A day after Japan's deputy defence minister Yasuhide Nakayama said Taiwan should be protected as a "democratic country", China said the statement seriously violated the principles of China-Japan Joint Communique.

"This seriously violates Japan's solemn promise not to regard Taiwan as a country made many times so far," Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-takes-part-in-military-exercise-with-south-korean-ship-in-east-china-sea-394711">Also Read:&nbsp;Indian Navy takes part in military exercise with South Korean ship in East China Sea</a>

The foreign ministry asked the Japanese government to make a "clear clarification" while warning that "this kind of situation does not happen again."

Watch:

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Japanese minister Yasuhide Nakayama during a talk with a think tank had said there was a growing threat of Chinese and Russian collaboration while questioning the "One China" policy with reference to Taiwan.

The Japanese minister said China had "aggressive, aggressive, thought and will" under Xi Jinping's regime while stating that there was a threat posed by China's missile and space program.

Nakayama also highlighted the military exercises between China and Russia while saying that he wanted to see a "stronger, stronger and stronger" United States.

The minister said Japan needed to spend more on its defence and the US should boost technological collaboration with Tokyo in view of the Russian and Chinese collaboration.

However, the Chinese foreign ministry hit out at Japan saying that it needs to be "cautious in words and deeds" in no way should it "undermine China's sovereignty".

"We seriously urge the Japanese side to earnestly abide by its promises on the Taiwan issue," the Chinese foreign ministry told the Japanese government.

(With inputs from Agencies)

A day after Japan's deputy defence minister Yasuhide Nakayama said Taiwan should be protected as a "democratic country", China said the statement seriously violated the principles of China-Japan Joint Communique.

A day after Japan's deputy defence minister Yasuhide Nakayama said Taiwan should be protected as a "democratic country", China said the statement seriously violated the principles of China-Japan Joint Communique. "This seriously violates Japan's solemn promise not to regard Taiwan as a country made many times so far," Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement. Also Read: Indian Navy takes part in military exercise with South Korean ship in East China Sea The foreign ministry asked the Japanese government to make a "clear clarification" while warning that "this kind of situation does not happen again." Watch: Japanese minister Yasuhide Nakayama during a talk with a think tank had said there was a growing threat of Chinese and Russian collaboration while questioning the "One China" policy with reference to Taiwan. The Japanese minister said China had "aggressive, aggressive, thought and will" under Xi Jinping's regime while stating that there was a threat posed by China's missile and space program. Nakayama also highlighted the military exercises between China and Russia while saying that he wanted to see a "stronger, stronger and stronger" United States. The minister said Japan needed to spend more on its defence and the US should boost technological collaboration with Tokyo in view of the Russian and Chinese collaboration. However, the Chinese foreign ministry hit out at Japan saying that it needs to be "cautious in words and deeds" in no way should it "undermine China's sovereignty". "We seriously urge the Japanese side to earnestly abide by its promises on the Taiwan issue," the Chinese foreign ministry told the Japanese government. (With inputs from Agencies)

China is furious after Japanese minister calls Taiwan a 'country'

Chinese&nbsp;military said on Thursday that&nbsp;Taiwan needs to be clearly aware that its future lies in "reunification" with China and that it cannot rely on the United States.

Twenty-eight Chinese air force aircraft, including fighters and nuclear-capable bombers, entered Taiwan's air defence identification zone (ADIZ) last Tuesday, the largest number to date reported by the Chinese-claimed island's government.

The incident came shortly after Group of Seven leaders issued a joint statement scolding China for a series of issues and underscoring the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, comments China condemned as "slander".

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/real-possibility-of-war-taiwan-calls-for-global-coalition-against-china-328167">'Real possibility of war': Taiwan calls for global coalition against China</a>

Asked about the number of aircraft involved last week, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Ren Guoqiang said what he termed exercises were "a necessary action for the current security situation across the Taiwan Strait and safeguarding national sovereignty".

Taiwan independence means war, he added, reiterating the sharper language the ministry began using in January.

"The United States should fully understand that China's development and growth cannot be stopped by any force," Ren said.

"The Democratic Progressive Party authorities must be soberly aware that the future of Taiwan lies in national reunification," he added, referring to Taiwan's ruling party.

"Any attempt to 'rely on the United States for independence' is doomed to failure."

China believes that Taiwan's democratically-elected government is moving the island towards a declaration of formal independence, although Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen has repeatedly said it is already an independent country called the Republic of China, its formal name.

Most Taiwanese have shown no interest in being ruled by China.

The United States is Taiwan's strongest backer on the international stage and main arms supplier, despite the lack of official diplomatic recognition, to Beijing's anger.

Taiwan has complained of repeated harassment by Chinese aircraft in its air defence zone over the past year or so.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese military said on Thursday that Taiwan needs to be clearly aware that its future lies in "reunification" with China and that it cannot rely on the United States.

Chinese military said on Thursday that Taiwan needs to be clearly aware that its future lies in "reunification" with China and that it cannot rely on the United States. Twenty-eight Chinese air force aircraft, including fighters and nuclear-capable bombers, entered Taiwan's air defence identification zone (ADIZ) last Tuesday, the largest number to date reported by the Chinese-claimed island's government. The incident came shortly after Group of Seven leaders issued a joint statement scolding China for a series of issues and underscoring the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, comments China condemned as "slander". Also read| 'Real possibility of war': Taiwan calls for global coalition against China Asked about the number of aircraft involved last week, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Ren Guoqiang said what he termed exercises were "a necessary action for the current security situation across the Taiwan Strait and safeguarding national sovereignty". Taiwan independence means war, he added, reiterating the sharper language the ministry began using in January. "The United States should fully understand that China's development and growth cannot be stopped by any force," Ren said. "The Democratic Progressive Party authorities must be soberly aware that the future of Taiwan lies in national reunification," he added, referring to Taiwan's ruling party. "Any attempt to 'rely on the United States for independence' is doomed to failure." China believes that Taiwan's democratically-elected government is moving the island towards a declaration of formal independence, although Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen has repeatedly said it is already an independent country called the Republic of China, its formal name. Most Taiwanese have shown no interest in being ruled by China. The United States is Taiwan's strongest backer on the international stage and main arms supplier, despite the lack of official diplomatic recognition, to Beijing's anger. Taiwan has complained of repeated harassment by Chinese aircraft in its air defence zone over the past year or so. (With inputs from agencies)

China tells Taiwan it cannot rely on United States, future lies in 'reunification'

Macau&nbsp;said on Wednesday it was closing its representative office in Taiwan, following neighbouring Hong Kong which made the same move last month in protest at Taipei's support for pro-democracy activists.

Hong Kong and&nbsp;Macau&nbsp;are "semi-autonomous" Chinese cities, although foreign policy is all but decided by Beijing and the central government has taken an increasingly more direct say in how both former colonies are run in recent years.

In a short statement,&nbsp;Macau&nbsp;announced its Economic and Cultural Delegation in Taiwan will temporarily suspend operations from June 19.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-suspends-operations-at-representative-office-in-taiwan-as-tensions-rise-385847">Hong Kong suspends operations at representative office in Taiwan as tensions rise</a>&nbsp;

In response, Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council expressed "deep regret over the&nbsp;Macau&nbsp;government's unilateral decision," saying it would continue to keep its trade office in the Chinese gambling enclave open.

Macau&nbsp;gave no reason for the closure. But the wording was almost identical to last month's statement by Hong Kong.

That announcement was then followed by Hong Kong's government confirming the closure was indeed political.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-blames-gross-interference-for-taiwan-office-closure-386536">Hong Kong blames 'gross interference' for Taiwan office closure</a>

Taiwan, Hong Kong said, had "grossly interfered" in the city's affairs on repeated occasions and "created irretrievable damage" to relations.

Hong Kong and&nbsp;Macau&nbsp;abide by authoritarian China's view that democratic, self-ruled Taiwan is part of its territory and must be seized one day, by force if necessary.

That makes any official contact with Taipei tricky, even though Taiwan is a major trading partner.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-launches-protest-after-japanese-pm-suga-refers-to-taiwan-as-a-country-390764">China launches protest after Japanese PM Suga refers to Taiwan as a country</a>

China had encouraged trade offices when relations were warmer.

But since the 2016 election of Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen, Beijing cut official contacts and ramped up economic, military and diplomatic pressure.

Beijing loathes Tsai because she regards Taiwan as a de facto sovereign nation and not part of "one China".

Her government is also a vocal supporter of democratic principles and has quietly helped open its doors to some Hong Kongers trying to escape Beijing's crackdown on dissent after huge democracy protests rocked the financial hub in 2019.

Macau said on Wednesday it was closing its representative office in Taiwan, following neighbouring Hong Kong which made the same move last month in protest at Taipei's support for pro-democracy activists.

Macau said on Wednesday it was closing its representative office in Taiwan, following neighbouring Hong Kong which made the same move last month in protest at Taipei's support for pro-democracy activists. Hong Kong and Macau are "semi-autonomous" Chinese cities, although foreign policy is all but decided by Beijing and the central government has taken an increasingly more direct say in how both former colonies are run in recent years. In a short statement, Macau announced its Economic and Cultural Delegation in Taiwan will temporarily suspend operations from June 19. Also read | Hong Kong suspends operations at representative office in Taiwan as tensions rise In response, Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council expressed "deep regret over the Macau government's unilateral decision," saying it would continue to keep its trade office in the Chinese gambling enclave open. Macau gave no reason for the closure. But the wording was almost identical to last month's statement by Hong Kong. That announcement was then followed by Hong Kong's government confirming the closure was indeed political. Also read | Hong Kong blames 'gross interference' for Taiwan office closure Taiwan, Hong Kong said, had "grossly interfered" in the city's affairs on repeated occasions and "created irretrievable damage" to relations. Hong Kong and Macau abide by authoritarian China's view that democratic, self-ruled Taiwan is part of its territory and must be seized one day, by force if necessary. That makes any official contact with Taipei tricky, even though Taiwan is a major trading partner. Also read | China launches protest after Japanese PM Suga refers to Taiwan as a country China had encouraged trade offices when relations were warmer. But since the 2016 election of Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen, Beijing cut official contacts and ramped up economic, military and diplomatic pressure. Beijing loathes Tsai because she regards Taiwan as a de facto sovereign nation and not part of "one China". Her government is also a vocal supporter of democratic principles and has quietly helped open its doors to some Hong Kongers trying to escape Beijing's crackdown on dissent after huge democracy protests rocked the financial hub in 2019.

Macau follows Hong Kong in shuttering Taiwan office

A Taiwanese official on Saturday accused China of spreading fake news about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The official said that the country is undertaking public measures to ward off misinformation that is circulating on social media platforms, for which they blame China.

Taiwan has been praised for its response to the pandemic and has managed to keep cases under control since the first outbreak in Wuhan, China. But amid fears of variants and fresh cases, the island country has put out several stay-at-home orders and many public venues are now shut.

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'Cognitive warfare'

On multiple occasions, Taiwan has blamed China for using “cognitive warfare” to undermine public faith in the country’s response to the pandemic. China claims Taiwan as its own island and believes the territory ought to&nbsp;be merged with China, even if force is required.

Chen Tsung-yen, Taiwan’s Deputy Minister of the Interior was cited by Reuters as saying that the country’s officials feel that there is considerable danger from Chinese propaganda and misinformation against Taiwan. "The reason we are continuing to explain the contents of the fake information to everyone is to call attention to it. We must immediately intercept this, and not let cognitive warfare affect Taiwan's society," Tsung-yen said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/taiwan-raises-coronavirus-alert-level-after-spike-in-infections-386096" hreflang="en">Taiwan raises coronavirus alert level after spike in infections</a>

Citing examples of Chinese propaganda, the official pointed to online reports claiming that Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen was recently infected with Covid and that the government was hiding the information. "I want to say to everyone that this is really vile fake news," he added.

Earlier this week, Tsai tested negative for COVID-19 after one of her residence workers tested positive for the virus.

'Chaos'

As part of the so-called cognitive warfare, China is reportedly trying to “create chaos” about the state of the pandemic in the island country.

China’s Taiwan Affairs Office told Reuters on Thursday that such accusations were “imaginary”, constituent of the government’s aim to cover-up its issues.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/hong-kong-blames-gross-interference-for-taiwan-office-closure-386536" hreflang="en">Hong Kong blames 'gross interference' for Taiwan office closure</a>

A Taiwanese official on Saturday accused China of spreading fake news about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The official said that the country is undertaking public measures to ward off misinformation that is circulating on social media platforms, for which they blame China.

A Taiwanese official on Saturday accused China of spreading fake news about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The official said that the country is undertaking public measures to ward off misinformation that is circulating on social media platforms, for which they blame China. Taiwan has been praised for its response to the pandemic and has managed to keep cases under control since the first outbreak in Wuhan, China. But amid fears of variants and fresh cases, the island country has put out several stay-at-home orders and many public venues are now shut. 'Cognitive warfare' On multiple occasions, Taiwan has blamed China for using “cognitive warfare” to undermine public faith in the country’s response to the pandemic. China claims Taiwan as its own island and believes the territory ought to be merged with China, even if force is required. Chen Tsung-yen, Taiwan’s Deputy Minister of the Interior was cited by Reuters as saying that the country’s officials feel that there is considerable danger from Chinese propaganda and misinformation against Taiwan. "The reason we are continuing to explain the contents of the fake information to everyone is to call attention to it. We must immediately intercept this, and not let cognitive warfare affect Taiwan's society," Tsung-yen said. Also read: Taiwan raises coronavirus alert level after spike in infections Citing examples of Chinese propaganda, the official pointed to online reports claiming that Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen was recently infected with Covid and that the government was hiding the information. "I want to say to everyone that this is really vile fake news," he added. Earlier this week, Tsai tested negative for COVID-19 after one of her residence workers tested positive for the virus. 'Chaos' As part of the so-called cognitive warfare, China is reportedly trying to “create chaos” about the state of the pandemic in the island country. China’s Taiwan Affairs Office told Reuters on Thursday that such accusations were “imaginary”, constituent of the government’s aim to cover-up its issues. Also read: Hong Kong blames 'gross interference' for Taiwan office closure

Cognitive warfare? Taiwan says China is spreading 'vile fake news' about COVID-19

The Chinese government has warned the United States to refrain from playing with fire, immediately stop official contact with Taiwan in any form.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said that the so-called guidelines for US government interaction with Taiwan counterparts blatantly encourages US government engagement with Taiwan, which severely violates the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués and runs counter to the serious political commitment the US has made to China on the Taiwan question.

"The Taiwan question concerns China’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and core interests. There is zero room for compromise and not an inch to give. We urge the U.S. side to grasp the situation, earnestly abide by the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués, refrain from playing with fire, immediately stop official contact with Taiwan in any form, prudently and properly handle Taiwan-related issues, and avoid sending any wrong signals to the "Taiwan independence" forces, lest it should shake the foundation of China-US relations and peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," he added. 
&nbsp;

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The U.S. State Department’s Friday decision to deepen relations with self-ruled Taiwan came amid stepped-up Chinese military activity around the island, including almost daily air force incursions into Taiwan’s air defence zone.

Taiwan is China’s most sensitive territorial and diplomatic issue and a regular source of Sino-U.S. friction. China has never renounced the use of force to bring the democratically ruled island under its control.

Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced days before the end of former President Donald Trump’s presidency in January that he was lifting restrictions on contacts between U.S. officials and their Taiwanese counterparts.

While Washington officially recognises Beijing rather than

Taipei, like most countries, the United States is Taiwan’s most important international supporter and arms seller.

The United States is required by law to provide the island with the means to defend itself.

China believes the United States is colluding with Taiwan to challenge Beijing and giving support to those who want the island to declare formal independence.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen says the island is an independent country called the Republic of China, its formal name, and that she will defend its freedom and security.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Chinese government has warned the United States to refrain from playing with fire, immediately stop official contact with Taiwan in any form. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said that the so-called guidelines for US government interaction with Taiwan counterparts blatantly encourages US government engagement with Taiwan, which severely violates the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués and runs counter to the serious political commitment the US has made to China on the Taiwan question.

The Chinese government has warned the United States to refrain from playing with fire, immediately stop official contact with Taiwan in any form. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said that the so-called guidelines for US government interaction with Taiwan counterparts blatantly encourages US government engagement with Taiwan, which severely violates the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués and runs counter to the serious political commitment the US has made to China on the Taiwan question. "The Taiwan question concerns China’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and core interests. There is zero room for compromise and not an inch to give. We urge the U.S. side to grasp the situation, earnestly abide by the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués, refrain from playing with fire, immediately stop official contact with Taiwan in any form, prudently and properly handle Taiwan-related issues, and avoid sending any wrong signals to the "Taiwan independence" forces, lest it should shake the foundation of China-US relations and peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," he added. The U.S. State Department’s Friday decision to deepen relations with self-ruled Taiwan came amid stepped-up Chinese military activity around the island, including almost daily air force incursions into Taiwan’s air defence zone. Taiwan is China’s most sensitive territorial and diplomatic issue and a regular source of Sino-U.S. friction. China has never renounced the use of force to bring the democratically ruled island under its control. Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced days before the end of former President Donald Trump’s presidency in January that he was lifting restrictions on contacts between U.S. officials and their Taiwanese counterparts. While Washington officially recognises Beijing rather than Taipei, like most countries, the United States is Taiwan’s most important international supporter and arms seller. The United States is required by law to provide the island with the means to defend itself. China believes the United States is colluding with Taiwan to challenge Beijing and giving support to those who want the island to declare formal independence. Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen says the island is an independent country called the Republic of China, its formal name, and that she will defend its freedom and security. (With inputs from agencies)

Stop any form of US-Taiwan official contacts: China warns America

The United States on Wednesday warned China against what the Philippines and Taiwan see as increasingly aggressive moves, reminding Beijing of Washington's obligations to its partners.

State Department spokesman Ned Price reiterated at a regular briefing that the US&nbsp;commitment to Taiwan was "rock solid."

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"An armed attack against the Philippines' armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft in the Pacific, including in the South China Sea, will trigger our obligations under the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty," Price told reporters.

"We share the concerns of our Philippine allies regarding the continued reported massing of PRC maritime militia near the Whitsun Reef," Price said, referring to the People's Republic of China.

