September 2023 - Taiwan Special Weapons News

Taiwan's 1st indigenous submarine a key step towards 'defense autonomy' CNA 30 Sep 2023 -- When Huang Shu-kuang (黃曙光) sees Taiwan's first domestically built defense submarine the "Narwhal" displayed prominently on its launch platform, its bow neatly draped in the country's national flag, he knows he has accomplished the important mission of helping Taiwan take its first step toward "defense autonomy."
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 30, 2023 ROC MND 30 Sep 2023
Lawmakers call for investigation into indigenous submarine controversy CNA 29 Sep 2023 -- Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislators on Friday urged prosecutors to look into a controversy involving the construction of Taiwan's first Indigenous Defense Submarine (IDS), which was unveiled Thursday amid the country's goal to strengthen its deterrence against the Chinese navy.
Taiwan test fires Patriot missiles in joint exercise with U.S.: Source CNA 29 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan's military test fired Patriot missiles as part of a joint training exercise with the United States conducted near the Pacific island country of Palau in August, a source familiar with the matter told CNA Friday.
Avoiding war top priority for any Taiwan leader: KMT's Hou CNA 29 Sep 2023 -- The top priority for a leader of Taiwan is avoiding war with China at a time of escalating tensions across the Taiwan Strait, said Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜), the presidential candidate of the opposition Kuomintang (KMT).
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 29, 2023 ROC MND 29 Sep 2023
Taiwan's new submarine boosts nation's defensive capabilities: scholar CNA 29 Sep 2023 -- A Taiwanese defense expert said Thursday that the newly unveiled Taiwanese 'Narwhal' submarine will boost Taiwan's defense capabilities and could deter Chinese aircraft carriers and amphibious landing groups in eastern Taiwan when it goes into active service at the end of 2024.
Taiwan launches first Indigenous Defense Submarine 'Narwhal' CNA 28 Sep 2023 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) on Thursday presided over the launch of Taiwan's first Indigenous Defense Submarine (IDS) "Narwhal" at a ceremony in Kaohsiung and labeled the event a crucial moment in Taiwan's mission to produce domestic subs and achieve "defense autonomy."
Taiwan unveils homegrown 'sea monster' sub Radio Free Asia 28 Sep 2023 -- President Tsai Ing-wen on Thursday presided over a naming ceremony and launch of Taiwan's first domestically assembled submarine amid concerns in expert corners that the effort was "too little, too late."
Taiwan Launches Its First Submarine for Testing in Face of China's Threats VOA 28 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen launched the self-governing island's first domestically made submarine Thursday for testing after seven years of design and construction and increasingly aggressive moves by China.
Visiting Australian parliamentarian touts bipartisan support for Taiwan CNA 28 Sep 2023 -- A member of a visiting Australian parliamentary delegation said on Wednesday that the bipartisan group is sending an important signal about the importance of the Australia-Taiwan relationship.
TPP's Ko gives rumored KMT pact preconditions the cold shoulder CNA 28 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan People's Party (TPP) presidential nominee Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) on Wednesday dismissed the idea of unconditionally accepting the junior role in a prospective joint ticket with Kuomintang (KMT) candidate Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜).
Tycoon Gou pushes on despite undermining opposition unity CNA 28 Sep 2023 -- When tech billionaire Terry Gou (郭台銘) announced with great fanfare on Aug. 28 that he would run for president as an independent candidate, his goal was to unite a splintered opposition against the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and its candidate Lai Ching-te (賴清德).
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 28, 2023 ROC MND 28 Sep 2023
Q&A: Taiwan's Digital Minister Audrey Tang on AI and Censorship VOA 28 Sep 2023 -- On the sidelines of the 78th United Nations General Assembly in New York last week, Taiwan's Minister of Digital Affairs Audrey Tang delivered a speech at the Concordia Annual Summit on digital democracy and artificial intelligence. VOA spoke with Tang about how AI might help break through China's censorship and the challenges and opportunities the technology brings to global democracy.
Report Finds China Exploiting Taiwan Voter Doubts About US VOA 28 Sep 2023 -- In the run-up to Taiwan's highly competitive presidential and legislative elections in January 2024, China is exploiting doubts voters may have about the United States and its intentions toward Taiwan, according to political experts in the self-governing island that Beijing considers its territory.
