February 2023 - Taiwan Special Weapons News

Taiwan reports 10,120 new COVID cases; mask rules to be reviewed in April CNA 28 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reported 10,120 new cases of COVID-19 and 40 deaths from the disease on Tuesday.
China Protests Flight of US Warplane Over Taiwan Strait VOA 28 Feb 2023 -- China says the fight of a U.S. military plane over the Taiwan Strait Monday "endangered peace and stability" in the region.
Chinese FM refutes Blinken's 'irresponsible, ridiculous' comment on Taiwan question Global Times 28 Feb 2023 -- As the US continues hyping the Taiwan question as a potential "flashpoint" in the Indo-Pacific region, China's Foreign Ministry firmly refuted the erroneous remarks made by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken over the Taiwan question, calling them extremely irresponsible and ridiculous and urging Blinken to seriously heed the lesson of history on the issue.
Beijing Puts Taiwan Reunification Plans 'On Fast Development Track', Chinese Lawmaker Says Sputnik 28 Feb 2023 -- Following an "extraordinary year" in cross-strait relations, the People's Republic of China (PRC) is reportedly stepping up its efforts to bring Taiwan back into its orbit, a Chinese lawmaker has said. The island has remained autonomous from Beijing since 1949, thanks to foreign backers like the United States.
Beijing Accuses Washington of Jeopardizing Peace in Taiwan Strait After US Spy Plane's Flyover Sputnik 28 Feb 2023 -- Tensions between China and Taiwan escalated last year following an array of trips to the island by US and European officials. China, which sees the island as its breakaway province, criticized the visits as a show of support for Taiwanese separatism.
China's Strategic Forces in 'Dangerous Position' Near Taiwan, Says US Army Pacific Chief Sputnik 28 Feb 2023 -- China has already deployed major strategic rapid strike and rocket forces near the island of Taiwan and they are in a "dangerous position," Indo-Pacific Land Forces Commander Gen. Charles Flynn told a meeting at the American Enterprise Institute.
No 'imminent' threat of China invading Taiwan: U.S. Army secretary CNA 28 Feb 2023 -- A senior U.S. defense official and the U.S. Army's commanding officer in the Pacific have downplayed the possibility of China imminently attempting to invade Taiwan, citing the risks and complexity of such an operation.
China: US fly-through endangered peace, stability in Taiwan Strait Press TV 28 Feb 2023 -- China has slammed the United States for endangering peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait after a US military plane flew through the sensitive waterway.
Philippine Coast Guard joins search for missing Taiwanese fishing boat Radio Free Asia 27 Feb 2023 -- The Philippines deployed search-and-rescue teams Monday to help look for a missing Taiwan-flagged fishing boat with a crew of one Taiwanese and five Indonesians, the coast guard said.
American naval aircraft makes rare Taiwan Strait transit CNA 27 Feb 2023 -- An American naval aircraft on Monday made a rare transit through the Taiwan Strait, a flight the United States Navy said showed Washington's "commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific."
PLA keeps US spy plane's 'trouble-stirring' Taiwan Straits transit under close watch Global Times 27 Feb 2023 -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) kept a US spy plane under close watch when the latter flew through the Taiwan Straits on Monday, which experts said again showed that the PLA has the full control of the region and the US' move is just another provocation aimed at stirring up troubles.
US Warns of Massive Chinese Cyberattacks in Taiwan Scenario VOA 27 Feb 2023 -- Any Chinese invasion of Taiwan will likely be accompanied by massive cyberattacks against the West and against the United States, according to a top U.S. cybersecurity official.
Taiwan sees under 10,000 new COVID-19 cases for first time over 300 days CNA 27 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan on Monday had its first day with fewer than 10,000 new COVID-19 cases in over 300 days, reporting 7,745 new infections and 44 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan reports 13,090 new COVID-19 cases, 46 deaths CNA 26 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan on Sunday reported 13,090 new cases of COVID-19 and 46 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
MND proposes stiffer penalties for wartime misinformation CNA 26 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) has proposed revisions to existing laws that would set or increase penalties for spreading misinformation and failing to comply with mobilization or requisition orders during wartime.
CIA Director Says Military Conflict Over Taiwan Not Inevitable Sputnik 26 Feb 2023 -- CIA Director William Burns said Sunday that a military conflict over Taiwan was not inevitable, although he claimed that Chinese President Xi Jinping was serious about taking it under full control.
1992 Consensus, policy of "one country, two systems" two concepts: mainland spokesperson People's Daily 25 Feb 2023 -- The 1992 Consensus and the policy of "one country, two systems" are two concepts, a Chinese mainland spokesperson said on Friday.