China sent more fighter jets into Taiwan's air defense zone on Wednesday in a stepped-up show of force around the island Beijing claims as its own, and Taiwan's foreign minister said it would fight to the end if China attacks.

China, which claims almost the entirety of the resource-rich sea, has refused weeks of appeals by the Philippines to withdraw the vessels, which Manila says unlawfully entered its exclusive economic zone.

Price voiced "concern" about the Chinese moves, saying: "The United States maintains the capacity to resist any resort to force or other forms of coercion that would jeopardize the security or the social or economic system of the people on Taiwan."

He was using language from the Taiwan Relations Act, under which the United States is obliged to provide the island with the means to defend itself against Beijing.

President Joe Biden has vowed a robust defense of allies and, in a rare point of continuity with his predecessor Donald Trump, has supported strong pushback against Chinese assertiveness.

The democratic self-governed island has complained of repeated military activities by Beijing in recent months, with China's air force making almost daily forays in Taiwan's air defense identification zone. On Monday, China said an aircraft carrier group was exercising close to the island.

Taiwan's Defence Ministry said 15 Chinese aircraft, including 12 fighters, entered its air defense identification zone, with an anti-submarine aircraft flying to the south through the Bashi Channel between Taiwan and the Philippines.

Taiwan's air force sent up aircraft to intercept and warn the Chinese away, the ministry added.

Adding to the stepped-up military activity, the US&nbsp;Navy said its John S. McCain guided-missile destroyer conducted a "routine" transit of the Taiwan Strait on Wednesday.

The United States on Wednesday warned China against what the Philippines and Taiwan see as increasingly aggressive moves, reminding Beijing of Washington's obligations to its partners.

The United States on Wednesday warned China against what the Philippines and Taiwan see as increasingly aggressive moves, reminding Beijing of Washington's obligations to its partners. State Department spokesman Ned Price reiterated at a regular briefing that the US commitment to Taiwan was "rock solid." "An armed attack against the Philippines' armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft in the Pacific, including in the South China Sea, will trigger our obligations under the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty," Price told reporters. "We share the concerns of our Philippine allies regarding the continued reported massing of PRC maritime militia near the Whitsun Reef," Price said, referring to the People's Republic of China. China sent more fighter jets into Taiwan's air defense zone on Wednesday in a stepped-up show of force around the island Beijing claims as its own, and Taiwan's foreign minister said it would fight to the end if China attacks. China, which claims almost the entirety of the resource-rich sea, has refused weeks of appeals by the Philippines to withdraw the vessels, which Manila says unlawfully entered its exclusive economic zone. Price voiced "concern" about the Chinese moves, saying: "The United States maintains the capacity to resist any resort to force or other forms of coercion that would jeopardize the security or the social or economic system of the people on Taiwan." He was using language from the Taiwan Relations Act, under which the United States is obliged to provide the island with the means to defend itself against Beijing. President Joe Biden has vowed a robust defense of allies and, in a rare point of continuity with his predecessor Donald Trump, has supported strong pushback against Chinese assertiveness. The democratic self-governed island has complained of repeated military activities by Beijing in recent months, with China's air force making almost daily forays in Taiwan's air defense identification zone. On Monday, China said an aircraft carrier group was exercising close to the island. Taiwan's Defence Ministry said 15 Chinese aircraft, including 12 fighters, entered its air defense identification zone, with an anti-submarine aircraft flying to the south through the Bashi Channel between Taiwan and the Philippines. Taiwan's air force sent up aircraft to intercept and warn the Chinese away, the ministry added. Adding to the stepped-up military activity, the US Navy said its John S. McCain guided-missile destroyer conducted a "routine" transit of the Taiwan Strait on Wednesday.

US warns China over increasingly aggressive moves against Taiwan, Philippines

Taiwan’s foreign minister on Wednesday said that the country will fight to the end if China attacks.&nbsp;Joseph Wu, the country’s Foreign Minister also said that the United States had warned of danger from China amid increased presence in the region.

In the recent weeks, China has increased military pressure on Taiwan by conducting aircraft carrier drills near the island. China claims Taiwan as its own territory and has historically not shied from advocating taking it by force.

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“I would like to also stress again, that the defence of Taiwan is our own responsibility. If we are not willing to defend ourselves, we do not have the right to ask other countries to sacrifice for Taiwan. And therefore, we take our own defence in a very serious manner”, Wu said during a press conference.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/aircraft-carrier-group-exercising-near-taiwan-drills-will-become-regular-china-375583" hreflang="en">Aircraft carrier group exercising near Taiwan, drills will become regular: China</a>

Taiwan, on the other hand has complained of increased&nbsp;military activity by Beijing in the recent months.&nbsp; Currently, Chinese Air Force is making daily entries into Taiwan’s air defence identification zone.

Wu reiterated Taiwan’s pledge to improve military capabilities and to increasing defence spending. “Our defence ministry is very determined in defending ourselves. We are willing to defend ourselves and (it) is without any question. And we will fight the war if we need to fight a war. And if we need to defend ourselves to the very last day, we will defend ourselves to the very last day”, he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/taiwan-reports-new-incursion-by-chinas-air-force-into-defence-zone-375512" hreflang="en">Taiwan reports new incursion by China’s Air Force into defence zone</a>

On Monday, China said that an aircraft carrier group was undertaking exercises near Taiwan.

The United States has remained Taiwan’s most important international supporter, and also supplies arms to the country. Reuters reported that the US is pushing Taiwan to modernise its military to make it a “porcupine” of sorts, shielding it from any potential attacks from China.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Taiwan’s foreign minister on Wednesday said that the country will fight to the end if China attacks. Joseph Wu, the country’s Foreign Minister also said that the United States had warned of danger from China amid increased presence in the region.

Taiwan’s foreign minister on Wednesday said that the country will fight to the end if China attacks. Joseph Wu, the country’s Foreign Minister also said that the United States had warned of danger from China amid increased presence in the region. In the recent weeks, China has increased military pressure on Taiwan by conducting aircraft carrier drills near the island. China claims Taiwan as its own territory and has historically not shied from advocating taking it by force. “I would like to also stress again, that the defence of Taiwan is our own responsibility. If we are not willing to defend ourselves, we do not have the right to ask other countries to sacrifice for Taiwan. And therefore, we take our own defence in a very serious manner”, Wu said during a press conference. Also read: Aircraft carrier group exercising near Taiwan, drills will become regular: China Taiwan, on the other hand has complained of increased military activity by Beijing in the recent months. Currently, Chinese Air Force is making daily entries into Taiwan’s air defence identification zone. Wu reiterated Taiwan’s pledge to improve military capabilities and to increasing defence spending. “Our defence ministry is very determined in defending ourselves. We are willing to defend ourselves and (it) is without any question. And we will fight the war if we need to fight a war. And if we need to defend ourselves to the very last day, we will defend ourselves to the very last day”, he added. Also read: Taiwan reports new incursion by China’s Air Force into defence zone On Monday, China said that an aircraft carrier group was undertaking exercises near Taiwan. The United States has remained Taiwan’s most important international supporter, and also supplies arms to the country. Reuters reported that the US is pushing Taiwan to modernise its military to make it a “porcupine” of sorts, shielding it from any potential attacks from China. (With inputs from Reuters)

Will fight China to the 'very last day' in event of an attack: Taiwan

China has warned the United States not to cross its "red line" on Taiwan after a US envoy arrived on the island as part of a delegation from Palau, one of Taipei's 15 remaining allies.

John Hennessey-Niland, the US ambassador to the pacific island nation of Palau, was part of the delegation that came with Palauan president Surangel Whipps for a five-day trip. 
 
Full Video: China &amp; Taiwan clash at WION Global summit 
&nbsp;

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Taiwan is an island democracy that split from the mainland in 1949. Beijing continues to claim it as its territory.

The United States has no official relations with Taiwan's democratically elected government but has extensive informal ties.

Former US president Donald Trump, who left office in January, angered Beijing by sending cabinet officials to visit Taiwan in a show of support.

The ruling Communist Party has threatened to invade if Taiwan declares formal independence or delays talks on uniting with the mainland.

China has ramped up pressure to get Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty, including regularly flying fighter jets and bombers near Taiwan or into its air defence identification zone.

In March 2020, Chinese vessels rammed into a Taiwanese coast guard ship. In April 2020, a Chinese surveillance ship hit and sank a Vietnamese fishing boat.

China established new administrative districts in the disputed waters with official Chinese names. At least 25 islands and reefs in the South China Sea have been named in Mandarin.

(With inputs from agencies)

China has warned the United States not to cross its "red line" on Taiwan after a US envoy arrived on the island as part of a delegation from Palau, one of Taipei's 15 remaining allies.

China has warned the United States not to cross its "red line" on Taiwan after a US envoy arrived on the island as part of a delegation from Palau, one of Taipei's 15 remaining allies. John Hennessey-Niland, the US ambassador to the pacific island nation of Palau, was part of the delegation that came with Palauan president Surangel Whipps for a five-day trip. Full Video: China & Taiwan clash at WION Global summit Taiwan is an island democracy that split from the mainland in 1949. Beijing continues to claim it as its territory. The United States has no official relations with Taiwan's democratically elected government but has extensive informal ties. Former US president Donald Trump, who left office in January, angered Beijing by sending cabinet officials to visit Taiwan in a show of support. The ruling Communist Party has threatened to invade if Taiwan declares formal independence or delays talks on uniting with the mainland. China has ramped up pressure to get Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty, including regularly flying fighter jets and bombers near Taiwan or into its air defence identification zone. In March 2020, Chinese vessels rammed into a Taiwanese coast guard ship. In April 2020, a Chinese surveillance ship hit and sank a Vietnamese fishing boat. China established new administrative districts in the disputed waters with official Chinese names. At least 25 islands and reefs in the South China Sea have been named in Mandarin. (With inputs from agencies)

Don't cross 'red line' on Taiwan: China to the US

Ten Chinese military aircraft including fighter jets entered the southwestern corner of&nbsp;Taiwan's air defence identification zone on Monday, the island's defence ministry said, in a further escalation of tension across the sensitive&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Strait.

The island's defence ministry said the air force deployed missiles to "monitor" the incursion into the southwestern part of its air defence identification zone. It also said its planes warned the Chinese aircraft, including by radio.

It marked the largest incursion to date by the Chinese air force since&nbsp;Taiwan's defence ministry began disclosing almost daily Chinese military flights over the waters between the southern part of&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Taiwan-controlled Pratas Islands in the South China Sea last year.

Some of the Chinese aircraft flew in the airspace to the south of&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;and passed through the Bashi Channel which separates the island from the Philippines,&nbsp;Taiwan's defence ministry said in a statement.

China, which claims&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;as its own territory, has stepped up military activities near the democratic island in recent months, a move&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;says jeopardizes regional stability.

The presence of so many Chinese combat aircraft on Friday's mission -&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;said it was made up of four nuclear-capable H-6K bombers and 10 J-16 fighter jets, among others - was unusual and came as the island's air force suspended all training missions after two fighter jet crashes this week.

Earlier on Friday,&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;and the United States signed their first agreement under the administration of new president Joe Biden, establishing a Coast Guard Working Group to coordinate policy, after China's passing of a law that allows its coast guard to fire on foreign vessels.

While the United States, like most countries, has no formal diplomatic ties with&nbsp;Taiwan, it is bound by law to help&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;defend itself and is the island's main arms supplier.

Ten Chinese military aircraft including fighter jets entered the southwestern corner of Taiwan's air defence identification zone on Monday, the island's defence ministry said, in a further escalation of tension across the sensitive Taiwan Strait.

Ten Chinese military aircraft including fighter jets entered the southwestern corner of Taiwan's air defence identification zone on Monday, the island's defence ministry said, in a further escalation of tension across the sensitive Taiwan Strait. The island's defence ministry said the air force deployed missiles to "monitor" the incursion into the southwestern part of its air defence identification zone. It also said its planes warned the Chinese aircraft, including by radio. It marked the largest incursion to date by the Chinese air force since Taiwan's defence ministry began disclosing almost daily Chinese military flights over the waters between the southern part of Taiwan and the Taiwan-controlled Pratas Islands in the South China Sea last year. Some of the Chinese aircraft flew in the airspace to the south of Taiwan and passed through the Bashi Channel which separates the island from the Philippines, Taiwan's defence ministry said in a statement. China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory, has stepped up military activities near the democratic island in recent months, a move Taiwan says jeopardizes regional stability. The presence of so many Chinese combat aircraft on Friday's mission - Taiwan said it was made up of four nuclear-capable H-6K bombers and 10 J-16 fighter jets, among others - was unusual and came as the island's air force suspended all training missions after two fighter jet crashes this week. Earlier on Friday, Taiwan and the United States signed their first agreement under the administration of new president Joe Biden, establishing a Coast Guard Working Group to coordinate policy, after China's passing of a law that allows its coast guard to fire on foreign vessels. While the United States, like most countries, has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, it is bound by law to help Taiwan defend itself and is the island's main arms supplier.

Taiwan reports large incursion by Chinese air force

China's ban on&nbsp;Taiwan's pineapples&nbsp;citing "harmful creatures" it said could come with the fruit, has inspired creative responses from the country.

As a result of the ban,&nbsp;Taiwan's classic beef noodle soup has taken on a sweet and sour twist.

Hung Ching Lung, a Taipei chef, has created a pineapple beef noodle soup at his eponymous restaurant Chef Hung, in what he says is a modest attempt to support Taiwanese pineapple farmers.

Taiwan will not be beaten by China's ban on pineapple imports and will rally round its farmers to turn crisis into opportunity with new markets and more sales at home, President Tsai Ing-wen said on Wednesday, offering a defiant rebuke to Beijing.

The spiky fruit became a politically charged symbol after China banned the import of Taiwan's pineapples on March 1, citing pests.

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Taiwan's infuriated government called the ban a political move to further pressure the Chinese-claimed island, a charge that China denied.

China's Taiwan Affairs Office said the decision was "totally rational and necessary" and that customs had a responsibility to prevent diseases carried by plants from entering the country.

"The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities have deliberately misrepresented and maliciously interpreted technical issues, taking the opportunity to attack and discredit the mainland," it said, referring to Taiwan's ruling party.

Tsai, who has launched a "pineapple challenge" on her social media pages to get Taiwanese to buy more of the fruit, told reporters at the headquarters of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) that their strategy was paying off.

The campaign has kicked off a pineapple media frenzy, as Taiwanese politicians sought to demonstrate their support for farmers as well as Taiwanese agriculture. Politicians from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party and the opposition Nationalist Party flocked to farms to post pictures with pineapples,&nbsp;encouraging domestic consumers as well as other countries to pick up the slack left by China.

Taiwanese restauranteurs like Hung rushed to make pineapple-infused dishes. Pineapple shrimp balls, a betel nut pineapple salad and classics like fried rice with pineapple are just some of the dishes being pushed out by restaurants and hotels on the island.

Hung said he and his team spent three days testing out ways to incorporate pineapple into beef noodles. It took about 10 attempts.

''The first time we tested it when we cooked it in the soup, it was very sweet, it was inedible and tasted completely of pineapple," he said. The successful attempt was based on separating the juice from the fruit during cooking, which removed the sweetness that would otherwise overpower the beef flavour.

Since Friday when China announced the ban, orders for more than 41,000 metric tons of&nbsp;pineapples&nbsp;have come in, including 5,000 metric tons from Japan, Tsai&nbsp;said.

"From crisis comes turning points. In the face of each challenge Taiwan will not be defeated but will become even stronger," she said, standing in front of pineapple products from Taiwan's four main producing areas in its south.

"As long as we unite and support the hard-working farmers and support our high-quality products, the international community will stand on the same frontlines as Taiwan."

Taiwan has been heartened by support from the United States and Canada in particular for what Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu has called "freedom&nbsp;pineapples", with the two countries' de facto ambassadors in Taipei posting pictures on social media with the fruit.

Around 90 per cent&nbsp;of Taiwan's pineapple exports went to China last year, though most production is consumed domestically.

China has ramped up pressure to get Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty, including regularly flying fighter jets and bombers near Taiwan or into its air defence identification zone.

&nbsp;

China's ban on Taiwan's pineapples citing "harmful creatures" it said could come with the fruit, has inspired creative responses from the country. As a result of the ban, Taiwan's classic beef noodle soup has taken on a sweet and sour twist.

China's ban on Taiwan's pineapples citing "harmful creatures" it said could come with the fruit, has inspired creative responses from the country. As a result of the ban, Taiwan's classic beef noodle soup has taken on a sweet and sour twist. Hung Ching Lung, a Taipei chef, has created a pineapple beef noodle soup at his eponymous restaurant Chef Hung, in what he says is a modest attempt to support Taiwanese pineapple farmers. Taiwan will not be beaten by China's ban on pineapple imports and will rally round its farmers to turn crisis into opportunity with new markets and more sales at home, President Tsai Ing-wen said on Wednesday, offering a defiant rebuke to Beijing. The spiky fruit became a politically charged symbol after China banned the import of Taiwan's pineapples on March 1, citing pests. Taiwan's infuriated government called the ban a political move to further pressure the Chinese-claimed island, a charge that China denied. China's Taiwan Affairs Office said the decision was "totally rational and necessary" and that customs had a responsibility to prevent diseases carried by plants from entering the country. "The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities have deliberately misrepresented and maliciously interpreted technical issues, taking the opportunity to attack and discredit the mainland," it said, referring to Taiwan's ruling party. Tsai, who has launched a "pineapple challenge" on her social media pages to get Taiwanese to buy more of the fruit, told reporters at the headquarters of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) that their strategy was paying off. The campaign has kicked off a pineapple media frenzy, as Taiwanese politicians sought to demonstrate their support for farmers as well as Taiwanese agriculture. Politicians from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party and the opposition Nationalist Party flocked to farms to post pictures with pineapples, encouraging domestic consumers as well as other countries to pick up the slack left by China. Taiwanese restauranteurs like Hung rushed to make pineapple-infused dishes. Pineapple shrimp balls, a betel nut pineapple salad and classics like fried rice with pineapple are just some of the dishes being pushed out by restaurants and hotels on the island. Hung said he and his team spent three days testing out ways to incorporate pineapple into beef noodles. It took about 10 attempts. ''The first time we tested it when we cooked it in the soup, it was very sweet, it was inedible and tasted completely of pineapple," he said. The successful attempt was based on separating the juice from the fruit during cooking, which removed the sweetness that would otherwise overpower the beef flavour. Since Friday when China announced the ban, orders for more than 41,000 metric tons of pineapples have come in, including 5,000 metric tons from Japan, Tsai said. "From crisis comes turning points. In the face of each challenge Taiwan will not be defeated but will become even stronger," she said, standing in front of pineapple products from Taiwan's four main producing areas in its south. "As long as we unite and support the hard-working farmers and support our high-quality products, the international community will stand on the same frontlines as Taiwan." Taiwan has been heartened by support from the United States and Canada in particular for what Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu has called "freedom pineapples", with the two countries' de facto ambassadors in Taipei posting pictures on social media with the fruit. Around 90 per cent of Taiwan's pineapple exports went to China last year, though most production is consumed domestically. China has ramped up pressure to get Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty, including regularly flying fighter jets and bombers near Taiwan or into its air defence identification zone.

