicate that China has shifted its defense strategy to a more pre-emptive posture, making it more likely that it wages war, according to an expert with a government-funded think tank in Taiwan.
Taiwan reports one new domestic COVID-19 case from hospital CNA 16 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan on Saturday reported one new domestic COVID-19 case, a nurse working in the same hospital in northern Taiwan with a doctor who was diagnosed with the disease earlier this week.
Taiwan reports 7 new imported COVID-19 cases Saturday CNA 16 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan on Saturday reported seven additional imported COVID-19 cases that originated in the Philippines, Indonesia, the United States, South Africa and Russia, bringing the total of confirmed cases to 850 in the country since the pandemic began.
Taiwan, U.S. diplomats meet after official contact ban lifted CNA 16 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan's representative to Switzerland met with his U.S counterpart on Thursday, the latest Taiwanese diplomat to meet a U.S. official after the U.S. ended its restrictions on official contacts with Taiwan on Jan. 9.
Chinese military plane enters Taiwan's ADIZ for 7th straight day CNA 16 Jan 2021 -- A Chinese military aircraft entered Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Sunday, the seventh consecutive day there has been such an incursion, according to Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND).
Taiwan reports one new COVID-19 case -- an Indonesian worker CNA 15 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan reported a new imported case of COVID-19 on Friday involving an Indonesian national who arrived in the country last month to go to work on a fishing boat, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
U.S. think tank lists Taiwan issue as top-tier risk for 1st time CNA 15 Jan 2021 -- The New York-based Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) has listed a possible conflict between the United States and China over Taiwan as a top-tier concern for the first time in its annual Preventive Priorities Survey.
China effectively deters US attempt to endanger Taiwan Strait situation Global Times 15 Jan 2021 -- At the very last moment of the Trump administration, officials like Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and some diplomats in his Department of State have found that they were unwelcome abroad, whether in Taiwan or Europe, so they have lost their only remaining capability to make trouble for the incoming Biden administration, said Chinese experts.
Hundreds more hospital workers to be tested after 2 COVID cases found CNA 14 Jan 2021 -- The Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Thursday that another 300-400 employees at a hospital in northern Taiwan will be tested for COVID-19, after a doctor and a nurse there recently contracted the virus.
Taiwanese Health Official Warns Against Reliance on Coronavirus Vaccines VOA 13 Jan 2021 -- The Taiwanese health official credited with leading one of the world's most successful COVID-19 control efforts is warning people globally to keep up their guard against coronavirus even as vaccines emerge.
Taiwan reports 4 new imported COVID-19 cases CNA 13 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan reported four new imported COVID-19 cases on Wednesday -- one from India and three from Indonesia -- bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 842, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
CECC eases rules for discharge of COVID patients on isolation wards CNA 13 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Wednesday it was revising its medical criteria for the discharge of COVID-19 patients in negative pressure isolation rooms in hospital, based on new scientific evidence.
Visiting foreign nationals get another visa extensions over COVID-19 CNA 13 Jan 2021 -- Foreign nationals who entered Taiwan on or before March 21 and have been unable to return home because of COVID-19 can get a further 30-day extension of stay, the National Immigration Agency said Wednesday.
Japan tightens border controls to include Taiwan CNA 13 Jan 2021 -- The Japanese government will tighten its border restrictions with effect from Thursday, temporarily banning the entry of visitors from all countries, including Taiwan, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga announced Wednesday.
Taiwan compatriots on mainland can enjoy free COVID-19 vaccines: spokesperson People's Daily 13 Jan 2021 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday said that Taiwan compatriots on the mainland can apply for free COVID-19 vaccines.
Taiwan's main opposition party to re-establish office in U.S. CNA 13 Jan 2021 -- The Kuomintang (KMT), Taiwan's main opposition party, is planning to set up a liaison office in the United States to re-establish its connections with the U.S. government and establishments such as think tanks, a high-level KMT source told CNA on Wednesday.
Cancellation of U.S. diplomat's Taiwan trip regrettable: MOFA CNA 13 Jan 2021 -- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Wednesday that it was regrettable that the United States' ambassador to the United Nations Kelly Craft had to cancel her visit to Taiwan in compliance with the State Department's latest travel order.
U.S. envoy Kelly Craft's visit to Taiwan canceled CNA 13 Jan 2021 -- The planned visit to Taiwan by Kelly Craft, the United States' ambassador to the United Nations, has been called off, Taiwan's representative to the U.S. Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) said Tuesday.