Taiwan surpasses 10 million COVID-19 case threshold CNA 25 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan on Saturday reported 13,526 new cases of COVID-19, which pushed the total number of those infected by the disease since the start of the pandemic to over 10 million, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
MOFA dismisses speculation about planned U.S. visit by president CNA 25 Feb 2023 -- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) dismissed speculation on Saturday that President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) will soon visit the United States and give a speech at an American academic institution.
Taiwan reports 13,440 new COVID-19 cases, 56 deaths CNA 24 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan on Friday reported 13,440 new cases of COVID-19, all but 303 of which were domestic, and 56 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
President Tsai praises Ukraine for defending democracy, freedom CNA 24 Feb 2023 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) on Friday praised the gallant people of Ukraine for standing up to the Russian invasion and defending their country's freedom and democracy.
Experts discuss lessons of Russia's war in Ukraine for Taiwan, China CNA 24 Feb 2023 -- To commemorate one year since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, an academic forum examined the implications of the war for Taiwan and China on Friday, including the geopolitical impact.
Ex-Army colonel who spied for China sentenced to 7.5 years in prison CNA 24 Feb 2023 -- The Taiwan Kaohsiung District Court said Friday it had handed down a seven-and-a-half-year prison sentence to a retired Army colonel found guilty of corruption for taking money to provide information to China.
Military detects balloon of unknown origin in northern Taiwan CNA 24 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan's military detected a balloon in the north of the country on Friday, the Air Force said in a statement, without indicating whether the balloon came from China.
Experts weigh in on rumored increase of U.S. troops in Taiwan CNA 24 Feb 2023 -- A reported plan by the United States to increase the number of troop it stations in Taiwan suggests "quasi-recognition" by the U.S. of Taiwan's sovereignty and international standing, a military expert said on Friday.
US to deploy more troops to Taiwan to train local army Radio Free Asia 24 Feb 2023 -- The Pentagon plans to quadruple the number of American troops in Taiwan and Taipei is to send a combined arms battalion to the United States, both for training purposes in the face of a growing threat from China, according to media reports.
PLA to resolutely smash any "Taiwan independence" secessionist moves and foreign interference: Defense Spokesperson PLA Daily 23 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan is part of China, and the Taiwan question is an internal affair that the Chinese people will resolve on their own at their own discretion, without brooking any foreign interference, stressed Senior Colonel Tan Kefei, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense, at a regular press conference on Thursday.
White House reiterates support for Taiwan amid troop increase report CNA 24 Feb 2023 -- The White House on Thursday reiterated its support for Taiwan in response to a report that the Pentagon will expand the number of U.S. troops in Taiwan to train local forces against the threat from China.
Taiwan reports 14,387 new COVID-19 cases, 37 deaths CNA 23 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan on Thursday reported 14,387 new cases of COVID-19 and 37 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Government confirms chair of U.S. new China committee visited Taiwan CNA 23 Feb 2023 -- U.S. Representative Mike Gallagher, chair of a new House select committee on China, met with President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) and Vice President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) in Taipei last week, a government spokesperson confirmed Thursday.
US plans to drastically boost troop deployment to Chinese Taipei: Reports Press TV 23 Feb 2023 -- The United States plans to drastically boost the number of American military troops deployed in Chinese Taipei (Taiwan), at a time of heightened tensions between Washington and in defiance of China's warning against such deployments to the self-ruled island, according to reports.
US, Taiwan Officials Conclude Substantial Talks on Security Issues VOA 22 Feb 2023 -- Senior officials from the United States and Taiwan have concluded discussions on a range of "security and diplomatic" issues, including the situation across the Taiwan Strait, tensions between the U.S. and China amid Russia's invasion in Ukraine, high-level visits between Washington and Taipei, and Taiwan's outreach to European nations that also face threats from Russia, a diplomatic source told VOA on Wednesday.
Taiwan reports 16,484 new COVID-19 cases, 64 deaths CNA 22 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan on Wednesday reported 16,484 new cases of COVID-19 and 64 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Chinese mainland pledges utmost efforts to facilitate cross-Strait exchanges People's Daily 23 Feb 2023 -- The Chinese mainland will make utmost efforts to facilitate exchanges across the Taiwan Strait and reduce the costs of such activities, said a mainland spokesperson on Wednesday.
DPP slammed for obstructing mainland delegation's Taiwan mourning trip People's Daily 23 Feb 2023 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday slammed Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities for deliberately obstructing a Chinese mainland delegation from going to the island to mourn Master Hsing Yun.
Cross-Strait talks to resume once Taiwan side confirms 1992 Consensus People's Daily 23 Feb 2023 -- The cross-Strait consultation and contact mechanism between the mainland-based Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS) and Taiwan's Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) will be resumed once the SEF, upon due authorization, confirms adherence to the 1992 Consensus that embodies the one-China principle, a Chinese mainland spokesperson said Wednesday.
Taiwan's plan to send battalion to U.S. shows progress in exchanges CNA 22 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan's reported plan to send a combined arms battalion to the United States for training in the second half of this year shows the two countries are significantly bolstering military exchanges, military experts said Wednesday.
