March 2021 - Taiwan Special Weapons News

Taiwan confirms six new imported cases of COVID-19 CNA 31 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan on Wednesday confirmed six new imported cases of COVID-19 -- two from Indonesia and one each from the United States, Myanmar, Ethiopia and Bangladesh -- according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan to expand COVID-19 vaccination of medical workers next week CNA 31 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan's COVID-19 vaccination program will be expanded with effect from April 6 to include a wider category of medical workers, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Wednesday.
Taiwan to enter talks with Guam on 'travel bubble' deal CNA 31 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan and Guam are set to enter talks about the possibility of establishing a "travel bubble" together, the Tourism Bureau said Wednesday, the day before the inaugural flight operated under a similar initiative between Taiwan and Palau will depart from Taipei.
Taiwan to buy upgraded PAC-3 missiles, to be deployed by 2026 CNA 31 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan's military has decided to buy an upgraded version of the Patriot missile from the U.S. to counter China's growing threat against the country, according to a Ministry of National Defense (MND) report on Wednesday.
PLA aircraft again surround Taiwan in drills with US intervention on mind Global Times 30 Mar 2021 -- Warplanes of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) again surrounded the island of Taiwan from both west and east in an exercise on Monday after a similar drill on Friday, and this time additional aircraft crossed the Miyako Strait to reach Taiwan's eastern side.
Taiwan confirms one new COVID-19 case, vaccinations pass 10,000 CNA 30 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan on Tuesday confirmed one new imported case of COVID-19, while the number of people who have received their first shot of a COVID-19 vaccine has now surpassed 10,000, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Over 4,000 people enroll in Phase II trial of local COVID-19 vaccine CNA 30 Mar 2021 -- Over 4,000 people in Taiwan have enrolled in the second-stage clinical trial of a domestic COVID-19 vaccine, of whom around 3,700 have already received an injection, the vaccine's developer, Medigen Vaccine Biologics Corp. (MVC), announced Tuesday.
All Air Force planes except F-5s to resume flights soon CNA 30 Mar 2021 -- All Taiwan military aircraft, except for the F-5 fighter jets, will resume operations before the end of the month, after being grounded in the wake of a fatal crash last week, Air Force Chief of Staff Huang Chih-wei (黃志偉) said Tuesday.
Taiwan hints at Coast Guard alliance with U.S., Palau CNA 30 Mar 2021 -- A tripartite Coast Guard alliance between Taiwan, Palau and the United States is being formed, Foreign Minister Joseph Wu (吳釗燮) hinted Tuesday in the presence of American's top envoys in Taiwan and Palau.
French senators look to back Taiwan's international participation CNA 30 Mar 2021 -- Nearly 20 French senators, headed by French-Taiwan Friendship Group Chair Alain Richard, have put forth a proposal calling on the government to further support Taiwan's participation in the activities of international organizations.
Taiwan reports one new imported case of COVID-19 CNA 29 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan on Monday reported one new imported case of COVID-19, bringing the total number of cases in the country to 1,023, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
BNT vaccine deal becoming less likely: health minister CNA 29 Mar 2021 -- The possibility of signing a deal for Taiwan to buy COVID-19 vaccines developed by the American pharmaceutical company Pfizer and the German biotech firm BioNTech (BNT) is becoming increasingly slim, Health Minister Chen Chih-chung (陳時中) said Monday.
Chinese military planes enter Taiwan's ADIZ for 17th day in March CNA 29 Mar 2021 -- A total of 10 Chinese military aircraft entered Taiwan's southwest air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Monday, the 17th day on which such intrusions have occurred in March alone.
Pilot error main cause of military plane crashes: vice defense minister CNA 29 Mar 2021 -- Most of the military plane crashes in Taiwan in recent years have resulted from pilot error, Vice Defense Minister Chang Che-ping (張哲平) said Monday, adding that better training is required to prevent aircraft accidents.
Wary of Beijing, Taiwan Doubles Down on South China Sea Island VOA 29 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan's military has stepped up training of troops and added defensive weaponry on the contested South China Sea's biggest natural island to prepare for any attack by Beijing, analysts believe.