Prospects on mainland are rosier for Taiwan compatriots: spokesperson People's Daily 28 Sep 2023 -- A mainland spokesperson said Wednesday that by getting actively engaged in the Chinese mainland's high-quality development, compatriots and businesspeople from Taiwan will surely enjoy more opportunities, broader space and ever rosier prospects.
DPP always goes against interests, well-being of Taiwan compatriots: mainland spokesperson People's Daily 28 Sep 2023 -- It has been proved once again that the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities always stand on the wrong side of history and go against the interests and well-being of people in Taiwan, a mainland spokesperson said Wednesday.
Guatemala defense minister meets with President Tsai CNA 27 Sep 2023 -- Visiting Guatemalan Defense Minister Henry Yovani Reyes Chigua met with President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) on Wednesday and said he looked forward to bilateral ties between the two countries continuing to deepen.
DPP 'stands against interests and well-being of Taiwan compatriots,' stigmatizing mainland's policy Global Times 27 Sep 2023 -- Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities on the island of Taiwan have always stood on the wrong side of history and against the interests and well-being of Taiwan compatriots, a Chinese mainland spokesperson said in response to the DPP's smearing of the mainland's latest document to facilitate integrated development across the Taiwan Straits.
China says military drills near Taiwan aimed at targeting 'arrogance' of separatists Press TV 27 Sep 2023 -- China says it recent series of drills near Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) are aimed at combating the "arrogance" of separatist forces.
An island encircled as China practices beach landings Radio Free Asia 27 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan's minister of national defense and military analysts are calling recent Chinese military drills "abnormal" and "out of control" amid reports that civilian ferries are being harnessed to carry out beach landing drills on the Chinese side of the Taiwan Strait.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 27, 2023 ROC MND 27 Sep 2023
Syria supports one-China principle: senior official People's Daily 27 Sep 2023 -- Syria supports the one-China principle and recognizes China's right to defend its sovereignty, said Syrian Vice Foreign Minister Bassam Sabbagh on Tuesday.
Best way to prevent war is to prepare for one, Lai tells students CNA 26 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan can prevent war by preparing for one, Lai Ching-te (賴清德), the ruling Democratic Progressive Party's presidential nominee, said in Taichung on Monday while rejecting the idea of a peace agreement to achieve peace.
Taiwan military to get its first female Political Warfare Bureau chief CNA 26 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan's military will soon welcome the first female chief of its Political Warfare Bureau following the promotion of Lt. Gen. Chen Yu-lin (陳育琳) to head the agency, a military source told CNA on Monday.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 26, 2023 ROC MND 26 Sep 2023
Taiwan rolls out new Moderna vaccine amid warnings of new COVID outbreak CNA 26 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan's Centers for Disease Control (CDC) started to roll out Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine against the Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5 Tuesday, urging people to get the shots as it warned of another outbreak in the near future.
Taiwan's 1st domestically manufactured submarine ready for testing CNA 25 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan's first domestically built submarine prototype will begin underwater testing after it is launched in a ceremony presided over by President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) on Thursday, according to the leader of Taiwan's Indigenous Defense Submarine (IDS) program.
'Daydreaming' for Taiwan island to block PLA from Pacific with local sub deployment Global Times 25 Sep 2023 -- The island of Taiwan's submarine deployment plan to block the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) from entering the Pacific Ocean is daydreaming, experts said on Monday, ahead of the scheduled launch of the island's first "indigenous" submarine later this week.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 25, 2023 ROC MND 25 Sep 2023
6 Australian parliamentarians begin 4-day Taiwan trip CNA 25 Sep 2023 -- A cross-party delegation of six Australian parliamentarians landed at Taoyuan International Airport Monday for a four-day visit to Taiwan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said.
3 more diplomatic allies speak for Taiwan's U.N. inclusion at 78th assembly CNA 24 Sep 2023 -- Three more diplomatic allies of the Republic of China (ROC), the official name of Taiwan, have spoken up to advocate for the country's inclusion in the United Nations system, during Saturday's General Debate at the 78th General Assembly in New York.
Taiwan detects China's military drills at Fujian bay area CNA 24 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan's military on Sunday said it has detected the Chinese military initiating a round of exercises at a bay area in coastal Fujian Province, which faces Taiwan, since early Sunday morning and it has been closely monitoring the drills.