Publicly 'announced' Taiwan-U.S. security meeting significant: experts CNA 22 Feb 2023 -- Local experts on Wednesday said it was significant that the latest security dialogue between Taiwan and the United States, held at the American Institute in Taiwan's (AIT) Washington headquarters Tuesday, was made public before it was held given the current geopolitical climate.
Mainland urges DPP to resume normal operations of more direct cross-Straits flights Global Times 22 Feb 2023 -- With the epidemic being well controlled on the Chinese mainland at present, the mainland has urged the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities in Taiwan to resume normal operations of direct cross-Straits flights to benefit compatriots on both sides, according to Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, on Wednesday.
FM urges US to stop official exchanges with Taiwan island, implement Biden's commitment Global Times 22 Feb 2023 -- The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Wednesday urged the US to abide by the one-China principle, stop any form of official exchanges between the US and China's Taiwan region and stop creating new factors of tension across the Taiwan Straits, in response to the recent US senior officials' meeting with members of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities.
Taiwan, U.S. hold annual security meeting at AIT headquarters CNA 22 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan and the United States held an all-day annual security dialogue Tuesday at the American Institute in Taiwan's (AIT) Washington headquarters attended by top-level officials from the two sides.
Beijing Urges Foreign Nations to Cease 'Ukraine Today, Taiwan Tomorrow' Statements Sputnik 21 Feb 2023 -- Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang on Tuesday urged foreign countries to stop fueling the Ukraine conflict and to desist with speculation about Beijing's stance regarding Taiwan.
Taiwan reports 17,253 new COVID-19 cases, 44 deaths CNA 21 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan reported 17,253 new cases of COVID-19 and 44 deaths from the disease on Tuesday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Military's new shooting training simulates real battlefield: Army CNA 21 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan's Army held a media event Tuesday to showcase its new shooting training program that puts more of an emphasis on simulating real battlefield conditions so that soldiers are better prepared for real combat environments.
Taiwan's President Says Taipei Will Strengthen Military Ties With US VOA 21 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan's president said the self-ruled island will deepen its military ties with the United States.
Public increasingly optimistic about U.S. troops coming to Taiwan's aid: Poll CNA 21 Feb 2023 -- The percentage of people who believe that the United States will send troops to defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese invasion is increasing, according to a new opinion poll released Tuesday.
Visiting U.S. lawmakers meet with President Tsai CNA 21 Feb 2023 -- A visiting United States House of Representatives delegation led by Democrat Ro Khanna met with President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) in Taipei Tuesday.
Any separatist act of soliciting foreign support will only backfire, FM warns as Tsai vows to enhance military ties with US Global Times 21 Feb 2023 -- Any separatist attempt or act of soliciting foreign support to undermine cross-Straits relations will only backfire and will not succeed, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday when asked to comment on reports that Taiwan authorities will boost military exchanges with the US after the island's regional leader Tsai Ing-wen met with US lawmakers.
US-China war over Taiwan would be biggest since WWII, Australian expert says Radio Free Asia 21 Feb 2023 -- The United States cannot win a war against China over Taiwan, four Australian defense experts have said in a series of interviews conducted by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
Taiwan reports 12,060 new COVID-19 cases, 44 deaths CNA 20 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan reported 12,060 new cases of COVID-19 on Monday and 44 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan to stop COVID-19 rapid test kits to overseas arrivals CNA 20 Feb 2023 -- The Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) announced Monday that Taiwan will no longer distribute rapid antigen test kits for COVID-19 to overseas arrivals and close contacts of confirmed COVID-19 patients starting March 1.
Taiwan thanks Blinken for cross-strait peace support at Wang Yi meeting CNA 20 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) on Monday expressed gratitude toward United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken over his reiteration of support for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait during his Saturday meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (王毅).
Congress delegation visits Taiwan amid US-China tensions Press TV 20 Feb 2023 -- A delegation of US lawmakers has arrived in Chinese Taipei for a five-day visit, despite repeated warnings by Beijing against any interactions between Washington and the self-governing island.
Taiwan presidential race not brought up on China trip: KMT official CNA 20 Feb 2023 -- A top official with the opposition Kuomintang (KMT), who recently concluded a visit to China, said Monday that Taiwan's 2024 presidential election was an internal affair and was not discussed with Chinese officials on the trip.
Firm opposition to "Taiwan independence" required for peace: senior diplomat People's Daily 20 Feb 2023 -- Peace across the Taiwan Strait should be maintained through firm opposition to "Taiwan independence" separatist forces and unswerving adherence to the one-China principle, which is also the consensus of the international community, a senior Chinese diplomat said here on Saturday.
