September 2021 - Taiwan Special Weapons News

Taiwan reports seven new COVID-19 cases, zero deaths CNA 30 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan reported seven new COVID-19 cases on Thursday, all contracted overseas, and zero deaths from the disease for the third consecutive day, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan receives 656,000 doses of AstraZeneca vaccine CNA 30 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan took delivery of 656,000 doses of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine purchased from the vaccine maker on Thursday afternoon, the second batch of vaccines it received that day.
Taiwan receives 540,000 doses of BNT vaccine with customized labels CNA 30 Sep 2021 -- A shipment of 540,000 doses of Pfizer-BioNTech (BNT) COVID-19 vaccines arrived in Taiwan on Thursday, the first batch to be delivered with customized labels, after the labeling of the previous shipments caused political controversy.
Taiwan president, vice president receive second local COVID-19 vaccine shots CNA 30 Sep 2021 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) and Vice President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) both received a second shot of the domestically produced Medigen COVID-19 vaccine on Thursday morning, as part of the government's efforts to encourage people to take the locally-made jabs.
Taiwan reports 11 new COVID-19 cases, zero deaths CNA 29 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan on Wednesday reported 11 new COVID-19 cases, including an Indonesian national who has received over a dozen tests since May, and zero deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan facing 'political problems' in CPTPP bid: President Tsai CNA 29 Sep 2021 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) said Wednesday that Taiwan will have to overcome some "political problems" in its efforts to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), one of the world's largest free-trade groups.
Taiwan's participation in regional economic cooperation must be based on one-China principle: Taiwan Affairs Office Global Times 29 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan Affairs Office of State Council re-stressed that Taiwan's participation in regional economic cooperation must be based on the one-China principle, in response to the island's latest move of submitting application to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).
Mainland to resolutely curb DPP authority's attempts to collude with U.S.: spokesperson People's Daily 29 Sep 2021 -- The Chinese mainland is resolute to curb any attempts by Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authority to collude with the United States and seek "Taiwan independence", said a mainland spokesperson Wednesday.
Mainland commends KMT figures' positive remarks on cross-Strait relationship: spokesperson People's Daily 29 Sep 2021 -- A mainland spokesperson on Wednesday commended the positive remarks regarding the cross-Strait relationship made by prominent figures of the Chinese Kuomingtang (KMT) party.
Taiwan reports seven new COVID-19 cases, one new domestic infection CNA 28 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan reported seven new COVID-19 cases, all but one of them contracted overseas, and no deaths from the disease on Tuesday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
New round of AstraZeneca, Medigen vaccination to start Oct. 6 CNA 28 Sep 2021 -- A new round of COVID-19 vaccination during which people can receive their second shot of either the AstraZeneca or locally developed Medigen vaccine will begin on Oct. 6, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Tuesday.
13 of 15 diplomatic allies voice support for Taiwan at U.N. CNA 28 Sep 2021 -- Nicaragua's foreign minister has spoken up in support of Taiwan's inclusion in the United Nations system on the last day of the general debate Monday, the 13th and final diplomatic ally of Taiwan to do so at this year's U.N. General Assembly.
Taiwan reports nine new COVID-19 cases, one death CNA 27 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan on Monday reported nine new COVID-19 cases, all contracted overseas, and one death from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan eases COVID-19 restrictions at movie theaters, sports venues CNA 27 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan will ease some COVID-19 restrictions at movie theaters, sports venues, and train stations this week, and allow the reopening of more entertainment venues on Oct. 5 if the COVID-19 situation remains stable, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Monday.
Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines with customized label due this week CNA 27 Sep 2021 -- The first batch of Pfizer-BioNTech (BNT) COVID-19 vaccines with a label in traditional Chinese characters is scheduled to arrive in Taiwan this week, Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. founder Terry Gou (郭台銘) said Monday.
People eligible for 2nd AstraZeneca jab will need online appointment CNA 27 Sep 2021 -- People who are eligible to receive their second dose of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine will need to make their appointments online, rather than wait for notification from their local governments, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Monday.
Taipei eases COVID-19 restrictions on indoor dining CNA 27 Sep 2021 -- With the spread of coronavirus slowing, Taipei announced Monday that COVID-19 restrictions on indoor dining at restaurants will be eased, with people no longer having to be seated apart and divided by plastic partitions when eating with friends or family.
Taipei says needs long-range weapons to counter China Press TV 27 Sep 2021 -- Chinese Taipei's defense minister Chiu Kuo-cheng says the self-ruled island is in need of long-range weapons to properly deter mainland China.
Taiwan's military reverses course on conscript training CNA 27 Sep 2021 -- Conscripts in Taiwan will again be assigned to field military units across the country, including those on offshore islands, after concluding their basic training, the Ministry of National Defense (MND) said Monday.
New ejection seats for F-5E jets to be installed by 2022: Air Force CNA 27 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan will take delivery later this year of the first set of new ejection seats for its F-5 fighter jets, which will improve pilots' chances of survival if they have to eject from the aircraft, the country's Air Force said Monday.
British warship passing through Taiwan Strait CNA 27 Sep 2021 -- British Royal Navy warship HMS Richmond was passing through the Taiwan Strait on Monday morning, according to a tweet from the frigate.