China's ban on Taiwan's pineapples inspires creative dishes

Fighter jets belonging to the Chinese Air Force entered Taiwan's air space for the second consecutive day on Sunday.

The 12 fighter jets ventured into Taiwan's air defence identification zone as tensions surrounding the island continue to increase, with Joe Biden recently taking oath as US President.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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China claims democratic Taiwan as its own territory and has stepped up its military presence in the region surrounding the island in the last few months.

&nbsp;

Over the weekend, fighters and bombers were dispatched to the region for the first time, where recon aircraft are the most common sight from China. 
 
On Saturday, eight Chinese bomber planes and four fighter jets flew into Taiwan's defence zone, which lies between mainland Taiwan and the Pratas Islands in the South China Sea.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/taiwan-to-put-5000-into-quarantine-over-hospital-covid-19-cluster-359182" hreflang="en">Taiwan to put 5,000 into quarantine over hospital Covid-19 cluster</a>

According to Taiwanese authorities, six J-10 fighters, four J-16s, two SU-30s, a Y-8 reconnaissance aircraft, and two Y-8 anti-submarine aircraft entered the airspace.

The country added that Taiwan's Air Force was dispatched in response to China's activity.

"Airborne alert sorties had been tasked, radio warnings issued and air defence missile systems deployed to monitor the activity," the ministry said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/taiwan-reports-incursion-by-china-says-its-monitoring-the-situation-358805" hreflang="en">Taiwan reports incursion by China, says it's monitoring the situation</a>

Taiwan's air force waded off&nbsp;the Chinese aircraft and deployed missiles to monitor them, the ministry added, using standard wording for how it responds to such activities.

The flight by the Chinese bombers and fighters on Saturday came just days after Joe Biden assumed the US presidency. Beijing has watched with growing concern increasing US support for democratic Taiwan, especially during Donald Trump's administration which left office on Wednesday.

China says it has been carrying out exercises to defend the country's sovereignty and security.

Fighter jets belonging to the Chinese Air Force entered Taiwan's air space for the second consecutive day on Sunday. The 12 fighter jets ventured into Taiwan's air defence identification zone as tensions surrounding the island continue to increase, with Joe Biden recently taking oath as US President.

Fighter jets belonging to the Chinese Air Force entered Taiwan's air space for the second consecutive day on Sunday. The 12 fighter jets ventured into Taiwan's air defence identification zone as tensions surrounding the island continue to increase, with Joe Biden recently taking oath as US President. China claims democratic Taiwan as its own territory and has stepped up its military presence in the region surrounding the island in the last few months. Over the weekend, fighters and bombers were dispatched to the region for the first time, where recon aircraft are the most common sight from China. On Saturday, eight Chinese bomber planes and four fighter jets flew into Taiwan's defence zone, which lies between mainland Taiwan and the Pratas Islands in the South China Sea. Also read: Taiwan to put 5,000 into quarantine over hospital Covid-19 cluster According to Taiwanese authorities, six J-10 fighters, four J-16s, two SU-30s, a Y-8 reconnaissance aircraft, and two Y-8 anti-submarine aircraft entered the airspace. The country added that Taiwan's Air Force was dispatched in response to China's activity. "Airborne alert sorties had been tasked, radio warnings issued and air defence missile systems deployed to monitor the activity," the ministry said. Also read: Taiwan reports incursion by China, says it's monitoring the situation Taiwan's air force waded off the Chinese aircraft and deployed missiles to monitor them, the ministry added, using standard wording for how it responds to such activities. The flight by the Chinese bombers and fighters on Saturday came just days after Joe Biden assumed the US presidency. Beijing has watched with growing concern increasing US support for democratic Taiwan, especially during Donald Trump's administration which left office on Wednesday. China says it has been carrying out exercises to defend the country's sovereignty and security.

Chinese fighter jets enter Taiwan's airspace for second consecutive day

China on Monday threatened a "counterstrike" against a move by the United States to lift restrictions on official contacts with Taiwan as military tensions grow between Beijing and the self-ruled island.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Saturday Washington would lift "complex internal restrictions" on contacts with Taipei by diplomats, after a year of mounting US-Chinese friction on topics including human rights, trade and the origins of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Beijing says Taiwan is an inviolable part of China to be reclaimed, by force if necessary, and opposes any diplomatic recognition of the democratic island.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said Beijing "strongly condemns" the move and accused the United States of violating the terms of Washington's diplomatic relations with Beijing.

"Any action that harms China's core interests will receive a resolute counterstrike from China," Zhao warned, urging Pompeo to retract the decision or face "severe punishment".

It was not clear what the change means in practice, with Pompeo saying executive branch communications with Taiwan will be handled by the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), which is owned by the US government and serves as the de facto embassy.

The AIT was founded in 1979, when the United States extended diplomatic recognition to mainland China under a historic agreement requiring it to end formal recognition of Taiwan.

But Washington remains a staunch ally of Taipei and is bound by Congress to sell it weapons for self-defence. It opposes any move to change Taiwan's current status by force.

Military tensions between mainland China and Taiwan have grown sharper in the past year -- reaching their worst since the mid-1990s, some analysts say.

Chinese jets made a record 380 incursions into Taiwan's defence zone last year, a military official said Tuesday.

Beijing's animosity has increased dramatically since Tsai Ing-wen won election as Taiwan's president in 2016 -- she rejects Beijing's insistence that the island is part of "one China".

China on Monday threatened a "counterstrike" against a move by the United States to lift restrictions on official contacts with Taiwan as military tensions grow between Beijing and the self-ruled island.

China on Monday threatened a "counterstrike" against a move by the United States to lift restrictions on official contacts with Taiwan as military tensions grow between Beijing and the self-ruled island. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Saturday Washington would lift "complex internal restrictions" on contacts with Taipei by diplomats, after a year of mounting US-Chinese friction on topics including human rights, trade and the origins of the Covid-19 pandemic. Beijing says Taiwan is an inviolable part of China to be reclaimed, by force if necessary, and opposes any diplomatic recognition of the democratic island. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said Beijing "strongly condemns" the move and accused the United States of violating the terms of Washington's diplomatic relations with Beijing. "Any action that harms China's core interests will receive a resolute counterstrike from China," Zhao warned, urging Pompeo to retract the decision or face "severe punishment". It was not clear what the change means in practice, with Pompeo saying executive branch communications with Taiwan will be handled by the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), which is owned by the US government and serves as the de facto embassy. The AIT was founded in 1979, when the United States extended diplomatic recognition to mainland China under a historic agreement requiring it to end formal recognition of Taiwan. But Washington remains a staunch ally of Taipei and is bound by Congress to sell it weapons for self-defence. It opposes any move to change Taiwan's current status by force. Military tensions between mainland China and Taiwan have grown sharper in the past year -- reaching their worst since the mid-1990s, some analysts say. Chinese jets made a record 380 incursions into Taiwan's defence zone last year, a military official said Tuesday. Beijing's animosity has increased dramatically since Tsai Ing-wen won election as Taiwan's president in 2016 -- she rejects Beijing's insistence that the island is part of "one China".

China threatens ‘counterstrike’ as US lifts Taiwan restrictions

According to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warship-transits-taiwan-strait-china-calls-it-undermining-peace-335434">Taiwan's </a>foreign ministry, one of its diplomat&nbsp;had to be hospitalized after two Chinese diplomats tried to force their way into Taiwan's representative office&nbsp;in Fiji resulting in a scuffle with the Taiwanese diplomat receiving head injuries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-forces-prepare-for-possible-military-invasion-of-taiwan-deploy-hypersonic-missile-336157">Also Read:&nbsp;China forces prepare for possible military invasion of Taiwan, deploy hypersonic missile</a>

Taiwan's ministry said Fiji police forced the Chinese diplomats from its office. Two Chinese diplomats had reportedly stormed into the building on October 8 evening during Taiwan's National Day reception.

The two Chinese diplomats reportedly wanted to take pictures and collect information on who was attending Taiwan's National Day celebrations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-moves-forward-on-three-arms-sales-to-taiwan-china-says-will-make-necessary-response-334859">Taiwan </a>deputy foreign minister Henry Tseng told Parliament that it condemned "irrational acts" by the <a href="Chinese">Chinese</a> diplomats amid heightened tensions between the two countries.

The Chinese east Asia and Pacific affairs department, however, added that its diplomats were trying to find out whether any Fijian politicians were present at the event. The Chinese department said that there were injuries on both sides.

Relations between the two countries was on the edge earlier this month as Taiwan celebrated its National Day amid repeated incursion of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/national-day-row-chinese-y-8-asw-aircraft-enters-taiwan-air-space-334300">Chinese jets</a> into Taiwan's airspace. &nbsp;China considers Taiwan as a reneged province which it intends to unite with the mainland.

In a speech on Taiwan's National Day, President Tsai Ing-wen had said that the international community was concerned over "expanding hegemony" of China.&nbsp;

"I am also aware that the leader across the Strait has publicly stated in a video message to the United Nations General Assembly that China will never seek hegemony, expansion, or a sphere of influence ... we hope this is the beginning of genuine change," &nbsp;President Tsai Ing-wen had said in her National Day speech.

"We are committed to upholding cross-strait stability, but this is not something Taiwan can shoulder alone -- it is the joint responsibility of both sides," President Tsai added. 
 
&nbsp;

Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry condemned what it called “provocative wolf warrior diplomacy” as a violation of rule of law and civilized behavior.

The ministry tweeted that&nbsp;We strongly condemn the violence against our diplomat in #FijiFlag of Fiji by #China's uncivilized "wolf warriors." As a sovereign state, we'll continue celebrating #TaiwanNationalDay everywhere, every year. #TaiwanFlag of Taiwan is a force for good in the world &amp; we won't be intimidated. JW

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We strongly condemn the violence against our diplomat in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Fiji?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Fiji</a>🇫🇯 by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a>'s uncivilized "wolf warriors." As a sovereign state, we'll continue celebrating <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TaiwanNationalDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TaiwanNationalDay</a> everywhere, every year. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taiwan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taiwan</a>🇹🇼 is a force for good in the world &amp; we won't be intimidated. JW
— 外交部 Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ROC (Taiwan) 🇹🇼 (@MOFA_Taiwan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MOFA_Taiwan/status/1318148247190302720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

According to Taiwan's foreign ministry, one of its diplomat had to be hospitalized after two Chinese diplomats tried to force their way into Taiwan's representative office in Fiji resulting in a scuffle with the Taiwanese diplomat receiving head injuries.

According to Taiwan's foreign ministry, one of its diplomat had to be hospitalized after two Chinese diplomats tried to force their way into Taiwan's representative office in Fiji resulting in a scuffle with the Taiwanese diplomat receiving head injuries. Also Read: China forces prepare for possible military invasion of Taiwan, deploy hypersonic missile Taiwan's ministry said Fiji police forced the Chinese diplomats from its office. Two Chinese diplomats had reportedly stormed into the building on October 8 evening during Taiwan's National Day reception. The two Chinese diplomats reportedly wanted to take pictures and collect information on who was attending Taiwan's National Day celebrations. Taiwan deputy foreign minister Henry Tseng told Parliament that it condemned "irrational acts" by the Chinese diplomats amid heightened tensions between the two countries. The Chinese east Asia and Pacific affairs department, however, added that its diplomats were trying to find out whether any Fijian politicians were present at the event. The Chinese department said that there were injuries on both sides. Relations between the two countries was on the edge earlier this month as Taiwan celebrated its National Day amid repeated incursion of Chinese jets into Taiwan's airspace. China considers Taiwan as a reneged province which it intends to unite with the mainland. In a speech on Taiwan's National Day, President Tsai Ing-wen had said that the international community was concerned over "expanding hegemony" of China. "I am also aware that the leader across the Strait has publicly stated in a video message to the United Nations General Assembly that China will never seek hegemony, expansion, or a sphere of influence ... we hope this is the beginning of genuine change," President Tsai Ing-wen had said in her National Day speech. "We are committed to upholding cross-strait stability, but this is not something Taiwan can shoulder alone -- it is the joint responsibility of both sides," President Tsai added. Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry condemned what it called “provocative wolf warrior diplomacy” as a violation of rule of law and civilized behavior. The ministry tweeted that We strongly condemn the violence against our diplomat in #FijiFlag of Fiji by #China's uncivilized "wolf warriors." As a sovereign state, we'll continue celebrating #TaiwanNationalDay everywhere, every year. #TaiwanFlag of Taiwan is a force for good in the world & we won't be intimidated. JW We strongly condemn the violence against our diplomat in #Fiji🇫🇯 by #China's uncivilized "wolf warriors." As a sovereign state, we'll continue celebrating #TaiwanNationalDay everywhere, every year. #Taiwan🇹🇼 is a force for good in the world & we won't be intimidated. JW — 外交部 Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ROC (Taiwan) 🇹🇼 (@MOFA_Taiwan) October 19, 2020 ×

Taiwan diplomat hospitalised after scuffle with Chinese diplomats in Fiji

In a hard-hitting reaction, Taiwan's foreign minister Joseph Wu on Wednesday asked the Chinese mission to "get lost" after the latter asked Indian media to follow "One-China" policy".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-taiwans-national-day-china-asks-indian-media-to-follow-one-china-policy-333190">Also Read:&nbsp;Ahead of Taiwan's National Day, China asks Indian media to follow One-China policy</a>

A tweet by Taiwanese foreign ministry, said, "India is the largest democracy on Earth with a vibrant press &amp; freedom-loving people. But it looks like Communist China hoping to march into the subcontinent by imposing censorship."

"Taiwan's Indian friends will have one reply: GET LOST! JW", it said. The tweet was undersigned with initials - JW or Joseph Wu, the foreign minister of Taiwan.&nbsp;

Ahead of Taiwan's National Day on October 10, the Chinese mission in Delhi wrote to Indian media and called upon them to not refer to Taiwan as a "nation".

Chinese mission in the letter said, "would like to remind our media friends that there is only One-China in the world" and the "Government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legitimate government representing the whole of China."

&nbsp;"Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory. All countries that have diplomatic relations with China should firmly honour their commitment to the One-China policy, which is also the long-standing official position of the Indian government," it said.

The letter came hours after leading National Newspapers in India carried full-page advert, on WION running a programme on Taiwanese national day. The programme went on air at 7 pm on Wednesday and will again go on air on Thursday at 5.30 pm.

The letter by Chinese mission also hoped, "Indian media can stick to Indian government's position on Taiwan question and do not violate the One-China principle", asking the Indian media to not refer Taiwan as a "country" or “The Republic of China” or its Taiwan president Tsai ing-wen as President as it sends "wrong signals to the general public."

October, 10, 2011 marks the start of Wuchang uprising leading to the end of China's Qing Dynasty and establishment of the Republic of China. This day is marked in Taiwan, and this year will be celebrated amid tensions between China and Taiwan.

In a hard-hitting reaction, Taiwan's foreign minister Joseph Wu on Wednesday asked the Chinese mission to "get lost" after the latter asked Indian media to follow "One-China" policy".

In a hard-hitting reaction, Taiwan's foreign minister Joseph Wu on Wednesday asked the Chinese mission to "get lost" after the latter asked Indian media to follow "One-China" policy". Also Read: Ahead of Taiwan's National Day, China asks Indian media to follow One-China policy A tweet by Taiwanese foreign ministry, said, "India is the largest democracy on Earth with a vibrant press & freedom-loving people. But it looks like Communist China hoping to march into the subcontinent by imposing censorship." "Taiwan's Indian friends will have one reply: GET LOST! JW", it said. The tweet was undersigned with initials - JW or Joseph Wu, the foreign minister of Taiwan. Ahead of Taiwan's National Day on October 10, the Chinese mission in Delhi wrote to Indian media and called upon them to not refer to Taiwan as a "nation". Chinese mission in the letter said, "would like to remind our media friends that there is only One-China in the world" and the "Government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legitimate government representing the whole of China." "Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory. All countries that have diplomatic relations with China should firmly honour their commitment to the One-China policy, which is also the long-standing official position of the Indian government," it said. The letter came hours after leading National Newspapers in India carried full-page advert, on WION running a programme on Taiwanese national day. The programme went on air at 7 pm on Wednesday and will again go on air on Thursday at 5.30 pm. The letter by Chinese mission also hoped, "Indian media can stick to Indian government's position on Taiwan question and do not violate the One-China principle", asking the Indian media to not refer Taiwan as a "country" or “The Republic of China” or its Taiwan president Tsai ing-wen as President as it sends "wrong signals to the general public." October, 10, 2011 marks the start of Wuchang uprising leading to the end of China's Qing Dynasty and establishment of the Republic of China. This day is marked in Taiwan, and this year will be celebrated amid tensions between China and Taiwan.

Get lost, says Taiwan after Chinese mission asks Indian media to follow 'One-China' policy

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BC-R-TAIWAN-CHIP-FEUD-ART-(TRIMS)-NYT

Raymond Zhong

c.2020&nbsp;

The New York Times Company<o:p style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: 0px !important;"></o:p>

TAINAN, Taiwan — The United States and China are wrestling to lead the world in artificial intelligence, 5G wireless and other cutting-edge technologies. But the real wizardry that makes those advancements possible is being performed on a yam-shaped island that sits between them, geographically and politically.