Taiwan reports 15,877 new COVID-19 cases, 68 deaths CNA 19 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan reported 15,877 new cases of COVID-19 on Sunday and 68 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan military releases photo of Chinese weather balloon debris CNA 19 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan's military on Saturday night made public a photograph of the wreckage of a suspected Chinese weather balloon found on one of its offshore frontline islets near China on Thursday, saying it had concluded the device did not have audio or video recording capabilities.
MAC protests Beijing's sovereignty claims over Taiwan CNA 19 Feb 2023 -- The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) on Sunday protested remarks from Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (王毅) the previous day that Taiwan has been a part of China "since ancient times."
U.S. congressional delegation arrives on 5-day trip to Taiwan CNA 19 Feb 2023 -- A bipartisan American congressional delegation arrived in Taiwan on Sunday for a five-day visit, during which they will meet with President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) and other senior government officials, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
Firm opposition to "Taiwan independence" required for peace: senior diplomat Global Times 19 Feb 2023 -- Peace across the Taiwan Strait should be maintained through firm opposition to "Taiwan independence" separatist forces and unswerving adherence to the one-China principle, which is also the consensus of the international community, a senior Chinese diplomat said here on Saturday.
Taiwan's government mum on reported visit by U.S. defense official CNA 18 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan's government agencies declined to comment late Friday on a reported visit to Taipei by Michael Chase, United States deputy assistant secretary of defense for China.
Foreign Minster Wu 'not able to confirm' reported U.S. visit next week CNA 18 Feb 2023 -- Foreign Minister Joseph Wu (吳釗燮) said Saturday he was not able to comment on or confirm reports that he is due to visit the United States next week.
Severing Taiwan ties would be a 'historic mistake': Paraguay president CNA 18 Feb 2023 -- Visiting Paraguayan President Mario Abdo Benitez told a press conference Saturday that it would be a "historic mistake" for his successor to sever ties with Taiwan in favor of forming diplomatic relations with China.
KMT vice chairman's trip to China receives mixed response CNA 18 Feb 2023 -- A recently concluded visit by Kuomintang (KMT) Vice Chairman Andrew Hsia (夏立言) to China has been met with a mixed reaction in Taiwan, with the KMT touting it as a success and the pan-green camp questioning its timing and legitimacy.
Taiwan reports 15,094 new COVID-19 cases, 55 deaths CNA 18 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan reported 15,094 new cases of COVID-19 on Saturday and 55 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
US urged to stop military, official exchanges with Taiwan island Global Times 18 Feb 2023 -- China urged the US to fulfill its top leader's commitment on not supporting "Taiwan independence" separatists and to stop official and military exchanges in any form with the island of Taiwan and to stop meddling with the Taiwan question or creating new factors that put pressure on the cross-Straits situation, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on Friday.
Conscription extension has majority support in Taiwan: Poll CNA 17 Feb 2023 -- Nearly 80 percent of Taiwanese are in favor of a recent extension of compulsory military service to one year, a survey published on Friday found.
Pentagon's Top China Official Arrives in Taiwan Amid Balloon Crisis, Media Reports Sputnik 17 Feb 2023 -- US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for China Michael Chase has arrived in Taiwan, becoming the first senior US defense official to travel to the island since 2019, the British media reported on Friday, citing a source familiar with the matter.
China says firmly opposes Pentagon official's visit to Taiwan Press TV 17 Feb 2023 -- The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson has reiterated Beijing's firm opposition to any kind of official interactions and military ties between the United States and Taiwan.
China Reiterates Its Opposition Amid Reports of Pentagon Official's Possible Taiwan Visit Sputnik 17 Feb 2023 -- The United States must comply with the one-China principle and stop any form of official exchanges and military ties with Taiwan, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said, commenting on media reports of a potential imminent visit to the island by US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for China Michael Chase.
Taiwan reports 15,440 new COVID-19 cases, 78 deaths CNA 17 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan reported 15,440 new cases of COVID-19 on Friday and 78 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
China dials up propaganda over Turkish rescue effort; Taiwan also sends team Radio Free Asia 17 Feb 2023 -- China has been ramping up propaganda around its rescue mission to help victims of the devastating earthquake that hit regions of Turkey and Syria earlier this month that killed at least 42,000 people.
Taiwan reports 16,747 new COVID-19 cases, 61 deaths CNA 16 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan reported 16,747 new cases of COVID-19 on Thursday and 61 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Navy launches third domestically made missile corvette CNA 16 Feb 2023 -- The Navy on Thursday held a launch ceremony in Yilan County for its third domestically built Tuo Chiang-class corvette, naming it the "Hsu Chiang" after a river in Keelung.
Taiwan military finds Chinese weather balloon debris on frontline islet CNA 16 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan's military found the wreckage of a suspected Chinese weather balloon on one of its offshore frontline islets near China early on Thursday.