British Warship Passes Through Taiwan Strait, Angering China Radio Free Asia 27 Sep 2021 -- China strongly condemned Monday the passage of a British frigate through the Taiwan Strait as the U.K. looks to bolster its presence in the Indo-Pacific.
UK warship's Taiwan Straits transit 'meaningless display of presence' Global Times 27 Sep 2021 -- Mirroring the US move in August, a UK warship from the HMS Queen Elizabeth carrier strike group sailed through the Taiwan Straits on Monday, showing its presence in a provocative manner. Chinese experts said the symbolic move will not bring the UK back to its former imperial glory, but only destroy peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits.
Chinese military opposes British warship's sailing through Taiwan Strait PLA Daily 27 Sep 2021 -- The British Royal Navy frigate HMS Richmond sailed through the Taiwan Strait on September 27 and openly hyped it up. The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) sent naval and air forces to track and monitor the British warship in the whole course, said Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesperson for the PLA Eastern Theater Command, in a written statement released on Monday.
'Evil intentions': China condemns UK after warship sails through Taiwan Strait Press TV 27 Sep 2021 -- China has accused Britain of an act of provocation in the Taiwan Strait after a British frigate sailed through the strategic waterway.
China Slams UK for Harbouring 'Evil Intentions' After British Warship Sails Through Taiwan Strait Sputnik 27 Sep 2021 -- Earlier on Monday, the official Twitter account of warship HMS Richmond posted a picture of the vessel navigating the contentious Taiwan Strait after "a busy period working with partners and allies in the East China Sea."
British Warship Plows Through Taiwan Strait Amid Beijing-Taipei Tensions Sputnik 27 Sep 2021 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping earlier called for more efforts to ensure peace and security in the Taiwan Strait, as a US Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer, the USS Barry, conducted what it stated was a "routine" transit through the sensitive waterway, in a mission implemented "in accordance with international law".
Taiwan reports eight new COVID-19 cases, zero deaths CNA 26 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan on Sunday reported eight new COVID-19 cases, all contracted overseas, and zero deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Slovakia-donated COVID-19 vaccines arrive in Taiwan CNA 26 Sep 2021 -- The 160,000 doses of the AstraZeneca (AZ) COVID-19 vaccine from Slovakia arrived in Taiwan on Sunday, and will be used in a planned rollout as second vaccination doses for people who have already received a first shot.
More people to receive their second dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine CNA 26 Sep 2021 -- People aged 52 or older and who received their first dose of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine before July 23 will be able to get their second dose after Sept. 29, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Sunday.
Five more allies voice support for Taiwan in U.N. General Assembly CNA 26 Sep 2021 -- Five more leaders of Taiwan's diplomatic allies have spoken up to support Taiwan's inclusion in the United Nations system at the U.N. General Assembly (UNGA) on Saturday, namely, St. Lucia, Eswatini, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Haiti and Tuvalu.
President Xi warns of 'complex, grim' situation with Chinese Taipei Press TV 26 Sep 2021 -- China's President Xi Jinping has warned that ties between Beijing and Chinese Taipei have been "complex and grim", calling on the self-ruled island's main opposition party to help seek "unification of the country."
Taiwan reports five new COVID-19 cases, no deaths CNA 25 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan reported five new COVID-19 cases, all of which were contracted overseas, and no deaths from the disease on Saturday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Another batch of Japan-donated COVID-19 vaccines arrives in Taiwan CNA 25 Sep 2021 -- A total of 500,000 doses of the AstraZeneca (AZ) COVID-19 vaccine from Japan arrived in Taiwan on Saturday, the fifth such donation made by Tokyo to Taipei so far.
Taiwan's F-16 aircraft experiences landing gear mishap CNA 25 Sep 2021 -- The landing gear of an F-16 fighter jet accidentally retracted during a routine pre-flight inspection on Thursday, causing slight damage to the aircraft but no injuries to personnel, Taiwan's Air Force Command Headquarters said Saturday.
Three allies urge Taiwan's inclusion in U.N. system CNA 25 Sep 2021 -- Paraguay, Belize, and Saint Kitts and Nevis, three of the 15 countries which have official diplomatic ties with Taiwan, voiced their support at the United Nations General Assembly on Friday for Taiwan's inclusion in the United Nations (U.N.) system.
Vaccine rollout just one factor in looking at lowering of COVID alert CNA 24 Sep 2021 -- The Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) will ease COVID-19 restrictions depending on the vaccine rollout and other factors, but lowering the current Level 2 alert will require more careful consideration, Health Minister Chen Shih-chung (陳時中) said Friday.
Slovakia to ship COVID vaccine donation to Taiwan; doses increased CNA 24 Sep 2021 -- Slovakia will donate an extra 150,000 doses of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine to Taiwan, up from the original pledge of 10,000, and will deliver the donation in one shipment on Saturday, according to the Central European country's Ministry of Economy.
U.S. House passes defense policy bill with Taiwan provisions CNA 24 Sep 2021 -- The United States House of Representatives passed its annual defense policy bill on Thursday, which includes recommendations for inviting Taiwan to the 2022 Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC) and enhancing cooperation between the U.S. National Guard and Taiwan.