PLA ground forces exercise deters Taiwan secessionists as long-range rockets, missiles, amphibious troops join 'unusual' drills around island Global Times 24 Sep 2023 -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) reportedly conducted a ground exercise on the mainland side of the Taiwan Straits on Sunday, as the defense authority on the island of Taiwan became aware of the participation of long-range rockets, conventional missiles and amphibious troops in the PLA drills around the island in addition to previously detected aircraft and vessels.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 24, 2023 ROC MND 24 Sep 2023
Saint Lucia, Tuvalu voice support for Taiwan's U.N. inclusion CNA 23 Sep 2023 -- The leaders of Saint Lucia and Tuvalu, two of the 13 countries that formally recognize the Republic of China (Taiwan), voiced their support Friday for Taiwan's inclusion in the United Nations and its participation in international organizations.
Taiwan slams Syria for 'part of China' claim in joint statement CNA 23 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs fired back at Syria Saturday after the West Asian country referred to Taiwan as an inalienable part of China in a joint statement.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 23, 2023 ROC MND 23 Sep 2023
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 22, 2023 ROC MND 22 Sep 2023
Cabinet passes draft to tighten security at military facilities CNA 21 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan's Cabinet approved a draft bill Thursday to beef up battalion security in a bid to patch up loopholes in current related acts.
Taiwan to emulate U.S. 'friend-shoring,' KMT's Hou tells Silicon Valley CNA 21 Sep 2023 -- Opposition Kuomintang (KMT) presidential nominee Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) told a Silicon Valley event Wednesday that Taiwan would emulate the U.S.' "friend-shoring" policy to reduce reliance on China-based production.
Peace, stability in the Taiwan Strait beneficial to all: President Tsai CNA 21 Sep 2023 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) said Wednesday that Taiwan is a key partner in the international democratic community, and it is in the interest of all people to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 21, 2023 ROC MND 21 Sep 2023
Taiwan to roll out updated Moderna COVID vaccine starting Sept. 26 CNA 20 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan will roll out Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine against the Omicron subvariant XBB starting Sept. 26, according to Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Director General Chuang Jen-hsiang (莊人祥) at a press conference on Wednesday.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 20, 2023 ROC MND 20 Sep 2023
Allies call for Taiwan's U.N. inclusion during General Debate CNA 20 Sep 2023 -- The leaders of three Republic of China (Taiwan) diplomatic allies, Guatemala, Paraguay and Palau, voiced support on Tuesday for the nation's inclusion in the United Nations on the first day of the General Debate held in New York.
Terry Gou kicks off signature campaign for independent presidential run CNA 20 Sep 2023 -- Independent presidential contender Terry Gou (郭台銘) kicked off a signature drive throughout Taiwan on Wednesday in his bid to gather at least 289,667 backers by Nov. 2, and subsequently secure his place on the ballot as a presidential candidate for the 2024 election.
KMT's Hou meets U.S. lawmakers, speaks at think tank in Washington CNA 20 Sep 2023 -- New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜), the opposition Kuomintang's (KMT) presidential candidate, met 11 American lawmakers after speaking at a Washington, D.C. think tank on Tuesday, Hou's final day in the United States capital city.
China Rolls Out Carrot-and-Stick Strategy to Influence Taiwan Ahead of Key Election VOA 20 Sep 2023 -- China launched a series of influence campaigns against Taiwan last week, unveiling a plan to promote integrated development across the Taiwan Strait while at the same time conducting large-scale military incursions near the island.
55 Chinese warplanes detected in Taiwan's ADIZ over last 24 hours: MND CNA 19 Sep 2023 -- The Ministry of National Defense (MND) said Wednesday it had activated defensive countermeasures in response to 55 Chinese military aircraft detected in Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ) over a 24-hour period beginning 6 a.m. Tuesday.
Taiwan's election commission unveils list of independent presidential hopefuls CNA 19 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan's Central Election Commission (CEC) on Monday unveiled a list of independent hopefuls who registered for the petition to become eligible presidential and vice presidential candidates in Taiwan's January 2024 election.
KMT's Hou outlines '3Ds tactic' to maintain cross-strait peace CNA 19 Sep 2023 -- The opposition Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate, New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜), on Monday, outlined his so-called "3Ds strategy" to promote peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait during a meeting with American scholars at a Washington D.C.-based think tank.