On Taiwan’s southern rim, inside an arena-size facility stretched out among lush greenery and coconut palms, colossal machines are manipulating matter at unimaginably tiny scale. A powerful laser vaporizes droplets of molten tin, causing them to emit ultraviolet light. Mirrors focus the light into a beam, which draws features into a silicon wafer with the precision, as one researcher put it, “equivalent to shooting an arrow from Earth to hit an apple placed on the moon.”

The high-performance computer chips that emerge from this process go into the brains of the latest tech products from both sides of the Pacific. Or at least they did until last month, when the Trump administration effectively forced leading chipmakers in Taiwan — and elsewhere — to stop taking orders from China’s proudest tech champion, 5G giant Huawei.

The administration’s stranglehold on Huawei shows that for all of China’s economic progress, the United States still has final say over the technologies without which the modern world could not run. Chipmaking relies on U.S. tools and know-how, which gives officials in Washington the power of life and death over semiconductor buyers and suppliers anywhere on the planet.

Next in the firing line is China’s most advanced chip producer, Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation. The U.S. Department of Commerce told U.S. companies last week that they needed permission to export to SMIC, saying its chips could be used by China’s military. If the administration blocks SMIC from using U.S. software and equipment entirely, it will sharply set back Beijing’s hopes for meeting more of its own semiconductor needs.

That leaves Taiwanese chip companies — including the industry’s leading light, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., which owns the Tainan plant — in a tough spot.

They are forced to heed the dictates of U.S. tech policy. Yet they can scarcely ignore the fact that so many of their customers and their customers’ customers are in China, where the Communist government is also threatening Taiwan with ever bolder displays of military force. China has for decades claimed the self-governing democracy as part of its territory.

In the high-stakes tech fight, TSMC had been playing Finland: a sometime friend to both feuding giants. But that is not the way the tech world works anymore.

“China has virtually no room for maneuver,” said Pierre Ferragu, the head of technology research at New Street Research. “The U.S. definitely has the upper hand in the struggle.”

Tensions in the Taiwan Strait are rising more broadly this year.

The Trump administration has stepped up official exchanges with Taiwan ever since its president, Tsai Ing-wen, won reelection in January over an opponent who was friendlier to Beijing. In response, Chinese aircraft and warships have menaced the island with growing frequency.

When a State Department representative, Keith Krach, visited Taiwan recently, Tsai feted him at a banquet alongside a bevy of government dignitaries and TSMC’s retired founder, Morris Chang, a nod to the company’s significance to Taiwan’s relations with the United States.

U.S. officials have taken a great interest in TSMC, whose advanced chips are used in fighter jets and other hardware critical to America’s military edge. The company said this year that it would build a new factory in Arizona, responding to U.S. concerns about overreliance on offshore production.

Now, the Trump administration’s campaign against Huawei has forced TSMC to turn against one of its biggest customers. With the two companies unable to work together without licenses, Huawei may find itself unable to make its late-model handsets, an important chunk of its business, once it uses up its chip inventory.

“I don’t think Huawei has much of a future unless they can find some way to get their suppliers to get export licenses,” said Matt Bryson, an analyst with Wedbush Securities.

One of Huawei’s deputy chairmen, Guo Ping, said last week that the company was assessing its options.

“Survival is our main goal,” Guo said in Shanghai. “As Alexandre Dumas once said, all of human wisdom is summed up in two words: wait and hope.”

TSMC executives sound confident that Huawei’s plight will not dent it much. If Huawei cannot order chips from the company, then its rivals will instead.

Mark Liu, TSMC’s chairman, said at an industry conference last week that Taiwan would continue improving its technology so U.S. and Chinese companies had no choice but to keep working with the island.

“We are enjoying the success of the past,” Liu said. But for the future, “we cannot stay where we used to be before.”

TSMC could still get caught in the middle, though, if the U.S. government’s continuing attacks prompt Beijing to strike back.

A full-blown clampdown on sales to SMIC could increase the risk of Chinese retaliation “really significantly,” said Ferragu of New Street Research. Countermeasures that Beijing might once have considered too self-defeating — such as choking off Qualcomm’s or Apple’s sales in China, effectively depriving Chinese citizens of most high-end smartphones — could start to seem more acceptable.

“At this point, it’s really a game of poker,” Ferragu said. Apple and Qualcomm are both TSMC customers.

(BEGIN OPTIONAL TRIM.)

For Taiwan, these are not just business questions. China’s reliance on TSMC’s chips has long made people on the island see the company as a bulwark against Chinese military aggression. At its shareholder meeting this summer, an investor, Huang Hsueh-fen, approached the microphone hugging a giant bouquet.

“No matter how serious the pandemic becomes, I must still come offer flowers to the company that is our sacred mountain, protector of the nation,” Huang said.

Tech workers in Taiwan have a Mandarin rhyme about the young engineers who put in late nights and sacrifice their health for the company: “100,000 youths, 100,000 livers, shift by shift TSMC is saving Taiwan.”

(END OPTIONAL TRIM.)

So what happens if China stops needing TSMC as much as it does now?

This could happen naturally. TSMC is working at the frontiers of physics to continue doubling the number of transistors it can fit onto a piece of silicon. That principle, known as Moore’s Law, has guided semiconductor development for decades.

Not all tech products today need the most advanced chips, though. Some work best by packaging high-end processors with less sophisticated ones. Simple “internet of things” devices do just fine with simpler chips.

“The way we design chips is changing. It just has to,” said Jay Goldberg, a tech industry consultant and former Qualcomm executive. “Moore’s Law is slowing, and we’re just having to design chips in a way to accommodate that.”

A TSMC spokeswoman, Nina Kao, said demand for the company’s latest production processes was “stronger than ever.”

China could also lessen its dependence on Taiwan by getting better at making chips itself.

Beijing last year created a $30 billion fund for investing in chip projects. In recent months, thousands of Chinese companies have said they are getting into the semiconductor business, according to an analysis by the 21st Century Business Herald, a government-owned newspaper.

China is trying to poach more Taiwanese talent for the task. Dozens of former TSMC managers and engineers joined two ambitious Chinese chip projects last year, according to a person with knowledge of the matter.

Kao of TSMC said recent turnover was less than 5%, which the company considered a healthy level.

(STORY CAN END HERE. OPTIONAL MATERIAL FOLLOWS.)

Lin Chih-chieh, a law professor at National Chiao Tung University in Hsinchu, Taiwan, said the island needed stronger laws to keep Taiwanese chipmakers’ trade secrets from being spirited away to China.

Still, Lin said, Taiwan’s chip strengths prevent China from subjugating the island as quickly as it did Hong Kong, where the government has curbed civil liberties.
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BC-R-TAIWAN-CHIP-FEUD-ART-(TRIMS)-NYT Raymond Zhong c.2020 The New York Times Company TAINAN, Taiwan — The United States and China are wrestling to lead the world in artificial intelligence, 5G wireless and other cutting-edge technologies.

BC-R-TAIWAN-CHIP-FEUD-ART-(TRIMS)-NYT Raymond Zhong c.2020 The New York Times Company TAINAN, Taiwan — The United States and China are wrestling to lead the world in artificial intelligence, 5G wireless and other cutting-edge technologies. But the real wizardry that makes those advancements possible is being performed on a yam-shaped island that sits between them, geographically and politically. On Taiwan’s southern rim, inside an arena-size facility stretched out among lush greenery and coconut palms, colossal machines are manipulating matter at unimaginably tiny scale. A powerful laser vaporizes droplets of molten tin, causing them to emit ultraviolet light. Mirrors focus the light into a beam, which draws features into a silicon wafer with the precision, as one researcher put it, “equivalent to shooting an arrow from Earth to hit an apple placed on the moon.” The high-performance computer chips that emerge from this process go into the brains of the latest tech products from both sides of the Pacific. Or at least they did until last month, when the Trump administration effectively forced leading chipmakers in Taiwan — and elsewhere — to stop taking orders from China’s proudest tech champion, 5G giant Huawei. The administration’s stranglehold on Huawei shows that for all of China’s economic progress, the United States still has final say over the technologies without which the modern world could not run. Chipmaking relies on U.S. tools and know-how, which gives officials in Washington the power of life and death over semiconductor buyers and suppliers anywhere on the planet. Next in the firing line is China’s most advanced chip producer, Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation. The U.S. Department of Commerce told U.S. companies last week that they needed permission to export to SMIC, saying its chips could be used by China’s military. If the administration blocks SMIC from using U.S. software and equipment entirely, it will sharply set back Beijing’s hopes for meeting more of its own semiconductor needs. That leaves Taiwanese chip companies — including the industry’s leading light, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., which owns the Tainan plant — in a tough spot. They are forced to heed the dictates of U.S. tech policy. Yet they can scarcely ignore the fact that so many of their customers and their customers’ customers are in China, where the Communist government is also threatening Taiwan with ever bolder displays of military force. China has for decades claimed the self-governing democracy as part of its territory. In the high-stakes tech fight, TSMC had been playing Finland: a sometime friend to both feuding giants. But that is not the way the tech world works anymore. “China has virtually no room for maneuver,” said Pierre Ferragu, the head of technology research at New Street Research. “The U.S. definitely has the upper hand in the struggle.” Tensions in the Taiwan Strait are rising more broadly this year. The Trump administration has stepped up official exchanges with Taiwan ever since its president, Tsai Ing-wen, won reelection in January over an opponent who was friendlier to Beijing. In response, Chinese aircraft and warships have menaced the island with growing frequency. When a State Department representative, Keith Krach, visited Taiwan recently, Tsai feted him at a banquet alongside a bevy of government dignitaries and TSMC’s retired founder, Morris Chang, a nod to the company’s significance to Taiwan’s relations with the United States. U.S. officials have taken a great interest in TSMC, whose advanced chips are used in fighter jets and other hardware critical to America’s military edge. The company said this year that it would build a new factory in Arizona, responding to U.S. concerns about overreliance on offshore production. Now, the Trump administration’s campaign against Huawei has forced TSMC to turn against one of its biggest customers. With the two companies unable to work together without licenses, Huawei may find itself unable to make its late-model handsets, an important chunk of its business, once it uses up its chip inventory. “I don’t think Huawei has much of a future unless they can find some way to get their suppliers to get export licenses,” said Matt Bryson, an analyst with Wedbush Securities. One of Huawei’s deputy chairmen, Guo Ping, said last week that the company was assessing its options. “Survival is our main goal,” Guo said in Shanghai. “As Alexandre Dumas once said, all of human wisdom is summed up in two words: wait and hope.” TSMC executives sound confident that Huawei’s plight will not dent it much. If Huawei cannot order chips from the company, then its rivals will instead. Mark Liu, TSMC’s chairman, said at an industry conference last week that Taiwan would continue improving its technology so U.S. and Chinese companies had no choice but to keep working with the island. “We are enjoying the success of the past,” Liu said. But for the future, “we cannot stay where we used to be before.” TSMC could still get caught in the middle, though, if the U.S. government’s continuing attacks prompt Beijing to strike back. A full-blown clampdown on sales to SMIC could increase the risk of Chinese retaliation “really significantly,” said Ferragu of New Street Research. Countermeasures that Beijing might once have considered too self-defeating — such as choking off Qualcomm’s or Apple’s sales in China, effectively depriving Chinese citizens of most high-end smartphones — could start to seem more acceptable. “At this point, it’s really a game of poker,” Ferragu said. Apple and Qualcomm are both TSMC customers. (BEGIN OPTIONAL TRIM.) For Taiwan, these are not just business questions. China’s reliance on TSMC’s chips has long made people on the island see the company as a bulwark against Chinese military aggression. At its shareholder meeting this summer, an investor, Huang Hsueh-fen, approached the microphone hugging a giant bouquet. “No matter how serious the pandemic becomes, I must still come offer flowers to the company that is our sacred mountain, protector of the nation,” Huang said. Tech workers in Taiwan have a Mandarin rhyme about the young engineers who put in late nights and sacrifice their health for the company: “100,000 youths, 100,000 livers, shift by shift TSMC is saving Taiwan.” (END OPTIONAL TRIM.) So what happens if China stops needing TSMC as much as it does now? This could happen naturally. TSMC is working at the frontiers of physics to continue doubling the number of transistors it can fit onto a piece of silicon. That principle, known as Moore’s Law, has guided semiconductor development for decades. Not all tech products today need the most advanced chips, though. Some work best by packaging high-end processors with less sophisticated ones. Simple “internet of things” devices do just fine with simpler chips. “The way we design chips is changing. It just has to,” said Jay Goldberg, a tech industry consultant and former Qualcomm executive. “Moore’s Law is slowing, and we’re just having to design chips in a way to accommodate that.” A TSMC spokeswoman, Nina Kao, said demand for the company’s latest production processes was “stronger than ever.” China could also lessen its dependence on Taiwan by getting better at making chips itself. Beijing last year created a $30 billion fund for investing in chip projects. In recent months, thousands of Chinese companies have said they are getting into the semiconductor business, according to an analysis by the 21st Century Business Herald, a government-owned newspaper. China is trying to poach more Taiwanese talent for the task. Dozens of former TSMC managers and engineers joined two ambitious Chinese chip projects last year, according to a person with knowledge of the matter. Kao of TSMC said recent turnover was less than 5%, which the company considered a healthy level. (STORY CAN END HERE. OPTIONAL MATERIAL FOLLOWS.) Lin Chih-chieh, a law professor at National Chiao Tung University in Hsinchu, Taiwan, said the island needed stronger laws to keep Taiwanese chipmakers’ trade secrets from being spirited away to China. Still, Lin said, Taiwan’s chip strengths prevent China from subjugating the island as quickly as it did Hong Kong, where the government has curbed civil liberties.

In US-China tech feud, Taiwan feels heat from both sides

China has not only set up mass jails in Tibet, but is repressing the locals in more than one way. China is changing Tibet with the help of four moves:&nbsp;

Blocking foreign contact

First, China cut off Tibet from the world outside: Tibetans can't travel abroad, and many of them - don't even have passports.

“Getting a passport is harder for a Tibetan - than getting into heaven”, is what Human Rights Watch reported in 2015.

Deflecting international pressure

China has cut off any international support for the Free Tibet movement. China goes after anyone who speaks about it.&nbsp;&nbsp;For example, in 2016, Lady Gaga met with the Dalai Lama in Indianapolis. Following this, the singer was added to a list of "hostile foreign forces".

Changing the demographic of the region

Beijing says it is making Tibet "more Chinese". According to multiple reports, there has been a large influx of Han Chinese into Tibet.

The Chinese state promoted interracial marriage and offered incentives. It adopted a series of policies that were favourable for mixed couples. They got social security, reproductive rights, vacations, prizes - and special treatment for their children. The Chinese government wants Tibetans to dilute their ethnicity.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/why-tibet-the-western-treasure-house-is-important-to-china-329521" hreflang="en">Why Tibet, the 'western treasure house' is important to China</a>

A detailed list of benefits was advertised by China. For the children, China promised education, assurance of employment, and even a membership of the Communist Party. Chinese state media was used to push stories and promote these marriages.

Setting-up a system of mass surveillance

Chen Chwan-Gwoh was the man who designed the surveillance system in Tibet as the party chief. He was described as Beijing's man for restive regions.

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Chen introduced a new policing strategy in Tibet. Two months after taking charge, he rolled out "convenience police stations". These were police stations installed at street corners which encouraged community based policing. In 2011, he advertised 2,500 police positions. More than 400 positions were for Lhasa, the traditional capital of Tibet. This region saw violence and protest in 2008, whereby Tibetan monks clashed with police.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/china-sharply-expands-mass-labour-programme-in-tibet-329444" hreflang="en">China sharply expands mass labour programme in Tibet</a>

So China installed police stations to ensure such an uprising never takes place again. It set up 161 convenience police stations in one town which means, you had one station every 500 metres. Then, he was sent to Xinjiang.

And now Chwan-Gwoh is the Communist Party secretary of Xinjiang.&nbsp; He is also a member of the powerful politburo of the Communist Party, and the man who orchestrated the genocide of Uighur Muslims in Xinjiang.

Chen experimented in Tibet, and executed in Xinjiang. Tibet has now military labour camps for locals.&nbsp; These camps are very similar to the mass jails in Xinjiang.According to a report, the compound of such jails is fully enclosed. It is surrounded by a tall perimeter wall and fence.

The world kept quiet about Xinjiang for way too long, now it's happening in Tibet.

China has not only set up mass jails in Tibet, but is repressing the locals in more than one way. China is changing Tibet with the help of four moves: Blocking foreign contact First, China cut off Tibet from the world outside: Tibetans can't travel abroad, and many of them - don't even have passports.

China has not only set up mass jails in Tibet, but is repressing the locals in more than one way. China is changing Tibet with the help of four moves: Blocking foreign contact First, China cut off Tibet from the world outside: Tibetans can't travel abroad, and many of them - don't even have passports. “Getting a passport is harder for a Tibetan - than getting into heaven”, is what Human Rights Watch reported in 2015. Deflecting international pressure China has cut off any international support for the Free Tibet movement. China goes after anyone who speaks about it. For example, in 2016, Lady Gaga met with the Dalai Lama in Indianapolis. Following this, the singer was added to a list of "hostile foreign forces". Changing the demographic of the region Beijing says it is making Tibet "more Chinese". According to multiple reports, there has been a large influx of Han Chinese into Tibet. The Chinese state promoted interracial marriage and offered incentives. It adopted a series of policies that were favourable for mixed couples. They got social security, reproductive rights, vacations, prizes - and special treatment for their children. The Chinese government wants Tibetans to dilute their ethnicity. Also read: Why Tibet, the 'western treasure house' is important to China A detailed list of benefits was advertised by China. For the children, China promised education, assurance of employment, and even a membership of the Communist Party. Chinese state media was used to push stories and promote these marriages. Setting-up a system of mass surveillance Chen Chwan-Gwoh was the man who designed the surveillance system in Tibet as the party chief. He was described as Beijing's man for restive regions. × Chen introduced a new policing strategy in Tibet. Two months after taking charge, he rolled out "convenience police stations". These were police stations installed at street corners which encouraged community based policing. In 2011, he advertised 2,500 police positions. More than 400 positions were for Lhasa, the traditional capital of Tibet. This region saw violence and protest in 2008, whereby Tibetan monks clashed with police. Also read: China sharply expands mass labour programme in Tibet So China installed police stations to ensure such an uprising never takes place again. It set up 161 convenience police stations in one town which means, you had one station every 500 metres. Then, he was sent to Xinjiang. And now Chwan-Gwoh is the Communist Party secretary of Xinjiang. He is also a member of the powerful politburo of the Communist Party, and the man who orchestrated the genocide of Uighur Muslims in Xinjiang. Chen experimented in Tibet, and executed in Xinjiang. Tibet has now military labour camps for locals. These camps are very similar to the mass jails in Xinjiang.According to a report, the compound of such jails is fully enclosed. It is surrounded by a tall perimeter wall and fence. The world kept quiet about Xinjiang for way too long, now it's happening in Tibet.