Korea's 'Black Eagles' acrobatic team makes refueling stop at Kaohsiung CNA 16 Feb 2023 -- The South Korean air force's "Black Eagles" aerobatic team made a refueling stop at Taiwan's southern Kaohsiung airport on Thursday en route to Australia for an air show later this month in Melbourne.
Taiwan remains beacon of democracy: Visiting Paraguay president CNA 16 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan continues to "serve as a beacon of democracy in the region" despite facing sustained pressure, Paraguayan President Mario Abdo Benitez, who is on a five-day visit to Taiwan, said on Thursday in Taipei.
McCarthy will 'definitely' visit Taiwan this year: KMT official CNA 16 Feb 2023 -- U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy will "definitely" visit Taiwan this year, even though the Republican has yet to announce a timeline for a visit, according to Alexander Huang (黃介正), head of Kuomintang's (KMT) Department of International Affairs.
China Sanctions US Companies Following Arms Sales to Taiwan VOA 16 Feb 2023 -- China's commerce ministry announced Thursday that it was imposing sanctions on two U.S. defense companies for selling arms to Taiwan, banning them from moving goods into China or making any new investments in the nation.
China slaps sanctions on Lockheed Martin, Raytheon over arms sales to Taiwan region Global Times 16 Feb 2023 -- China on Thursday added two major US defense contractors Lockheed Martin Corp and Raytheon Missiles & Defense to its unreliable entities list and imposed several sanctions, including a ban on trade activities related to China and huge fines, against the firms for participating in arms sales to the island of Taiwan.
China blacklists US firms Lockheed Martin, Raytheon over Taiwan arms sales Press TV 16 Feb 2023 -- China has imposed trading and investment sanctions on American aerospace manufacturers Lockheed Martin and Raytheon Technologies over arms sales to Chinese Taipei (Taiwan).
China Sanctions US' Lockheed Martin, Raytheon Over Arms Sales to Taiwan: Authorities Sputnik 16 Feb 2023 -- Beijing labeled US defense companies Raytheon Technologies and Lockheed Martin as "unreliable entities" and put them on the sanctions list on Thursday, citing their weapons sales to Taiwan, the Chinese Commerce Ministry said.
Taiwan reports 19,861 new COVID-19 cases, 65 deaths CNA 15 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan reported 19,861 new cases of COVID-19 and 65 deaths from the disease on Wednesday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan reports 20,511 new COVID-19 cases, 36 deaths CNA 14 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan reported 20,511 new cases of COVID-19 and 36 deaths from the disease on Tuesday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan to reopen to independent travel from HK, Macau from Feb. 20 CNA 14 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan will remove all border restrictions imposed on Hong Kong and Macau residents during the COVID-19 period on Feb. 20, the Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) said Tuesday.
Paraguay leader says Taiwan trip to renew commitments before presidency ends CNA 14 Feb 2023 -- Visiting Paraguayan President Mario Abdo Benítez said that his trip is intended to review bilateral cooperation and renew commitments, after his arrival in Taiwan on Tuesday, as both states mark the 66th anniversary of their official bilateral relations later this year.
President Tsai meets with SVG foreign minister, Belize first lady CNA 14 Feb 2023 -- St. Vincent and the Grenadines Foreign Minister Keisal Peters and Belize first lady Rossana Briceno met separately with President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) on Tuesday in Taipei, ahead of their participation in a forum on women's empowerment.
Detected Chinese balloons all weather balloons: Taiwan's military CNA 14 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan's military on Tuesday said all Chinese balloons detected in Taiwan's airspace to date were weather balloons and did not pose a security threat that justified shooting them down.
No spy balloons over Taiwan, defense ministry says Radio Free Asia 14 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense has dismissed concerns about China flying spy balloons over the island while the U.S. said it has recovered "significant debris" from the balloon that was taken down off the coast of South Carolina.
Taiwan reports 12,657 new COVID-19 cases, 54 deaths CNA 13 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan reported 12,657 new cases of COVID-19 and 54 deaths from the disease on Monday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
How The War In Ukraine Is Prompting The Czechs To Rethink Ties With China RFE/RL 13 Feb 2023 -- In accepting a 15-minute phone call with his Taiwanese counterpart, Czech President-elect Petr Pavel broke decades of diplomatic protocol and set the stage for a new era of relations between Europe and China -- with his country potentially at the forefront.
Dozens of Chinese Military Balloons Detected Over Taiwan in Recent Years, Reports Say Sputnik 13 Feb 2023 -- Dozens of Chinese military surveillance balloons were detected over Taiwan over past years, media reported on Monday, citing Taiwanese officials.
Aims of China trip have been met: KMT vice chairman CNA 13 Feb 2023 -- Opposition Kuomintang Vice Chairman Andrew Hsia (夏立言), who is leading a delegation on a visit to China, said Monday in Shanghai that the delegation had achieved the three main goals of its trip and expected more such exchanges in the future.