Taiwan adds 2 new imported COVID-19 cases CNA 28 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan reported Sunday two new imported cases of COVID-19, both from the the Philippines, bringing the total number of cases in the country to 1,022, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Palau president arrives in Taiwan to initiate 'travel bubble' CNA 28 Mar 2021 -- Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. arrived in Taiwan Sunday to initiate a Palau-Taiwan "travel bubble" that will allow people to travel between the two countries with fewer entry restrictions currently imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
PLA's largest near-Taiwan exercise features bombers to island's east, 'blocks foreign interventions' Global Times 29 Mar 2021 -- The warplane exercise by the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) near the island of Taiwan on Friday is not only the largest since the PLA started routine exercises in the region last year, but also a rare one that saw bombers flying to the eastern side of the island.
US Reportedly Concerned that China Is Ready to 'Flirt with the Idea of Unification' with Taiwan Sputnik 28 Mar 2021 -- Although the US does not officially challenge Beijing's position that Taiwan is part of China, Washington has been contacting Taipei directly and recently increased its navy activity in the Taiwan Strait under the pretext of ensuring free passage through it.
Four new serious adverse events reported in vaccine recipients CNA 27 Mar 2021 -- Thirteen new adverse events, including four serious ones, have been reported among the over 9,200 people who had received their first dose of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine in Taiwan, as of Friday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan reports 7 new imported COVID-19 cases CNA 27 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan on Saturday reported seven new imported COVID-19 cases from Indonesia, the United States and the Philippines, bringing the total to 1,020 since the pandemic began, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
U.S. lawmakers reintroduce Taiwan Relations Reinforcement Act CNA 27 Mar 2021 -- Two United States bipartisan lawmakers on Friday reintroduced the Taiwan Relations Reinforcement Act, which according to them, seeks to update U.S. policy toward Taiwan to better reflect U.S. values and the realities on the ground.
U.S. urges China to stop pressure against Taiwan CNA 27 Mar 2021 -- The U.S. State Department on Friday urged China to stop pressuring Taiwan, after nearly two dozen Chinese warplanes entered Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ) that day.
Taiwan joins WHO regional meeting, pledges US$250,000 to fight Ebola CNA 27 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan participated in a high-level meeting co-organized by the United States and regional offices of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Africa on Friday (U.S. time), and pledged US$250,000 to combat the resurgence of Ebola in Africa.
President Tsai urges China to respect human rights in Xinjiang CNA 27 Mar 2021 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) has urged Beijing to respect human rights as claims the Uighur minority in China's Xinjiang Autonomous Region are subjected to forced labor attracted international attention.
Taiwan reports one new imported case of COVID-19 CNA 26 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan on Friday reported one new imported case of COVID-19, bringing the total number of cases in the country to 1,013 since the pandemic began, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Coast guard cooperation signifies strong Taiwan-U.S. relations: FM CNA 26 Mar 2021 -- The signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Taiwan and the United States to establish a Coast Guard Working Group (CGWG) signifies the strong relations between the two countries, Taiwan's foreign minister said Friday.
U.S. House committee approves bill to back Taiwan's WHO bid CNA 26 Mar 2021 -- The Foreign Affairs Committee in the United States House of Representatives on Thursday approved a bipartisan bill that seeks to mandate U.S. assistance to Taiwan in its bid to regain observer status in the World Health Organization (WHO).
Taiwan, U.S. sign MOU to strengthen maritime cooperation CNA 26 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan and the United States on Thursday signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a Coast Guard Working Group (CGWG), with the aim of strengthening their maritime cooperation.
20 Chinese planes enter Taiwan's ADIZ after coast guard pact signed CNA 26 Mar 2021 -- A total of 20 Chinese military aircraft entered Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Friday, including bombers and fighter jets, after Taipei and Washington signed an accord to strengthen maritime cooperation.
Washington becoming proactive in face of China threats: analysts CNA 26 Mar 2021 -- The United States is becoming proactive in face of threats from China, according to political analysts in Taiwan, when asked on Friday to comment on President Joe Biden's remarks at his first press conference since taking the office on Jan. 20.
Taiwan Hits Out at Celebs Who Join Beijing's Global Fashion Boycott Radio Free Asia 26 Mar 2021 -- A-list actors and singers with a major slice of their fan base in mainland China have been lining up to sever ties with international fashion brands after they vowed to remove cotton sourced in Xinjiang -- which has been linked to mass incarceration, rights abuses and forced labor -- from their supply chains.
