Battlezone: Taiwan's Kinmen island stands on frontline with China

After US destroyer USS Dewey along with the Canadian frigate HMCS Winnipeg sailed through the Taiwan Strait, the Chinese military condemned the move on Sunday.

"Dewey's and Winnipeg's transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the commitment of the United States and our allies and partners to a free and open Indo-Pacific," the US military had declared.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/satellite-images-show-china-has-upgraded-military-bases-facing-taiwan-420955">Also Read:&nbsp;Satellite images show China has upgraded military bases facing Taiwan</a>

However, the Chinese military asserted that "Taiwan is part of Chinese territory" while adding that it maintained a "high level" of alert against "threats and provocations".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-tension-between-china-and-taiwan-at-their-highest-421423">Watch:&nbsp;Tension between China and Taiwan at its highest</a>

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The Chinese military said, "The United States and Canada colluded to provoke and stir up trouble... seriously jeopardising peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait."&nbsp;

The US had earlier declared that its commitment towards Taiwan's security is&nbsp;"rock solid" amid tensions with China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/military-exercises-near-taiwan-just-move-claims-china-420380">Also Read:&nbsp;Military exercises near Taiwan 'just move', claims China</a>

China had sent a record number of warplanes to Taiwan over a four-day period beginning on October 1 with bombers, fighters and surveillance aircraft repeatedly entering Taipei's airspace.

On Sunday, Taiwan said two Chinese J-16 fighters and an anti-submarine aircraft had once again entered its airspace.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-military-conducts-beach-landing-drills-near-taiwan-419963">Also Read:&nbsp;Chinese military conducts beach landing drills near Taiwan</a>

Taiwan's defence minister had earlier said China will be in a position to invade the country in 2025 as tensions escalated between the two countries.

(With inputs from Agencies)

After US destroyer USS Dewey along with the Canadian frigate HMCS Winnipeg sailed through the Taiwan Strait, the Chinese military condemned the move on Sunday. "Dewey's and Winnipeg's transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the commitment of the United States and our allies and partners to a free and open Indo-Pacific," the US military had declared.

After US destroyer USS Dewey along with the Canadian frigate HMCS Winnipeg sailed through the Taiwan Strait, the Chinese military condemned the move on Sunday. "Dewey's and Winnipeg's transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the commitment of the United States and our allies and partners to a free and open Indo-Pacific," the US military had declared. Also Read: Satellite images show China has upgraded military bases facing Taiwan However, the Chinese military asserted that "Taiwan is part of Chinese territory" while adding that it maintained a "high level" of alert against "threats and provocations". Watch: Tension between China and Taiwan at its highest The Chinese military said, "The United States and Canada colluded to provoke and stir up trouble... seriously jeopardising peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait." The US had earlier declared that its commitment towards Taiwan's security is "rock solid" amid tensions with China. Also Read: Military exercises near Taiwan 'just move', claims China China had sent a record number of warplanes to Taiwan over a four-day period beginning on October 1 with bombers, fighters and surveillance aircraft repeatedly entering Taipei's airspace. On Sunday, Taiwan said two Chinese J-16 fighters and an anti-submarine aircraft had once again entered its airspace. Also Read: Chinese military conducts beach landing drills near Taiwan Taiwan's defence minister had earlier said China will be in a position to invade the country in 2025 as tensions escalated between the two countries. (With inputs from Agencies)

US, Canada colluded to provoke trouble, says China after warships sail through Taiwan Strait

The United States has said that it is committed to support Taiwan, as per a statement issued by the White House.

Calling the US' commitment 'rock-solid,' White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said ''we will continue to support Taiwan's self-defence.''

The statement comes amid a spike in tensions between Taiwan and China.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/military-exercises-near-taiwan-just-move-claims-china-420380">Also read |&nbsp;Military exercises near Taiwan 'just move', claims China</a>

Earlier, Pentagon&nbsp;Press Secretary John Kirby had said ''The PRC (People's Republic of China) has stepped up efforts to intimidate and pressure Taiwan and other allies and partners, including increasing their military activities conducted in the vicinity of Taiwan, the East China Sea in the South China Sea, which we believe are destabilising and only increase the risk of miscalculation.''

''Our support for and defence relationship with Taiwan remains aligned with the current threat posed by the People's Republic of China, and we urge Beijing to honour its commitment to the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait differences as delineated in the three communiques,'' he added.

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Taiwan's Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng had said that ''China is capable of a full-scale invasion by 2025.''

''What is clearest is that the Republic of China absolutely will not start or set off a war, but if there are movements we will meet the enemy full-on,'' he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/analysis-with-an-eye-on-china-japans-ruling-party-makes-unprecedented-defence-spending-pledge-420812">Also read |&nbsp;Analysis: With an eye on China, Japan's ruling party makes unprecedented defence spending pledge</a>

China has increased its incursion in the Taiwan Strait and the country's&nbsp;air defence zone. A record number of Chinese airplanes flew into Taiwan's territory this year.