Taiwan to reexamine need for isolation in mild COVID-19 cases CNA 13 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan is turning the focus of its COVID-19 response to future vaccine rollouts and the possible lifting of mandatory isolation for infected individuals, the head of the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Monday.
Taiwan reports 17,199 new COVID-19 cases, 57 deaths CNA 12 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan reported 17,199 new cases of COVID-19 and 57 deaths from the disease on Sunday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Senior CPC official meets with visiting KMT vice chairperson People's Daily 11 Feb 2023 -- Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, on Friday met with Andrew Hsia, vice chairman of the Chinese Kuomintang (KMT) party, in Beijing.
Taiwan reports 18,300 new COVID-19 cases, 82 deaths CNA 11 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan reported 18,300 new cases of COVID-19 and 82 deaths from the disease on Saturday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan urges Beijing to resume talks after KMT meeting with China official CNA 11 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) has urged Beijing to resume talks with Taipei without preconditions, following a meeting between the opposition Kuomintang's (KMT) officials and China's top Taiwan affairs leader Wang Huning (王滬寧).
Taiwan reports 19,629 new COVID-19 cases, 70 deaths CNA 10 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan on Friday reported 19,629 new cases of COVID-19 and 70 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
China unlikely to launch 'major aggression' against Taiwan by 2030: U.S. official CNA 10 Feb 2023 -- Ely Ratner, United States assistant secretary of defense for Indo-Pacific security affairs, said at a Senate hearing Thursday that he does not think China will engage in any "major aggression" against Taiwan before the end of this decade.
Senior CPC official meets visiting KMT vice chairperson, stresses 1992 Consensus and countering 'Taiwan independence' Global Times 10 Feb 2023 -- Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, on Friday met with Andrew Hsia, vice chairman of the Chinese Kuomintang (KMT) party, in Beijing. Both sides expressed willingness to promote exchanges and cooperation across the Taiwan Straits, as well as adhering to the 1992 Consensus, which embodies the one-China principle, and opposing "Taiwan independence."
Mainland's Taiwan affairs official meets visiting KMT vice chairperson People's Daily 10 Feb 2023 -- Song Tao, head of both the Taiwan Work Office of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, met on Thursday with Andrew Hsia, vice chairperson of the Chinese Kuomintang (KMT) party.
Mainland, Taiwan keen on boosting cooperation People's Daily 10 Feb 2023 -- Song Tao, head of the Chinese mainland's Taiwan affairs authority, met with Hsia Li-yan, vice-chairman of Taiwan's opposition Kuomintang party, on Thursday in Beijing to call for strengthening of mutual trust and exchanges.
Taiwan reports 20,920 new COVID-19 cases, 45 deaths CNA 09 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan on Thursday reported 20,920 new cases of COVID-19 and 45 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
1992 Consensus common political foundation for cross-Strait dialogue, consultation: spokesperson People's Daily 09 Feb 2023 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson said on Wednesday that as long as the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities in Taiwan adhere to the 1992 Consensus, the dialogue and consultation between the island and the mainland can resume.
Mainland's Taiwan affairs official meets visiting KMT vice chairperson, stresses willingness to build up mutual trust Global Times 09 Feb 2023 -- Song Tao, head of both the Taiwan Work Office of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, met with Andrew Hsia, vice chairman of the Chinese Kuomintang (KMT) party, and his delegation on Thursday.
Cross-Strait exchange activities to be held during KMT vice chairman's visit: mainland spokesperson People's Daily 09 Feb 2023 -- Andrew Hsia, vice chairman of the Chinese Kuomintang (KMT) party, will attend activities organized by both sides of the Taiwan Strait to promote exchanges during his visit to the mainland, a Chinese mainland spokesperson said Wednesday.
Mainland calls on Taiwan to stop making excuses, obstructing direct cross-Strait flights People's Daily 09 Feb 2023 -- The Chinese mainland has called on the Taiwan side to stop using the COVID-19 pandemic as an excuse to obstruct the resumption of direct flights across the Taiwan Strait, according to a mainland spokesperson on Wednesday.
Taiwan reports 24,240 new COVID-19 cases, 54 deaths CNA 08 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan on Wednesday reported 24,240 new cases of COVID-19 and 54 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
DPP urged to remove unilateral barrier to cross-Straits exchanges as KMT embarks on mainland trip eyeing cooperation Global Times 08 Feb 2023 -- The Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council on Wednesday urged the Taiwan island's secessionist Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities to take practical measures and remove unilateral barriers to cross-Taiwan Straits exchanges, while stressing that the Chinese mainland will continue to promote the resumption and expansion of cross-Straits exchanges and cooperation in various fields.
Taiwan reports 23,394 new COVID-19 cases, 45 deaths CNA 07 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan on Tuesday reported 23,394 new cases of COVID-19 and 45 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan military research unit, private sector developing UAV fleet CNA 07 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan's top military research unit is working closely with the private sector to develop unmanned aviation vehicles (UAVs) for military use in the hope of building a "UAV fleet" next year, it said Tuesday.
