August 2023 - Taiwan Special Weapons News

Pursuing Taiwan unification high on Xi's third term agenda: MND CNA 31 Aug 2023 -- Pursuing unification with Taiwan is likely to be high on the agenda during Chinese President Xi Jinping's (習近平) third five-year term that began earlier this year, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) said in a new report.
Only DPP firmly defends Taiwan's sovereignty: VP Lai CNA 31 Aug 2023 -- Vice President and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential nominee Lai Ching-te (賴清德) sought to assure voters in Taiwan that the DPP is the best choice to maintain the country's sovereignty and democracy during a party meeting in Taipei on Thursday.
US 'keeps creating tension' over Taiwan with new arms funding Global Times 31 Aug 2023 -- The US intends to keep creating the tension of the Taiwan question to provoke China rather than to ease the tension, analysts said on Thursday, as US President Joe Biden's administration has approved a military transfer to the island of Taiwan under the Foreign Military Financing, or FMF, which is normally used for sovereign states.
US approves first arms to Taiwan under foreign aid program amid rising tensions with China Press TV 31 Aug 2023 -- US President Joe Biden's administration has approved its first-ever arms aid to Taiwan under a foreign military assistance program typically used for sovereign nations, infuriating China which views the self-ruled island as part of its territory.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug. 31, 2023 ROC MND 31 Aug 2023
U.S. approves 1st-ever funds for Taiwan under Foreign Military Financing program CNA 31 Aug 2023 -- The administration of U.S. President Joe Biden has approved the first-ever tranche of funds for Taiwan under Washington's Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program traditionally reserved for sovereign, independent states.
Mainland's Taiwan affairs official meets with KMT vice chairman People's Daily 31 Aug 2023 -- Song Tao, head of both the Taiwan Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, on Wednesday met with Andrew Hsia, vice chairman of the Chinese Kuomintang (KMT) party, in the city of Yuncheng, Shanxi Province.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan. Aug. 30, 2023 ROC MND 30 Aug 2023
Taiwan rejects Vietnam protest over South China Sea island live-fire drill CNA 29 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's government on Tuesday reaffirmed the nation's right to conduct military exercises in and around a Taipei-controlled island in the disputed South China Sea after the Vietnamese government issued a protest over a drill held earlier this month.
China's military sent drone to circle Taiwan: defense ministry CNA 29 Aug 2023 -- A combined total of more than 20 People's Liberation Army (PLA) warplanes and warships were detected around Taiwan during the 24-hour period from 6 a.m. Monday to 6 a.m. Tuesday, including one drone that was found circling Taiwan proper, according to the Ministry of National Defense (MND).
Defense ministry urges China to stop 'unprovoked military harassment' CNA 29 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) on Tuesday urged Beijing to cease "unprovoked military harassment" after 12 Chinese warplanes and five naval vessels were detected in the vicinity of Taiwan.
Taipei reports Chinese military activity near Taiwan Press TV 29 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's defense ministry has reported Chinese military activity near the self-ruled island, warning of a possible "sharp increase" in tensions.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan. Aug. 29, 2023 ROC MND 29 Aug 2023
Foxconn founder Gou confirms Taiwan presidential bid Radio Free Asia 29 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's mercurial richest man and founder of Foxconn, Terry Gou, has ended months of speculation - largely fueled by his own cryptic statements at rallies - by confirming he is joining the presidential elections.
Taiwan lobbies for U.N. inclusion ahead of general assembly CNA 29 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's government reiterated its pitch to be included in the United Nations ahead of the General Assembly kicking off next week and after facing more than fifty years of exclusion, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Tuesday.
Terry Gou announces presidency bid, touts business acumen as key asset CNA 28 Aug 2023 -- Billionaire Terry Gou (郭台銘) announced on Monday his intention to run for the presidency in 2024 as an independent candidate, noting that he is the only contender with decades of business management experience.
Terry Gou's decision to run for president 'deeply regrettable': KMT CNA 28 Aug 2023 -- An announcement Monday by business tycoon Terry Gou (郭台銘) of his intention to join the presidential race next January has been greeted by Taiwan's opposition Kuomintang (KMT) with some trepidation, even as it called him out for breaking his promise to the party.