U.S. Strengthening Deterrence in Taiwan Strait DoD News 19 Sep 2023 -- The Defense Department is working with other government agencies, allies and friends to strengthen deterrence across the Taiwan Strait to ensure peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, Ely Ratner told the House Armed Services Committee today.
In US visit, Taiwan presidential candidate stresses 'Three D's' Radio Free Asia 19 Sep 2023 -- and better military preparation.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 19, 2023 ROC MND 19 Sep 2023
Taiwan reports record number of military incursions, urges China to stop 'harassment' CNA 18 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) on Monday called for China to immediately halt its "unilateral military harassment," after a record 103 Chinese military aircraft were detected around Taiwan in a 24-hour period that ended earlier in the day.
Over 100 PLA warplanes set new record in drill around Taiwan island Global Times 18 Sep 2023 -- A record-breaking more than 100 aircraft of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) were spotted around the island of Taiwan within 24 hours on Sunday and Monday. The sightings, which came after 20 PLA vessels, also broke their respective record last week. Experts say this shows that PLA exercises around the Taiwan island have reached a new level.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 18, 2023 ROC MND 18 Sep 2023
China stresses "first red line" in latest efforts to stabilize relations with U.S. People's Daily 19 Sep 2023 -- As part of ongoing efforts to maintain bilateral communication and stabilize relations, senior Chinese and U.S. officials held multiple rounds of meetings in Malta on Saturday and Sunday.
Wang-Sullivan talks last more than 12 hours; Taiwan question takes up longest time, Chinese FM official told GT Global Times 18 Sep 2023 -- Wang Yi, director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, and US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan held multiple rounds of meetings in Malta from Saturday and Sunday. A senior official from Chinese ministry of foreign affairs who participated in the talks told the Global Times that the two sides held multiple discussions on topics including China-US relations, Taiwan, the Asia-Pacific situation, and the Ukraine crisis, for over 12 hours. The talks were candid, substantive and constructive.
Top diplomat Wang Yi meets with US' Sullivan, emphasizing Taiwan question as 'the first red line' Global Times 18 Sep 2023 -- Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi on Sunday held several rounds of meetings in Malta with US national security adviser Jake Sullivan.
MND budgets additional corporal ranks for new conscription draftees CNA 17 Sep 2023 -- The latest Ministry of National Defense (MND) budget revealed that funding has been allocated for the training of more corporals in response to the increased duration of service for new conscription draftees.
Hou says he will ask the U.S. to pay closer attention to Taiwan peace CNA 17 Sep 2023 -- The presidential candidate for Taiwan's main opposition party Kuomintang (KMT) said on Saturday that the main purpose for his ongoing trip to the United States is to raise awareness about issues involving ensuring peace in the Taiwan Strait and to ask for Washington's assistance on economic and trade matters.
Chinese aircraft carrier Pacific drills target U.S. more than Taiwan: expert CNA 17 Sep 2023 -- The recently concluded drills in the Western Pacific, conducted by the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong, were more aim at showcasing China's military capabilities to the United Sates, which was also concluding a joint exercise in nearby seas, rather than Taiwan, a Taiwanese defense expert told CNA Sunday.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 17, 2023 ROC MND 17 Sep 2023
Deputy U.N. chief speaks out against Taiwan's exclusion CNA 16 Sep 2023 -- The United Nations' work on sustainable development could be hampered if it continues to exclude Taiwan, U.N. Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed said Friday ahead of a week of high-level meetings during the 78th U.N. General Assembly.
Taiwan Eyes New Chinese Aircraft Carrier as Major Threat VOA 16 Sep 2023 -- A new Taiwanese military assessment highlights the threat posed to the self-governing island by China's third and most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, which is expected to enter service after completing sea trials sometime next year.
China to impose sanctions on two U.S. companies over Taiwan arms sales People's Daily 16 Sep 2023 -- China has decided to impose sanctions on two U.S. companies due to their involvement in arms sales to Taiwan, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning said on Friday.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 16, 2023 ROC MND 16 Sep 2023
KMT's Hou: I will not take U.S. support for granted CNA 16 Sep 2023 -- Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜), the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) presidential nominee, who is on an eight-day trip in the United States, said Friday that he will not take Washington's support of Taiwan for granted.
U.S. Senate committee approves bill on avoidance of double tax with Taiwan CNA 15 Sep 2023 -- The U.S. Senate Committee on Finance on Thursday unanimously adopted a bill aimed at alleviating the burden of double taxation on American and Taiwanese businesses and individuals operating in each other's country.