Taiwan confirms 3 new imported COVID-19 cases CNA 25 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan on Thursday confirmed three new imported cases of COVID-19 -- one from the United States and two from the Philippines -- bringing the total number of cases in the country to 1,012, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Mechanical failure might be cause of F-5E fighter crash last year: MND CNA 25 Mar 2021 -- The crash of a Taiwanese F-5E fighter plane off Taiwan's east coast in October 2020 that resulted in the death of a pilot might have been caused by mechanical problems, Air Force Chief of Staff Huang Chih-wei (黃志偉) said Thursday, citing a preliminary investigation report.
Taiwan mass produces long-range missile amid heightening tensions with China Press TV 25 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan has started mass producing and developing new long-range missiles amid growing tensions with China.
Over 3,000 people receive AstraZeneca vaccine in two days CNA 24 Mar 2021 -- Over 3,000 people in Taiwan received the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine in the first two days of the vaccine roll-out, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Wednesday.
Taiwan reports 2 new COVID-19 cases from Indonesia, Philippines CNA 24 Mar 2021 -- The Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) on Wednesday confirmed two new imported cases of COVID-19 -- one from Indonesia and one from the Philippines -- bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Taiwan to 1,009.
Special committee to be established to review COVID-19 vaccines purchase CNA 24 Mar 2021 -- Lawmakers across party lines on Wednesday agreed to set up a special legislative committee to review government data on the purchase of COVID-19 vaccines in response to a complaint by opposition parties that Taiwanese have been kept in the dark on the issue.
Chinese threat to invade Taiwan 'closer than most think': U.S. admiral CNA 24 Mar 2021 -- The threat of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan is "much closer to us than most think," Admiral John Aquilino, who has been nominated to lead the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, told senators Tuesday.
Another US admiral warns of China's invasion of Taiwan Press TV 24 Mar 2021 -- A top US admiral has claimed that China will attack Taiwan and that sooner than expected.
One new imported COVID-19 case; one non-SAE among vaccinated CNA 23 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan on Tuesday confirmed one imported case of COVID-19 from the Netherlands, according to the Central Command Center (CECC), which also reported one non-serious adverse event (SAE) among the more than 1,500 people who have received the AstraZeneca vaccine since vaccinations began the previous day.
Experts urge replacement of F-5E ejection seats in wake of crash CNA 23 Mar 2021 -- Taiwanese military experts said Tuesday that the ejection seats on the Air Force's F-5E fighters are of an outdated design and should be replaced, after a mid-air collision of two of the jets the previous day left one pilot dead and another missing.
U.S. bill proposed to add Taiwan to 'NATO Plus' group of states CNA 23 Mar 2021 -- U.S. Representative Scott Perry has proposed a bill in Congress to include Taiwan in the NATO plus five countries.
Taiwan blasts attempts at 'vaccine diplomacy' targeting Paraguay CNA 23 Mar 2021 -- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) on Tuesday condemned a reported threat by some Chinese businessmen in Paraguay willing to act as vaccine brokers that they would not do so unless the South American country cuts diplomatic relations with Taiwan.
Defense of Taiwan Vital to Regional, National Security, Admiral Says DoD News 23 Mar 2021 -- The Indo-Pacific is the most consequential region for America's future and remains the priority theater for the United States.
Premier, health minister receive first AstraZeneca jabs in Taiwan CNA 22 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan on Monday began administering the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, with Premier Su Tseng-chang (蘇貞昌) and Minister of Health and Welfare Chen Shih-chung (陳時中) receiving the first shots.
One pilot dead, another missing after two F-5Es collide mid-air CNA 22 Mar 2021 -- One pilot died and another remains missing after two F-5E fighter jets collided in mid-air off eastern Pingtung County during a training mission on Monday afternoon, according to Taiwan's Air Force.
Taiwan kicks off field exercises in Combat Preparedness Month CNA 22 Mar 2021 -- Troops from various military units in Taiwan were mobilized early Monday morning to begin field training exercises, as part of the country's Combat Preparedness Month.
Taiwan thanks Japan over support for cross-strait peace, stability CNA 22 Mar 2021 -- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) on Monday thanked Japan after Japanese media reported the nation's defense minister last week said Tokyo is studying the feasibility of helping the United States defend Taiwan in the event of a cross-Taiwan Strait crisis.
Taiwan mulls resumption of cross-strait travel ties: MAC CNA 22 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan's government is studying the possibility of gradually resuming travel between Taiwan and China, the Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) said Monday, urging Beijing to follow suit.