According to Chinese President Xi Jinping, ''Taiwan's independence separatism is the biggest obstacle to achieving the reunification of the motherland, and the most serious hidden danger to national rejuvenation.''

Raising a complaint about a meeting between senior US diplomats and Taiwan's de facto ambassador, the Chinese embassy in Washington had said that ''The US&nbsp;should not fantasise (about) seeking China's support and cooperation while wantonly challenging China's red line on the&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;question.''

US ally Japan has also backed Japan and showed interest in joining a regional trade pact. 
&nbsp;

The United States has said that it is committed to support Taiwan, as per a statement issued by the White House. Calling the US' commitment 'rock-solid,' White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said ''we will continue to support Taiwan's self-defence.

The United States has said that it is committed to support Taiwan, as per a statement issued by the White House. Calling the US' commitment 'rock-solid,' White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said ''we will continue to support Taiwan's self-defence.'' The statement comes amid a spike in tensions between Taiwan and China. Also read | Military exercises near Taiwan 'just move', claims China Earlier, Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby had said ''The PRC (People's Republic of China) has stepped up efforts to intimidate and pressure Taiwan and other allies and partners, including increasing their military activities conducted in the vicinity of Taiwan, the East China Sea in the South China Sea, which we believe are destabilising and only increase the risk of miscalculation.'' ''Our support for and defence relationship with Taiwan remains aligned with the current threat posed by the People's Republic of China, and we urge Beijing to honour its commitment to the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait differences as delineated in the three communiques,'' he added. Taiwan's Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng had said that ''China is capable of a full-scale invasion by 2025.'' ''What is clearest is that the Republic of China absolutely will not start or set off a war, but if there are movements we will meet the enemy full-on,'' he added. Also read | Analysis: With an eye on China, Japan's ruling party makes unprecedented defence spending pledge China has increased its incursion in the Taiwan Strait and the country's air defence zone. A record number of Chinese airplanes flew into Taiwan's territory this year. According to Chinese President Xi Jinping, ''Taiwan's independence separatism is the biggest obstacle to achieving the reunification of the motherland, and the most serious hidden danger to national rejuvenation.'' Raising a complaint about a meeting between senior US diplomats and Taiwan's de facto ambassador, the Chinese embassy in Washington had said that ''The US should not fantasise (about) seeking China's support and cooperation while wantonly challenging China's red line on the Taiwan question.'' US ally Japan has also backed Japan and showed interest in joining a regional trade pact.

'Rock solid': White House says US committed to support Taiwan

Amid threat of Chinese warplanes repeatedly entering Taiwan's airspace, the country's defence minister Chiu Kuo-cheng declared that China can mount a "full scale" invasion by 2025.

"By 2025, China will bring the cost and attrition to its lowest. It has the capacity now, but it will not start a war easily, having to take many other things into consideration," Taiwan's defence minister said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ready-to-abide-by-taiwan-agreement-says-biden-after-speaking-to-chinese-president-xi-418504">Also Read:&nbsp;Ready to abide by Taiwan agreement, says Biden</a>

Chiu added that China is capable of mounting a "full scale" invasion by 2025 and already has the ability to invade Taiwan.

China sent a record number of 56 warplanes to Taiwan as the country scrambled jets to thwart the Chinese threat on Monday.

Taiwan's defence minister told lawmakers that there was a risk of "misfire" across the Taiwan Strait referring to the current tensions with China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sends-56-warplanes-into-taiwans-defence-zone-in-largest-ever-air-incursion-418264">Also Read:&nbsp;China sends 56 warplanes into Taiwan's defence zone&nbsp;</a>

The Chinese government considers Taiwan a breakaway province which it says it will seize by force if necessary, a development that worries the island nation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-joe-biden-chinese-president-xi-jinping-abide-by-the-taiwan-agreement-418511">Watch:&nbsp;Biden speaks to President Xi on Taiwan</a>

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Cheng told lawmakers that "urgency is right in front of me" as tensions have escalated between China and Taiwan in recent months.

Last week at least 150 Chinese warplanes entered Taiwan's air defence zone as China marked its National Day. Taiwan's defence minister described the situation as "most serious".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hacktivism-china-site-shows-taiwan-emblem-tank-man-417448">Also Read:&nbsp;Hacktivism - China site shows Taiwan emblem, 'Tank Man'</a>

On Tuesday, President Biden said he had spoken to Chinese President Xi Jinping and had agreed to abide by the Taiwan agreement referring to the One-China policy even as &nbsp;Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen warned that there would be "catastrophic consequences" if China decided to invade the country.