Nauru president touts Taiwan's global record at U.N. General Assembly CNA 24 Sep 2021 -- Nauru President Lionel Aingimea said Thursday at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) that Taiwan has made exemplary contributions globally in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, including to his own country.
Two Chinese naval vessels reportedly spotted off Taiwan's east coast CNA 24 Sep 2021 -- Two military vessels from China were seen off the east of Taiwan, in the Pacific Ocean, over the past two days, a military source said Friday.
US defense authorization act only lip service for Taiwan's DPP, as mainland prepares for worst Global Times 24 Sep 2021 -- Media on the island of Taiwan cheerfully hyped up a "pro-Taiwan" move by the US on Friday after the US House of Representatives on Thursday approved the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the 2022 fiscal year which includes "defending" Taiwan island. Experts from the Chinese mainland said US politicians have sent the wrong signals to Taiwan secessionists, making them believe they have protection, despite the Taiwan-related content in the NDAA not being legally binding.
Taiwan DPP blasted over using CPTPP bid to seek secession Global Times 24 Sep 2021 -- The island of Taiwan's application for membership of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), about one week after the Chinese mainland's, was met with stern warnings from the Chinese central government on Thursday.
Mainland warns Taiwan's DPP against seeking "independence" under economy, trade pretext People's Daily 24 Sep 2021 -- The Chinese mainland resolutely opposes Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) seeking "independence" under the pretext of economic and trade activities, a Chinese mainland spokesperson said.
China opposes Taiwan region joining official agreement or organization People's Daily 24 Sep 2021 -- China firmly opposes official interactions between any country and the Taiwan region, and firmly rejects Taiwan's accession to any agreement or organization of official nature, a foreign ministry spokesperson said Thursday.
Taiwan reports nine new COVID-19 cases, zero deaths CNA 23 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan reported nine new COVID-19 cases, all of which were contracted overseas, and zero deaths from the disease on Thursday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Lithuania announces second vaccine donation to Taiwan CNA 23 Sep 2021 -- Lithuania announced on Wednesday that it will donate a second batch of 235,900 doses of AstraZeneca vaccine to Taiwan in a gesture that reflects warming ties between the two countries.
Taiwan's first-dose COVID-19 vaccination rate exceeds 50 percent CNA 23 Sep 2021 -- Over 50 percent of people in Taiwan have received the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, six months after the rollout began on March 22, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Thursday.
Taiwan eases quarantine rules for visitors from Peru, Bangladesh and Brazil CNA 23 Sep 2021 -- Visitors arriving in Taiwan from Peru, Bangladesh, and Brazil will no longer be required to quarantine at a government center from Sept. 25, and can instead choose to quarantine at hotels, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Thursday.
24 Chinese military planes enter Taiwan's ADIZ CNA 23 Sep 2021 -- A total of 24 Chinese military aircraft, including fighter jets, flew into Taiwan's southwestern air defense identification zone (ADIZ) in two separate sorties on Thursday, according to the Ministry of National Defense.
Marshall Islands leader urges U.N. to end 'shameful silence' in excluding Taiwan CNA 23 Sep 2021 -- The president of the Marshall Islands David Kabua on Wednesday urged the United Nations to put an end to the "shameful silence" targeting Taiwan in the U.N. system, on the second day of the General Debate of the U.N. General Assembly's 76th session in New York.
Taiwan DPP blasted over using CPTPP bid to seek secession Global Times 24 Sep 2021 -- The island of Taiwan's application for membership of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), about one week after the Chinese mainland's, was met with stern warnings from the Chinese central government on Thursday.
Taiwan reports seven new COVID-19 cases, third Delta variant death CNA 22 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan on Wednesday recorded seven new COVID-19 cases and one death from the disease, the third fatality in the country caused by the Delta variant of the coronavirus, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan begins rollout of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine CNA 22 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan began its rollout of the Pfizer-BioNTech (BNT) COVID-19 vaccine on Wednesday, with students in five cities and counties receiving their first dose.
Palau president calls on U.N. to include Taiwan CNA 22 Sep 2021 -- Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. on Tuesday urged the United Nations to allow Taiwan to participate in its system on the first day of the General Debate of the U.N. General Assembly's 76th session in New York.
Taiwan Applies to Join Trans-Pacific Free Trade Area, Days After China Radio Free Asia 22 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan on Wednesday applied to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), days after China put in its bid to join the 11-nation trade pact.
Taiwan is The Fifth-Best Place in The World For Online Freedom: Freedom House Report Radio Free Asia 22 Sep 2021 -- The democratic island of Taiwan has ranked fifth globally for online freedom, according to the latest annual report from the Washington-based watchdog Freedom House.
Proposal to Remove Chiang Kai-shek Statue in Taiwan Stirs Controversy VOA 22 Sep 2021 -- A cabinet-level commission in Taiwan has proposed removing a giant statue of its former president Chiang Kai-shek — the centerpiece of a memorial hall in Taipei dedicated to the military leader, who served as the island's president from 1949 until his death in 1975.
Taiwan records 5 new COVID-19 cases, lowers age for 2nd Moderna jab CNA 21 Sep 2021 -- The Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) on Tuesday reported five new COVID-19 cases in Taiwan and said it will soon drop the age for people who are eligible to receive their second dose of the Moderna vaccine.