Palau president rejects Beijing, reaffirms ties with Taiwan CNA 22 Mar 2021 -- Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr., who is scheduled to visit Taiwan next week, told CNA on Monday that he has informed Beijing that Palau cherishes its relations with Taiwan and that no one should ask Palau to cut ties with Taipei.
Taiwan reports one new imported case of COVID-19 CNA 21 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan confirmed one new imported case of COVID-19 on Sunday, bringing the number of cases in the country to 1,006, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Defense report focuses on building far-strike capabilities CNA 21 Mar 2021 -- A military defense strategy report recently sent to lawmakers for review has made clear that building Taiwan's far-strike capabilities is the armed forces' top priority in the coming years.
Ex-Vice President Annette Lu unveils proposal on cross-strait ties CNA 21 Mar 2021 -- Former Vice President Annette Lu (呂秀蓮) on Sunday proposed a new initiative to break the impasse between China and Taiwan by using "one Chinese" to replace "one China" and "integration" to supersede "unification" of the two sides of the Taiwan Strait.
Premier, health minister among first in Taiwan to take AstraZeneca CNA 20 Mar 2021 -- Premier Su Tseng-chang (蘇貞昌) and Minister of Health and Welfare Chen Shih-chung (陳時中) will be among the first recipients of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine in Taiwan, an official from the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Saturday.
MAC call for 'constructive ambiguity' renews debate over '92 consensus CNA 20 Mar 2021 -- Debate in Taiwan over a decades-old cross-Taiwan Strait political understanding was revived this week after the government's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) called on Beijing to join it in seeking pragmatic solutions while avoiding issues that are likely to generate controversy.
Taiwan reports 6 new COVID-19 cases, breaks 1,000 mark CNA 19 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan on Thursday confirmed six new imported cases of COVID-19 -- three from the Philippines and one each from the United States, Paraguay and Indonesia, bringing the total number of cases in the country to 1,004, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan to begin administering AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine on Monday CNA 19 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan will start administering the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine to priority groups at 57 designated hospitals across the country on Monday, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) has announced.
Taiwan confirms 8 new imported COVID-19 cases CNA 18 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan on Thursday confirmed eight new imported cases of COVID-19 -- one from Oman, three from the Philippines and two each from Egypt and Vietnam -- bringing the total number of cases in the country to 998, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Navy holds mast-stepping ceremony for indigenous landing platform dock CNA 18 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan's Navy on Thursday held a mast-stepping ceremony for the nation's first indigenous landing platform dock (LPD) that is expected to enter into service next year to support amphibious operations and transport missions.
France defies Beijing over legislator's planned visit to Taiwan CNA 18 Mar 2021 -- French legislators have the freedom to travel wherever they wish, France's foreign ministry said Wednesday after news broke that China's ambassador in Paris had demanded that a French senator not visit Taiwan.
China warns US against sailing warships in Taiwan Strait Press TV 18 Mar 2021 -- China has warned the United States against sailing warships in the Taiwan Strait, which separates self-ruled Taiwan from mainland China.
AstraZeneca vaccines clear tests, administration could start Monday CNA 17 Mar 2021 -- The government aims to start administering the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine next Monday at the soonest after the drug cleared required testing Wednesday, according to Minister of Health and Welfare Chen Shih-chung (陳時中).
Taiwan-Palau travel bubble to start April 1: CECC CNA 17 Mar 2021 -- A much-anticipated travel bubble between Taiwan and its diplomatic ally Palau will start on April 1, the first of its kind in the Asia-Pacific region, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) announced Wednesday.
Taiwan denies giving part of COVID-19 vaccine purchase to Paraguay CNA 17 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan's government on Wednesday denied news reports it has pledged part of the COVID-19 vaccine it ordered from the United States to Paraguay, in an effort to keep the South American ally from switching to China.
More Taiwan compatriots on mainland to receive COVID-19 vaccines: spokesperson People's Daily 17 Mar 2021 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday said that relevant departments on the Chinese mainland are working on a policy to allow more Taiwan compatriots on the mainland to receive COVID-19 vaccines.
Taiwan Air Force completes upgrade of 42 F-16A/B fighter jets to F-16Vs CNA 17 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan has completed the upgrade of 42 of its 141 F-16A/Bs fighter jets to F-16Vs, which can "detect enemies earlier and have a longer striking range," Air Force Chief of Staff Huang Chih-wei (黃志偉) said Wednesday.