"I've spoken with Xi about Taiwan. We agree, we'll abide by the Taiwan agreement," Biden said.

Biden added that he made it clear to President Xi that he shouldn't be "doing anything other than abiding by the agreement" amid tensions in the Taiwan Straits.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid threat of Chinese warplanes repeatedly entering Taiwan's airspace, the country's defence minister Chiu Kuo-cheng declared that China can mount a "full scale" invasion by 2025.

Amid threat of Chinese warplanes repeatedly entering Taiwan's airspace, the country's defence minister Chiu Kuo-cheng declared that China can mount a "full scale" invasion by 2025. "By 2025, China will bring the cost and attrition to its lowest. It has the capacity now, but it will not start a war easily, having to take many other things into consideration," Taiwan's defence minister said. Also Read: Ready to abide by Taiwan agreement, says Biden Chiu added that China is capable of mounting a "full scale" invasion by 2025 and already has the ability to invade Taiwan. China sent a record number of 56 warplanes to Taiwan as the country scrambled jets to thwart the Chinese threat on Monday. Taiwan's defence minister told lawmakers that there was a risk of "misfire" across the Taiwan Strait referring to the current tensions with China. Also Read: China sends 56 warplanes into Taiwan's defence zone The Chinese government considers Taiwan a breakaway province which it says it will seize by force if necessary, a development that worries the island nation. Watch: Biden speaks to President Xi on Taiwan Cheng told lawmakers that "urgency is right in front of me" as tensions have escalated between China and Taiwan in recent months. Last week at least 150 Chinese warplanes entered Taiwan's air defence zone as China marked its National Day. Taiwan's defence minister described the situation as "most serious". Also Read: Hacktivism - China site shows Taiwan emblem, 'Tank Man' On Tuesday, President Biden said he had spoken to Chinese President Xi Jinping and had agreed to abide by the Taiwan agreement referring to the One-China policy even as Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen warned that there would be "catastrophic consequences" if China decided to invade the country. "I've spoken with Xi about Taiwan. We agree, we'll abide by the Taiwan agreement," Biden said. Biden added that he made it clear to President Xi that he shouldn't be "doing anything other than abiding by the agreement" amid tensions in the Taiwan Straits. (With inputs from Agencies)

China has ability to mount 'full scale' invasion by 2025, says Taiwan's defence minister

This is the age of “vaccine diplomacy.” It is also the era of its bitter, mudslinging opposite.

For months, Taiwan has been unable to purchase doses of the BioNTech <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine</a>, and the island’s leaders blame “Chinese intervention.” China, which regards Taiwan as its own territory, calls this accusation “fabricated out of nothing.”

It is unclear what steps if any, the government in Beijing has taken to disrupt Taiwan’s dealings with BioNTech, the German drugmaker that developed the vaccine with Pfizer. BioNTech declined to comment.

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But the crux of the problem is that a Chinese company claims the exclusive commercial rights to distribute BioNTech’s vaccine in Taiwan. And for many people in the self-governing democracy, buying shots from a mainland Chinese business is simply unpalatable.

The impasse is exacerbating Taiwan’s vaccine shortage as the island confronts its first major outbreak of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> since the start of the pandemic. It is a bleak illustration of how deeply entrenched the long-running conflict across the Taiwan Strait has become, with a degree of mutual distrust that not even a global medical emergency can allay.

Beijing’s efforts to stand between Taiwan and the wider world began spilling into public health a long time ago. China has for years blocked the island from participating in the World Health Assembly, the policy body of the World Health Organization.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-asia-nominee-says-us-should-develop-taiwan-ties-in-every-sector-391779">Biden's Asia nominee says US should develop Taiwan ties in every sector</a>

China has a say in Taiwan’s inoculation campaign because BioNTech last year partnered with a Shanghai company, Fosun Pharma, to distribute its COVID vaccine in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan. BioNTech’s partner in the United States, the European Union and other places is Pfizer.

China says Taiwan is flouting this arrangement by trying to buy doses directly from BioNTech. Taiwan says it respects the companies’ partnership but hopes their relationship will not get in the way of the island’s vaccine purchases.

Beijing also warned against “meddling in China’s internal affairs” after Japan said it was donating 1.2 million AstraZeneca doses to Taiwan. Chinese officials were similarly peeved this month when three US&nbsp;senators visited the island to announce a donation of 750,000 doses. On Tuesday, Taiwan said 28 Chinese military aircraft entered the island’s southwestern air defence identification zone, the largest such show of force in months.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-massed-plane-incursion-near-taiwan-china-says-must-respond-to-collusion-391791">After massed plane incursion near Taiwan, China says must respond to 'collusion'</a>

As COVID infections have spread in Taiwan, Chinese representatives have accused the island’s leaders of putting politics above health by refusing to accept Chinese-made vaccines. Chinese state news media has underlined the point by highlighting the “Taiwan compatriots” who have gotten vaccinated in China.