Explained: China's four-pronged approach to restructure Tibet through repression

After <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-steps-up-arms-sale-to-taiwan-amid-row-with-china-328225">Taiwan </a>scrambled jets as Chinese aircraft flew around the island crossing the mid-line of the Taiwan Strait, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo slammed China's "military blustering" over Taiwan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-scrambles-jets-as-18-chinese-planes-buzz-island-328310">Also Read:&nbsp;Taiwan scrambles jets as 18 Chinese planes buzz island</a>

"We sent the delegation to a funeral and the Chinese have apparently responded by military blustering," the US secretary of state said.

Watch:

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China had announced combat drills near the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/real-possibility-of-war-taiwan-calls-for-global-coalition-against-china-328167">Taiwan Strait </a>as US diplomat Keith Krach arrived in Taiwan on Thursday on a three-day visit. On Friday, Taiwan scrambled jets as 18 Chinese aircraft entered the Taiwan Straits.

Taiwan's defence ministry said: "Sep. 18, two H-6 bombers, eight J-16 fighters, four J-10 fighters and four J-11 fighters crossed the midline of the TaiwanStrait and entered Taiwan`s southwest ADIZ."

"ROCAF scrambled fighters, and deployed air defence missile system to monitor the activities," it added even as Taiwan's presidential office urged China on to exercise restraint.

Taiwan's Presidential office spokesman Xavier Chang said that the situation was under control and asked people not to panic as multiple <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-condemns-after-china-deploys-fighter-jets-in-regions-southwest-326782">Chinese jets</a> entered Taiwan's southwestern air defence identification zone.

Amid the furore, Chinese defence ministry spokesman said that the country was "holding actual combat exercises near the Taiwan Strait".

"This is a legitimate and necessary action taken to safeguard China's sovereignty and territorial integrity in response to the current situation in the Taiwan Strait," Ren Guoqiang said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

After Taiwan scrambled jets as Chinese aircraft flew around the island crossing the mid-line of the Taiwan Strait, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo slammed China's "military blustering" over Taiwan.

After Taiwan scrambled jets as Chinese aircraft flew around the island crossing the mid-line of the Taiwan Strait, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo slammed China's "military blustering" over Taiwan. Also Read: Taiwan scrambles jets as 18 Chinese planes buzz island "We sent the delegation to a funeral and the Chinese have apparently responded by military blustering," the US secretary of state said. Watch: China had announced combat drills near the Taiwan Strait as US diplomat Keith Krach arrived in Taiwan on Thursday on a three-day visit. On Friday, Taiwan scrambled jets as 18 Chinese aircraft entered the Taiwan Straits. Taiwan's defence ministry said: "Sep. 18, two H-6 bombers, eight J-16 fighters, four J-10 fighters and four J-11 fighters crossed the midline of the TaiwanStrait and entered Taiwan`s southwest ADIZ." "ROCAF scrambled fighters, and deployed air defence missile system to monitor the activities," it added even as Taiwan's presidential office urged China on to exercise restraint. Taiwan's Presidential office spokesman Xavier Chang said that the situation was under control and asked people not to panic as multiple Chinese jets entered Taiwan's southwestern air defence identification zone. Amid the furore, Chinese defence ministry spokesman said that the country was "holding actual combat exercises near the Taiwan Strait". "This is a legitimate and necessary action taken to safeguard China's sovereignty and territorial integrity in response to the current situation in the Taiwan Strait," Ren Guoqiang said.

After Taiwan scrambles jets, Pompeo slams China's 'military blustering'

The breakaway territory of Somaliland opened a representative office in Taipei on Wednesday in a move that has already drawn Beijing's ire.

The strategically located, self-declared African nation of&nbsp;Somaliland&nbsp;touted potential oil, gas and tourism resources for the investment.

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Somaliland’s chief representative in Taiwan Mohamed Omar Hagi Mohamoud and Taiwan's foreign minister Joseph Wu at the opening of the de facto embassy in Taipei. Photo: AFP

Taiwan signed the agreement on establishing representative offices with&nbsp;Somaliland&nbsp;in February, but did not make it public until July. Situated on the Horn of Africa,&nbsp;Somaliland&nbsp;borders Djibouti, where China maintains its first ever overseas military base.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-urges-alliance-against-aggressive-actions-to-curb-chinas-intrusion-325977" hreflang="en">Taiwan urges alliance against 'aggressive actions' to curb China's intrusion</a>

Both China, which claims Taiwan as its own, and Somalia have expressed their opposition to Taiwan and&nbsp;Somaliland's forging of ties.&nbsp;Somaliland&nbsp;declared independence in 1991 but is recognised internationally only as an autonomous region of Somalia.

Somaliland's chief representative in Taiwan Mohamed Omar Hagi Mohamoud said at the opening of the office in Taipei that they were an independent state establishing ties with Taiwan based on the common values of freedom and democracy.

Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said they look forward to "exploring common interests and mutual benefits in areas such as fishery, energy, agriculture and others."

"We both face external pressures. But both are proud of our sovereignty and ready to defend it," Wu added.

Taiwan has just 15 formal diplomatic allies and is considered by China a part of its territory, while Somaliland is recognized internationally as part of Somalia, from which it broke away in 1991 as the country broke apart and descended into clan-based civil war. Somaliland has seen little of the violence and extremist attacks that plague the rest of Somalia.

While neither Taiwan or Somaliland are recognized by the United Nations, they both maintain their own independent governments, currencies and security systems.

The breakaway territory of Somaliland opened a representative office in Taipei on Wednesday in a move that has already drawn Beijing's ire. The strategically located, self-declared African nation of Somaliland touted potential oil, gas and tourism resources for the investment.

The breakaway territory of Somaliland opened a representative office in Taipei on Wednesday in a move that has already drawn Beijing's ire. The strategically located, self-declared African nation of Somaliland touted potential oil, gas and tourism resources for the investment. Somaliland’s chief representative in Taiwan Mohamed Omar Hagi Mohamoud and Taiwan's foreign minister Joseph Wu at the opening of the de facto embassy in Taipei. Photo: AFP Taiwan signed the agreement on establishing representative offices with Somaliland in February, but did not make it public until July. Situated on the Horn of Africa, Somaliland borders Djibouti, where China maintains its first ever overseas military base. Also read: Taiwan urges alliance against 'aggressive actions' to curb China's intrusion Both China, which claims Taiwan as its own, and Somalia have expressed their opposition to Taiwan and Somaliland's forging of ties. Somaliland declared independence in 1991 but is recognised internationally only as an autonomous region of Somalia. Somaliland's chief representative in Taiwan Mohamed Omar Hagi Mohamoud said at the opening of the office in Taipei that they were an independent state establishing ties with Taiwan based on the common values of freedom and democracy. Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said they look forward to "exploring common interests and mutual benefits in areas such as fishery, energy, agriculture and others." "We both face external pressures. But both are proud of our sovereignty and ready to defend it," Wu added. Taiwan has just 15 formal diplomatic allies and is considered by China a part of its territory, while Somaliland is recognized internationally as part of Somalia, from which it broke away in 1991 as the country broke apart and descended into clan-based civil war. Somaliland has seen little of the violence and extremist attacks that plague the rest of Somalia. While neither Taiwan or Somaliland are recognized by the United Nations, they both maintain their own independent governments, currencies and security systems.

In major strategic move, Somaliland opens its embassy in Taiwan

Taiwan&nbsp;President Tsai Ing-wen called on Tuesday for an&nbsp;alliance&nbsp;of democracies to defend&nbsp;against&nbsp;"aggressive actions" and protect freedom, alluding to Chinese actions in the South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea and&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Strait as major threats to regional stability.

China, which claims democratic&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;as its own, has ramped up its military activities around the island, as well as in the disputed East and South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Seas.

Speaking in Taipei at a forum attended by top&nbsp;Taiwanese security officials and senior Western diplomats, Tsai said&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;stood at the forefront of defending democracy from "authoritarian aggression".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-accuses-china-of-threatening-and-harassing-foreign-journalists-325905" hreflang="en">US accuses China of 'threatening' and 'harassing' foreign journalists</a>

While&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;is committed to boosting its defensive capabilities, maintaining regional peace and security needs collaborative efforts, she added.

"The rapid militarisation of the South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea, increasing and frequent grey-zone tactics in the&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Strait and East&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea, coercive diplomacy used&nbsp;against&nbsp;countries and corporations...are all destabilising the Indo-Pacific region," Tsai said, without directly naming&nbsp;China.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-handled-covid-19-openly-and-transparently-xi-jinping-325898" hreflang="en">China handled COVID-19 openly and transparently: Xi Jinping</a>

"It is time for like-minded countries, and democratic friends in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond, to discuss a framework to generate sustained and concerted efforts to maintain a strategic order that deters unilateral aggressive actions."

She called for a strategy that avoided war, yet conveyed the resolve to protect democracies by encouraging cooperation, transparency and problem-solving through dialogue.

China&nbsp;has stepped up pressure on&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;to accept its sovereignty over the island, which has responded by seeking closer ties with what it calls "like-minded" democracies.

This is primarily the United States, but also includes Australia, Britain, Canada, the European Union and Japan, none of which maintain formal diplomatic ties with&nbsp;Taiwan.

Apart from the United States,&nbsp;Taiwan's main arms supplier, the other nations generally only offer occasional moral support, such as calling for the World Health Organization to grant proper access to non-member&nbsp;Taiwan.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen called on Tuesday for an alliance of democracies to defend against "aggressive actions" and protect freedom, alluding to Chinese actions in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait as major threats to regional stability.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen called on Tuesday for an alliance of democracies to defend against "aggressive actions" and protect freedom, alluding to Chinese actions in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait as major threats to regional stability. China, which claims democratic Taiwan as its own, has ramped up its military activities around the island, as well as in the disputed East and South China Seas. Speaking in Taipei at a forum attended by top Taiwanese security officials and senior Western diplomats, Tsai said Taiwan stood at the forefront of defending democracy from "authoritarian aggression". Also read: US accuses China of 'threatening' and 'harassing' foreign journalists While Taiwan is committed to boosting its defensive capabilities, maintaining regional peace and security needs collaborative efforts, she added. "The rapid militarisation of the South China Sea, increasing and frequent grey-zone tactics in the Taiwan Strait and East China Sea, coercive diplomacy used against countries and corporations...are all destabilising the Indo-Pacific region," Tsai said, without directly naming China. Also read: China handled COVID-19 openly and transparently: Xi Jinping "It is time for like-minded countries, and democratic friends in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond, to discuss a framework to generate sustained and concerted efforts to maintain a strategic order that deters unilateral aggressive actions." She called for a strategy that avoided war, yet conveyed the resolve to protect democracies by encouraging cooperation, transparency and problem-solving through dialogue. China has stepped up pressure on Taiwan to accept its sovereignty over the island, which has responded by seeking closer ties with what it calls "like-minded" democracies. This is primarily the United States, but also includes Australia, Britain, Canada, the European Union and Japan, none of which maintain formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan. Apart from the United States, Taiwan's main arms supplier, the other nations generally only offer occasional moral support, such as calling for the World Health Organization to grant proper access to non-member Taiwan.

Taiwan urges alliance against 'aggressive actions' to curb China's intrusion

Amid tensions with the Trump administration, China's foreign ministry said today that US arms sales to Taiwan violate the "One China" principle.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-in-talks-to-make-first-purchase-of-sophisticated-us-drones-sources-318790">Also Read:&nbsp;Taiwan in talks to make first purchase of sophisticated US drones</a>

United States had earlier approved a potential $620 million upgrade package for missiles to Taiwan which included Patriot Advanced Capability-3 missiles.&nbsp;

On Thursday, Chinese defence minister Wei Fenghe had called up US defence secretary Mark Esper and asked US counterpart to "stop erroneous words and deeds and "avoid taking dangerous moves that may escalate the situation", China's state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

China had earlier reacted angrily to US announcement on sending health secretary Alex Azar to Taiwan, where he is due to meet President Tsai Ing-wen and other top officials.&nbsp;

China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin had said that it firmly "opposes" official exchanges between the US and Taiwan and urged the United States "to avoid seriously endangering Sino-US relations, as well as peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait."

China claims Taiwan as a reneged province which has been ruled separately from the mainland since 1949. The Xi government has vowed to seize it by force if necessary. China has been regularly conducting military drills along the Taiwan Strait with reports of air space violation by Chinese fighters who have entered Taiwan's territory.

China threatened sanctions on US firms last year which were linked to a sale of warplanes to Taiwan calling the move "serious interference" in its internal affairs.

President Tsai Ing-wen had said that Taiwan is an independent country and China has never ruled Taiwan and that its unelected government has no right to speak for Taiwan's people who democratically elect their representatives.

Amid tensions with the Trump administration, China's foreign ministry said today that US arms sales to Taiwan violate the "One China" principle. Also Read: Taiwan in talks to make first purchase of sophisticated US drones United States had earlier approved a potential $620 million upgrade package for missiles to Taiwan which included Patriot Advanced Capability-3 missiles.

Amid tensions with the Trump administration, China's foreign ministry said today that US arms sales to Taiwan violate the "One China" principle. Also Read: Taiwan in talks to make first purchase of sophisticated US drones United States had earlier approved a potential $620 million upgrade package for missiles to Taiwan which included Patriot Advanced Capability-3 missiles. On Thursday, Chinese defence minister Wei Fenghe had called up US defence secretary Mark Esper and asked US counterpart to "stop erroneous words and deeds and "avoid taking dangerous moves that may escalate the situation", China's state-run Xinhua news agency reported. China had earlier reacted angrily to US announcement on sending health secretary Alex Azar to Taiwan, where he is due to meet President Tsai Ing-wen and other top officials. China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin had said that it firmly "opposes" official exchanges between the US and Taiwan and urged the United States "to avoid seriously endangering Sino-US relations, as well as peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait." China claims Taiwan as a reneged province which has been ruled separately from the mainland since 1949. The Xi government has vowed to seize it by force if necessary. China has been regularly conducting military drills along the Taiwan Strait with reports of air space violation by Chinese fighters who have entered Taiwan's territory. China threatened sanctions on US firms last year which were linked to a sale of warplanes to Taiwan calling the move "serious interference" in its internal affairs. President Tsai Ing-wen had said that Taiwan is an independent country and China has never ruled Taiwan and that its unelected government has no right to speak for Taiwan's people who democratically elect their representatives.

US arms sales to Taiwan violates 'One China' principle: China

Taiwan's top diplomat in India has said that China continues to "intimidate" it amidst COVID pandemic and "dispatch military aircraft and vessels to circle Taiwan" Speaking exclusively to our&nbsp;Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Taiwan's&nbsp;Acting Ambassador Jack CH&nbsp;Chen said,"While countries are focusing on combating pandemic...China has used the opportunity to expand its military presence in the South and East China Seas". Speaking on India, Taiwan ties, the diplomat expressed his optimism that "through a joint effort following the pandemic, Taiwan and India will become staunch partners in the Indo-Pacific region." On its WHO membership, Chen said, "We hope that India, as the new Chair of WHO’s Executive Board, will help ensure the WHO Secretariat maintains a professional, neutral stance when considering issues related to Taiwan’s participation". 
&nbsp;

WION: China has shown an ambition to change the status quo amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, sending military aircraft and vessels into Taiwan’s airspace and territorial waters. How do you view this situation?

Jack CH&nbsp;Chen: China’s attempts to intimidate Taiwan militarily have never ceased. It continues to dispatch military aircraft and vessels to circle Taiwan and provoke us. China continues to state that it will not abandon the use of force against Taiwan. During the COVID-19 outbreak, the situation has grown more serious, and Chinese military aircraft and vessels have frequently circled Taiwan. In addition, while countries including the United States have been focusing on combating the pandemic, China has used the opportunity to expand its military presence in the South and East China Seas. It has bolstered its deployment on South China Sea islets and continues to dispatch military aircraft and vessels and Coast Guard vessels to the area. These actions have escalated tension in the region. China’s actions are not only detrimental to the positive development of cross-strait relations, they also seriously undermine peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the Indo-Pacific region at large.

In consideration of the global pandemic, China should be more transparent; allow for an independent, international investigation; and work more closely with the international community to discern the origins of the virus and what went wrong with disease containment measures so as to better contribute to the global healthcare system.

Taiwan strives to defend such values as democracy and freedom and spares no effort to support regional peace and stability. These efforts have earned high praise from the international community. Taiwan will never succumb to pressure. Rather, we will strive harder to defend our sovereignty, ensure our national interests, and reach out to the international community. We will seek to deepen substantive cooperation with like-minded nations and participate in related international organizations so as to make more concrete contributions to the international community.

 

WION: Is there a possibility for increased cooperation between Taiwan and India amidst the COVID-19 crisis?

Jack CH&nbsp;Chen:&nbsp;The global pandemic has shown the perils that come with reliance on a single or just a few sources of critical components. In the post-pandemic era, we will likely see a restructuring of the global supply chain. Apart from focusing on capacity building, Taiwan and India should carefully appraise our respective positions in the post-pandemic global supply chain and make plans to forge a partnership. Taiwan and India are natural tradings and industrial partners. Taiwan excels at hardware manufacturing, while India’s prowess lies in software development. India is now enjoying a demographic dividend and it is in an advantageous location with respect to market access in East Asia, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. There has long been a great potential for cooperation between India and Taiwan. Responding to the effects of the pandemic, India has doubled down on its Make in India initiative to reform the economy and attract foreign investment. Under this scheme, India has made a major effort to attract Taiwanese businesses. We are glad to see that India is continuing to improve its investment environment, as this benefits Taiwanese businesses looking to expand investment in India. Taiwan and India are both democratic countries and share such values as freedom, democracy, rule of law, and protection of human rights. Over the past few years, our nations have taken great strides toward cooperation in such areas as trade and investment. The pandemic, meanwhile, has helped us identify new areas for further cooperation, including e-commerce, online interaction, and biochemical technology. We hope that through a joint effort following the pandemic, Taiwan and India will become staunch partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

&nbsp;

WION: India will now chair WHO’s Executive Board. Does Taiwan have any expectations for India’s new role?