Taiwan Test-Fires Cruise Missile Capable of Striking Deep Inside China, Reports Say Sputnik 07 Feb 2023 -- The Chinese breakaway province of Taiwan has continued to develop its offensive strike abilities, including cruise missiles and other surface strike weapons that can reach far from the island's shores. The weapons are intended as a deterrent against an attack by the Chinese government.
Taiwan to Speed Up Military Drone Production Amid Tensions With Beijing: Science Institute Sputnik 07 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan will accelerate the development and production of military drones with the help of civilian companies amid increased tensions with mainland China, Chi Li-ping, expert at the island's state-owned Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology, said on Tuesday.
Local councilors call for turning Kinmen into demilitarized zone CNA 07 Feb 2023 -- A bipartisan collective of Kinmen County councilors has launched an initiative to turn the frontline islands into a demilitarized zone (DMZ), amid escalating tensions between Taiwan and China.
Minister Ng speaks with Taiwan's Minister Deng Canada 07 Feb 2023 -- Creating investment opportunities across borders is key to ensuring Canada's long-term growth, future prosperity, and a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable economy.
Taiwan reports 16,640 new COVID-19 cases, 63 deaths CNA 06 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan on Monday reported 16,640 new cases of COVID-19 and 63 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan begins phasing out Pfizer-BNT as first vaccine shot for minors CNA 06 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan will stop offering the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine as a first vaccine shot for children aged 6 months to 4 years and 12-17 years with immediate effect, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Monday.
Swiss lawmakers call for cross-Strait peace, economic pact with Taiwan CNA 06 Feb 2023 -- A group of visiting Swiss parliamentarians called for a peaceful resolution of cross-Taiwan Strait differences and the signing of a Swiss-Taiwan economic partnership agreement (EPA) during their meeting with President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) in Taipei Monday.
Chinese mainland welcomes KMT delegation to visit Global Times 06 Feb 2023 -- The Chinese mainland expressed a message of welcome after the Chinese Kuomintang party (KMT), the pro-reunification opposition party in China's Taiwan region, announced it was sending a delegation led by deputy chairman Andrew Hsia for a 10-day visit to the Chinese mainland from February 8 to 17.
1-year sentence upheld for Taiwan man guilty of selling oil to N. Korea CNA 06 Feb 2023 -- The Supreme Court has upheld the one-year sentence handed down to a Taiwan businessman for breaching the Counter-Terrorism Financing Act by illegally selling nearly 3,000 metric tons of oil to North Korea in international waters.
Taiwan reports 22,991 new COVID-19 cases, 73 deaths CNA 05 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan on Sunday reported 22,991 new COVID-19 cases and 73 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan reports 23,746 new COVID-19 cases, 79 deaths CNA 04 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan reported 23,746 new COVID-19 cases and 79 deaths from the disease Saturday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan cracking down on Chinese cyberattacks: Security source CNA 04 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan's national security authorities have successfully cracked down on Chinese cyberattacks that recently posted information on the Facebook pages of President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) and former Premier Su Tseng-chang (蘇貞昌).
105 COVID-19 deaths, most since July 15, reported in Taiwan CNA 03 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan on Friday reported 105 deaths attributable to COVID-19, the first time since mid-July 2022 that the single-day death toll exceeded 100, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan-donated winter supplies arrive in Ukraine CNA 03 Feb 2023 -- A batch of essential winter supplies sent by Taiwan to Ukraine recently arrived in the war-torn country via Poland.
CIA director: China readying for Taiwan invasion by 2027 Radio Free Asia 03 Feb 2023 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping wants to be able invade Taiwan within the next four years, CIA director William Burns said Thursday.
9 U.S. Congress members ask Blinken to visit Taiwan on China trip CNA 03 Feb 2023 -- Nine members of the U.S. House of Representatives have called on Secretary of State Antony Blinken to make a stopover in Taipei on his Feb. 5-6 trip to Beijing in keeping with the spirit of the Taiwan Travel Act and honor what he called a "rock solid" commitment from the Joe Biden administration to Taiwan.
Taiwan Legislator Criticizes China Response to Possible Taipei Visit by US Official VOA 03 Feb 2023 -- The president of Taiwan's Legislative Yuan is calling China's response to the possibility of U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy's visiting Taiwan "excessive," saying that exchanges between Taiwan's unicameral legislature and the legislatures of the United States, Europe, Japan and other countries are the norm in democracies.
Taiwan reports 27,085 new COVID-19 cases, 74 deaths CNA 02 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan reported 27,085 new COVID-19 cases and 74 deaths from the disease Thursday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
CECC delays announcement on easing indoor mask mandate CNA 02 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) on Thursday said it would delay an expected announcement easing the country's indoor mask mandate, citing both public health considerations and ongoing discussions on how the policy should be implemented.