“On the vaccine issue or the pandemic issue, I think China is trying to exploit any opportunity they can have,” said Lee Che-chuan of the Institute for National Defense and Security Research, a think tank funded by Taiwan’s government.

Beijing, Lee said, is telling Taiwan, “You are part of China. I can give you vaccines. But if you want to purchase them from some other countries, you have a political purpose: You’re trying to indicate you are independent from China.”

Taiwan’s inoculation efforts have taken on greater urgency since a wave of Covid&nbsp;cases caused the island to enter a soft lockdown last month. The government has placed orders with AstraZeneca, Moderna and two domestic vaccine makers. But shipments have been slow to materialize. Less than 5 per cent of the island’s 23.5 million people have been vaccinated so far.

Taiwan began talking with BioNTech about buying 5 million doses in August, the island’s health minister, Chen Shih-chung, said during a recent news conference. The two sides had largely agreed on a contract by December, according to Chen. On Jan. 8, BioNTech approved Taiwan’s draft news releases announcing the deal in Chinese and English.

But four hours later, BioNTech came back with a request, Chen said. The company wanted the word “country” in the Chinese-language news release to be replaced with “Taiwan.”

Beijing is extremely sensitive to any suggestion that Taiwan is an autonomous nation.

Taiwanese officials agreed to make the change, Chen said. But BioNTech said it needed to consider the matter further. The deal has been on hold ever since.

“It wasn’t because of a problem within the contract, but rather a problem outside the contract,” Chen said.

The chief executive of Fosun Pharma, BioNTech’s partner for Greater China, recently told China’s Xinhua state news agency that the company would gladly supply vaccines to “Taiwan compatriots.”

Whether Taiwan would accept those doses is more complicated. Taiwanese law forbids the import of Chinese-made vaccines. But Chen suggested Wednesday that Taiwan would be open to importing BioNTech shots if Fosun were acting only as their distributor, not manufacturer. Fosun did not respond to a request for comment.

Recently, discussions have taken place about a vaccine deal for Taiwan that would involve not only BioNTech and Fosun but also Zuellig Pharma, a Swiss-owned health services, cold storage and logistics company, according to two people familiar with the matter. Such a deal might allow BioNTech to honor its partnership with Fosun while also satisfying Taiwanese authorities by reducing Fosun’s role.

Zuellig has partnered with Moderna to supply Moderna’s vaccine in Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan. A Zuellig spokesperson declined to comment, as did Taiwan’s central epidemic command center.

BioNTech and Fosun have already delivered vaccines from Germany to Hong Kong and Macao, and they are preparing to manufacture BioNTech’s vaccine at a Fosun facility for the China market. Fosun Pharma’s parent company is Fosun International, a Shanghai-based conglomerate with interests in insurance, property, fashion, retail, tourism and more.

In a poll conducted in late May by researchers at Taiwan’s National Chengchi University, three-quarters of respondents said they would not take a Chinese vaccine. More than half, though, said they would receive a European or US&nbsp;vaccine purchased through a Chinese distributor.

Germany’s de facto embassy in Taiwan, the German Institute Taipei, said this month that it “tried hard” to facilitate communication between BioNTech and Taiwanese authorities. But it is uncertain how much Germany’s government is able or willing to help broker a deal, given the risk of angering Beijing. A spokesperson for the German Institute Taipei declined to comment.

“China’s vaccine strategy goes beyond just economic interest,” said Elena Meyer-Clement, who studies Chinese politics and business at the Free University of Berlin. “It has become a geopolitical question, which means you can rely on the fact that the political leadership in Beijing keeps an eye on these deals.”

Meyer-Clement said she believed that BioNTech had tried selling vaccines directly to Taiwan in good faith, not to deliberately sidestep its agreement with Fosun Pharma.

“If they had refused to even attempt it, it would have been tantamount to self-censorship,” she said. “I think it was really just about getting vaccines to Taiwan.”

Still, she said BioNTech was naive to give initial signoff to a news release that used the word “country” in the Taiwan context.

“It’s something someone with experience dealing with Taiwan should have known,” she said.

This is the age of “vaccine diplomacy.” It is also the era of its bitter, mudslinging opposite. For months, Taiwan has been unable to purchase doses of the BioNTech coronavirus vaccine, and the island’s leaders blame “Chinese intervention.