U.S. to raise concerns on China's aggression in high-level meeting CNA 17 Mar 2021 -- The U.S. administration will make clear its "deep concerns" about China's increasingly aggressive activities across the Taiwan Strait during an upcoming meeting between top U.S. and Chinese officials, a senior U.S. official said Tuesday.
Taiwan Boosts Military Presence in Disputed South China Sea as US Helps It Build Fleet of Submarines Sputnik 17 Mar 2021 -- The US repeatedly violated the self-adopted "One-China" policy under the administration of President Donald Trump, expanding contacts with the self-governing island in the sphere of defence, despite Beijing's protests. It appears that the approach has not changed under the new White House occupant.
Only a third of medical workers willing to get AstraZeneca vaccine CNA 16 Mar 2021 -- Only a third of medical workers at hospitals that treat COVID-19 patients in Taiwan are willing to get the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, according to preliminary results of a Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) survey.
U.S., Japan stress need for peace in Taiwan Strait CNA 16 Mar 2021 -- Top diplomats and defense chiefs from the United States and Japan issued a joint statement on Tuesday following the U.S.-Japan Security Consultative Committee meeting in which the need for maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait was among the topics addressed.
Taiwan condemns Chinese ambassador to France for bullying letter CNA 16 Mar 2021 -- Officials in Taiwan on Tuesday condemned Beijing's attempt to stop a French legislator from visiting Taiwan this summer, saying the China's "Wolf Warrior" diplomacy was unacceptable.
Chinese envoy's letter to French senator over Taiwan island trip plan a 'measured heads-up' Global Times 16 Mar 2021 -- A letter from Chinese Ambassador to France Lu Shaye to French Senator Alain Richard, who is planning to visit the island of Taiwan in the summer, was a "measured heads-up," Chinese observers said, noting the French politician is taking an opportunistic path to challenge the bottom line of China's sovereign integrity concerning the island for the sake of individual interests and at the cost to overall friendly China-France ties.
Taiwan reports five new imported COVID-19 cases CNA 15 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan on Monday confirmed five new imported cases of COVID-19, including a Taiwanese fugitive who tested positive after being arrested in the Philippines and sent back, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan COVID-19 drug gets positive review, clinical trials to advance CNA 15 Mar 2021 -- Taiwanese drug developer Senhwa Biosciences said Sunday that its investigational drug for the treatment of severe COVID-19 infections has received positive reviews from an independent monitoring group in the United States, and its clinical trials can go forward.
Taiwan confirms one new imported COVID-19 case CNA 14 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan confirmed one new imported case of COVID-19 on Sunday from South Africa, bringing the total number of cases in the country to 985, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said.
Taiwan confirms 6 new imported COVID-16 cases from 4 nations CNA 12 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan on Friday confirmed six new imported cases of COVID-19 -- three from the Philippines and one each from the United States, France and the United Kingdom -- according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Local testing on AstraZeneca vaccines likely complete by March 17: CECC CNA 12 Mar 2021 -- Testing on the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine doses that Taiwan received last week is expected to be completed by March 17, after which the vaccines could start being administered in a matter of days, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Friday.
U.S.-China meeting expected to touch on Taiwan: State Department CNA 12 Mar 2021 -- The upcoming meeting between senior officials of the United States and China is expected to touch on a range of "difficult" issues, including Taiwan, the U.S. State Department said Thursday.
China's Coast Guard could start harassing Taiwan soon: analyst CNA 12 Mar 2021 -- China's Coast Guard vessels could soon join People's Liberation Army's warplanes in harassing Taiwan now that China's Coast Guard Law is in effect, an analyst in Taiwan warned Friday at a forum on the possible effects of the controversial law.
Stability Beijing's focus as Xi seeks re-election: analysts CNA 12 Mar 2021 -- China's government is likely to focus its efforts in 2021 on pursuing stability internally and externally, as Chinese leader Xi Jinping (習近平) seeks a third term as chief of the Chinese Communist Party next year, analysts in Taiwan said Friday.
Taiwan 1st potential target of Chinese aggression: U.S. commander CNA 11 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan could be the first potential target of Chinese military aggression in the next five to 10 years, a top U.S. military commander said on Wednesday.