Terry Gou jumps into 2024 presidential race as independent candidate CNA 28 Aug 2023 -- Terry Gou (郭台銘), founder of the Taiwan-based manufacturing giant Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., announced Monday that he will run for president in 2024 on an independent ticket.
Foxconn founder Terry Gou announces to run for Taiwan regional leader, 'making anti-DPP camp more divided' Global Times 28 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan billionaire and Foxconn founder Terry Gou Tai-ming announced on Monday that he will run in the 2024 elections for Taiwan's regional leader, making next year's vote a complicated four-way race. Analysts said that this is likely to further divide the island's opposition camp in favor of secessionist ruling party candidate Lai Ching-te.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan. Aug. 28, 2023 ROC MND 28 Aug 2023
Taiwan's main fighter developer urges government to start building next generation jets CNA 27 Aug 2023 -- The head of Taiwan's main domestic aircraft developer has called on the government to give the green light and funding to develop the next generation indigenous fighter jets sooner rather than later, a move local defense experts said could boost the defense industry's capability and increase leverage in buying advanced fighters from the United States.
PLA holds encirclement drills around Taiwan island following US arms sale approval Global Times 27 Aug 2023 -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) recently conducted another, unannounced large-scale joint exercise encircling the island of Taiwan featuring sudden actions and sophisticated buildups after the US approved a $500 million arms sale to the island.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug. 27, 2023 ROC MND 27 Aug 2023
Chinese military conducts mock 'blockade' of Taiwan CNA 26 Aug 2023 -- China sent a total of 32 military aircraft and nine naval vessels into Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ) and waters around the island over a 24-hour period as of Saturday morning, in what an expert described as a mock "blockade."
Chinese defense ministry slams U.S. arms sale to Taiwan People's Daily 26 Aug 2023 -- China is strongly dissatisfied with and firmly opposes the United States' arms sale to China's Taiwan region, a defense ministry spokesperson said on Friday.
Mainland spokesperson slams DPP for obstructing cross-Strait exchanges People's Daily 26 Aug 2023 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Friday denounced Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authority for attempting to cover up their true aim of obstructing cross-Strait exchanges with its so-called "plan" on the issue.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.26, 2023 ROC MND 26 Aug 2023
Taiwan sends warning about discussing sensitive topics in China CNA 26 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) has published a list of current affairs topics that it said visitors to China should refrain from discussing to avoid being detained under Beijing's recently introduced espionage laws.
U.S. denies reports claiming it considered canceling F-16 sale to Taiwan CNA 25 Aug 2023 -- The U.S. State Department on Thursday denied reports claiming Washington had considered canceling its sale of F-16 fighter jets to Taiwan.
Chinese aircraft cross Taiwan Strait median line after U.S. arms sale announcement CNA 25 Aug 2023 -- A total of 22 Chinese military aircraft and five naval ships were detected around Taiwan on Friday, of which 13 warplanes and drones either breached Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ) or crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, according to the Ministry of National Defense (MND).
Cross-strait peace red line for international community, Taiwan: VP Lai CNA 25 Aug 2023 -- The international community considers peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait a "red line" that must not be crossed and the same holds true for Taiwan, Vice President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said in a TV interview on Thursday.
DPP's plan to 'resume' cross-Straits exchanges is 'pie in the sky' Global Times 25 Aug 2023 -- The island of Taiwan's "mainland affairs council" recently released a "plan" to "resume" cross-Straits tourism and exchanges, but such a plan is a "pie in the sky" as it actually imposes stricter restrictions for exchanges, Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said on Friday.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.25, 2023 ROC MND 25 Aug 2023
Taiwan to roll out COVID-19 vaccine against Omicron subvariant XBB CNA 25 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan plans to roll out Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine against the Omicron subvariant XBB in September, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) on Friday.
Chinese mainland firmly opposes U.S. arms sale to Taiwan: spokesperson People's Daily 25 Aug 2023 -- The Chinese mainland firmly opposes the United States' arms sale to China's Taiwan region, a spokesperson said Thursday.
U.S. sensor systems will greatly boost Taiwan's air combat readiness: MND, experts CNA 24 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) said Thursday that a proposed arms package, comprising infrared search and track systems (IRST) for the country's fleet of F-16V aircraft, will vastly improve their long-range detection and target tracking, significantly boosting its air-to-air combat capabilities.