Dual-national ban sees Gou's VP pick Lai race to renounce U.S. citizenship CNA 15 Sep 2023 -- Independent presidential contender Terry Gou's (郭台銘) running mate Tammy Lai (賴佩霞) has begun the process of renouncing her U.S. citizenship to comply with Taiwan's ban on dual-national candidates, a spokesperson said Friday.
KMT's Hou arrives in New York for 8-day U.S. 'journey of dialogue' CNA 15 Sep 2023 -- Opposition Kuomintang (KMT) presidential nominee Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) landed in New York Thursday (local time), for what his campaign office described as an eight-day "journey of dialogue and deepening friendship."
Mainland's Taiwan affairs official meets former KMT chairperson People's Daily 15 Sep 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, on Friday met with Hung Hsiu-chu, former chairperson of the Chinese Kuomintang (KMT) party, in the city of Hangzhou.
US aims to redirect military assistance from Egypt to Taiwan Press TV 15 Sep 2023 -- The administration of US President Joe Biden has notified Congress that it aims to divert money it promised to Egypt to Taiwan instead, sources familiar with the matter told CNN.
China sanctions Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman over arms sales to Taiwan island Global Times 15 Sep 2023 -- As Lockheed Martin of the US directly participated as the main contractor in US arms sales to the island of Taiwan on August 24, and Northrop Grumman has participated in US arms sales to the island on many occasions, the Chinese side decided to impose sanctions on the above two US military enterprises, the Chinese Foreign Ministry announced Friday.
Beijing slaps sanctions on 2 US defense weapons manufacturer over arms sales to Chinese Taipei Press TV 15 Sep 2023 -- China has announced sanctions against two major US arms manufacturers, namely, Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, for supplying weapons to Chinese Taipei.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 15, 2023 ROC MND 15 Sep 2023
Taiwan defense expo returns after 4-year hiatus; U.S. joins for first time CNA 14 Sep 2023 -- The biennial Taipei Aerospace & Defense Technology Expo (TADTE) opened Thursday in Taipei, after a four-year break, and for the first time included a United States pavilion.
Ko Wen-je reiterates China policy based on 'deterrence & communication' CNA 14 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan People's Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) said Taiwan has no choice but to maintain the cross-strait status quo, and as such, must prioritize "deterrence and communication" in its approach to Beijing.
Presidential aspirant Terry Gou announces running mate CNA 14 Sep 2023 -- Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. founder and aspiring presidential candidate Terry Gou (郭台銘) on Thursday announced veteran singer-actress Tammy Lai (賴佩霞) as his prospective running mate for Taiwan's 2024 election.
KMT's Hou departs for U.S., to meet with AIT chair, lawmakers CNA 14 Sep 2023 -- The main opposition Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) embarked on a week-long trip to the United States Thursday for what his campaign office characterized as a journey to boost dialogue and friendship.
DPP's smearing of latest mainland policy reveals bigotry, shortsightedness Global Times 14 Sep 2023 -- With the release of a new circular, the Chinese mainland is slated to take specific measures to rev up integration and connectivity for Fujian Province and the island of Taiwan, including accelerating construction of a highway that connects people from across the Straits. Experts say such integration will bring visible benefits to both people, and bind them closer together, which will offset the smearing and demonizing of mainland preferential policies hyped by Taiwan secessionists.
Mainland spokesperson expresses confidence in cross-Strait relations People's Daily 14 Sep 2023 -- Mainland spokesperson Chen Binhua expressed confidence in the future development of cross-Strait relations at a Wednesday press conference.
China ratchets up 'carrot and stick' pressure on Taiwan Radio Free Asia 14 Sep 2023 -- The Chinese Communist Party's Central Committee this week issued a planning document on turning Fujian Province - the Chinese province closest to Taiwan - into a demonstration zone for "integrated development" with Taiwan.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 14, 2023 ROC MND 14 Sep 2023
Senate finance committee approves Taiwan tax bill Radio Free Asia 14 Sep 2023 -- The Senate Finance Committee voted 27-0 on Thursday to approve legislation that would allow people and businesses operating in both Taiwan and the United States to only be taxed in one jurisdiction.