China urged to provide COVID data before restoring cross-strait flights CNA 02 Feb 2023 -- Beijing needs to provide more information about the COVID-19 situation in China before decision-makers in Taiwan can determine whether to fully restore direct flights between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait, the Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) said Thursday.
Liechtenstein returns US$11 million to Taiwan in Lafayette scandal case CNA 02 Feb 2023 -- Liechtenstein has handed over to Taiwan about US$11 million deposited in the country as part of the illicit kickbacks involved in the Lafayette frigate scandal dating back three decades, according to the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) Thursday.
17 Chinese military aircraft cross Taiwan Strait median line and ADIZ CNA 02 Feb 2023 -- A total of 23 Chinese military aircraft and four naval ships were detected in areas around Taiwan between Feb. 1 and Feb. 2, according to the Ministry of National Defense (MND).
Peace in Taiwan Strait a hope for people on both sides: President Tsai CNA 02 Feb 2023 -- Maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is the hope of the people of Taiwan and China, President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) told Taiwan's business community at a "New Year" event held in Taipei on Thursday.
Calls for exchanges high across Straits as mainland urges DPP to resume direct flights Global Times 02 Feb 2023 -- With the stabilized COVID-19 situation across the Taiwan Straits, the Chinese mainland has urged the Taiwan authorities to further restore direct flights across the Straits in a bid to better deliver benefits to compatriots, according to a mainland spokesperson on Wednesday.
Mainland urges further resumption of direct cross-Strait flights People's Daily 02 Feb 2023 -- The Chinese mainland has urged Taiwan to further resume direct flights across the Taiwan Strait, according to a mainland spokesperson on Wednesday.
Taiwan retains ranking as top 'full democracy' in Asia CNA 02 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan has retained its ranking as the No. 1 "full democracy" in Asia in the 2022 Democracy Index, although its global standing dropped two places from the previous year, according to a report released Thursday by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU).
DPP authorities conclude reshuffle but factional struggle starts again as 2024 regional election looms Global Times 02 Feb 2023 -- Chen Chien-jen, a close ally and friend of Taiwan's regional leader Tsai Ing-wen, officially became head of the region's executive body in a handover ceremony on January 31, replacing Su Tseng-chang. The 2024 election to become regional leader is already starting to heat up between different factions within the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).
Philippines grants wider military access to U.S. amid cross-strait tensions CNA 02 Feb 2023 -- The United States and the Philippines have agreed to giving the American military access to four more bases in the Southeast Asian country, the two countries' defense departments said in a joint statement Thursday, amid rising likelihood of conflict in the Taiwan Strait.
Philippines grants US access to more military sites amid tensions over Taiwan Radio Free Asia 02 Feb 2023 -- The Philippines has given the United States access to four new military sites where the U.S. can build facilities as part of the defense agreement between the two nations and amid warnings a Chinese attack on Taiwan is imminent.
Taiwan reports 31,801 new COVID-19 cases, 48 deaths CNA 01 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan on Wednesday reported 31,801 new COVID-19 cases and 48 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan to drop COVID-19 testing for overseas arrivals from Feb. 7 CNA 01 Feb 2023 -- Overseas arrivals observing Taiwan's seven-day self-health monitoring period will no longer be required to take COVID-19 rapid tests from Feb. 7, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Wednesday.
Taipei to keep tabs on Blinken's China visit CNA 01 Feb 2023 -- Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said it will keep close tabs on United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to China on Feb. 5 and 6, the first trip by a U.S. secretary of state to Beijing since October 2018.
Czech president-elect defends phone call with Tsai; EU repeats One-China stance CNA 01 Feb 2023 -- Czech Republic President-elect Petr Pavel defended on Tuesday his decision to engage in a phone conversation with President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) a day earlier despite objections from China, saying that the Central European country is a sovereign state and "we do what we think is right."
PLA ramps up drills around Taiwan amid McCarthy's island visit hype Global Times 01 Feb 2023 -- Defense authorities on the island of Taiwan on Wednesday reported intense warplane and warship activities conducted by the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) around the island over the previous day amid media reports saying that US house speaker Kevin McCarthy might visit the island in spring.
Taiwan parties, groups lodge protest against potential McCarthy visit PLA Daily 01 Feb 2023 -- More than 20 pro-unification parties and groups from Taiwan protested a possible trip to Taiwan by United States House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, saying it might arouse another military crisis across the Taiwan Straits.
20 PLA warplanes detected crossing Taiwan Strait median line: MND CNA 01 Feb 2023 -- A total of 34 Chinese military aircraft and nine naval ships were detected in the general vicinity of Taiwan from 6 a.m. Tuesday to 6 a.m. Wednesday, including 20 airplanes that crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait.

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February 2023 - Taiwan Special Weapons News