US to sell aircraft tracking systems to Taiwan island with PLA's J-20 stealth fighter in mind; scheme 'futile' Global Times 24 Aug 2023 -- The US recently approved a possible sale of infrared search and track (IRST) systems for F-16 fighter jets to the island of Taiwan in an apparent move to counter J-20 stealth fighter jets of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), which experts said on Thursday will prove to be futile.
Taiwan's defense spending to reach record NT$606.8 billion in 2024 CNA 24 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's government has proposed a national defense budget of NT$606.8 billion (US$19.1 billion) for next year, according to a budget plan approved by the Cabinet on Thursday.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.24, 2023 ROC MND 24 Aug 2023
Ko open to talks with KMT chairman, presidential aspirants CNA 24 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan People's Party (TPP) Chairman Ko Wen-je (柯文哲), who recently ruled out the possibility of being anyone's running mate in next year's presidential election, said Thursday he would be willing to talk with opposition political camps to work out a winning strategy.
Opposition presidential candidate pledges to expand direct flights to China CNA 24 Aug 2023 -- Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜), the presidential candidate of the Kuomintang (KMT), announced on Thursday that if elected, he will increase the number of Chinese visitors to Taiwan and resume direct air routes to 60 Chinese cities.
From popular mayor to ho-hum candidate, KMT's Hou struggles to gain traction CNA 24 Aug 2023 -- After winning re-election as New Taipei mayor by a 25-point margin in November 2022, Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) was thought to be the "chosen one" who could help the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) win back power it lost to the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in 2016.
Terry Gou hints at possible presidential bid during temple visit CNA 24 Aug 2023 -- Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. founder Terry Gou (郭台銘) on Thursday hinted he may run to be the new Taiwan president as he rallied support during a temple visit in New Taipei.
KMT presidential candidate Hou to make 8-day trip to U.S. in September CNA 24 Aug 2023 -- New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜), the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) candidate for the 2024 presidential election, will visit the United States next month to meet with Congress members and affirm his commitment to Taiwan's democratic values, his campaign office said Thursday.
U.S. announces sale of F-16 search and track systems to Taiwan CNA 24 Aug 2023 -- The United States government has greenlit a proposed US$500 million sale of infrared search and track (IRST) systems for F-16 fighter jets, and related equipment, to Taiwan, the 11th U.S. arms sale to the country since President Joe Biden took office in 2021.
Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States (TECRO) - F-16 Infrared Search and Track (IRST) systems DSCA 23 Aug 2023 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States of F-16 Infrared Search and Track (IRST) systems and related equipment for an estimated cost of $500 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
US Approves $500M Sale of F-16 Infrared Systems to Taiwan Sputnik 23 Aug 2023 -- The US Department of State approved on Wednesday $500 million worth of F-16 Infrared Search and Track (IRST) systems and related equipment to Taiwan's de facto embassy in the United States, according to a release from the Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).
As Taiwan Marks Battle Anniversary, US Seeks Stronger Alliances Over China Tensions VOA 23 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen said Wednesday that the government's position on "maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait is very firm," as the island marked the 65th anniversary of the start of the second Taiwan Strait crisis.
Presidential aspirants underscore importance of peace on 823 anniversary CNA 23 Aug 2023 -- Several of Taiwan's presidential aspirants marked the 65th anniversary of the 823 Artillery Bombardment by underscoring the importance of maintaining peace across the Taiwan Strait.
U.S. lawmakers slam Central American Parliament for China diplomatic switch CNA 23 Aug 2023 -- American lawmakers across party lines on Tuesday condemned a parliamentary body in Central America for its decision to replace Taiwan with China as a permanent observer in the wake of most of the organization's members switching diplomatic recognition to China.
Guatemala President-elect seeks to balance relations with China, Taiwan CNA 23 Aug 2023 -- The incoming president of Guatemala, Taiwan's diplomatic ally, said Tuesday he has no intention to alter the status of his country's diplomatic relations with the Republic of China (ROC), Taiwan's official name, but that he also wants to improve relations with China as well.