Presidential aspirant Terry Gou announces running mate CNA 13 Sep 2023 -- Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. founder and aspiring presidential candidate Terry Gou (郭台銘) on Thursday announced veteran singer-actress Tammy Lai (賴佩霞) as his prospective running mate for Taiwan's 2024 election.
KMT's Hou to visit U.S. for eight days CNA 13 Sep 2023 -- New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜), presidential candidate of the opposition Kuomintang (KMT), will set out on an eight-day trip to the United States on Sep. 14, according to Hou's campaign office on Wednesday.
1st Austrian parliamentarian delegation since COVID arrives in Taiwan CNA 13 Sep 2023 -- A five-member parliamentarian delegation from Austria's lower house, or National Council, arrived in Taiwan on Wednesday for a five-day visit, making them the first group of lawmakers from Austria to visit the country since the COVID-19 outbreak, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer visits Taiwan CNA 13 Sep 2023 -- Governor of the State of Michigan Gretchen Whitmer concluded a brief two-day visit to Taiwan earlier this week, making her the first sitting governor of the American state to visit the country during their tenure, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Wednesday.
Terry Gou stresses need for cross-strait dialogue to promote peace CNA 13 Sep 2023 -- Aspiring independent presidential candidate Terry Gou (郭台銘) on Wednesday emphasized the importance of Taiwan establishing communication channels to engage in dialogue with China as a way of promoting peace.
Tokyo names 'pro-Taiwan' defense minister, reportedly appoints serving official to Taipei, facing backlash from Beijing Global Times 13 Sep 2023 -- Tokyo made two dangerous moves on Wednesday on the Taiwan question - one was naming a "pro-Taiwan" politician as the country's new defense minister in Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's cabinet reshuffle, the other is reportedly appointing a serving government official to act as its de facto defense attaché to the island of Taiwan, which Chinese observers warned would further erode the foundation of China-Japan ties and will face a backlash from China.
Cross-Strait integration set to deepen People's Daily 13 Sep 2023 -- China will make Fujian province, which faces the island of Taiwan across the sea, a demonstration zone for the integrated development across the Taiwan Strait, according to a circular released on Tuesday.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 13, 2023 ROC MND 13 Sep 2023
Taiwan grants EUA for updated Moderna COVID vaccine CNA 13 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted emergency use authorization (EUA) for Moderna's Spikevax XBB.1.5 COVID-19 vaccine and is planning to roll out the new jab by the end of this month.
Property market glut? Weak Chinese economy? Sell homes to Taiwanese! Radio Free Asia 13 Sep 2023 -- Faced with a weak property market, a lackluster economy and growing local government debt, authorities in the southeastern Chinese province of Fujian have come up with a solution -- sell off empty homes to people across the channel in Taiwan.
New document to facilitate integrated devt across Taiwan Straits outlines future blueprint of Taiwan island: experts Global Times 12 Sep 2023 -- The State Council, China's cabinet, released a new document on Tuesday that outlines supporting measures to develop East China's Fujian Province into the first home for Taiwan compatriots and enterprises in the Chinese mainland.
Taiwan releases first defense paper since Russian invasion of Ukraine CNA 12 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan's military on Tuesday released its first national defense report since the Russian invasion of Ukraine which stated that the nation's armed forces are learning from the war in Europe, and are boosting the country's asymmetrical warfare capabilities and adopting a whole-of-society approach in preparation for a potential cross-strait war.
China's top political advisor urges uniting compatriots at home, abroad for national reunification People's Daily 12 Sep 2023 -- China's top political advisor Wang Huning has called for efforts to forge unity and solidarity among Chinese at home and abroad, firmly oppose "Taiwan independence," and promote the reunification of the motherland.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 12, 2023 ROC MND 12 Sep 2023
China sails Shandong aircraft carrier into West Pacific: Taiwan military CNA 11 Sep 2023 -- China sailed its aircraft carrier, the Shandong, through waters southeast of Taiwan into the West Pacific Ocean for a long-range exercise on Monday, according to Taiwan's military.
China's aircraft carrier Shandong sails past Taiwan island for second far sea drill of the year, two days after US and Canadian warships' provocative Straits transit Global Times 11 Sep 2023 -- China's aircraft carrier Shandong reportedly sailed past the island of Taiwan and entered the West Pacific on Monday for its second far sea exercise of the year, two days after US and Canadian warships made a provocative transit in the Taiwan Straits.