First doctor in Taiwan to get COVID-19 among 4 new cases CNA 12 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan on Tuesday reported four new cases of COVID-19, including the first case of a local doctor to be infected with the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan reports first local doctor to get COVID-19 CNA 12 Jan 2021 -- A doctor in a northern Taiwan hospital has been confirmed as one of two locally infected COVID-19 cases in Taiwan Tuesday, the first time a local physician has come down with the disease since the outbreak began.
Navy cancels port visits to allies over COVID-19 concerns CNA 12 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan Navy's midshipmen crusing training mission will not include port calls in the country's diplomatic allies this year as the COVID-19 pandemic shows no sign of easing, a military source said Tuesday.
U.S., Taiwan envoys meet after restrictions on contacts lifted CNA 12 Jan 2021 -- The United States ambassador to the Netherlands and his Taiwanese counterpart met at the U.S. embassy in the European country Monday in a possible first since formal diplomatic ties were severed in 1979.
Three Chinese military planes enter Taiwan's ADIZ CNA 12 Jan 2021 -- Three Chinese military aircraft entered the southwest corner of Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Tuesday, according to Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND).
Taiwan reports 6 new imported COVID-19 cases CNA 11 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan on Monday reported six additional imported COVID-19 cases, bringing the total number of the cases in the country to 834, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Air Force command receives upgraded Hsiung Feng-2E missile system CNA 11 Jan 2021 -- A small batch of upgraded Hsiung Feng-2E surface-to-surface cruise missiles, which Taiwan hopes will give it a stronger deterrent against China's military threat, has been delivered for use by an active Air Force unit, a military source said Monday.
China Threatens US With 'Counterstrike' After Pompeo Removes Taiwan Curbs Radio Free Asia 11 Jan 2021 -- China on Monday threatened it would "counterstrike" after the outgoing administration of U.S. President Donald Trump removed restrictions on official and diplomatic contact with the democratic island of Taiwan.
US Lifts Ban on Official Contacts with Taiwan. So, Who's Coming? VOA 11 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan should expect one or two senior visitors this month and an open door in the years ahead following the U.S. government's decision Saturday to lift its ban on high-level contacts, a rule it had observed to get along with the Asian island's political rival China, scholars believe.
China Denounces End of US Restrictions on Contacts with Taiwan Officials VOA 11 Jan 2021 -- China is vowing to counter a decision by the United States to lift self-imposed restrictions on contacts between U.S. diplomatic officials and their Taiwanese counterparts, while maintaining the unofficial relationship between the two democracies.
Pompeo's easing of restrictions on US dealings with Taiwan will be punished by history: Chinese FM Global Times 11 Jan 2021 -- China expressed firm opposition to and strongly condemned the decision by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to ease restrictions governing US diplomats and other officials' dealings with officials from the island of Taiwan, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Monday.
China threatens 'counterstrike' against US move over Taiwan Press TV 11 Jan 2021 -- China has threatened a "counterstrike" against a provocative move by the United States to remove decades-old restrictions on official contacts with Taiwan in a last-ditch effort to further challenge China's sovereignty over the self-ruled island.
'More identifiable' passport to be recognized by other countries: FM CNA 11 Jan 2021 -- Taiwanese nationals can now travel abroad using a newly designed and "more identifiable" Taiwan passport without impediment, Foreign Minister Joseph Wu (吳釗燮) said Monday during a press event for the launch.
Taiwan Introduces New Passport to End Confusion With China as US Drops 'Self-Imposed' Relations Ban Sputnik 11 Jan 2021 -- Taipei recently spurned proposed talks with China until the "one country, two systems" proposal that characterizes Beijing's relationship with Macau and Hong Kong is dropped from negotiations. Beijing called the move a further slide toward independence for what it considers a rebellious province.
Taiwan unveils new passport in latest provocation aimed at China Press TV 11 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan's secessionist government has introduced a newly redesigned passport, with the purported aim of helping differentiate its citizens from those of mainland China, in a move that will likely further infuriate Beijing amid the recent spike in tensions.
Taiwan Reports Boom in Enrollment of Students From Hong Kong Radio Free Asia 11 Jan 2021 -- Recent statistics from colleges and universities on the democratic island of Taiwan show a sharp rise in the number of students from Hong Kong, RFA has learned.