This is the age of “vaccine diplomacy.” It is also the era of its bitter, mudslinging opposite. For months, Taiwan has been unable to purchase doses of the BioNTech coronavirus vaccine, and the island’s leaders blame “Chinese intervention.” China, which regards Taiwan as its own territory, calls this accusation “fabricated out of nothing.” It is unclear what steps if any, the government in Beijing has taken to disrupt Taiwan’s dealings with BioNTech, the German drugmaker that developed the vaccine with Pfizer. BioNTech declined to comment. But the crux of the problem is that a Chinese company claims the exclusive commercial rights to distribute BioNTech’s vaccine in Taiwan. And for many people in the self-governing democracy, buying shots from a mainland Chinese business is simply unpalatable. The impasse is exacerbating Taiwan’s vaccine shortage as the island confronts its first major outbreak of COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic. It is a bleak illustration of how deeply entrenched the long-running conflict across the Taiwan Strait has become, with a degree of mutual distrust that not even a global medical emergency can allay. Beijing’s efforts to stand between Taiwan and the wider world began spilling into public health a long time ago. China has for years blocked the island from participating in the World Health Assembly, the policy body of the World Health Organization. Also read | Biden's Asia nominee says US should develop Taiwan ties in every sector China has a say in Taiwan’s inoculation campaign because BioNTech last year partnered with a Shanghai company, Fosun Pharma, to distribute its COVID vaccine in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan. BioNTech’s partner in the United States, the European Union and other places is Pfizer. China says Taiwan is flouting this arrangement by trying to buy doses directly from BioNTech. Taiwan says it respects the companies’ partnership but hopes their relationship will not get in the way of the island’s vaccine purchases. Beijing also warned against “meddling in China’s internal affairs” after Japan said it was donating 1.2 million AstraZeneca doses to Taiwan. Chinese officials were similarly peeved this month when three US senators visited the island to announce a donation of 750,000 doses. On Tuesday, Taiwan said 28 Chinese military aircraft entered the island’s southwestern air defence identification zone, the largest such show of force in months. Also read | After massed plane incursion near Taiwan, China says must respond to 'collusion' As COVID infections have spread in Taiwan, Chinese representatives have accused the island’s leaders of putting politics above health by refusing to accept Chinese-made vaccines. Chinese state news media has underlined the point by highlighting the “Taiwan compatriots” who have gotten vaccinated in China. “On the vaccine issue or the pandemic issue, I think China is trying to exploit any opportunity they can have,” said Lee Che-chuan of the Institute for National Defense and Security Research, a think tank funded by Taiwan’s government. Beijing, Lee said, is telling Taiwan, “You are part of China. I can give you vaccines. But if you want to purchase them from some other countries, you have a political purpose: You’re trying to indicate you are independent from China.” Taiwan’s inoculation efforts have taken on greater urgency since a wave of Covid cases caused the island to enter a soft lockdown last month. The government has placed orders with AstraZeneca, Moderna and two domestic vaccine makers. But shipments have been slow to materialize. Less than 5 per cent of the island’s 23.5 million people have been vaccinated so far. Taiwan began talking with BioNTech about buying 5 million doses in August, the island’s health minister, Chen Shih-chung, said during a recent news conference. The two sides had largely agreed on a contract by December, according to Chen. On Jan. 8, BioNTech approved Taiwan’s draft news releases announcing the deal in Chinese and English. But four hours later, BioNTech came back with a request, Chen said. The company wanted the word “country” in the Chinese-language news release to be replaced with “Taiwan.” Beijing is extremely sensitive to any suggestion that Taiwan is an autonomous nation. Taiwanese officials agreed to make the change, Chen said. But BioNTech said it needed to consider the matter further. The deal has been on hold ever since. “It wasn’t because of a problem within the contract, but rather a problem outside the contract,” Chen said. The chief executive of Fosun Pharma, BioNTech’s partner for Greater China, recently told China’s Xinhua state news agency that the company would gladly supply vaccines to “Taiwan compatriots.” Whether Taiwan would accept those doses is more complicated. Taiwanese law forbids the import of Chinese-made vaccines. But Chen suggested Wednesday that Taiwan would be open to importing BioNTech shots if Fosun were acting only as their distributor, not manufacturer. Fosun did not respond to a request for comment. Recently, discussions have taken place about a vaccine deal for Taiwan that would involve not only BioNTech and Fosun but also Zuellig Pharma, a Swiss-owned health services, cold storage and logistics company, according to two people familiar with the matter. Such a deal might allow BioNTech to honor its partnership with Fosun while also satisfying Taiwanese authorities by reducing Fosun’s role. Zuellig has partnered with Moderna to supply Moderna’s vaccine in Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan. A Zuellig spokesperson declined to comment, as did Taiwan’s central epidemic command center. BioNTech and Fosun have already delivered vaccines from Germany to Hong Kong and Macao, and they are preparing to manufacture BioNTech’s vaccine at a Fosun facility for the China market. Fosun Pharma’s parent company is Fosun International, a Shanghai-based conglomerate with interests in insurance, property, fashion, retail, tourism and more. In a poll conducted in late May by researchers at Taiwan’s National Chengchi University, three-quarters of respondents said they would not take a Chinese vaccine. More than half, though, said they would receive a European or US vaccine purchased through a Chinese distributor. Germany’s de facto embassy in Taiwan, the German Institute Taipei, said this month that it “tried hard” to facilitate communication between BioNTech and Taiwanese authorities. But it is uncertain how much Germany’s government is able or willing to help broker a deal, given the risk of angering Beijing. A spokesperson for the German Institute Taipei declined to comment. “China’s vaccine strategy goes beyond just economic interest,” said Elena Meyer-Clement, who studies Chinese politics and business at the Free University of Berlin. “It has become a geopolitical question, which means you can rely on the fact that the political leadership in Beijing keeps an eye on these deals.” Meyer-Clement said she believed that BioNTech had tried selling vaccines directly to Taiwan in good faith, not to deliberately sidestep its agreement with Fosun Pharma. “If they had refused to even attempt it, it would have been tantamount to self-censorship,” she said. “I think it was really just about getting vaccines to Taiwan.” Still, she said BioNTech was naive to give initial signoff to a news release that used the word “country” in the Taiwan context. “It’s something someone with experience dealing with Taiwan should have known,” she said.