Taiwan's first F-16V combat wing soon to be commissioned: source CNA 21 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan's first F-16V combat wing is expected to be commissioned into the Air Force in November, a military source told CNA on Tuesday.
Taiwan reports six new COVID-19 cases; some department stores closed CNA 20 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan reported six new COVID-19 cases on Monday, one of which led to the temporary shutdown of two department stores and a movie theater in Taipei, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
French senators to visit Taiwan despite Beijing's opposition: report CNA 20 Sep 2021 -- A delegation of French senators will visit Taiwan in early October, even though the announcement of such a trip drew the ire of Beijing earlier this year, the online French media outlet La Lettre A reported Monday.
Taiwan extends Level 2 COVID-19 alert to Oct. 4 CNA 19 Sep 2021 -- The current Level 2 COVID-19 alert has been extended for another two weeks to Oct. 4, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Sunday.
Taiwan reported 6 new COVID-19 cases, all imported CNA 18 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan reported six new COVID-19 cases -- all patients who contracted the virus overseas -- and no deaths from the disease on Saturday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan reported 6 new COVID-19 cases, all imported CNA 18 Sep 2021 -- The Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) has determined that a small cluster of COVID-19 infections involving EVA Airways pilots is under control, while another cluster linked to a preschool has likely also run its course.
CORONAVIRUS/2nd Medigen jab rollout to start early; flu vaccine coming soon CNA 18 Sep 2021 -- The second Medigen COVID-19 vaccine jab will start a few days early while the seasonal influenza vaccination program will be rolled out around Taiwan starting Oct. 1, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Saturday.
PLA conducts joint patrol and drills in southwest of Taiwan Island PLA Daily 18 Sep 2021 -- On September 17, the Chinese PLA Eastern Theater Command (ETC) sent its naval and air forces, including warships, airborne early warning (AEW) aircraft and bombers, to conduct the combined cordon and patrol, as well as realistic combat drills in the sea area and airspace to the southwest of the Taiwan Island, said Army Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesperson for the PLA Eastern Theater Command, in a written statement released on Saturday.
U.S. Navy ship sails through Taiwan Strait, 9th transit so far this year CNA 18 Sep 2021 -- A U.S. Navy ship sailed through the Taiwan Strait on Friday, marking the ninth time an American military vessel has transited through the strait after President Joe Biden took office in January.
Taiwan had full 'grasp' of China's military drill near SW coast: MND CNA 18 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan had a "thorough grasp" of China's military exercise in waters off the island's southwestern coast Friday, according to the country's Ministry of National Defense (MND).
PLA conducts combat exercise near Taiwan as US warship sails through the Straits Global Times 18 Sep 2021 -- The People's Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command on Saturday said it has dispatched naval and air forces to conduct joint patrols and combat exercises in the waters and airspace southwest of Taiwan after a US warship transited the Taiwan Straits to provoke China concerning its sovereignty over the island again on Friday.
"Taiwan independence" separatists will be held accountable: spokesperson People's Daily 18 Sep 2021 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Friday slammed separatists seeking "Taiwan independence," such as Joseph Wu, an official with Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authority, noting that they will eventually be held accountable for their words and actions.
DPP warned against seeking "Taiwan independence" by relying on external forces People's Daily 18 Sep 2021 -- The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authority's attempt to rely on external forces to seek "Taiwan independence" is doomed to fail, a Chinese mainland spokesperson said Friday.
Taiwan reports two new domestic COVID-19 cases, both in Taipei CNA 17 Sep 2021 -- The two new domestic COVID-19 cases reported on Friday were in Taipei but their sources of infection have not yet been identified, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
7th Fleet Destroyer Transits Taiwan Strait US Navy Press Release 17 Sep 2021 -- TAIWAN STRAIT -- The Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52) conducted a routine Taiwan Strait transit Sept. 17 (local time Taiwan) through international waters in accordance with international law. The ship's transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the U.S. commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. The United States military flies, sails, and operates anywhere international law allows.
Taiwan-made fighter jet drill marks the end of five-day wargames CNA 17 Sep 2021 -- A drill to test the counterstrike capabilities of the domestically-built Indigenous Defense Fighter (IDF) was held in Taichung Friday, marking the end of the five-day live-fire component of the Han Kuang exercises.
10 Chinese planes enter Taiwan's ADIZ as Han Kuang drills conclude CNA 17 Sep 2021 -- Ten Chinese military planes flew into Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Friday as Taiwan concluded its annual Han Kuang wargames held this week, according to the Ministry of National Defense.
Taiwan Welcomes AUKUS Pact, Calls For Stronger Ties With Democracies Radio Free Asia 17 Sep 2021 -- Officials and lawmakers in the democratic island of Taiwan have welcomed a trilateral security pact between the U.S., the U.K., and Australia that will help Canberra develop nuclear submarines, saying it hopes to continue to deepen its diplomatic ties with the U.S. and E.U.
Australia, U.S. express intention to enhance ties with Taiwan CNA 17 Sep 2021 -- The American and Australian governments on Thursday expressed support for Taiwan's participation in international organizations and said their countries intended to strengthen ties with Taiwan.