Pompeo 'ending limits' on relations breaks bottom line of China-US ties, puts Taiwan in imminent danger: experts Global Times 10 Jan 2021 -- The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government on Sunday refuted the joint statement issued by the foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, UK and US over the arrested Hong Kong anti-government figures, saying it is "appalling" to see some foreign government officials make comments that seemingly suggest people holding certain political beliefs should be immune to legal sanctions.
Taiwan to extend defensive perimeter to 300-500 km by 2025: think tank CNA 10 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan is expected to effectively extend its defensive perimeter to 300-500 kilometers by 2025, when its first indigenous submarine and longer-range missiles from the United States are expected to be in service, according to a government-funded think tank.
Biden committed to strong, principled support for Taiwan CNA 10 Jan 2021 -- An official with United States President-elect Joe Biden's transition team said Saturday that Biden believes American support for Taiwan must remain "strong, principled, and bipartisan," and he will work to ensure that.
Taiwan welcomes lifting of U.S. restrictions on official contact CNA 10 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan's Presidential Office on Sunday hailed the United States' decision to remove the restrictions on contact between officials of the two countries, saying it was a reflection of the solid partnership between the two countries.
Biden seen likely to retain U.S. decision on exchanges with Taiwan CNA 10 Jan 2021 -- Two Taiwanese scholars said Sunday that the incoming administration of United States President-elect Joe Biden is unlikely to revoke the current U.S. administration's decision Saturday to lift restrictions on contact between American and Taiwanese officials.
State Department lifts restrictions on U.S.-Taiwan contact CNA 10 Jan 2021 -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Saturday announced that Washington is lifting restrictions on contacts between U.S. officials and their Taiwanese counterparts, that have been in place since Washington cut ties with Taipei in favor of Beijing in 1979.
US ends decades-old restrictions on diplomatic ties with Taiwan Press TV 10 Jan 2021 -- The United States has lifted decades-old restrictions on contacts with Taiwan, in a last-ditch effort to further challenge China's sovereignty over the self-ruled island, during the final days of Donald Trump's presidency.
US State Department Ends Restrictions on Contacts with Taiwan Officials VOA 10 Jan 2021 -- The United States is lifting self-imposed restrictions on contacts between U.S. officials and their Taiwanese counterparts, while maintaining the unofficial relationship between the two democracies.
Lifting Self-Imposed Restrictions on the U.S.-Taiwan Relationship US Dept. of State 09 Jan 2021 -- "Taiwan is a vibrant democracy and reliable partner of the United States, and yet for several decades the State Department has created complex internal restrictions to regulate our diplomats, servicemembers, and other officials' interactions with their Taiwanese counterparts. The United States government took these actions unilaterally, in an attempt to appease the Communist regime in Beijing. No more."
Pompeo Says Lifting US 'Self-Imposed Restrictions' on Relations With Taiwan Sputnik 09 Jan 2021 -- The news comes as US Ambassador to the United Nations Kelly Craft is set to visit China's Taiwan on January 13-15, where she is expected to meet with senior diplomats.
Taiwan records 3 new imported COVID-19 cases from Indonesia, Philippines CNA 09 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan reported three new imported cases of COVID-19 on Saturday, one from Indonesia and two from the Philippines, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Chinese anti-submarine plane enters Taiwan's ADIZ CNA 09 Jan 2021 -- A Chinese military Y-8 anti-submarine plane entered Taiwan's southwest air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Saturday, the seventh day of such incursions in January, according to the Ministry of National Defense (MND).
Taiwan reports three new imported COVID-19 cases CNA 08 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan reported three new imported cases of COVID-19 on Friday, one each arriving from Nigeria, Egypt and the United States, bringing the total number of cases in the country to 825, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
U.S. ambassador to U.N. to visit Taiwan Jan. 13-15 CNA 08 Jan 2021 -- The U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Kelly Craft will visit Taiwan Jan. 13-15 for meetings with senior Taiwanese counterparts and members of the diplomatic community, her office announced on Thursday.
China opposes planned Taiwan visit by U.S. UN ambassador: Chinese mission People's Daily 08 Jan 2021 -- A spokesperson of China's Permanent Mission to the United Nations said on Thursday that China opposes a planned Taiwan visit by Kelly Craft, the U.S. permanent representative to the United Nations.
Taiwan confirms 5th case of U.K.-variant COVID-19 CNA 07 Jan 2021 -- A fifth patient has been confirmed to be infected with the new COVID-19 virus variant first detected in the United Kingdom, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Thursday.