Chinese military denounces US destroyer's provocation in Taiwan Strait PLA Daily 11 Mar 2021 -- "The US guided-missile destroyer USS John Finn (DDG-113) sailed through the Taiwan Strait on March 10 to hype the so-called 'freedom of navigation'. China is firmly opposed to it," said Air Force Senior Colonel Zhang Chunhui, spokesperson for the Chinese PLA Eastern Theater Command, in a written statement on Thursday.
7th Fleet Destroyer transits Taiwan Strait US Navy Press Release 11 Mar 2021 -- The ship's transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the U.S. commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. The United States military will continue to fly, sail, and operate anywhere international law allows.
Third US warship under Biden sails through Taiwan Strait Press TV 11 Mar 2021 -- A US warship has sailed through the strategically-sensitive Taiwan Strait, which separates self-ruled Taiwan from mainland China, the US navy says, a day after a top American commander warned of an alleged threat to Taiwan from China "in the next six years."
Biden Sends Missile-Armed Warship Into Taiwan Strait After Admiral Claims Beijing May Invade Island Sputnik 11 Mar 2021 -- US-China tensions over Taiwan, the island territory which Beijing considers to be a renegade province of the People's Republic, began escalating shortly after Joe Biden's inauguration in January, with both countries deploying naval and air power to the area in shows of force.
U.S. warship transits Taiwan Strait, third under Biden administration CNA 11 Mar 2021 -- A U.S. Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer transited through the Taiwan Strait on Thursday, the third by a U.S. battleship since President Joe Biden assumed office in January.
Blinken committed to trade talks, Taiwan's inclusion at U.S. summit CNA 11 Mar 2021 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday said he is committed to pushing the administration of President Joe Biden to begin talks on free trade agreement negotiations with Taiwan, and for the latter to be invited to the Summit for Democracy, which the U.S. will likely host later this year.
U.S. legislators reintroduce Taiwan Fellowship Act CNA 11 Mar 2021 -- Members of the U.S. Congress on Wednesday reintroduced the Taiwan Fellowship Act, which would establish a program allowing U.S. federal government employees to study and work in Taiwan for up to two years.
U.S., Taiwan launch disaster preparedness cooperation CNA 11 Mar 2021 -- The United States and Taiwan issued a joint statement on Thursday on partnership on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), reaffirming their dedication to humanitarian assistance and disaster preparedness.
Taiwan protests its depiction by U.N. agency as part of China CNA 11 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan's representative office in New York has lodged a protest with the United Nations over a map published by one of its agencies which shows Taiwan as part of China.
Taiwan one step away from AstraZeneca vaccine distribution: CECC CNA 10 Mar 2021 -- The AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine doses that Taiwan received last week have to pass just one more test, as required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), before distribution can begin, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Wednesday.
Taiwan confirms one new imported COVID-19 case from Philippines CNA 10 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan on Wednesday reported one new imported case of COVID-19 involving a migrant worker from the Philippines, bringing the number of cases in the country to 978, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
CECC announces criteria for early release from hospital quarantine CNA 10 Mar 2021 -- From Thursday, people who test positive for COVID-19 after arriving in Taiwan but are asymptomatic will be eligible for early release from hospital quarantine if they meet certain criteria, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Wednesday.
China's behavior to dictate US relations with Taipei, Beijing: Pompeo CNA 10 Mar 2021 -- Former United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has warned of the ongoing threat posed by China to the rest of the world, and put the onus for the U.S.' future relations with Taiwan and China on the behavior of the Chinese Communist Party.
Beijing Blasts US for Using Taiwan Issue to 'Hype Up' China's Military Threat Sputnik 10 Mar 2021 -- In late February, the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) lashed out at the US destroyer Curtis Wilbur passing through the Taiwan Strait, in a move that the PLA said undermines the region's "peace and stability".
China's threats toward Taiwan could manifest in 6 years: U.S. CNA 10 Mar 2021 -- China's threats toward Taiwan could manifest in the next six years as China seeks to supplant the U.S. leadership role in the international order, a top U.S. military commander said on Tuesday.
Top US commander claims China may attack Taiwan in next six years Press TV 10 Mar 2021 -- A top US commander says China could invade Taiwan within the next six years as part of its plan to take Washington's world leadership role by 2050.