China announces live-fire drills near Taiwan CNA 23 Aug 2023 -- China's Fujian Maritime Safety Administration on Wednesday issued a no-sail order for an area close to Taiwan proper where live-fire military drills are scheduled to take place Aug. 24-25.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.23, 2023 ROC MND 23 Aug 2023
Terry Gou floats cross-strait peace strategy amid rumored presidential run CNA 22 Aug 2023 -- Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. founder Terry Gou (郭台銘) on Tuesday announced plans to provide at least US$20 million in funding for initiatives to promote peace across the Taiwan Strait, amid continued speculation he will launch an independent bid for Taiwan's presidency.
Hou proposes turning Kinmen into cross-strait economic pilot zone CNA 22 Aug 2023 -- Main opposition Kuomintang's (KMT) 2024 presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) on Tuesday proposed to turn the offshore frontline island of Kinmen into a cross-Taiwan Strait economic pilot zone and a transportation hub to help facilitate peaceful exchanges between Taiwan and China.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.22, 2023 ROC MND 22 Aug 2023
Taiwan proposes largest-ever defense budget for 2024 CNA 21 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's government will seek to hike defense spending by 3.5 percent to a record NT$606.8 billion (US$19 billion) in 2024, according to details from the central government's budget proposal released on Monday.
Ko Wen-je shares views on special relationship with China CNA 21 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan People's Party (TPP) chairman and presidential candidate Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) on Monday outlined his position on the "two-state" theory proposed by former President Lee Teng-hui (李登輝) in 1999, which defined relations between Taiwan and China as a "special state-to-state relationship."
VP Lai's U.S. stopovers kept low-key to build trust with Washington: Scholars CNA 21 Aug 2023 -- Scholars on Monday said Vice President Lai Ching-te's (賴清德) "low-key" recent U.S. transit stops had helped to bolster his image in Washington as a reliable and trustworthy future leader of Taiwan.
Chinese FM hopes new Guatemalan govt makes decisions in its best natl interests Global Times 21 Aug 2023 -- The Chinese Foreign Ministry expressed wishes for the new Guatemalan government to make the right call in line with the fundamental and long-term interests of its country and people in response to the result of the Central American country's presidential election.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.21, 2023 ROC MND 21 Aug 2023
Taiwan accuses China of election interference with trade probe CNA 20 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) has accused Beijing of seeking to meddle in Taiwan's presidential election by launching an investigation into what China has described as trade barriers imposed by Taiwan.
25 Chinese warplanes cross Taiwan Strait median line: Defense ministry CNA 20 Aug 2023 -- A total of 45 warplanes and nine warships from the People's Liberation Army (PLA) of China were detected around Taiwan during the 24-hour period from 6 a.m. Saturday to 6 a.m. Sunday, including 25 warplane that crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, according to the Ministry of National Defense (MND).
PLA's sudden, swift joint drills around Taiwan island highlighted by live munitions, multi-source intelligence support Global Times 20 Aug 2023 -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) launched a sudden and swift joint exercise around the island of Taiwan on Saturday that was not anticipated by the island's defense authority despite the island's separatist deputy regional leader Lai Ching-te's provocative "stopovers" in the US, as the drills displayed the PLA's growing combat readiness and its capability to completely control the region, experts said on Sunday.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.20, 2023 ROC MND 20 Aug 2023
Analysts: Chinese Military Drills Serve as Warning to Taiwan, Response to Camp David Summit VOA 19 Aug 2023 -- China staged a new round of military exercises around Taiwan on Saturday, as it expressed anger toward Taiwanese Vice President William Lai's two stopovers in the United States.
Experts call for further cross-Straits integration amid challenges from secessionists, external forces Global Times 19 Aug 2023 -- Amid profound changes in geopolitics and constant provocations by Taiwan secessionists, experts and scholars from both sides of the Taiwan Straits on Friday called for further strengthening of cross-Straits people-to-people exchanges and economic and trade cooperation to promote social integration and development on both sides.
Taiwan accuses China of trying to influence elections through military drills CNA 19 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's Presidential Office on Saturday condemned military exercises China conducted near the island nation, which it said caused disorder in the region and were an attempt to influence Taiwan's elections next year.