Jack CH&nbsp;Chen: Taiwan sincerely congratulates India on its new role as chair of WHO’s Executive Board. As the most important international organization guiding the development of global public health and defending the right to health, WHO should welcome participation by all stakeholders, including Taiwan. We hope that India, as the new Chair of WHO’s Executive Board, will help ensure the WHO Secretariat maintains a professional, neutral stance when considering issues related to Taiwan’s participation, such as granting Taiwan observer status at the World Health Assembly and including Taiwan in all WHO meetings, mechanisms, and activities. This would help ensure the health and welfare of people in Taiwan and around the world.

 

WION: Are you confident that Taiwan will one day become a WHO member?

Jack CH&nbsp;Chen: Taiwan did not receive an invitation to the 2020 WHA held in May due to interference from China and WHO’s failure to maintain a professional, impartial stance. Other countries have noticed China’s unreasonable influence on international organizations and have publicly expressed support for Taiwan. There was an overwhelming outpouring of support for Taiwan’s participation in the WHA this year, which shows that the world recognizes the urgency and importance of Taiwan’s participation in WHO. This has been encouraging for Taiwan and we believe that the more international support we obtain, the closer we grow to our goal. Taiwan’s bids to participate in international organizations, including WHO, has always been based on the principles of being professional, pragmatic, and constructive. Our goal at the present time is to be invited to attend the WHA as an observer and to participate fully in WHO meetings, activities, and mechanisms. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Taiwan Model of successful containment measures has been praised around the world. Once we were able to supply our domestic needs, Taiwan selflessly began donating anti-pandemic medical supplies to more than 80 countries. We have shown the world that Taiwan can help, and Taiwan is helping.

 

WION: Do you think that China mishandled the COVID-19 crisis?

Jack CH&nbsp;Chen:&nbsp;China covered up and delayed notifying the world of the SARS outbreak in 2003. When the COVID-19 outbreak erupted in Wuhan in December 2019, other countries remained unaware of the situation. Even within China, information was not shared in a transparent manner. As a result, countries around the world were unable to respond quickly during the critical beginning stage of the outbreak. The golden opportunity to contain the outbreak was lost and it grew into a global pandemic. This highlights the terrible consequences of China’s lack of transparency.At the end of December 2019, Taiwan began noting information about related cases being shared on the internet and immediately realized the seriousness of the situation. Our officials notified WHO’s IHR focal point on December 31, asking them to pay special attention to the fact that patients with symptoms of atypical pneumonia had been isolated for treatment in Wuhan City. If China and WHO had responded quickly and alerted governments around the world to the situation, the outbreak could have been contained and the effect on humankind would have been significantly reduced.&nbsp;As a result of China’s mishandling of the outbreak, other countries have lost faith in China and have remained on alert. At the same time, the world sees Taiwan as a force for good even more than previously. We alerted WHO immediately after discovering a questionable situation, and have handled the outbreak in Taiwan transparently, showing that democratic countries are able to combat the virus in an open, honest, and transparent manner.

Taiwan's top diplomat in India has said that China continues to "intimidate" it amidst COVID pandemic and "dispatch military aircraft and vessels to circle Taiwan" Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Taiwan's Acting Ambassador Jack CH Chen said,"While countries are focusing on combating pandemic.

Taiwan's top diplomat in India has said that China continues to "intimidate" it amidst COVID pandemic and "dispatch military aircraft and vessels to circle Taiwan" Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Taiwan's Acting Ambassador Jack CH Chen said,"While countries are focusing on combating pandemic...China has used the opportunity to expand its military presence in the South and East China Seas". Speaking on India, Taiwan ties, the diplomat expressed his optimism that "through a joint effort following the pandemic, Taiwan and India will become staunch partners in the Indo-Pacific region." On its WHO membership, Chen said, "We hope that India, as the new Chair of WHO’s Executive Board, will help ensure the WHO Secretariat maintains a professional, neutral stance when considering issues related to Taiwan’s participation". WION: China has shown an ambition to change the status quo amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, sending military aircraft and vessels into Taiwan’s airspace and territorial waters. How do you view this situation? Jack CH Chen: China’s attempts to intimidate Taiwan militarily have never ceased. It continues to dispatch military aircraft and vessels to circle Taiwan and provoke us. China continues to state that it will not abandon the use of force against Taiwan. During the COVID-19 outbreak, the situation has grown more serious, and Chinese military aircraft and vessels have frequently circled Taiwan. In addition, while countries including the United States have been focusing on combating the pandemic, China has used the opportunity to expand its military presence in the South and East China Seas. It has bolstered its deployment on South China Sea islets and continues to dispatch military aircraft and vessels and Coast Guard vessels to the area. These actions have escalated tension in the region. China’s actions are not only detrimental to the positive development of cross-strait relations, they also seriously undermine peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the Indo-Pacific region at large. In consideration of the global pandemic, China should be more transparent; allow for an independent, international investigation; and work more closely with the international community to discern the origins of the virus and what went wrong with disease containment measures so as to better contribute to the global healthcare system. Taiwan strives to defend such values as democracy and freedom and spares no effort to support regional peace and stability. These efforts have earned high praise from the international community. Taiwan will never succumb to pressure. Rather, we will strive harder to defend our sovereignty, ensure our national interests, and reach out to the international community. We will seek to deepen substantive cooperation with like-minded nations and participate in related international organizations so as to make more concrete contributions to the international community.   WION: Is there a possibility for increased cooperation between Taiwan and India amidst the COVID-19 crisis? Jack CH Chen: The global pandemic has shown the perils that come with reliance on a single or just a few sources of critical components. In the post-pandemic era, we will likely see a restructuring of the global supply chain. Apart from focusing on capacity building, Taiwan and India should carefully appraise our respective positions in the post-pandemic global supply chain and make plans to forge a partnership. Taiwan and India are natural tradings and industrial partners. Taiwan excels at hardware manufacturing, while India’s prowess lies in software development. India is now enjoying a demographic dividend and it is in an advantageous location with respect to market access in East Asia, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. There has long been a great potential for cooperation between India and Taiwan. Responding to the effects of the pandemic, India has doubled down on its Make in India initiative to reform the economy and attract foreign investment. Under this scheme, India has made a major effort to attract Taiwanese businesses. We are glad to see that India is continuing to improve its investment environment, as this benefits Taiwanese businesses looking to expand investment in India. Taiwan and India are both democratic countries and share such values as freedom, democracy, rule of law, and protection of human rights. Over the past few years, our nations have taken great strides toward cooperation in such areas as trade and investment. The pandemic, meanwhile, has helped us identify new areas for further cooperation, including e-commerce, online interaction, and biochemical technology. We hope that through a joint effort following the pandemic, Taiwan and India will become staunch partners in the Indo-Pacific region. WION: India will now chair WHO’s Executive Board. Does Taiwan have any expectations for India’s new role? Jack CH Chen: Taiwan sincerely congratulates India on its new role as chair of WHO’s Executive Board. As the most important international organization guiding the development of global public health and defending the right to health, WHO should welcome participation by all stakeholders, including Taiwan. We hope that India, as the new Chair of WHO’s Executive Board, will help ensure the WHO Secretariat maintains a professional, neutral stance when considering issues related to Taiwan’s participation, such as granting Taiwan observer status at the World Health Assembly and including Taiwan in all WHO meetings, mechanisms, and activities. This would help ensure the health and welfare of people in Taiwan and around the world.   WION: Are you confident that Taiwan will one day become a WHO member? Jack CH Chen: Taiwan did not receive an invitation to the 2020 WHA held in May due to interference from China and WHO’s failure to maintain a professional, impartial stance. Other countries have noticed China’s unreasonable influence on international organizations and have publicly expressed support for Taiwan. There was an overwhelming outpouring of support for Taiwan’s participation in the WHA this year, which shows that the world recognizes the urgency and importance of Taiwan’s participation in WHO. This has been encouraging for Taiwan and we believe that the more international support we obtain, the closer we grow to our goal. Taiwan’s bids to participate in international organizations, including WHO, has always been based on the principles of being professional, pragmatic, and constructive. Our goal at the present time is to be invited to attend the WHA as an observer and to participate fully in WHO meetings, activities, and mechanisms. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Taiwan Model of successful containment measures has been praised around the world. Once we were able to supply our domestic needs, Taiwan selflessly began donating anti-pandemic medical supplies to more than 80 countries. We have shown the world that Taiwan can help, and Taiwan is helping.   WION: Do you think that China mishandled the COVID-19 crisis? Jack CH Chen: China covered up and delayed notifying the world of the SARS outbreak in 2003. When the COVID-19 outbreak erupted in Wuhan in December 2019, other countries remained unaware of the situation. Even within China, information was not shared in a transparent manner. As a result, countries around the world were unable to respond quickly during the critical beginning stage of the outbreak. The golden opportunity to contain the outbreak was lost and it grew into a global pandemic. This highlights the terrible consequences of China’s lack of transparency.At the end of December 2019, Taiwan began noting information about related cases being shared on the internet and immediately realized the seriousness of the situation. Our officials notified WHO’s IHR focal point on December 31, asking them to pay special attention to the fact that patients with symptoms of atypical pneumonia had been isolated for treatment in Wuhan City. If China and WHO had responded quickly and alerted governments around the world to the situation, the outbreak could have been contained and the effect on humankind would have been significantly reduced. As a result of China’s mishandling of the outbreak, other countries have lost faith in China and have remained on alert. At the same time, the world sees Taiwan as a force for good even more than previously. We alerted WHO immediately after discovering a questionable situation, and have handled the outbreak in Taiwan transparently, showing that democratic countries are able to combat the virus in an open, honest, and transparent manner.

WION exclusive | China continues to intimidate us amidst COVID, says Taiwan's top diplomat in India

The morale of the world community is now at a very low level due to the COVID-19 crisis, with no one knowing when it would end, and the consequent shattered economy of most countries in the world. The Chinese government under the dictatorship of Xi Jinping appears to have decided that present is the best time for the Chinese government to achieve its long-cherished ambition of dominating the world in all respects and emerging as the undisputed superpower of the world.

It is very obvious that the Chinese government has concluded, after all, its calculation or miscalculation, that its strategies towards total domination of the world should start now by confronting and weakening India and even humiliating it, if possible. A large populated country like India, if it were to decisively weaken under the pressure of China, then probably the Chinese government thinks that there would not be many insurmountable hurdles to “conquer the world”.

While the 1962 war with China left India humiliated and it is yet to recover from the shock of Chinese deceit, the Chinese government has consistently applied pressure on India in various ways in multiple forums.&nbsp;

With this game plan of weakening India, the Chinese government has directly and indirectly encouraged Pakistan to maintain hate relationship with India and prejudiced leadership of Pakistan has just considered China not wisely as 'all-weather friend'. In this process, today Pakistan has virtually become an extended territory of China and Pakistan government is in no position to refuse any dictates from China. With huge debts and several infrastructure projects under the Chinese companies, China can any time make Pakistan open a bigger military front against India than what it has been doing so far.&nbsp;

The appeasement of China by India started when Jawaharlal Nehru misread the motives and game plan of the then Chinese government. The recent visit of Xi Jinping to India when Prime Minister Modi went out of the way to extend a glamorous welcome to the Chinese President, made many think whether Modi also has misread the game plan of the Chinese government, just as Jawaharlal Nehru did several decades back.

When China occupied Tibet after the massacre of thousands of Tibetan protestors and India simply recognised the Chinese occupation of Tibet, in spite of the fact that Tibet under Chinese control could be a threat for India’s security interests, the world virtually lost faith that India has the will power to confront Chinese government.

Now, the tragic news that at least 20 Indian army men lost their lives in the border clash with the Chinese military, has shocked entire India, with people wondering how Modi would handle the situation. Will he try to buy peace with China in spite of the provocation or gather courage and work out plans to resist the Chinese government.

In any case, it is obvious now that India has no option other than resisting China in every possible way and make it realise that India is not a country that China can take for granted.

The terrorist attacks by militants from Pakistan in Kashmir which has been steadily increasing in recent times, the government of Nepal creating border dispute with India and Chinese military creating border tension, clearly indicate that China has worked out its strategic game plan to encircle India.

In all probability, it is likely that Pakistan will intensify its conflict with India in Kashmir and Nepal government would become more belligerent against India and &nbsp;Chinese military provocation in the border will intensify. Just as China killed Indian military personnel on June 15, the Nepal government too shot down an Indian a few days back at its border with India.

The scheme behind the well-coordinated plan of the Chinese government with support from governments of Pakistan and Nepal is to force India to resist the incursions on the border with China, Nepal and Pakistan using its military force. This will give an opportunity for the Chinese government to send its force to Pakistan and Nepal to “defend their border”. Then, the Chinese military will not go back at all from these territories of Pakistan and Nepal.

The news that China has asked Nepalese government to teach its students Chinese language Mandarin and has promised to meet the expenses for teaching the Mandarin language clearly indicates that China has a deep interest in controlling Nepal and possibly even occupying Nepal in one form or the other. It is disturbing to think whether Nepal too would go the Tibet way.

What options for Indian government now?

India has to stop import from China. This will be a matter of concern to China and effectively reveal the present Indian government’s mindset to the Chinese government. Certainly, India would suffer a little by suddenly curbing imports from China but this will be a very small price that India can afford.

India has to develop a relationship with Taiwan in a more open way and strengthen trade relations with Taiwan. China should be given the impression that India would not hesitate to give recognition to Taiwan, if necessary.

India must&nbsp;seek cooperation from countries like the US, Japan, Australia, Vietnam, Israel and others, which&nbsp;are equally concerned about Chinese greed and territorial ambitions.

It appears that military confrontation with China and its allies Pakistan and Nepal is possible in the coming days, in a small or big way. Possibly, India needs to have an understanding with the US to face the situation, in the event of attacks from these three neighbouring countries.

Above all, Prime Minister Modi has to clearly realise that China has to be paid in the same coin and the appeasement policy has lost its value once for all. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The morale of the world community is now at a very low level due to the COVID-19 crisis, with no one knowing when it would end, and the consequent shattered economy of most countries in the world.

The morale of the world community is now at a very low level due to the COVID-19 crisis, with no one knowing when it would end, and the consequent shattered economy of most countries in the world. The Chinese government under the dictatorship of Xi Jinping appears to have decided that present is the best time for the Chinese government to achieve its long-cherished ambition of dominating the world in all respects and emerging as the undisputed superpower of the world. It is very obvious that the Chinese government has concluded, after all, its calculation or miscalculation, that its strategies towards total domination of the world should start now by confronting and weakening India and even humiliating it, if possible. A large populated country like India, if it were to decisively weaken under the pressure of China, then probably the Chinese government thinks that there would not be many insurmountable hurdles to “conquer the world”. While the 1962 war with China left India humiliated and it is yet to recover from the shock of Chinese deceit, the Chinese government has consistently applied pressure on India in various ways in multiple forums. With this game plan of weakening India, the Chinese government has directly and indirectly encouraged Pakistan to maintain hate relationship with India and prejudiced leadership of Pakistan has just considered China not wisely as 'all-weather friend'. In this process, today Pakistan has virtually become an extended territory of China and Pakistan government is in no position to refuse any dictates from China. With huge debts and several infrastructure projects under the Chinese companies, China can any time make Pakistan open a bigger military front against India than what it has been doing so far. The appeasement of China by India started when Jawaharlal Nehru misread the motives and game plan of the then Chinese government. The recent visit of Xi Jinping to India when Prime Minister Modi went out of the way to extend a glamorous welcome to the Chinese President, made many think whether Modi also has misread the game plan of the Chinese government, just as Jawaharlal Nehru did several decades back. When China occupied Tibet after the massacre of thousands of Tibetan protestors and India simply recognised the Chinese occupation of Tibet, in spite of the fact that Tibet under Chinese control could be a threat for India’s security interests, the world virtually lost faith that India has the will power to confront Chinese government. Now, the tragic news that at least 20 Indian army men lost their lives in the border clash with the Chinese military, has shocked entire India, with people wondering how Modi would handle the situation. Will he try to buy peace with China in spite of the provocation or gather courage and work out plans to resist the Chinese government. In any case, it is obvious now that India has no option other than resisting China in every possible way and make it realise that India is not a country that China can take for granted. The terrorist attacks by militants from Pakistan in Kashmir which has been steadily increasing in recent times, the government of Nepal creating border dispute with India and Chinese military creating border tension, clearly indicate that China has worked out its strategic game plan to encircle India. In all probability, it is likely that Pakistan will intensify its conflict with India in Kashmir and Nepal government would become more belligerent against India and Chinese military provocation in the border will intensify. Just as China killed Indian military personnel on June 15, the Nepal government too shot down an Indian a few days back at its border with India. The scheme behind the well-coordinated plan of the Chinese government with support from governments of Pakistan and Nepal is to force India to resist the incursions on the border with China, Nepal and Pakistan using its military force. This will give an opportunity for the Chinese government to send its force to Pakistan and Nepal to “defend their border”. Then, the Chinese military will not go back at all from these territories of Pakistan and Nepal. The news that China has asked Nepalese government to teach its students Chinese language Mandarin and has promised to meet the expenses for teaching the Mandarin language clearly indicates that China has a deep interest in controlling Nepal and possibly even occupying Nepal in one form or the other. It is disturbing to think whether Nepal too would go the Tibet way. What options for Indian government now? India has to stop import from China. This will be a matter of concern to China and effectively reveal the present Indian government’s mindset to the Chinese government. Certainly, India would suffer a little by suddenly curbing imports from China but this will be a very small price that India can afford. India has to develop a relationship with Taiwan in a more open way and strengthen trade relations with Taiwan. China should be given the impression that India would not hesitate to give recognition to Taiwan, if necessary. India must seek cooperation from countries like the US, Japan, Australia, Vietnam, Israel and others, which are equally concerned about Chinese greed and territorial ambitions. It appears that military confrontation with China and its allies Pakistan and Nepal is possible in the coming days, in a small or big way. Possibly, India needs to have an understanding with the US to face the situation, in the event of attacks from these three neighbouring countries. Above all, Prime Minister Modi has to clearly realise that China has to be paid in the same coin and the appeasement policy has lost its value once for all. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

India must stand-up to China

In the post-pandemic era, Beijing must acknowledge that sinophobia is the new normal. China is under the illusion that its arm-twisting methods still work.