One new imported COVID-19 case confirmed in Taiwan CNA 09 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan on Tuesday reported one new imported case of COVID-19, bringing the number of cases in the country to 977, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
More than 75% of Taiwanese will refuse Chinese COVID-19 vaccine CNA 09 Mar 2021 -- More than 75 percent of Taiwanese recently surveyed said they would be unwilling to take COVID-19 vaccines developed by Chinese companies, while a further 60 percent said they believe the government should not open Taiwan's doors to Chinese vaccines, according to the results of a survey released on Tuesday.
Discussions on Taiwan-Palau travel bubble to conclude soon CNA 09 Mar 2021 -- Discussions on establishing a "travel bubble" between Taiwan and Palau are expected to conclude before the end of the month, a high-level official from Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Tuesday, confirming an earlier exclusive report from CNA.
White House reaffirms support for Taiwan amid China's threat CNA 09 Mar 2021 -- The White House on Monday ignored China's threats on Taiwan, saying that its position on Taiwan remains unchanged and that Washington will continue to support the island by contributing to its self-defense capabilities.
Two Sessions release clearer signals for promoting reunification with Taiwan Global Times 09 Mar 2021 -- During the ongoing two sessions, China's most important annual political event, the Chinese mainland released a clear signal to actively promote reunification with the island of Taiwan, and experts from both the mainland and Taiwan said that the peaceful reunification needs the efforts from both sides of the Taiwan Straits, but due to Taiwan secessionists and US interference, the mainland would have no choice, and must push the process with non-peaceful efforts, including a military one.
Beijing Urges US to Cease Support for Pro-Taiwan Independence Forces, Arms Sales to Island Sputnik 09 Mar 2021 -- China has made strong appeals to the United States to refrain from sending false signals to the pro-Taiwan independence forces and stop selling arms to the island, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said on Tuesday, commenting on the recent statement by Washington on the matter.
White House: US Stance on Taiwan Remains the Same VOA 08 Mar 2021 -- The administration of President Joe Biden is brushing off a fresh warning from China that is calling for a change of policy toward Taiwan.
Taiwan confirms 7 new imported COVID-19 cases CNA 08 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan on Monday confirmed seven new imported cases of COVID-19 -- one from the Philippines and two each from Paraguay, the United Kingdom, and Indonesia -- according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
No force can stop China from achieving reunification: Spokesperson PLA Daily 08 Mar 2021 -- The complete reunification and national rejuvenation of China will surely be achieved, it is a historical trend that cannot be stopped by anyone or any force, said Senior Colonel Wu Qian, spokesperson for the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and People's Armed Police (PAP) delegation to the 4th session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC), in a media interview on Sunday. "
Two Sessions release clearer signals for promoting reunification with Taiwan Global Times 09 Mar 2021 -- During the ongoing two sessions, China's most important annual political event, the Chinese mainland released a clear signal to actively promote reunification with the island of Taiwan, and experts from both the mainland and Taiwan said that the peaceful reunification needs the efforts from both sides of the Taiwan Straits, but due to Taiwan secessionists and US interference, the mainland would have no choice, and must push the process with non-peaceful efforts, including a military one.
Taiwan, Palau mulling COVID-19 rapid testing to facilitate travel bubble CNA 07 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan and Palau are considering a COVID-19 rapid testing protocol for travelers from Taiwan, as they prepare to establish a "travel bubble," a medical expert said Sunday.
Taiwan reports two new imported COVID-19 cases CNA 07 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan on Sunday confirmed two new imported cases of COVID-19, one each from India and the Philippines, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Two officers to attend military mapping exchange meeting in U.S. CNA 07 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan's military plans to send two representatives to the United States to attend an annual meeting on bilateral exchanges of military mapping and geospatial information, which has been tentatively scheduled for August, a military source said Sunday.
Taiwan reports 10th COVID-19 death, 7 new imported cases CNA 06 Mar 2021 -- A Taiwanese man in his 60s has died of COVID-19 -- the country's 10th fatality from the disease -- while seven new imported cases were reported Saturday, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said.
China's vaccine diplomacy may squeeze Taiwan's internationally: analyst CNA 06 Mar 2021 -- China's "vaccine diplomacy," which has become central to its foreign policy in 2021, may hamper Taiwan's efforts to build relations with developing countries, according to an expert at a think tank in Taipei.