Taiwan urges EU to start preparations for possible trade agreement CNA 17 Sep 2021 -- The Taiwan government urged the European Union Friday to begin preparations for the possible signing of a Bilateral Investment Agreement (BIA), following the EU's pledge the previous day to seek a trade deal with Taiwan as part of a wider Indo-Pacific strategy.
New Taipei COVID-19 Delta cluster grows to 33 cases CNA 16 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan on Thursday confirmed two new domestic COVID-19 cases, one of which was linked to a cluster in New Taipei's Banqiao District, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan to receive 1.7 million Moderna, AZ vaccine doses Friday: CECC CNA 16 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan on Friday will take delivery of 1.08 million doses of Moderna and 640,000 doses of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines purchased directly from the two manufacturers, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan to donate COVID-19 medical devices to Japan CNA 16 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan will donate medical equipment to Japan in return for the COVID-19 vaccine donations Tokyo has sent to Taipei since early June, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said in a press statement Thursday.
Nationwide anti-landing drills held on Day 4 of annual wargames CNA 16 Sep 2021 -- Anti-landing drills were held at beaches across the country on Thursday during day four of the live-fire component of the Han Kuang exercises, to test the ability of local armed forces to repel an enemy invading by sea.
Cabinet approves special bill for domestic arms procurement CNA 16 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan's Cabinet on Thursday approved a draft defense bill that would authorize a special allocation of up to NT$240 billion (US$8.66 billion) for the purchase of indigenous weapons over a five-year period.
European Parliament voices support for EU-Taiwan investment agreement CNA 16 Sep 2021 -- The European Parliament adopted a resolution during a plenary session on Thursday in which it urged the European Union to negotiate a bilateral investment agreement (BIA) with Taiwan.
Mainland vows countermeasures against "Taiwan independence" moves People's Daily 16 Sep 2021 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday voiced resolute opposition to any attempt to seek "Taiwan independence" through so-called "constitutional amendments."
U.S. attempts to make issue out of Taiwan futile: mainland spokesperson People's Daily 16 Sep 2021 -- U.S. attempts to make an issue out of Taiwan so as to contain China would be futile, said a Chinese mainland spokesperson Wednesday, criticizing the United States' cold-war mentality and obsession with a zero-sum game.
New COVID-19 case with Delta visited Taipei, New Taipei, Taoyuan CNA 15 Sep 2021 -- The new domestic COVID-19 case reported on Wednesday, a cabin cleaner at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, has been confirmed to be infected with the Delta variant of the coronavirus and had been to a department store in Taipei before testing positive.
Colombia to include Taiwan COVID-19 vaccine in clinical trial CNA 15 Sep 2021 -- The Colombian government has announced an upcoming large-scale international clinical trial of coronavirus candidate vaccines sponsored by the World Health Organization (WHO) in the country, including a COVID-19 vaccine made by Taiwan-based Medigen Vaccine Biologics Corp.
Taiwan warplanes conduct first landing drill on provincial highway CNA 15 Sep 2021 -- A military aircraft emergency landing and take-off drill was held on a standard highway for the first time early Wednesday as part of Taiwan's major annual war games to test the ability of pilots and aircraft to land on the narrow road in the event airstrips are damaged by enemy forces.
Taiwanese Jets Land on Highway in Pineapple Field Amid Annual Drills on Defence Against China Sputnik 15 Sep 2021 -- The authorities on the island, claimed by China as a part of its territory but which maintains de-facto independence, have intensified contacts with the US in recent years, seeking to buy military equipment and weapons despite objections from Beijing.
Swiss lower house passes motion for deeper ties with Taiwan CNA 15 Sep 2021 -- The lower house of Switzerland's parliament, the National Council, has passed a motion calling for deeper relations with Taiwan, which in turn expressed its gratitude for the support.
Fanning flames: Taiwan's DPP authority to send trade delegation to Lithuania, Czech, Slovakia Global Times 15 Sep 2021 -- The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities on the island of Taiwan is scheduled to send a 65-person economic and trade delegation to Lithuania, Czech and Slovakia in October to "show ties between democratic friends," an obvious provocation and an attempt to "fan the flames" amid the current spat between Chinese mainland and Lithuania.
COVID cluster under control; no immediate plans to tighten rules: CECC CNA 14 Sep 2021 -- Two new COVID-19 cases were confirmed Tuesday in a cluster that has several Delta variant infections, but the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said the situation was under control and it had no immediate plans to tighten its disease-prevention restrictions.
Japan pledges 5th batch of vaccine donation to Taiwan -- 500,000 doses of AZ CNA 14 Sep 2021 -- The Japanese government on Tuesday pledged to donate another batch of 500,000 AstraZeneca brand of COVID-19 vaccine to Taiwan, bringing the total doses it has donated to nearly 4 million.
Han Kuang Tamsui River, critical infrastructure defense drills held CNA 14 Sep 2021 -- A second day of annual Han Kuang military exercises was held across Taiwan Tuesday, featuring anti-amphibious landing and critical infrastructure defense drills in the north and nighttime armored vehicle maneuvers in the east, to test Taiwan's ability to repel a Chinese invasion.