Taiwan wants German vaccines. China may be standing in its way.

Taiwan&nbsp;on Wednesday condemned China for seeking to use vaccines for political gain after Taipei's diplomatic ally Honduras said it was considering opening an office in China in a bid to acquire much-needed COVID-19 shots.

Honduras does not have formal relations with China and is one of a group of Latin American nations that have formal diplomatic ties with&nbsp;Taiwan, which Beijing considers part of its territory.

Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez said that to buy Chinese vaccines, he would do as the Chinese had suggested and look for a "diplomatic bridge".

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-diplomatic-shift-honduran-president-says-he-may-open-china-office-384426" hreflang="en">In diplomatic shift, Honduran president says he may open China office&nbsp;</a>

Several Latin American nations are receiving Chinese vaccines, but countries that have built ties with Taipei rather than Beijing, such as Honduras and Guatemala, are not.

Taiwan&nbsp;Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Joanne Ou said China was trying to use the same methods it did with Paraguay, another&nbsp;Taiwanese ally that Taipei has complained of Beijing trying to push into a vaccines-for-recognition deal.

"This clearly proves that following the vaccine crisis in Paraguay, the Chinese government is once again using vaccines to exchange political and diplomatic benefits for countries that are in urgent need, a shameful act of disregarding humanitarian needs," Ou said.

Honduras has reaffirmed its ties with&nbsp;Taiwan, and&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;promises to help to the best of its ability to alleviate the health crisis, including working with "like-minded" countries, she added, a reference to democracies such as the United States, the European Union and India.

In Beijing, Zhu Fenglian, a spokeswoman for China's&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Affairs Office, said China was committed to helping provide vaccines to the developing world as a public good.

China hopes that "relevant countries can appropriately handle&nbsp;Taiwan-related issues according to the one-China principle" she added, which states that&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;is part of China.

Beijing has been gradually whittling away at&nbsp;Taiwan's diplomatic allies,&nbsp;now down to just 15 countries, which has alarmed Washington, nervous about an increased Chinese presence in Latin America and the Pacific where those allies are concentrated.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan on Wednesday condemned China for seeking to use vaccines for political gain after Taipei's diplomatic ally Honduras said it was considering opening an office in China in a bid to acquire much-needed COVID-19 shots.

Taiwan on Wednesday condemned China for seeking to use vaccines for political gain after Taipei's diplomatic ally Honduras said it was considering opening an office in China in a bid to acquire much-needed COVID-19 shots. Honduras does not have formal relations with China and is one of a group of Latin American nations that have formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, which Beijing considers part of its territory. Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez said that to buy Chinese vaccines, he would do as the Chinese had suggested and look for a "diplomatic bridge". Also read| In diplomatic shift, Honduran president says he may open China office Several Latin American nations are receiving Chinese vaccines, but countries that have built ties with Taipei rather than Beijing, such as Honduras and Guatemala, are not. Taiwan Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Joanne Ou said China was trying to use the same methods it did with Paraguay, another Taiwanese ally that Taipei has complained of Beijing trying to push into a vaccines-for-recognition deal. "This clearly proves that following the vaccine crisis in Paraguay, the Chinese government is once again using vaccines to exchange political and diplomatic benefits for countries that are in urgent need, a shameful act of disregarding humanitarian needs," Ou said. Honduras has reaffirmed its ties with Taiwan, and Taiwan promises to help to the best of its ability to alleviate the health crisis, including working with "like-minded" countries, she added, a reference to democracies such as the United States, the European Union and India. In Beijing, Zhu Fenglian, a spokeswoman for China's Taiwan Affairs Office, said China was committed to helping provide vaccines to the developing world as a public good. China hopes that "relevant countries can appropriately handle Taiwan-related issues according to the one-China principle" she added, which states that Taiwan is part of China. Beijing has been gradually whittling away at Taiwan's diplomatic allies, now down to just 15 countries, which has alarmed Washington, nervous about an increased Chinese presence in Latin America and the Pacific where those allies are concentrated. (With inputs from agencies)