Hong Kong, Tibet show why China 'peace agreement' not viable: Lai CNA 11 Sep 2023 -- Vice President Lai Ching-te (賴清德), the presidential candidate for the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), on Sunday rejected a proposal by Terry Gou (郭台銘) that Taipei sign a peace agreement with Beijing, citing the situations playing out in Tibet and Hong Kong.
Resolving Taiwan question is responsibility of Chinese people, not subject to any external interference: Chinese FM Global Times 11 Sep 2023 -- The Taiwan question is a matter of China's internal affairs, while resolving it is the responsibility of the Chinese people and should be decided by them, without any external interference, said the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Monday, refuting US President Joe Biden's view that China now faces economic challenges to keep it from "invading" the Taiwan region.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 11, 2023 ROC MND 11 Sep 2023
Navy seeks to boost repair facilities with NT$616.2 million crane upgrades CNA 10 Sep 2023 -- The Navy said Sunday it has requested NT$616.2 million (US$19.2 million) for new drydock cranes to help strengthen domestic wartime ship repair capacity.
Army says tank training to continue despite facility upgrade delays CNA 10 Sep 2023 -- The Army said Sunday that a delayed expansion project of a tank shooting range in northern Taiwan will be completed in stages to allow test firing sessions to continue.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 10, 2023 ROC MND 10 Sep 2023
7th Fleet Destroyer Transits Taiwan Strait US Navy 09 Sep 2023 -- Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ralph Johnson (DDG 114) and Royal Canadian Navy Halifax-class frigate HMCS Ottawa (FFH 341) conducted a routine Taiwan Strait transit September 9 (local time) through waters where high-seas freedoms of navigation and overflight apply in accordance with international law.
U.S., Canadian ships transit Taiwan Strait CNA 09 Sep 2023 -- A United States destroyer and a Canadian frigate on Saturday transited the Taiwan Strait, according to Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND).
US, Canada sail warships through Taiwan Strait, prompting China to puts its forces on 'high alert' Press TV 09 Sep 2023 -- The navies of the United States and Canada sailed two warships through the Taiwan Strait, prompting China to put its troops on "constant high alert."
Chinese Vessels Escort US, Canadian Warships in Taiwan Strait Sputnik 09 Sep 2023 -- The Chinese armed forces on Saturday escorted one US and one Canadian warships passing through the Taiwan Strait, People's Liberation Army (PLA) spokesman Shi Yi said, adding that the escort had been carried out in accordance with law and regulations.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 9, 2023 ROC MND 09 Sep 2023
Taiwan will not allow China interference in presidential election: Hsiao Bi-khim CNA 09 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan's Representative to the United States Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) said Friday that her country is focused on building a more resilient democracy and will not permit any interference by China in its upcoming presidential election.
President Tsai returns home following Eswatini trip CNA 08 Sep 2023 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) touched down in Taiwan on Friday afternoon after completing a four-day trip in the country's only African ally Eswatini, which she said had brought about fruitful results.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 8, 2023 ROC MND 08 Sep 2023
China's upcoming live-fire military drill unlikely to impact Taiwan: MND CNA 07 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan's defense ministry said Thursday it will closely monitor a planned live-fire military exercise by China later this month off that country's east coast, but the drill is not expected to have any direct impact on Taiwan.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 7, 2023 ROC MND 07 Sep 2023
VP Lai pledges to 'fight for peace,' engage with China CNA 06 Sep 2023 -- Vice President and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential nominee Lai Ching-te (賴清德) told a press conference on Wednesday that he would "fight for peace" and seek cooperation with China if elected president next year.
Taiwan military to showcase new Indian Challenger motorcycles at base opening CNA 06 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan's Military Police is scheduled to debut its newly purchased heavy motorcycles in an upcoming military base opening event later this month, the Military News Agency (MNA) announced on Wednesday.
Taiwanese Divided on US Military Sales Amid Growing Chinese Threats VOA 06 Sep 2023 -- The U.S. has renewed efforts to help Taiwan strengthen its defense capabilities in recent weeks, approving a series of million-dollar military sales to Taiwan and promising to resolve the $19 billion backlog of Taiwanese defense purchases from the U.S.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 6, 2023 ROC MND 06 Sep 2023
Taiwan has no right to join UN: Chinese spokesperson People's Daily 06 Sep 2023 -- A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson on Tuesday reiterated that Taiwan has no basis, reason or right to join the UN or other international organizations that require statehood.