Taiwan records three new imported cases of COVID-19 CNA 07 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan reported three new imported cases of COVID-19 on Thursday, one each from the United States, the Philippines and Indonesia, bringing the total number of cases in the country to 822, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan finds another two COVID-19 variant cases People's Daily 07 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan confirmed another two cases infected with a new variant of the COVID-19 virus, raising the total number to four, the island's epidemic monitoring agency said on Wednesday.
Political-Military Dialogue between Taiwan, U.S. a success: MOFA CNA 07 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan and the United States held a virtual discussion Thursday, under their "Political-Military Dialogue," which was a success, Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said, but it declined to give any details.
Taiwan-U.S. security cooperation to grow amid rising PLA power: think tank CNA 07 Jan 2021 -- In light of the rise of China's military might, it is only a natural progression that the security relationship between Taiwan and the United States should continue to strengthen, a local think tank said Thursday.
Trump admin plays final card with last visit to Taiwan, gives 'illusory cordial' to secessionists Global Times 07 Jan 2021 -- The US government continues to play its "Taiwan card" against China, with an announcement that the US ambassador to the United Nations Kelly Craft will visit Taiwan as well as holding a "political-military dialogue" with the island amid the turbulent White House power transition.
Chinese defense ministry slams US 'political-military dialogue' with Taiwan PLA Daily 07 Jan 2021 -- The Chinese military is strongly opposed to the so-called "political-military dialogue" between the US and Taiwan authorities, Senior Colonel Tan Kefei, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense (MND), said in a written statement on Thursday when asked to comment on a video conference held between the US and Taiwan authorities on Jan. 7.
Two more cases of U.K. COVID-19 variant confirmed, one on respirator CNA 06 Jan 2021 -- Two more individuals who recently traveled from the United Kingdom to Taiwan have been confirmed to be infected with the U.K. variant of the COVID-19 virus, one of whom is currently on a respirator, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Wednesday.
Taiwan reports 2 new imported cases of COVID-19 CNA 06 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan confirmed two new imported cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday, one each from Indonesia and the Philippines, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 819, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan to add 1,000 quarantine hotel rooms to meet demand CNA 06 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan will soon add 1,000 more quarantine hotel rooms to meet increasing demand as stricter home quarantine rules are imposed that will make it more difficult for people to be isolated in their own homes.
China Airlines, EVA Air extend suspension of direct flights to London CNA 06 Jan 2021 -- China Airlines (CAL) and EVA Airways said Wednesday that their suspension of direct flights to London will continue through February, due to the escalation of the COVID-19 situation in the United Kingdom.
Army conducts nighttime live-fire drill to test combat readiness CNA 06 Jan 2021 -- The Army launched a live-fire exercise late Tuesday at a southern military drill ground to test the armed forces combat readiness at night.
U.S., Taiwan Political-Military Dialogue to be held: State Department CNA 06 Jan 2021 -- The Assistant Secretary for Political-Military Affairs at the U.S. State Department, R. Clarke Cooper, is scheduled to deliver remarks during a U.S. and Taiwan Political-Military Dialogue on Wednesday, according to the State Department.
China to respond to planned Taiwan-US military talks Press TV 06 Jan 2021 -- China has voiced strong opposition to planned military talks between the United States and Taiwan, warning that it would give the "necessary response" to the negotiations.
China Is Increasing Taiwan Airspace Incursions VOA 06 Jan 2021 -- The number of Chinese incursions into Taiwan's airspace last year was the highest since 1996, which experts say is worsening the risk for conflict without drawing international headlines.
Taiwan condemns arrest of Hong Kong democracy activists CNA 06 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan on Wednesday condemned Hong Kong police for the arrest of over 50 democracy activists and harassing pro-democracy media outlets earlier that day under the territory's controversial national security law.
Taiwan reports two imported symptomatic COVID-19 cases from U.S. CNA 05 Jan 2021 -- Two Taiwanese nationals who reside in the United States and returned to Taiwan on Sunday were both suffering symptoms of COVID-19 upon arrival, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said on Tuesday.
Taiwan's mainland affairs council's malicious smears against mainland-made vaccine strongly condemned Global Times 05 Jan 2021 -- The Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council stronly condemned the remarks against the mainland-made vaccine by the mainland affairs council (MAC) on the island, saying it showed again the MAC's malicious intent to incite conflicts.