China announces drills near Taiwan following VP Lai's return from Paraguay CNA 19 Aug 2023 -- The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted military drills on Saturday near Taiwan proper, as a "stern warning" to Taiwan independence separatists for colluding with "foreign elements" and in response to their "provocations," according to China's state-run Xinhua News Agency.
PLA launches joint patrols and military exercises around Taiwan Global Times 19 Aug 2023 -- The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army on Saturday launched joint air and sea patrols and military exercises of the navy and air force around the island of Taiwan.
UPDATE: PLA holds joint drills around Taiwan island following separatist Lai's provocative 'stopovers' in US Global Times 19 Aug 2023 -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) announced on Saturday that it is holding a joint exercise around the island of Taiwan, following the return of the island's separatist deputy regional leader Lai Ching-te from his "stopovers" in the US.
Chinese mainland's investigation into Taiwan's trade restrictions justified, legitimate: experts People's Daily 19 Aug 2023 -- The Chinese mainland's investigation into the Taiwan region's trade restrictions is justified and legitimate, and will help promote the sound development of cross-Strait economic and trade ties, experts have said.
Lai the liar, out-and-out troublemaker who works for "Taiwan independence" People's Daily 19 Aug 2023 -- Lai Ching-te's recent "stopover" trips through the United States ended up receiving a lukewarm response.
Mainland's Taiwan affairs office supports study on suspension of tariff preferences for Taiwan products People's Daily 19 Aug 2023 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Friday voiced support for the Ministry of Commerce (MOC) in mulling over the suspension or partial suspension of tariff preferences for Taiwan products under the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) in accordance with rules.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.19, 2023 ROC MND 19 Aug 2023
China Conducts Military Drills Near Taiwan as Warning to 'Separatist Forces' - Beijing Sputnik 19 Aug 2023 -- The Chinese air force and navy conducted joint patrols and exercises around Taiwan on Saturday as a warning to the "separatist forces of the island," Shi Yi, the spokesman for the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), said.
U.S., Japan, South Korea reaffirm commitment to cross-strait peace CNA 19 Aug 2023 -- The leaders of the United States, Japan and South Korea have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait following a trilateral meeting in Maryland on Friday.
China launches military drills in 'stern warning' to Taiwan Press TV 19 Aug 2023 -- China has launched military drills around Taiwan in what it described as a "stern warning" to the self-ruled island following a visit to the US of Taipei's vice president William Lai.
VP Lai returns to Taiwan after visits to U.S., Paraguay CNA 18 Aug 2023 -- Vice President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) returned to Taiwan early Friday morning after a seven-day trip to the United States and Paraguay, which he said was "successfully completed."
Lai boasts about US transit for 'selfish election purpose' Global Times 18 Aug 2023 -- The separatist deputy regional leader of Taiwan island Lai Ching-te returned to the island on Friday after a provocative "transit" in the US on a visit to Paraguay, during which he boasted about the "courteous reception" he received and "international support" for Taiwan island.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.18, 2023 ROC MND 18 Aug 2023
Hong Kongers flock to Taiwan to savor milk tea and freedom Radio Free Asia 18 Aug 2023 -- They are flocking to Taiwan, in search of milk tea and freedom.
2 charged with accepting money from Chinese state security services CNA 18 Aug 2023 -- Two men accused of accepting money from the Chinese state security services in exchange for setting up an espionage ring in Taiwan were indicted on corruption and national security charges Friday, according to the Shilin District Prosecutors Office.
Prosecutors opt not to indict Chinese executives in security case CNA 18 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's High Prosecutors Office has agreed with a decision made by Taipei prosecutors not to indict Chinese businessman Xiang Xin (向心) and his wife Kung Ching (龔青) on national security charges due to a lack of evidence.
Coast Guard denies Taiping Island personnel have to use Chinese roaming service CNA 17 Aug 2023 -- The Coast Guard Administration (CGA) has denied accusations that its personnel on Taiping Island in the South China Sea are unable to use Taiwanese cellular networks, and have to rely on roaming services from providers based in China.
Taiwan's Vice President Makes San Francisco Stop VOA 17 Aug 2023 -- Taiwanese Vice President William Lai said Wednesday that U.S.-Taiwan relations are "unprecedentedly good" as he stopped in San Francisco on the final leg of a trip condemned by China.