'Political gain': Taiwan condemns China's vaccine diplomacy with its diplomatic ally Honduras

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-tensions-us-china-security-meeting-next-month-may-be-cancelled-168406">Taiwan</a> which has been praised internationally for containing the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-to-quarantine-pilots-of-its-largest-airline-amid-covid-19-outbreak-384086">coronavirus</a> pandemic,&nbsp;said today that it is yet to receive an invite from the World Health Organization's(WHO) decision-making body, the World Health Assembly, which meets from May 24.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taiwan-fm-says-china-seems-to-be-preparing-for-final-military-assault-381568/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taipei-to-dispatch-military-aircraft-ships-to-counter-chinese-activities-in-taiwan-strait-382948">China</a> has reportedly disallowed Taiwan's participation as it claims the country is a breakaway&nbsp;province even as Taiwan declared it will "fight to the last minute" for an invitation to the&nbsp;WHO.

"The foreign ministry will continue to work together with the Ministry of Health and Welfare to fight to the last minute and do everything possible for our right to participate in the meeting," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-investigating-china-dinghy-defector-claim-382600">Taiwan's</a> foreign ministry official&nbsp;said.

The WHO on the other hand has declared that it is up to member states to invite Taiwan to the meeting.

"I want to emphasise once again that the Taiwan issue concerns China's core interests. China has no room for compromise," China's foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said.

China had earlier condemned a joint statement by G7 foreign ministers which expressed support for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-does-us-pressure-on-taiwan-for-microchips-say-about-biden-administration-383073">Taiwan</a>, saying it was gross interference in China's internal affairs.

"This is the wanton destruction of the norms of international relations," the Chinese foreign ministry had said, adding, "they should not criticise and interfere in other countries with a high-and-mighty attitude, undermining the current top priority of international anti-pandemic cooperation."

"The G7, as a group for developed countries, should do more to push forth the global economic recovery and help developing countries develop even faster, rather than creating confrontations and divisions to disturb global economic recovery," it asserted.

Taiwan's presidential office thanked the G7 for the move while promising to "deepen the cooperative partnership with G7 member countries".

Relations between China and Taiwan have nosedived in recent months with the Chinese Air Force entering Taiwan's airspace on a number of occasions with Taiwan scrambling jets to counter the PLA jets.

Taiwan which has been praised internationally for containing the coronavirus pandemic, said today that it is yet to receive an invite from the World Health Organization's(WHO) decision-making body, the World Health Assembly, which meets from May 24.

Taiwan which has been praised internationally for containing the coronavirus pandemic, said today that it is yet to receive an invite from the World Health Organization's(WHO) decision-making body, the World Health Assembly, which meets from May 24. Watch: China has reportedly disallowed Taiwan's participation as it claims the country is a breakaway province even as Taiwan declared it will "fight to the last minute" for an invitation to the WHO. "The foreign ministry will continue to work together with the Ministry of Health and Welfare to fight to the last minute and do everything possible for our right to participate in the meeting," Taiwan's foreign ministry official said. The WHO on the other hand has declared that it is up to member states to invite Taiwan to the meeting. "I want to emphasise once again that the Taiwan issue concerns China's core interests. China has no room for compromise," China's foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said. China had earlier condemned a joint statement by G7 foreign ministers which expressed support for Taiwan, saying it was gross interference in China's internal affairs. "This is the wanton destruction of the norms of international relations," the Chinese foreign ministry had said, adding, "they should not criticise and interfere in other countries with a high-and-mighty attitude, undermining the current top priority of international anti-pandemic cooperation." "The G7, as a group for developed countries, should do more to push forth the global economic recovery and help developing countries develop even faster, rather than creating confrontations and divisions to disturb global economic recovery," it asserted. Taiwan's presidential office thanked the G7 for the move while promising to "deepen the cooperative partnership with G7 member countries". Relations between China and Taiwan have nosedived in recent months with the Chinese Air Force entering Taiwan's airspace on a number of occasions with Taiwan scrambling jets to counter the PLA jets.

Taiwan fights to attend WHO meeting as China denies entry

As China escalates its gray zone tactics against Taiwan, Taipei has announced that it will dispatch military aircraft and ships to counter Chinese military activities near its borders.

Taiwan Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said that Beijing is carrying out electronic warfare and reconnaissance but Taiwan has countermeasures in place.