Mainland opposes DPP's move seeking to rename representative office in U.S. People's Daily 14 Sep 2021 -- The Chinese mainland resolutely opposes the development of official ties or the establishment of official entities between China's Taiwan region and countries that have diplomatic ties with China, a spokesperson said on Monday.
China warns U.S. against attempt to rename TECRO People's Daily 14 Sep 2021 -- China on Monday warned the United States against any attempt to elevate relations in essence or engage in official interactions with Taiwan, including allowing the change of the name of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) in the United States.
One new COVID-19 case confirmed in preschool cluster; total at 30 CNA 13 Sep 2021 -- One new COVID-19 case linked to a preschool and apartment complex in New Taipei was reported Monday, bringing the number of infections in the cluster to 30, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Han Kuang exercises begin with Air Force, Navy, biological warfare drills CNA 13 Sep 2021 -- The live-fire component of this year's annual Han Kuang military exercises, Taiwan's major war games involving all military branches, kicked off Monday morning and will run until late Friday to test the armed forces' capability to fend off a Chinese invasion.
Japan's defense chief highlights cross-strait peace in Vietnam CNA 13 Sep 2021 -- Japan's Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi highlighted the importance of peace in the Taiwan Strait and the key role Taiwan can play in the world, in a speech delivered in Vietnam on Sunday.
China lodges solemn representations with US over reports of considering renaming Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office Global Times 13 Sep 2021 -- China has lodged solemn representations with the US in response to media reports that the US govt is "seriously considering to change the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO)'s name to the "Taiwan Representative Office": Chinese FM.
Chinese Media Says US, Taiwan to Be Taught 'Lesson' if Taipei's Washington Diplomatic Office Renamed Sputnik 13 Sep 2021 -- The Taiwan issue has snowballed into one of the most acute sources of tension between China and the US in recent months, starting with Biden officials' decision to invite Taipei's de facto ambassador in Washington to the president's inauguration. Beijing considers the island an integral part of China.
Two new cases confirmed in New Taipei preschool cluster; total at 29 CNA 12 Sep 2021 -- Two new COVID-19 cases linked to a preschool and an apartment complex in New Taipei were reported Sunday, bringing the number of infections in the cluster to 29, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Latest cases in COVID-19 cluster took Taipei MRT, traveled to Beitou CNA 12 Sep 2021 -- Two people confirmed to have COVID-19 Sunday as the latest cases of a cluster in New Taipei had traveled on the Taipei MRT and had been to a clinic in Taoyuan and restaurants in Taipei's Beitou District prior to testing positive in quarantine, according to local government officials.
Recovery of China-US ties sees 'troublemaking from Taiwan island' Global Times 12 Sep 2021 -- On the same day when the top leaders of China and the US held a phone conversation, which brings some hopes for the recovery of the most important bilateral ties of the world, the Taiwan s separatist authorities sent two "senior officials" for sensitive and secret talks with US officials to push Washington to rename the island's representative office in Washington with the word "Taiwan" - a serious move to provoke the one-China principle and to encourage Taiwan secessionism.
Majority of COVID cases in preschool cluster are Delta variant: CECC CNA 11 Sep 2021 -- Eight more people in a cluster of COVID-19 cases in New Taipei were confirmed Saturday to be infected with the Delta variant of the virus, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan to roll out Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for adults on Sept. 25 CNA 11 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan will begin administering the Pfizer-BioNTech (BNT) COVID-19 vaccine to eligible adults on Sept. 25, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Saturday.
U.S. silent on Taiwan rep office name change, says ties 'rock solid' CNA 11 Sep 2021 -- The U.S. State Department on Friday did not confirm or deny a news report that said the U.S. was considering approving the change of the name of Taiwan's representative office in Washington D.C., but it reiterated its stance that ties with Taipei were "rock solid."
No new COVID-19 cases linked to preschool, EVA Air clusters CNA 10 Sep 2021 -- No new COVID-19 cases linked to a preschool cluster in New Taipei or cluster infection involving three EVA Airways pilots and one family member were reported Friday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
No new COVID-19 cases linked to preschool, EVA Air clusters CNA 10 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan received 458,000 doses of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine from the manufacturer Friday, its eighth delivery after having signed a deal for 10 million doses, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
China Scrambles Its J-16, Su-30 Fighter Jets to Repel US Spy Plane P-8 Near Taiwan - Video Sputnik 10 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan has been governed independently from mainland China since 1949. Beijing has urged the US to stop fuelling tensions in the region while interacting with Taiwan. On Friday, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said that the Taiwan question is the most important and sensitive issue in China-US relations.
Preschool cluster grows to 27 cases, infection source still unknown CNA 09 Sep 2021 -- Four more COVID-19 cases linked to a preschool and an apartment complex in New Taipei were reported Thursday, bringing the number of cases in the cluster to 27, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Second batch of BNT vaccine arrives in Taiwan CNA 09 Sep 2021 -- The second batch of some 910,000 doses of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines arrived in Taiwan early Thursday, after the delivery of the first batch of some 930,000 doses last week.
Taiwan Navy commissions new Tuo Chiang-class warship CNA 09 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan on Thursday commissioned a Tuo Chiang-class stealth multi-mission corvette, a new domestically built naval vessel equipped with modern weaponry and capable of making rapid strikes.