VP Lai lands in San Francisco on return leg of Paraguay trip CNA 17 Aug 2023 -- Vice President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) touched down in San Francisco Wednesday afternoon local time, where he was welcomed by American Institute in Taiwan Chair Laura Rosenberger, during a brief stopover.
DPP collusion with external forces will push Taiwan into abyss of disaster, mainland official says at flagship cross-Straits seminar Global Times 17 Aug 2023 -- The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities' collusion with external forces will only push Taiwan into the abyss of disaster, said a Chinese mainland Taiwan affairs official at the opening of a major cross-Straits academic seminar in Chengdu, Southwest China's Sichuan Province on Thursday, alluding to the deputy leader of Taiwan island Lai Ching-te's provocative "transit" through the US.
Lai's relying on US for 'Taiwan independence' cold-shouldered; Mainland has enough options to counter secessionist moves: analyst Global Times 17 Aug 2023 -- The separatist deputy regional leader of Taiwan island Lai Ching-te has been snubbed by the US, as he made a "stopover" in San Francisco on Thursday, his second during this trip, as his act of soliciting support from the US for "Taiwan independence" saw no participation of senior US political figures, with experts saying that the Chinese mainland has enough strength and options to take countermeasures against Lai's separatist acts, and these could be seen soon after Lai returns to Taiwan.
Poll shows 38% Americans back direct military intervention over Taiwan CNA 17 Aug 2023 -- Only 38 percent of the U.S. public support the deployment of American troops to defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese invasion, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll released Thursday.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.17, 2023 ROC MND 17 Aug 2023
PLA Eastern Theater Command releases video on combat readiness amid secessionist Lai Ching-te's 'stopovers' in US Global Times 17 Aug 2023 -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command on Thursday released a video displaying its combat readiness in a move experts said sends a stern warning to "Taiwan independence" secessionist forces amid US "stopovers" by the island of Taiwan's deputy regional leader Lai Ching-te.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.15, 2023 ROC MND 15 Aug 2023
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.14, 2023 ROC MND 14 Aug 2023
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.13, 2023 ROC MND 13 Aug 2023
Vice President Lai arrives in New York City (update) CNA 13 Aug 2023 -- Vice President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) arrived in New York City Saturday evening (local time) for a stopover en route to Taiwan's South American diplomatic ally Paraguay.
China Condemns US Stopover by Taiwan VP, Warns of 'Strong' Response VOA 13 Aug 2023 -- China's foreign ministry was quick to voice its opposition to a transit stop in the United States by Taiwan's Vice President William Lai as he travels to Paraguay, warning Sunday that it could take "resolute and strong measures" in response to the visit.
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Remarks on Lai Ching-te's US "Stopover" PRC MofA 13 Aug 2023
VP Lai leaves on Paraguay trip, to transit U.S. cities CNA 12 Aug 2023 -- Vice President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said Saturday evening he looks forward to meeting with top envoys from like-minded countries while setting out on a seven-day trip that will include two days in Paraguay and stops in New York and San Francisco in the United States.
Taiwan Vice President Arrives in US on Trip China Opposed VOA 12 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's Vice President William Lai arrived in New York on Saturday night, a transit stop on a seven-day trip to Paraguay. He will pass through San Francisco on his return to Taiwan.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.12, 2023 ROC MND 12 Aug 2023
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.11, 2023 ROC MND 11 Aug 2023
China announces military exercises ahead of Lai's visit to Paraguay CNA 11 Aug 2023 -- China announced on Friday, just one day before Vice President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) is scheduled to embark on a trip to Paraguay, that it will hold three days of military exercises in the East China Sea.
Taiwan deputy leader's trip tests US-China thaw Radio Free Asia 11 Aug 2023 -- The two-month-old thawing of ties between Beijing and Washington faces its first major test this weekend, with Taiwanese Vice President Lai Ching-te becoming the self-governing island's latest leader to "transit" through the United States amid protests from China.
Analysts: US, Taipei Aim to Keep Taiwan VP Transit Stops Low-Key VOA 11 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's vice president and presidential front-runner, William Lai, departs Saturday on a seven-day trip to Paraguay. Along the way, he will make transit stops in New York and San Francisco, something China has strongly protested.