However, this time, it’s got a&nbsp;shock in Brazil. The Chinese envoy in Brazil sent a letter to Brazil’s members of Parliament. In the letter, he asked them not to congratulate Taiwan’s president Tsai Ing-wen but one of the MPs leaked the letter on Twitter.&nbsp;

The courageous Congress member Pablo Eduardo Martins called the letter an affront and as one of Brazil’s legislators, he took offence to the diktat.

With the letter, China questioned Brazil’s sovereignty and received a fitting reply.

Pablo Eduardo Martins may have been late in wishing Taiwan’s pro-independence President Tsai Ing-wen but, his wishes were gladly accepted. Tsai In-wen, who was recently sworn in for her second term as the president replied to the tweet herself.

With the tweet, Martins has sparked a Twitter trend- it’s called #vivaTaiwan. Brazilians are standing beside their lawmakers in defending their country’s sovereignty.

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Thank you to all of our friends in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Brazil?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Brazil</a> for your kind congratulations, and I hope you are all staying safe &amp; healthy. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VivaTaiwan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VivaTaiwan</a> 🇹🇼 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VivaBrazil?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VivaBrazil</a> 🇧🇷
— 蔡英文 Tsai Ing-wen (@iingwen) <a href="https://twitter.com/iingwen/status/1265185410436612097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Taiwan is not China!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VivaTaiwan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VivaTaiwan</a> <a href="https://t.co/WDYkZk6YPq">pic.twitter.com/WDYkZk6YPq</a>
— Jade (@Jade69947157) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jade69947157/status/1265395433750192128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VivaTaiwan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VivaTaiwan</a> Congratulations <a href="https://t.co/5ykwyVV5WR">pic.twitter.com/5ykwyVV5WR</a>
— MDegani- 🇧🇷🇹🇼 (@degani_m) <a href="https://twitter.com/degani_m/status/1265245038398881792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The long live Taiwan Twitter trend has schooled China to keep away from a country’s internal matters. An internal report had warned all Chinese officials of a global anti-China backlash. China should have taken its own report seriously.&nbsp;

Now Beijing is unhappy over what’s happening in Brazil. The Chinese state-run media is running an anti-Brazil campaign. It says Brazil’s politicians are trying to scapegoat China for the rapidly worsening economic situation. The article makes it a point to remind Brazil about trade ties.

It is not the first instance of anti-China rhetoric in Brazil. After US President Donald Trump called the coronavirus the Chinese virus, Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro’s son too called it the Chinese virus. China did not take it lightly, in response, the Chinese consul in Rio de Janeiro wrote an op-ed column for the ‘O Globo’ newspaper.

The headline said to value the China-Brazil relations or, face consequences. The consul wrote should any country insist on being China’s enemy, it will be its most sophisticated enemy! China even managed to elicit an apology. President Jair Bolsonaro himself was a strong critic of China during his campaign, he has now gone soft ever since.

In November, he had to ask China to buy Brazilian oil in an auction he thought would fail to attract bidders, perhaps that’s how China manages to tighten its grip over leaders in foreign countries - play a good Samaritan in times of a crisis and then&nbsp;put them in servitude by giving out alms in times of need.

But, #vivaTaiwan has surely taught China an embarrassing lesson. China can&nbsp;pressurise leaders to get its way, but, what if the people in a foreign land defy your power? that’s the power of the freedom of people. Hong Kong and Taiwan are examples enough to show China has no idea what it means.

In the post-pandemic era, Beijing must acknowledge that sinophobia is the new normal. China is under the illusion that its arm-twisting methods still work. However, this time, it’s got a shock in Brazil.

In the post-pandemic era, Beijing must acknowledge that sinophobia is the new normal. China is under the illusion that its arm-twisting methods still work. However, this time, it’s got a shock in Brazil. The Chinese envoy in Brazil sent a letter to Brazil’s members of Parliament. In the letter, he asked them not to congratulate Taiwan’s president Tsai Ing-wen but one of the MPs leaked the letter on Twitter. The courageous Congress member Pablo Eduardo Martins called the letter an affront and as one of Brazil’s legislators, he took offence to the diktat. With the letter, China questioned Brazil’s sovereignty and received a fitting reply. Pablo Eduardo Martins may have been late in wishing Taiwan’s pro-independence President Tsai Ing-wen but, his wishes were gladly accepted. Tsai In-wen, who was recently sworn in for her second term as the president replied to the tweet herself. With the tweet, Martins has sparked a Twitter trend- it’s called #vivaTaiwan. Brazilians are standing beside their lawmakers in defending their country’s sovereignty. Thank you to all of our friends in #Brazil for your kind congratulations, and I hope you are all staying safe & healthy. #VivaTaiwan 🇹🇼 #VivaBrazil 🇧🇷 — 蔡英文 Tsai Ing-wen (@iingwen) May 26, 2020 × Taiwan is not China!#VivaTaiwan pic.twitter.com/WDYkZk6YPq — Jade (@Jade69947157) May 26, 2020 × #VivaTaiwan Congratulations pic.twitter.com/5ykwyVV5WR — MDegani- 🇧🇷🇹🇼 (@degani_m) May 26, 2020 × The long live Taiwan Twitter trend has schooled China to keep away from a country’s internal matters. An internal report had warned all Chinese officials of a global anti-China backlash. China should have taken its own report seriously. Now Beijing is unhappy over what’s happening in Brazil. The Chinese state-run media is running an anti-Brazil campaign. It says Brazil’s politicians are trying to scapegoat China for the rapidly worsening economic situation. The article makes it a point to remind Brazil about trade ties. It is not the first instance of anti-China rhetoric in Brazil. After US President Donald Trump called the coronavirus the Chinese virus, Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro’s son too called it the Chinese virus. China did not take it lightly, in response, the Chinese consul in Rio de Janeiro wrote an op-ed column for the ‘O Globo’ newspaper. The headline said to value the China-Brazil relations or, face consequences. The consul wrote should any country insist on being China’s enemy, it will be its most sophisticated enemy! China even managed to elicit an apology. President Jair Bolsonaro himself was a strong critic of China during his campaign, he has now gone soft ever since. In November, he had to ask China to buy Brazilian oil in an auction he thought would fail to attract bidders, perhaps that’s how China manages to tighten its grip over leaders in foreign countries - play a good Samaritan in times of a crisis and then put them in servitude by giving out alms in times of need. But, #vivaTaiwan has surely taught China an embarrassing lesson. China can pressurise leaders to get its way, but, what if the people in a foreign land defy your power? that’s the power of the freedom of people. Hong Kong and Taiwan are examples enough to show China has no idea what it means.

#vivaTaiwan: Now, China faces backlash over Taiwan in Brazil

Many countries across the globe are joining hands against China.&nbsp;They are working as a "collective whole"&nbsp;and have adopted a holistic approach to ensure&nbsp;that&nbsp;China pays for its ill-deeds.

The five levers that they are&nbsp;using&nbsp;against China are as follows:

First retaliation

They are demanding and pushing for a probe into the origin of the coronavirus outbreak and the reason behind its widespread.

While&nbsp;Australia was the first country to demand an investigation, it was backed up by its neighbour New Zealand.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;the United States is conducting its own investigation. Now, the top diplomat of the European Union&nbsp;wants a probe too.&nbsp;The EU's foreign policy chief has called for an independent and scientific investigation.&nbsp;

They will raise this issue&nbsp;during the World health assembly that will be held next week.&nbsp;

Second&nbsp;retaliation

Countries such as Canada, Japan, France, Germany, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Australia and even Swaziland and Nicaragua have pledged support to Taiwan's membership in the World Health Organization.

However, China has slammed these voices of support and threatened these countries.

Non-WHO&nbsp;member Taiwan has lobbied for its participation,&nbsp;drawing strong objections from Beijing&nbsp;which considers Taiwan to be one of its provinces.

Third&nbsp;retaliation

The United States and Japan have started to economically distance itself from China.

While the&nbsp;US President Donald Trump has ordered American companies to leave China,&nbsp;Japan has set up a 2.2 billion dollar fund to pull Japanese companies away&nbsp;from the country.

Countries in the European Union, Australia and even India have tightened their foreign investment rules to prevent hostile takeovers of local businesses from China.

Fourth&nbsp;&nbsp;retaliation

They are calling out China for abusing and violating human rights.&nbsp;The US&nbsp;Senate has approved a bill to sanction China over repression of Uighur Muslims in the country.&nbsp;The bill was&nbsp;backed by&nbsp;lawmakers on both sides.

Meanwhile, the human rights watch has slammed China for its treatment of Africans.&nbsp;They have released a report this month&nbsp;that talks about discrimination of Africans in China's Guangzhou province.&nbsp;

Fifth&nbsp;retaliation

Countries are&nbsp;demanding a ban on Chinese technology under which Huawei is the most common target.

The United States has already extended its ban on the company for another year and it is&nbsp;pushing other allies to check Chinese tech giants from making inroads.

Many countries across the globe are joining hands against China. They are working as a "collective whole" and have adopted a holistic approach to ensure that China pays for its ill-deeds.

Many countries across the globe are joining hands against China. They are working as a "collective whole" and have adopted a holistic approach to ensure that China pays for its ill-deeds. The five levers that they are using against China are as follows: First retaliation They are demanding and pushing for a probe into the origin of the coronavirus outbreak and the reason behind its widespread. While Australia was the first country to demand an investigation, it was backed up by its neighbour New Zealand. Meanwhile, the United States is conducting its own investigation. Now, the top diplomat of the European Union wants a probe too. The EU's foreign policy chief has called for an independent and scientific investigation. They will raise this issue during the World health assembly that will be held next week. Second retaliation Countries such as Canada, Japan, France, Germany, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Australia and even Swaziland and Nicaragua have pledged support to Taiwan's membership in the World Health Organization. However, China has slammed these voices of support and threatened these countries. Non-WHO member Taiwan has lobbied for its participation, drawing strong objections from Beijing which considers Taiwan to be one of its provinces. Third retaliation The United States and Japan have started to economically distance itself from China. While the US President Donald Trump has ordered American companies to leave China, Japan has set up a 2.2 billion dollar fund to pull Japanese companies away from the country. Countries in the European Union, Australia and even India have tightened their foreign investment rules to prevent hostile takeovers of local businesses from China. Fourth retaliation They are calling out China for abusing and violating human rights. The US Senate has approved a bill to sanction China over repression of Uighur Muslims in the country. The bill was backed by lawmakers on both sides. Meanwhile, the human rights watch has slammed China for its treatment of Africans. They have released a report this month that talks about discrimination of Africans in China's Guangzhou province. Fifth retaliation Countries are demanding a ban on Chinese technology under which Huawei is the most common target. The United States has already extended its ban on the company for another year and it is pushing other allies to check Chinese tech giants from making inroads.

How the world is forming an alliance against China

Taiwan's Health Minister,&nbsp;Chen Shih-chung has rejected China's primary condition for its participation in the World Health Organization (WHO).

China had asked Taiwan to accept that&nbsp;''it is part of China'', ahead of WHO’s World Health Assembly, which gets under way online on Monday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-indias-support-for-taiwans-who-membership-can-rattle-china-298744" hreflang="en">How India's support for Taiwan's WHO membership can rattle China</a>

China's foreign ministry said on thursday that Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party refused to do this, and so the political foundation for Taiwan's WHO&nbsp;participation had "ceased to exist".

Speaking at a news conference in Taipei to press home Taiwan's desire to take part, Cheng&nbsp;said there was no way Taiwan would do this.

"I&nbsp;have no way to accept something which does not exist," he&nbsp;said, adding That taiwan would not give up efforts to attend the health assembly, even though it has not received an invitation.

While China&nbsp;says it has the right to represent Taiwan on the international stage, Taiwan says that only its democratically elected government can speak for the island's 23 million people.

"We can represent our own people," Taiwan Deputy Foreign Minister Kelly Hsieh told the same news conference in taipei. "We hope the who can set aside political considerations, and be neutral and professional."

Non-who member Taiwan has lobbied to take part as an observer in the meeting,&nbsp;drawing strong objections from Beijing, which considers Taiwan to be one of its provinces.

The issue has taken on broader diplomatic significance thanks to the strong support &nbsp;the United States, European Union, Australia, New Zealand and Japan are supporting Taiwan's presence despite&nbsp;China's warnings.

Taiwan says the coronavirus pandemic has made it more urgent than ever that it be allowed proper access to the WHO. 
 
&nbsp;

Taiwan's Health Minister, Chen Shih-chung has rejected China's primary condition for its participation in the World Health Organization (WHO). China had asked Taiwan to accept that ''it is part of China'', ahead of WHO’s World Health Assembly, which gets under way online on Monday.

Taiwan's Health Minister, Chen Shih-chung has rejected China's primary condition for its participation in the World Health Organization (WHO). China had asked Taiwan to accept that ''it is part of China'', ahead of WHO’s World Health Assembly, which gets under way online on Monday. Also read: How India's support for Taiwan's WHO membership can rattle China China's foreign ministry said on thursday that Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party refused to do this, and so the political foundation for Taiwan's WHO participation had "ceased to exist". Speaking at a news conference in Taipei to press home Taiwan's desire to take part, Cheng said there was no way Taiwan would do this. "I have no way to accept something which does not exist," he said, adding That taiwan would not give up efforts to attend the health assembly, even though it has not received an invitation. While China says it has the right to represent Taiwan on the international stage, Taiwan says that only its democratically elected government can speak for the island's 23 million people. "We can represent our own people," Taiwan Deputy Foreign Minister Kelly Hsieh told the same news conference in taipei. "We hope the who can set aside political considerations, and be neutral and professional." Non-who member Taiwan has lobbied to take part as an observer in the meeting, drawing strong objections from Beijing, which considers Taiwan to be one of its provinces. The issue has taken on broader diplomatic significance thanks to the strong support the United States, European Union, Australia, New Zealand and Japan are supporting Taiwan's presence despite China's warnings. Taiwan says the coronavirus pandemic has made it more urgent than ever that it be allowed proper access to the WHO.

Taiwan rejects China's primary condition for WHO participation

The surge in Taiwan's popularity and global support has been a major setback for&nbsp;China.&nbsp;It has rattled China to such an extent that it has threatened Taiwan with military action.

The United States, European Union, Australia, New Zealand and Japan are in favour of&nbsp;Taiwan's presence in the WHO’s World Health Assembly, which gets under way online on Monday, despite China's warnings.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-putting-nations-at-risk-by-excluding-taiwan-from-knowledge-sharing-us-report-298412">WHO putting nations at risk by excluding Taiwan from knowledge sharing: US report</a>

India should utilise this window of opportunity as well and ensure an observer status for Taiwan at future WHO&nbsp;engagements&nbsp;to counter China.

It should ignore the&nbsp;rebuttals, warnings and empty threats issued by Chinese spokespersons and state media Global Times.

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Landing exercises, aimed at taking over islands, have become <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PLA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PLA</a>'s regular training subjects. Dongsha, Penghu and Taiwan are all islands. If <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taiwan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taiwan</a> secessionists insist on secession, military exercises can turn into action any time: experts <a href="https://t.co/7r2crvOE3y">https://t.co/7r2crvOE3y</a> <a href="https://t.co/zakDxZFkvV">pic.twitter.com/zakDxZFkvV</a>
— Global Times (@globaltimesnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/globaltimesnews/status/1260535281633157120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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This is a report about the Chinese army's upcoming drills in August&nbsp;to take over the Dongsha Islands occupied by Taiwan.&nbsp;

China’s foreign ministry warned Paris over a contract for Taiwan, which is planning to buy weapons from Paris as part of an upgrade to a French-made warship fleet bought 30 years ago.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-tells-china-to-focus-on-coronavirus-battle-after-taiwan-warning-298663">France tells China to focus on coronavirus battle after Taiwan warning</a>

However,&nbsp;France dismissed these warnings on Wednesday about selling arms to self-ruled Taiwan, saying it was implementing existing deals and that Beijing should focus on battling the COVID-19 pandemic.

China says Taiwan is part of ''One China'', and that this principle must be accepted by any country with which it has diplomatic relations.&nbsp;

The US&nbsp;State Department has launched a campaign&nbsp;called "Tweet for Taiwan" to ensure&nbsp;its&nbsp;seat for at the upcoming World Health Assembly.&nbsp;The International Organizations Bureau which is a part of the State Department posted it&nbsp;at the beginning of this month.&nbsp;

China is scared to let Taiwan flourish because the democratic country has outperformed an authoritarian China with only 440 cases and 7 deaths from the Wuhan virus.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Interestingly, Taiwan defeated the virus on its own&nbsp;without any support from the World Health Organization.&nbsp;

Earlier today, Taiwan's Vice President-elect,&nbsp;William Lai&nbsp;said ''Taiwan is not&nbsp;member of the World Health Organization mainly because&nbsp;it is not recognized yet by the United Nations. But, for eight years, it&nbsp;was invited to send observers to the World Health Assembly after the 2009 H1N1 epidemic.''

China realises that the momentum is with Taiwan and therefore, it wants to block every attempt to give it space on the world stage.&nbsp;

Beijing has opposed Taiwan's inclusion as an observer ever since 2016, &nbsp;when it elected Tsai Ing-wen as president.&nbsp;

It is noteworthy that Tsai belongs to a pro-independence party and she was re-elected this year.

She will take the oath of office again&nbsp;on May 20.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gold-coins-marking-the-taiwan-presidential-inauguration-hit-record-high-prices-298641">Gold coins marking the Taiwan presidential inauguration hit record high prices</a>

To celebrate the event, the Bank of Taiwan issued&nbsp;two commemorative coins featuring&nbsp;President Tsai Ing-wen and Vice President-elect Lai.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The surge in Taiwan's popularity and global support has been a major setback for China. It has rattled China to such an extent that it has threatened Taiwan with military action.