Taiwan's regional economic cooperation depends on one-China principle: spokesperson People's Daily 09 Sep 2021 -- The precondition for Taiwan's participation in regional economic cooperation is the one-China principle, said a mainland spokesperson Wednesday.
PLA warships sail in waters between Taiwan island, Japan Global Times 09 Sep 2021 -- A destroyer flotilla of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) reportedly sailed in the waters between the island of Taiwan and some islands of Japan in the past week. Chinese analysts said the move sent a warning to Japanese right-wing forces and Taiwan secessionists, at a time when the two have been colluding to sabotage peace and stability in the region.
CORONAVIRUS/Preschool cluster grows to 23 cases, 10 confirmed with Delta variant CNA 08 Sep 2021 -- Seven new COVID-19 cases related to a preschool in New Taipei were reported Wednesday, bringing the number of cases in the cluster to 23, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said, adding that 10 of these cases have been confirmed with the Delta variant of the coronavirus.
Taiwan has no immediate plans to raise COVID-19 alert: health minister CNA 08 Sep 2021 -- The Taiwan government does not plan to elevate the nationwide Level 2 COVID-19 alert at this time, despite a growing cluster of domestic infections in New Taipei, Health Minister Chen Shih-chung (陳時中) said Wednesday.
One-China principle underlined over Taiwan participation in regional economic cooperation People's Daily 08 Sep 2021 -- The Taiwan region's participation in regional economic cooperation must be handled in accordance with the one-China principle, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Tuesday.
DPP authority overestimates its strength: mainland spokesperson People's Daily 08 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authority overestimated its strength and attempted to make provocations internationally, a Chinese mainland spokesperson said Tuesday.
Taiwan reports 12 new COVID cases; preschool cluster grows to 15 CNA 07 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan on Tuesday reported 12 new COVID-19 cases -- eight transmitted domestically and four contracted overseas -- and zero deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Fourth batch of Japan-donated COVID-19 vaccines arrives in Taiwan CNA 07 Sep 2021 -- A total of 64,000 doses of the AstraZeneca (AZ) COVID-19 vaccine donated by Japan arrived in Taiwan on Tuesday afternoon, the fourth such donation made by Tokyo to Taipei so far.
4,800 students affected by class suspensions in Taipei, New Taipei CNA 07 Sep 2021 -- COVID-19 cases reported at a preschool and an elementary school have resulted in 4,800 students in Taipei and New Taipei being affected by class suspensions, according to officials in the two cities.
Taiwan extends Level 2 COVID alert, but eases train restrictions CNA 06 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan will extend its current Level 2 alert against COVID-19 to at least Sept. 20 as sporadic domestically transmitted cases with unknown causes continue to be reported, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Monday.
Taiwan reports 16 new COVID-19 cases, zero deaths CNA 06 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan on Monday reported 16 new COVID-19 cases -- nine transmitted domestically and seven contracted overseas -- and zero deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan warplanes to take part in highway landing drill: source CNA 06 Sep 2021 -- A scheduled military aircraft emergency takeoff and landing drill on a regular roadway will take place early in the morning on Sept. 15 and feature all three models of fighter jets in Taiwan's fleet, a military source told CNA on Monday.
PLA sends 19 aircraft near Taiwan island in routine drill Global Times 06 Sep 2021 -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) reportedly sent 19 aircraft, most of them fighter jets and bombers, near the island of Taiwan on Sunday in a move Chinese mainland analysts said was a part of a routine drill, which displayed the unshakable power gap between the PLA and the armed forces on the island despite Taiwan's recent military spending proposal targeting the PLA.
Taiwan reports six new COVID-19 cases, including kindergarten teacher CNA 05 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan on Sunday reported six new COVID-19 cases, including a kindergarten teacher who lives in New Taipei, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan receives 410,400 AstraZeneca vaccine jabs through COVAX CNA 05 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan received on Sunday a shipment of 410,400 doses of the AstraZeneca (AZ) COVID-19 vaccine, the third batch delivered through the COVAX global vaccine distribution program.
400,000 doses of AZ vaccine donated by Poland arrive in Taiwan CNA 05 Sep 2021 -- A total of 400,000 doses of the AstraZeneca (AZ) COVID-19 vaccine donated by Poland arrived in Taiwan on Sunday morning, making the central European country Taiwan's third-largest vaccine donor, after Japan and the United States.
Assad: Syria will stand by Lebanese people, support them on all levels Press TV 05 Sep 2021 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad says his country will continue to support crisis-hit Lebanon and stand with its people at all levels.
Taiwan to start building tank training facilities next year CNA 05 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan is set to start construction of two tank training facilities in Hsinchu County next year as it is scheduled to take delivery of 108 M1A2T Abrams tanks from the United States from 2024-2026, according to the Ministry of National Defense's (MND's) budget plan.
19 Chinese military planes enter Taiwan's ADIZ CNA 05 Sep 2021 -- A total of 19 Chinese military aircraft, including fighter jets, flew into Taiwan's southwestern air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Sunday, the fourth time this has taken place in September, according to the Ministry of National Defense.