Defective nozzle sleeve causes fighter jet to malfunction mid-air CNA 10 Aug 2023 -- An examination of an Indigenous Defense Fighter (IDF) jet which discharged flames mid-air during a rehearsal in Taichung Thursday determined that the incident was caused by a defective exhaust nozzle sleeve, the Air Force said.
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Remarks on the US's Signing into Law the "US-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade First Agreement Implementation Act" PRC MofA 10 Aug 2023
Taiwan-made fighter jet lands safely after mid-air malfunction CNA 10 Aug 2023 -- An Indigenous Defense Fighter (IDF) jet that appeared to malfunction in mid-air landed safely at the Ching Chuan Kang Air Base in Taichung Thursday, according to the Air Force.
8 Chinese warplanes cross Taiwan Strait median line: Defense ministry CNA 10 Aug 2023 -- A total of 33 Chinese warplanes were detected in Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ) during the 24-hour period from 6 a.m. Wednesday, including eight that crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, according to Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND).
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.10, 2023 ROC MND 10 Aug 2023
Taiwan to carry out a precision missile drill Aug. 15-17 CNA 09 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's Air Force and Navy will jointly conduct their annual live-fire exercise using air-to-air and anti-ship missiles in waters off Taiwan's southeastern coast for three days from Aug. 15, according to a military source.
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Remarks on Japanese Politician Taro Aso's Visit to Taiwan and His Irresponsible Comments PRC MofA 09 Aug 2023
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.9, 2023 ROC MND 09 Aug 2023
Taiwan fishery patrol vessel makes rare maintenance stop in Japan CNA 08 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration (CGA) confirmed Tuesday that one of its fishery patrol vessels, Hsun Hu No. 8, is currently making a maintenance stop at a port in Japan.
Biden signs law approving first part of U.S. trade pact with Taiwan CNA 08 Aug 2023 -- U.S. President Joe Biden on Monday signed into law a bill that approves the first agreement negotiated under a bilateral trade initiative between the United States and Taiwan, the White House said in a statement.
Eyeing the presidency, Lai backs view that Taiwan not part of PRC CNA 08 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan is not a part of the People's Republic of China (PRC) and neither side is subordinate to the other, Vice President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said when asked to explain why he said in 2017 that he is a "pragmatic worker for Taiwan independence."
Five indicted in China espionage cases CNA 08 Aug 2023 -- The Tainan branch of the Taiwan High Prosecutors Office has indicted five people in two separate cases for allegedly spying for China, including one in which secrets related to Taiwan's Han Kuang exercises allegedly changed hands.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.8, 2023 ROC MND 08 Aug 2023
New military police battalion to be garrisoned in south Taipei: Source CNA 07 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's armed forces plan to garrison a newly raised military police battalion in south Taipei, as part of efforts to bolster protection for the president and other top government leaders, a military source told CNA Monday.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.7, 2023 ROC MND 07 Aug 2023
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.6, 2023 ROC MND 06 Aug 2023
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.5, 2023 ROC MND 05 Aug 2023
US urged to take actions to build guardrails, reject Lai's 'transit' trip Global Times 05 Aug 2023 -- Like the heavy rain and strong winds brought by the recent Typhoon Khanun over Taiwan, the Taiwan Straits is also clouded by growing political tensions. After a brief thaw brought by a string of trips by US senior officials to Beijing, the US has resumed its provocation on the Taiwan question, including arms sales and a bill challenging UN Resolution 2758 over Taiwan's status. In addition, the upcoming US "transit" tour of Lai Ching-te, deputy leader of the Taiwan region and a diehard secessionist, will bring more danger and uncertainty.
Washington warned over Lai's planned 'transit' People's Daily 04 Aug 2023 -- Beijing issued another warning to Washington on Thursday against allowing the planned "transit" by Taiwan's deputy leader Lai Ching-te, vowing to take firm and strong measures to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.4, 2023 ROC MND 04 Aug 2023
Press Statement by Director General of Department of Chinese Affairs of DPRK Foreign Ministry KCNA 04 Aug 2023 -- Maeng Yong Rim, director general of the Department of Chinese Affairs of the Foreign Ministry of the DPRK, issued the following press statement on August 3:
China opposes any visit by "Taiwan independence" separatists to U.S.: FM spokesperson People's Daily 04 Aug 2023 -- China firmly opposes any visit by "Taiwan independence" separatists to the United States in any name or under whatever pretext, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Thursday.