Taiwan reports 3 new imported cases of COVID-19 CNA 04 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan confirmed three new imported cases of COVID-19 on Monday, one each from the Philippines, the Dominican Republic and France, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
CECC traces contacts after Vietnam confirms COVID-19 case from Taiwan CNA 04 Jan 2021 -- The Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) on Monday said it has so far traced seven people who had come into contact with a Vietnamese migrant worker who recently returned to her home country and subsequently tested positive for COVID-19.
E-monitoring of quarantined persons no breach of human rights: Premier Su CNA 04 Jan 2021 -- The "electronic fence" system introduced recently by Taiwan health authorities to monitor the movements of people in quarantine does not violate their human rights, Premier Su Tseng-chang (蘇貞昌) said Monday.
Four Chinese military planes enter Taiwan's ADIZ CNA 04 Jan 2021 -- Four Chinese military aircraft entered Taiwan's southwest air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Monday, the third consecutive day on which such an incursion has occurred, according to Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND).
Taiwan reports 4 new imported COVID-19 cases (update) CNA 03 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan reported four additional imported cases of COVID-19 on Sunday, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 812 since the epidemic began in late 2019, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Beijing's policy toward Taiwan unlikely to change in 2021: think tank CNA 03 Jan 2021 -- Beijing's hostile policy toward Taiwan is likely to continue in 2021, according to a year-end report released by the Institute for National Defense and Security Research (INDSR), a government-funded think tank in Taiwan.
Taiwan reports 6 new imported COVID-19 cases CNA 02 Jan 2021 -- Six newly imported COVID-19 cases were reported in Taiwan Saturday, including a British man who was found to have a high viral load, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
U.S. defense bill with provisions supporting Taiwan becomes law CNA 02 Jan 2021 -- A United States defense policy bill containing sections supportive of Taiwan was passed into law on Friday, as the Senate voted to override the veto of Donald Trump for the first time during his presidency.
2020 saw most PLA intrusions into Taiwan's ADIZ since 1996: report CNA 02 Jan 2021 -- In 2020, the Chinese military violated Taiwan's Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) more times than in any year since 1996, with the majority observed in the southwest corner of the ADIZ, according to a recent government-funded report.
China calls Taiwan's offer of talks as 'cheap trick' Press TV 02 Jan 2021 -- China has dismissed a call for talks from Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen, saying no dialogue can change the reality of Beijing's sovereignty over the self-ruled island.
China Rejects Taiwan's Proposed Talks as Beijing Blames Taipei for 'Cheap Tricks' Sputnik 02 Jan 2021 -- Beijing views Taiwan as an essential part of Chinese territory that it says will eventually have to reunify with mainland China.
Taiwan reports 3 new imported COVID-19 cases Friday CNA 01 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan reported three additional imported cases of COVID-19 on Friday, bringing the total of confirmed cases in the country to 802 since the epidemic began, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwanese COVID-19 case in Shanghai a recovered patient: CECC CNA 01 Jan 2021 -- A Taiwanese who recently tested positive for COVID-19 in Shanghai was a previous patient who recovered from the disease in Taiwan and is no longer contagious, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) confirmed Friday.
106 people with recent U.K. travel history test negative for COVID-19 CNA 01 Jan 2021 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Friday that of the passengers with a recent travel history to the United Kingdom, 106 had so far tested negative for COVID-19 upon completion of their mandatory 14-day quarantine.
Tsai lauds Taiwan's anti-COVID-19 success in New Year's Day speech CNA 01 Jan 2021 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) used her 2021 New Year's Day speech Friday to praise Taiwan's successful response to the COVID-19 pandemic and to make the case for Taiwan's growing importance on the international stage.
'Electronic fence' nabs individuals breaching COVID-19 protocols CNA 01 Jan 2021 -- Five people in Taiwan who attended a New Year's Eve concert in violation of COVID-19 protocols were caught Thursday by a mobile phone-based "electronic fence" launched by Taiwan's health authorities.
The Army Command issued a press release stating that the media reported that "the M41D chariot arrived in Kinmen to replace the old one. There are doubts about the safety of the explosion." ROC MND 01 Jan 2021 -- In response to media reports that "M41D tanks arrived in Kinmen to replace old tanks, there are concerns about explosion safety." The Army Command stated today (1) that the content of the report does not match the facts. The replacement of the M41D tanks is based on the actual needs of the outer islands. , To be handed in after the completion of the whole vehicle inspection and strict testing.

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January 2021 - Taiwan Special Weapons News