Taiwan reports 1 new imported COVID-19 case, no domestic case CNA 04 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan reported one new imported case of COVID-19 on Saturday and no new domestic transmissions, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan donates 200 oxygen concentrators to COVID-plagued Malaysia CNA 04 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan donated 200 oxygen concentrators to Malaysia on Friday to help the nation cope with the current crisis its healthcare system is facing amidst a surge in COVID-19 cases.
Poland's donation of 400,000 COVID-19 vaccine doses en route to Taiwan CNA 04 Sep 2021 -- A flight carrying 400,000 doses of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine pledged by Poland has departed for Taiwan, the latter's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) confirmed Saturday evening, shortly after the Polish government announced the vaccine donation.
DPP authority slammed for seeking "Taiwan independence" People's Daily 04 Sep 2021 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Friday condemned Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authority for its continuous provocations in seeking "Taiwan independence."
With China More Assertive, Taiwan Mulls Bigger Defense Budget VOA 04 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan's Cabinet is proposing to increase the military budget next year to develop and buy modern hardware as Chinese ships and aircraft continue to encroach on the island's waters and airspace, keeping alive fears of a strike.
Six new COVID-19 cases Friday include 2 EVA Air pilots CNA 03 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan reported six new COVID-19 cases on Friday, including two EVA Air pilots who had recently contracted the disease overseas, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
COVID-19 restrictions tightened in Taoyuan amid worry over Delta cases CNA 03 Sep 2021 -- The Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Friday that more stringent COVID-19 prevention measures were being imposed in Taoyuan with immediate effect, as it had confirmed one case of the Delta variant there, with a possibility of others.
More book AstraZeneca shots; Japan to donate more jabs to Taiwan CNA 03 Sep 2021 -- Around 339,000 people in Taiwan had made appointments Friday for their first dose of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, within three hours after the bookings opened, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Japan to donate fourth batch of vaccines to Taiwan CNA 03 Sep 2021 -- The Japanese government will donate another batch of COVID-19 vaccines to Taiwan this month, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said Friday.
Taiwan reports 5 new COVID-19 cases and 1 uncounted death CNA 02 Sep 2021 -- The Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) on Thursday said Taiwan saw five new COVID-19 cases and one death from the disease involving a man in his 60s who died in late June but had not previously been included in the fatality.
Military conscripts to receive mandatory COVID-19 test: CECC CNA 02 Sep 2021 -- Military conscripts will have to take a COVID-19 test before reporting for duty, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Thursday.
Taiwan receives first batch of BNT vaccines CNA 02 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan received its first batch of 930,000 doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech (BNT) COVID-19 vaccine on Thursday, with a planned rollout to begin as early as mid-September.
Government to ask allies to voice support for Taiwan's U.N. inclusion CNA 02 Sep 2021 -- Taiwan's government will again ask its diplomatic allies to voice support for the inclusion of Taiwan in the United Nations, either by speaking up during the upcoming General Assembly or by sending letters to U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Thursday.
European Parliament passes report on enhancing Taiwan-EU relations CNA 02 Sep 2021 -- The European Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee on Wednesday passed a report and related amendments to enhance European Union-Taiwan relations, including a call on the EU to begin preparing for the possible signing of a Bilateral Investment Agreement (BIA) with Taiwan and to change the name of EU representative office in Taipei.
Chinese mission strongly opposes EU report on elevating 'political relations' with island of Taiwan Global Times 02 Sep 2021 -- Chinese Mission to the EU on Thursday expressed strong opposition to the European Parliament's Committee on Foreign Affairs' (AFET) adoption of the EU-Taiwan Political Relations and Cooperation report, which called for elevating "political relations" with the island of Taiwan.
China opposes EU lawmakers' push for 'closer' Taiwan ties Global Times 02 Sep 2021 -- Some members of the European Parliament are poisoning and abducting ties between China and the European Union, pushing for so-called closer ties between the bloc and the island of Taiwan, which the Chinese Foreign Ministry and Chinese Mission to the EU firmly opposed, and urged them to correct the wrong deeds.
Taiwan plans to start BioNTech vaccine rollout in mid-September CNA 01 Sep 2021 -- The rollout of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine in Taiwan can begin as early as mid-September, after the first shipment arrives in the country on Thursday, said Health Minister Chen Shih-chung (陳時中).
Taiwan reports six new COVID-19 cases; AZ appointment period extended CNA 01 Sep 2021 -- The Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) on Wednesday said that Taiwan reported six new cases of COVID-19, and that the period over which people aged 23-28 can receive the AstraZeneca vaccine will be extended.
Thousands of machine guns, mortars to be bought for reserve force CNA 01 Sep 2021 -- The proposed budget of Taiwan's military has allocated funds to buy thousands of new machine guns and mortars to be deployed by the nation's reserve force in coming years to boost its defense capabilities.
Japan's substantial military budget expansion caters to US request, to meet with China's retaliation once involving Taiwan island Global Times 01 Sep 2021 -- Japan's defense authority has requested a record budget for 2022, which experts viewed as a move against China and shows Japan's aggressiveness for future military expansion under the cover of cooperating with the US strategy and concerns of Taiwan Straits tensions.

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September 2021 - Taiwan Special Weapons News