The surge in Taiwan's popularity and global support has been a major setback for China. It has rattled China to such an extent that it has threatened Taiwan with military action. The United States, European Union, Australia, New Zealand and Japan are in favour of Taiwan's presence in the WHO’s World Health Assembly, which gets under way online on Monday, despite China's warnings. Also read: WHO putting nations at risk by excluding Taiwan from knowledge sharing: US report India should utilise this window of opportunity as well and ensure an observer status for Taiwan at future WHO engagements to counter China. It should ignore the rebuttals, warnings and empty threats issued by Chinese spokespersons and state media Global Times. Landing exercises, aimed at taking over islands, have become #PLA's regular training subjects. Dongsha, Penghu and Taiwan are all islands. If #Taiwan secessionists insist on secession, military exercises can turn into action any time: experts https://t.co/7r2crvOE3y pic.twitter.com/zakDxZFkvV — Global Times (@globaltimesnews) May 13, 2020 × This is a report about the Chinese army's upcoming drills in August to take over the Dongsha Islands occupied by Taiwan. China’s foreign ministry warned Paris over a contract for Taiwan, which is planning to buy weapons from Paris as part of an upgrade to a French-made warship fleet bought 30 years ago. Also read: France tells China to focus on coronavirus battle after Taiwan warning However, France dismissed these warnings on Wednesday about selling arms to self-ruled Taiwan, saying it was implementing existing deals and that Beijing should focus on battling the COVID-19 pandemic. China says Taiwan is part of ''One China'', and that this principle must be accepted by any country with which it has diplomatic relations. The US State Department has launched a campaign called "Tweet for Taiwan" to ensure its seat for at the upcoming World Health Assembly. The International Organizations Bureau which is a part of the State Department posted it at the beginning of this month. China is scared to let Taiwan flourish because the democratic country has outperformed an authoritarian China with only 440 cases and 7 deaths from the Wuhan virus. Interestingly, Taiwan defeated the virus on its own without any support from the World Health Organization. Earlier today, Taiwan's Vice President-elect, William Lai said ''Taiwan is not member of the World Health Organization mainly because it is not recognized yet by the United Nations. But, for eight years, it was invited to send observers to the World Health Assembly after the 2009 H1N1 epidemic.'' China realises that the momentum is with Taiwan and therefore, it wants to block every attempt to give it space on the world stage. Beijing has opposed Taiwan's inclusion as an observer ever since 2016, when it elected Tsai Ing-wen as president. It is noteworthy that Tsai belongs to a pro-independence party and she was re-elected this year. She will take the oath of office again on May 20. Also read: Gold coins marking the Taiwan presidential inauguration hit record high prices To celebrate the event, the Bank of Taiwan issued two commemorative coins featuring President Tsai Ing-wen and Vice President-elect Lai.

How India's support for Taiwan's WHO membership can rattle China

Taiwan which is officially known as the Republic of China is an island state located just 130 kilometers away from mainland China. The Chinese regime views it as a breakaway province but Taiwanese leaders have always had differing views on the island's status.

It dates back to 1949 when the Republic of China(ROC) had been governing China for decades but it lost the civil war to the Communists who went on to form the People's Republic of China.

The ROC leader Chiang Kai-Shek and the remnants of his party, the Kuomintang,&nbsp;fled to Taiwan with soldiers to intellectuals and business elites. Nearly&nbsp;2 million people moved homes from mainland China to Taiwan.

They took along with them many national treasures and most of China's gold reserves. In the years that followed, leaders in Taipei and Beijing both claimed to be the legitimate government of China.

The dispute ended in 1971 when the United Nations expelled the ROC further isolating Taiwan. In fact, most Western powers began changing their position in favour of the Communist Party but it did not deter Taiwan. Diplomatically isolated, Taiwan began focusing on industrialization and economic growth.

A transformation that came to be known as the "Taiwan miracle".

Taiwan's Gross National Product grew 360 per cent between 1965 and 1986, even more impressive was its global industrial production output which grew by 680 per cent in the same period.

The social gap between rich and poor narrowed and Taiwan was doing better than the West. Taiwan alongside Singapore, South Korea and Hong Kong became known as the "Four Asian Tigers". An Asian Tiger which started questioning cross-Strait ties with Beijing.

In 2016, the election of Tsai Ing-wen came as a political awakening for the people of Taiwan because Tsai Ing-wen's political message revolved around the importance of the Taiwanese identity.

A message that gave her another landslide victory this year. Tsai Ing-wen has now pledged that democracy will be at the heart of Taiwan's future relations with China.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The coronavirus has offered Taiwan a chance to push back against China. Its success in battling the pandemic is being seen as a geopolitical win but Beijing is showing no signs of easing its aggression. It is threatening economic punishment and military pushback.

It's time for the world to take a stand.

Taiwan which is officially known as the Republic of China is an island state located just 130 kilometers away from mainland China. The Chinese regime views it as a breakaway province but Taiwanese leaders have always had differing views on the island's status.

Taiwan which is officially known as the Republic of China is an island state located just 130 kilometers away from mainland China. The Chinese regime views it as a breakaway province but Taiwanese leaders have always had differing views on the island's status. It dates back to 1949 when the Republic of China(ROC) had been governing China for decades but it lost the civil war to the Communists who went on to form the People's Republic of China. The ROC leader Chiang Kai-Shek and the remnants of his party, the Kuomintang, fled to Taiwan with soldiers to intellectuals and business elites. Nearly 2 million people moved homes from mainland China to Taiwan. They took along with them many national treasures and most of China's gold reserves. In the years that followed, leaders in Taipei and Beijing both claimed to be the legitimate government of China. The dispute ended in 1971 when the United Nations expelled the ROC further isolating Taiwan. In fact, most Western powers began changing their position in favour of the Communist Party but it did not deter Taiwan. Diplomatically isolated, Taiwan began focusing on industrialization and economic growth. A transformation that came to be known as the "Taiwan miracle". Taiwan's Gross National Product grew 360 per cent between 1965 and 1986, even more impressive was its global industrial production output which grew by 680 per cent in the same period. The social gap between rich and poor narrowed and Taiwan was doing better than the West. Taiwan alongside Singapore, South Korea and Hong Kong became known as the "Four Asian Tigers". An Asian Tiger which started questioning cross-Strait ties with Beijing. In 2016, the election of Tsai Ing-wen came as a political awakening for the people of Taiwan because Tsai Ing-wen's political message revolved around the importance of the Taiwanese identity. A message that gave her another landslide victory this year. Tsai Ing-wen has now pledged that democracy will be at the heart of Taiwan's future relations with China. The coronavirus has offered Taiwan a chance to push back against China. Its success in battling the pandemic is being seen as a geopolitical win but Beijing is showing no signs of easing its aggression. It is threatening economic punishment and military pushback. It's time for the world to take a stand.

How Taiwan stood up to China despite Western isolation

France dismissed Chinese warnings on Wednesday about selling arms to self-ruled Taiwan, saying it was implementing existing deals and that Beijing should focus on battling the COVID-19 pandemic.

China’s foreign ministry warned Paris over a contract for Taiwan, which is planning to buy weapons from Paris as part of an upgrade to a French-made warship fleet bought 30 years ago.

China says Taiwan is part of ''one China'', and that this principle must be accepted by any country with which it has diplomatic relations. Arms sales to Taiwan are always highly sensitive and regularly prompt a strong reaction from Beijing.

The French foreign ministry responded by saying it followed a “one China” policy as agreed with Beijing in 1994 and continued to urge both sides to hold dialogue.

''Within this context France respects the contractual commitments it made with Taiwan and has not changed its position since 1994,''&nbsp;the ministry said in a statement. ''Facing the COVID-19 crisis, all our attention and efforts should be focused on battling the pandemic.''

The timing of the dispute is awkward for Paris, which has ordered millions of face masks from China because of the coronavirus outbreak.

Taiwan is mostly equipped with US-made weapons, but in 1991 France sold Taiwan six Lafayette frigates, to China’s anger. France also sold Taiwan 60 Mirage fighter jets in 1992.

Last month Taiwan said it was seeking to buy equipment from France to upgrade the ships’ missile interference system.

Last month, the French foreign ministry summoned China’s ambassador over posts and tweets by the embassy defending Beijing’s response to the pandemic and criticising the West’s handling of the outbreak.

Taiwan media reported that Taiwan was proposing to spend around T$800 million on the DAGAIE missile interference system from French firm DCI-DESCO.

France dismissed Chinese warnings on Wednesday about selling arms to self-ruled Taiwan, saying it was implementing existing deals and that Beijing should focus on battling the COVID-19 pandemic.

France dismissed Chinese warnings on Wednesday about selling arms to self-ruled Taiwan, saying it was implementing existing deals and that Beijing should focus on battling the COVID-19 pandemic. China’s foreign ministry warned Paris over a contract for Taiwan, which is planning to buy weapons from Paris as part of an upgrade to a French-made warship fleet bought 30 years ago. China says Taiwan is part of ''one China'', and that this principle must be accepted by any country with which it has diplomatic relations. Arms sales to Taiwan are always highly sensitive and regularly prompt a strong reaction from Beijing. The French foreign ministry responded by saying it followed a “one China” policy as agreed with Beijing in 1994 and continued to urge both sides to hold dialogue. ''Within this context France respects the contractual commitments it made with Taiwan and has not changed its position since 1994,'' the ministry said in a statement. ''Facing the COVID-19 crisis, all our attention and efforts should be focused on battling the pandemic.'' The timing of the dispute is awkward for Paris, which has ordered millions of face masks from China because of the coronavirus outbreak. Taiwan is mostly equipped with US-made weapons, but in 1991 France sold Taiwan six Lafayette frigates, to China’s anger. France also sold Taiwan 60 Mirage fighter jets in 1992. Last month Taiwan said it was seeking to buy equipment from France to upgrade the ships’ missile interference system. Last month, the French foreign ministry summoned China’s ambassador over posts and tweets by the embassy defending Beijing’s response to the pandemic and criticising the West’s handling of the outbreak. Taiwan media reported that Taiwan was proposing to spend around T$800 million on the DAGAIE missile interference system from French firm DCI-DESCO.

France tells China to focus on coronavirus battle after Taiwan warning

China berated New Zealand for its support for Taiwan's participation at the World Health Organization (WHO), saying the country should "stop making wrong statements" on the issue to avoid damaging bilateral ties.&nbsp;

Earlier,&nbsp;New Zealand’s foreign minister,&nbsp;Winston Peters had&nbsp;said the country has to stand up for itself after China warned its call for Taiwan’s participation in the&nbsp;World Health Organization&nbsp;(WHO) could damage bilateral ties.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-backs-taiwans-who-membership-despite-china-rebuke-298230" hreflang="en">New Zealand backs Taiwan’s WHO membership despite China rebuke</a>

Senior ministers in&nbsp;New Zealand&nbsp;said last week Taiwan should be allowed to join the WHO as an observer given its success in limiting the spread of the novel coronavirus

China's foreign ministry also hit out at Taiwan over allegations that Beijing signed a secret agreement with the World Health Organization to exclude the self-ruled island, saying "it is not a secret".

"There is no need for us to sign a memorandum with any international organization to assert that Taiwan is part of China," said Zhao Lijian, spokesman for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Joseph Wu, the Taiwanese Foreign Minister, told Taipei lawmakers Monday that the Memorandum of Understanding between China and the WHO, signed in 2005 but discovered by Taiwan only in 2007, would hinder the island's participation at the upcoming World Health Assembly and other WHO events.

Wu said Taiwan needed more international support to put pressure on the WHO to allow Taiwan to participate.

However, Zhao dismissed Wu's concerns, saying the MOU already allows for Taiwanese experts to participate in WHO activities.

"The Taiwanese authorities once again are making a fuss of this memorandum," Zhao said. "It is just another manifestation of their attempts to politically manipulate the epidemic issue, which is completely in vain."

Taiwan, with the strong support of the United States, has stepped up its lobbying to be allowed to take part as an observer at next week's World Health Assembly (WHA), the WHO's decision-making body, to China's anger.

Taiwan is excluded from the WHO due to the objections of China, which views the island as one of its provinces.

Taiwan says this has created a dangerous gap in the coronavirus fight, and has accused the WHO of bending to Chinese pressure.

China berated New Zealand for its support for Taiwan's participation at the World Health Organization (WHO), saying the country should "stop making wrong statements" on the issue to avoid damaging bilateral ties.

China berated New Zealand for its support for Taiwan's participation at the World Health Organization (WHO), saying the country should "stop making wrong statements" on the issue to avoid damaging bilateral ties. Earlier, New Zealand’s foreign minister, Winston Peters had said the country has to stand up for itself after China warned its call for Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Organization (WHO) could damage bilateral ties. Also read: New Zealand backs Taiwan’s WHO membership despite China rebuke Senior ministers in New Zealand said last week Taiwan should be allowed to join the WHO as an observer given its success in limiting the spread of the novel coronavirus China's foreign ministry also hit out at Taiwan over allegations that Beijing signed a secret agreement with the World Health Organization to exclude the self-ruled island, saying "it is not a secret". "There is no need for us to sign a memorandum with any international organization to assert that Taiwan is part of China," said Zhao Lijian, spokesman for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Joseph Wu, the Taiwanese Foreign Minister, told Taipei lawmakers Monday that the Memorandum of Understanding between China and the WHO, signed in 2005 but discovered by Taiwan only in 2007, would hinder the island's participation at the upcoming World Health Assembly and other WHO events. Wu said Taiwan needed more international support to put pressure on the WHO to allow Taiwan to participate. However, Zhao dismissed Wu's concerns, saying the MOU already allows for Taiwanese experts to participate in WHO activities. "The Taiwanese authorities once again are making a fuss of this memorandum," Zhao said. "It is just another manifestation of their attempts to politically manipulate the epidemic issue, which is completely in vain." Taiwan, with the strong support of the United States, has stepped up its lobbying to be allowed to take part as an observer at next week's World Health Assembly (WHA), the WHO's decision-making body, to China's anger. Taiwan is excluded from the WHO due to the objections of China, which views the island as one of its provinces. Taiwan says this has created a dangerous gap in the coronavirus fight, and has accused the WHO of bending to Chinese pressure.

China berates New Zealand over support for Taiwan at WHO

New Zealand’s foreign minister has said the country has to stand up for itself after China warned its call for Taiwan’s participation&nbsp;at the World Health Organization (WHO) could damage bilateral ties.

Taiwan, with the strong support of the United States, has stepped up its lobbying to be allowed to take part as an observer at next week’s World Health Assembly (WHA), the WHO’s decision-making body, a move which has angered China.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-says-china-feeding-world-health-organisation-wrong-information-about-virus-cases-on-island-279116">Taiwan says China feeding World Health Organisation wrong information about virus cases on island</a>

Taiwan is excluded from the WHO due to the objections of China, which views the island as one of its provinces.

Senior ministers in New Zealand last week said Taiwan should be allowed to join the WHO as an observer given its success in limiting the spread of the novel coronavirus, drawing China’s ire which asked the Pacific country to ''stop making wrong statements.''

''We have got to stand up for ourselves,''&nbsp;Winston Peters, New Zealand’s foreign minister, said at a news conference when asked about China’s response to New Zealand’s position on Taiwan.

Also read- <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/explained-the-conflict-between-the-who-and-taiwan-293525">Explained: The conflict between the WHO and Taiwan</a>

“And true friendship is based on equality. It’s based on the ability in this friendship to nevertheless disagree.”

Peters said he did not think the issue would harm diplomatic ties with China, which is New Zealand’s biggest trading partner.

Taiwan has reported only 440 coronavirus cases and seven related deaths, relatively low figures attributed to early and effective disease prevention and control work.

Peters praised Taiwan’s response to COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, and said there was a lot for other countries to learn from.

“New Zealand’s position on Taiwan is about its tremendous success against COVID-19,” Peters said.

When asked about China’s response later in the day, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said New Zealand’s position on Taiwan was only related to its health response to COVID-19.

“We have always taken a ‘One China’ policy, and that continues to be the case,” Ardern said.

Speaking in Taipei, Taiwan Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Joanne Ou expressed thanks for New Zealand’s support, saying both countries were staunch supporters of freedom, democracy and human rights and that Taiwan would deepen ties with New Zealand.

New Zealand’s foreign minister has said the country has to stand up for itself after China warned its call for Taiwan’s participation at the World Health Organization (WHO) could damage bilateral ties.

New Zealand’s foreign minister has said the country has to stand up for itself after China warned its call for Taiwan’s participation at the World Health Organization (WHO) could damage bilateral ties. Taiwan, with the strong support of the United States, has stepped up its lobbying to be allowed to take part as an observer at next week’s World Health Assembly (WHA), the WHO’s decision-making body, a move which has angered China. Also read: Taiwan says China feeding World Health Organisation wrong information about virus cases on island Taiwan is excluded from the WHO due to the objections of China, which views the island as one of its provinces. Senior ministers in New Zealand last week said Taiwan should be allowed to join the WHO as an observer given its success in limiting the spread of the novel coronavirus, drawing China’s ire which asked the Pacific country to ''stop making wrong statements.'' ''We have got to stand up for ourselves,'' Winston Peters, New Zealand’s foreign minister, said at a news conference when asked about China’s response to New Zealand’s position on Taiwan. Also read- Explained: The conflict between the WHO and Taiwan “And true friendship is based on equality. It’s based on the ability in this friendship to nevertheless disagree.” Peters said he did not think the issue would harm diplomatic ties with China, which is New Zealand’s biggest trading partner. Taiwan has reported only 440 coronavirus cases and seven related deaths, relatively low figures attributed to early and effective disease prevention and control work. Peters praised Taiwan’s response to COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, and said there was a lot for other countries to learn from. “New Zealand’s position on Taiwan is about its tremendous success against COVID-19,” Peters said. When asked about China’s response later in the day, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said New Zealand’s position on Taiwan was only related to its health response to COVID-19. “We have always taken a ‘One China’ policy, and that continues to be the case,” Ardern said. Speaking in Taipei, Taiwan Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Joanne Ou expressed thanks for New Zealand’s support, saying both countries were staunch supporters of freedom, democracy and human rights and that Taiwan would deepen ties with New Zealand.

New Zealand backs Taiwan’s WHO membership despite China rebuke

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