No 'KMT-TPP collaboration' deal: Ko's spokeswoman CNA 05 Sep 2023 -- A spokeswoman for the Taiwan People's Party (TPP) on Tuesday rejected a media report that stated the party chairman and presidential candidate Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) had reached a deal with the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) to collaborate in the presidential and legislative elections next January.
President Tsai departs for Eswatini on direct flight CNA 05 Sep 2023 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) on Tuesday morning set out to Eswatini for a four-day trip that she said aimed to further promote bilateral cooperation.
DPP's distortion of UN Resolution 2758 extremely dangerous separatist provocations: Chinese FM Global Times 05 Sep 2023 -- Despite the facts and the legal basis, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities in Taiwan island have been distorting the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 2758, openly challenging the internationally recognized one-China principle, and spinning lies to pursue "Taiwan independence." These are extremely dangerous separatist provocations, Mao Ning, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, said on Tuesday. The 78th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 78) opened on the same day.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 5, 2023 ROC MND 05 Sep 2023
TPP's Ko says China policy will be based on 'deterrence & communication' CNA 04 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan People's Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) said Monday he would make "deterrence and communication" the foundation of his China policy to avoid staking Taiwan's future on "goodwill" alone.
Taiwan or bust Radio Free Asia 04 Sep 2023 -- In its daily briefing on Chinese military activities around Taiwan on Monday, Taipei's Ministry of National Defense said that just two People's Liberation Army aircraft were in the air.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 4, 2023 ROC MND 04 Sep 2023
Eswatini Not Expecting 'Friction' With China Over Taiwan President Visit VOA 04 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen this week visits the Kingdom of Eswatini — the island's last Africa ally — following a state visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to continental powerhouse South Africa, which surrounds Eswatini.
China's chip industry 'not successful' even before sanctions: Ex-TSMC executive CNA 04 Sep 2023 -- Former Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) co-Chief Operating Officer Chiang Shang-yi (蔣尚義) has described the struggles of China's chip industry as predating U.S. sanctions, stating in an interview that "people" were the country's "biggest hurdle."
Taiwan's FM pledges continuing support for Ukraine at global lawmakers' summit CNA 03 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan's Foreign Minister Joseph Wu (吳釗燮) on Saturday pledged to continue the government's support for Ukraine as it continues to fight Russian troops following Russia's invasion in February 2022, while expressing gratitude for the global backing of Taiwan which he said was standing on the frontline of Chinese military coercion.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 3, 2023 ROC MND 03 Sep 2023
Taiwanese man returns home after detention in China for spying CNA 02 Sep 2023 -- Taiwanese businessman Lee Meng-chu (李孟居) returned to Taiwan on Saturday after being detained in China on charges of spying in 2019, a total of 1,475 days since he last stepped foot in the country.
DPP's weapon purchase cannot shake mainland's will of national reunification: mainland spokesperson People's Daily 02 Sep 2023 -- No matter how many weapons are purchased from the United States by Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities, they cannot shake the Chinese mainland's will to resolve the Taiwan question and achieve national reunification, a mainland spokesperson said on Friday.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 2, 2023 ROC MND 02 Sep 2023
Taiwan to receive 7 anti-tank mine-laying systems by end of 2023 CNA 01 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan will receive seven of 14 anti-tank mine-laying systems that it had ordered from the United States by the end of this year, according to the Ministry of National Defense (MND).
Unprovoked attack on Taiwan to trigger 'resolute reaction': U.S. lawmaker CNA 01 Sep 2023 -- U.S. Representative Robert Wittman said that "any hostile, unprovoked attack on Taiwan will result in a resolute reaction from the United States," during a meeting with President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) at the Presidential Office in Taipei Friday.
US promises 'resolute reaction' if Chinese Taipei attacked Press TV 01 Sep 2023 -- A US congressional delegation visiting Chinese Taipei has hinted that the United States would take military action if the self-ruled island came under attack.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 1, 2023 ROC MND 01 Sep 2023
China: 'US seriously violating the one-China principle' Press TV 01 Sep 2023 -- China has strongly condemned the US decision to provide Taiwan with military aid as a serious violation of the "one-China principle."

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September 2023 - Taiwan Special Weapons News