Taiwan COVID-19 vaccines could enter mass-production in July: minister CNA 05 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan's domestically developed COVID-19 vaccines could start mass production in July, but only if they successfully complete ongoing clinical trials, Health and Welfare Minister Chen Shih-chung (陳時中) said Friday.
Taiwan 'Will Defend Its Sovereignty' Against China's Ambitions Radio Free Asia 05 Mar 2021 -- The democratic island of Taiwan on Friday vowed to defend its national sovereignty as China said it would step up exchanges in a bid to involve the nation of 23 million people -- most of whom have no wish to be ruled by Beijing -- in its plan for "national rejuvenation."
World Semiconductor Shortage Raises Taiwan's Bargaining Power with US VOA 05 Mar 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden's order to secure semiconductor supply chains for high-tech hardware production offers a commercial boost to Taiwan, one of the world's biggest providers of chips, and gives Taipei new weight in any free-trade talks, analysts say.
'Pursuing stability' Beijing's focus on cross-strait issue: scholar CNA 05 Mar 2021 -- China will continue to adopt a policy of "pursing stability" on issues concerning its relations with Taiwan, a Taiwanese scholar in East Asia studies said Friday when commenting on the Taiwan affairs section of the Chinese government's latest work report.
Changes in govt work report on Taiwan show tougher line for 'national reunification' Global Times 05 Mar 2021 -- The Chinese mainland will keep consistency of its policies toward Taiwan, as seen from this year's government work report delivered by Premier Li Keqiang on Friday, however, some changes in the wording in the highly anticipated annual report, tougher compared with last year's, were seen as reflecting possible policy adjustments.
China vows to 'resolutely deter' separatist activity in Taiwan Press TV 05 Mar 2021 -- China says it will resolutely deter any separatist activity in Taiwan but is committed to promoting the peaceful growth of relations across the Taiwan Strait.
China urges Lithuania to adhere to one-China principle: FM Global Times 05 Mar 2021 -- China firmly opposes the mutual establishment of official agencies and official exchanges in all forms between the Taiwan region and countries having diplomatic relations with China including Lithuania, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on Thursday in response to Lithuania's plan to open a trade representation office in the island of Taiwan.
COVID-19 vaccine unlikely to be available within 7 days: CECC CNA 04 Mar 2021 -- The COVID-19 vaccine that arrived in Taiwan on Wednesday will not be distributed within seven days, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reiterated Thursday.
Taiwan confirms two new imported COVID-19 cases CNA 04 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan on Thursday confirmed two new imported cases of COVID-19, one each from Nigeria and the Philippines, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Biden gives support for Taiwan in national security guidance CNA 04 Mar 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden issued an interim guidance on Wednesday outlining his national security priorities, which include the country's continued support for Taiwan.
Japan supports Taiwan's participation in WHO meetings: PM CNA 04 Mar 2021 -- Japan's Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Thursday expressed his government's support for Taiwan's participation at the World Health Organization (WHO).
Mainland spokesperson cautions Taiwan political parties against irrational thinking Global Times 04 Mar 2021 -- A mainland spokesperson Wednesday cautioned relevant political parties and personnel in Taiwan against the populist trap of irrational and confrontational thinking.
CECC confirms receipt of 117,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine CNA 03 Mar 2021 -- A total of 117,000 doses of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine have arrived in Taiwan and will first be administered to health care workers who have direct contact with COVID-19 patients, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Wednesday.
Taiwan reports 3 new imported COVID-19 cases, from 3 nations CNA 03 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan on Wednesday recorded three new imported cases of COVID-19 from Canada, the United States and Poland, bringing the total number of cases in the country to 958, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said.
First batch of COVID-19 vaccines arrives in Taiwan CNA 03 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan has received its first batch of COVID-19 vaccines from the COVAX allocation program, airport sources have told CNA.
New trainer jets to enter operational test phase CNA 02 Mar 2021 -- Taiwan's new indigenous advanced jet trainer (AJT) has recently completed internal flight tests and will soon enter the operational test phase with the help of Taiwan's Air Force to make sure the trainer meets its needs, its manufacturer said Tuesday.
Taiwan stages live-fire drill on island in South China Sea CNA 01 Mar 2021 -- The Coast Guard Administration (CGA) was scheduled to hold a round of live-fire exercises on the Taiwan-held Pratas (Dongsha) Islands in the South China Sea on Monday amid rising tensions in the region.

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March 2021 - Taiwan Special Weapons News