Latest US plan to fund arms to Taiwan island, military aid further endanger peace in the Taiwan Straits Global Times 03 Aug 2023 -- With the secessionist deputy regional leader on the island of Taiwan Lai Ching-te, who is also a candidate for the election of next regional leader, scheming to make a transit visit to the US in August shortly after the one-year anniversary of then US house speaker Nancy Pelosi's provocative visit to the island, tensions around the island of Taiwan continue to build up.
China firmly opposes Taiwan deputy regional leader Lai's 'transit' in US, will closely follow the development: FM Global Times 03 Aug 2023 -- China urges the US to refuse to let Taiwan deputy regional leader Lai Ching-te "transit" the US, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Thursday, stressing that China firmly opposes any form of official interaction between the US and the Taiwan region, firmly opposes any visit by "Taiwan independence" separatists to the US in any name or under whatever pretext, and firmly opposes any form of US connivance and support for "Taiwan independence" separatists and their separatist activities.
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Remarks on Deputy Leader of the Taiwan Region William Lai's Planned Transit in the US PRC MofA 03 Aug 2023
Taiwanese Man Convicted of Spying in China Shares Story of 'Painful 4 Years' VOA 03 Aug 2023 -- For 51-year-old Taiwanese businessman Lee Meng-chu, the last four years have been a life-altering journey.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.3, 2023 ROC MND 03 Aug 2023
KMT's Hou dismisses China calls for 'democratic' talks with Taiwan CNA 02 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's participation in China-proposed "democratic negotiations" is currently "not feasible," according to Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜), the presidential nominee of Taiwan's main opposition Kuomintang (KMT), in an interview with Asahi Shimbun.
DPP candidate Lai's 'stopover' in US to cause new tension; Washington's encouragement for Taiwan secessionists will add difficulties to mainland's peace efforts Global Times 02 Aug 2023 -- The Taiwan secessionist Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) candidate for the 2024 regional election Lai Ching-te, also deputy regional leader, will make "stopovers in New York and San Francisco" during an August 12-18 trip to Paraguay, the Taiwan "external affairs authority" announced on Wednesday, and this will become a new incident to worsen tension in the Taiwan Straits and another evidence of US' encouragement toward Taiwan secessionism, which is an absolute contradiction to US' promises to China on "opposing Taiwan Independence."
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Remarks on the US Government's Decision to Provide Military Aid for China's Taiwan Region PRC MofA 02 Aug 2023
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.2, 2023 ROC MND 02 Aug 2023
Army lieutenant colonel detained over alleged espionage for China CNA 02 Aug 2023 -- The Taiwan High Court on Monday approved a motion filed by prosecutors to detain an Army lieutenant colonel and hold him incommunicado on suspicion of recruiting military officers to collect military intelligence for China.
Taiwan to further ease COVID-19 controls as cases steadily tick down CNA 01 Aug 2023 -- Starting Aug. 15, individuals who contract mild cases of COVID-19 will be advised to monitor their health for five days, half the current requirement of 10 days, as the pandemic continues to ease in Taiwan, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) said Tuesday.
Politicians call for Keelung ammunition depot to be moved following explosion CNA 01 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's military on Tuesday refused to directly respond to demands made by the Keelung mayor and politicians for an ammunition depot to be relocated after an explosion there last month injured nine soldiers, leaving two of them seriously wounded.
China again warns US against 'dangerous' weapons aid to Chinese Taipei Press TV 01 Aug 2023 -- China's defense ministry has warned the United States against going further down a "wrong and dangerous" path after Washington approved a new military aid package for Chinese Taipei (Taiwan).
Taiwanese desert Hong Kong for Japan, citing political fears and high-end cosmetics Radio Free Asia 01 Aug 2023 -- Hong Kong has dropped out of the top five tourism destinations for residents of democratic Taiwan, who are forsaking the city they once loved to shop and eat in for Japan.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.1, 2023 ROC MND 01 Aug 2023

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August 2023 - Taiwan Special Weapons News