He added the country's contingency planning takes into consideration the effect on future surveillance and counter-reconnaissance missions. The military is able to handle any threat that arises, Chiu stressed.

Since mid-September of last year, Beijing has stepped up its gray-zone tactics by regularly sending planes into Taiwan`s Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ), with most instances occurring in the southwest corner of the zone and usually consisting of one to three slow-flying turboprop planes.

Over the past few months, Taiwan has reported incursion by Chinese warplanes into ADIZ almost daily.

Meanwhile, China has said its military activities in the Taiwan Strait were targeted at "separatists" in Taiwan and "external forces"."[We] have made full preparation in addressing the separatist activities of Taiwan independence and the interference of external forces," South China Morning Post quoted Chinese defence ministry spokesman Wu Qian, as saying.

Beijing claims full sovereignty over Taiwan, a democracy of almost 24 million people located off the southeastern coast of mainland China, despite the fact that the two sides have been governed separately for more than seven decades.

Taipei, on the other hand, has countered the Chinese aggression by increasing strategic ties with democracies including the US, which has been repeatedly opposed by Beijing. China has threatened that "Taiwan`s independence" means war.

China has recently has commissioned three warships, including a large amphibious assault ship, adding them to the fleet covering the South China Sea.

The Global Times newspaper, which is affiliated with the Chinese Communist Party, reported that the ships were the country`s first Type 075 amphibious assault ship, a large destroyer, and a nuclear-powered strategic ballistic missile submarine.

Countries like Japan and the US have spoken about the need for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

Early this month, in their first in-person meeting at the White House, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and US President Joe Biden said in their joint statement that they "underscore the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait" and "encourage the peaceful resolution of cross-strait issues.

(With inputs from agencies)

As China escalates its gray zone tactics against Taiwan, Taipei has announced that it will dispatch military aircraft and ships to counter Chinese military activities near its borders.

As China escalates its gray zone tactics against Taiwan, Taipei has announced that it will dispatch military aircraft and ships to counter Chinese military activities near its borders. Taiwan Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said that Beijing is carrying out electronic warfare and reconnaissance but Taiwan has countermeasures in place. He added the country's contingency planning takes into consideration the effect on future surveillance and counter-reconnaissance missions. The military is able to handle any threat that arises, Chiu stressed. Since mid-September of last year, Beijing has stepped up its gray-zone tactics by regularly sending planes into Taiwan`s Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ), with most instances occurring in the southwest corner of the zone and usually consisting of one to three slow-flying turboprop planes. Over the past few months, Taiwan has reported incursion by Chinese warplanes into ADIZ almost daily. Meanwhile, China has said its military activities in the Taiwan Strait were targeted at "separatists" in Taiwan and "external forces"."[We] have made full preparation in addressing the separatist activities of Taiwan independence and the interference of external forces," South China Morning Post quoted Chinese defence ministry spokesman Wu Qian, as saying. Beijing claims full sovereignty over Taiwan, a democracy of almost 24 million people located off the southeastern coast of mainland China, despite the fact that the two sides have been governed separately for more than seven decades. Taipei, on the other hand, has countered the Chinese aggression by increasing strategic ties with democracies including the US, which has been repeatedly opposed by Beijing. China has threatened that "Taiwan`s independence" means war. China has recently has commissioned three warships, including a large amphibious assault ship, adding them to the fleet covering the South China Sea. The Global Times newspaper, which is affiliated with the Chinese Communist Party, reported that the ships were the country`s first Type 075 amphibious assault ship, a large destroyer, and a nuclear-powered strategic ballistic missile submarine. Countries like Japan and the US have spoken about the need for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. Early this month, in their first in-person meeting at the White House, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and US President Joe Biden said in their joint statement that they "underscore the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait" and "encourage the peaceful resolution of cross-strait issues. (With inputs from agencies)

Taipei to dispatch military aircraft, ships to counter Chinese activities in Taiwan Strait

Taiwan has told staffing companies to remove all listings for jobs in China, a drastic move to prevent the outflow of vital tech talent to the mainland amid rising tensions between Taipei and Beijing.

The Labor Ministry said that all Taiwanese and foreign staffing companies on the island as a general rule may no longer post openings for jobs located in China, especially those involving critical industries such as integrated circuits and semiconductors, according to a notice seen by Nikkei Asia. 
 
Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-chip-firms-to-adhere-to-new-us-rules-blacklisting-chinese-entities-377434">Taiwan's chip firms to adhere to new US rules blacklisting Chinese entities</a>

Taiwan government has asked the companies to remove all recruitment listings for jobs in China, to prevent the outflow of vital tech talent to the mainland.

According to a notice seen by Nikkei Asia, the Labor Ministry said that all Taiwanese and foreign staffing companies on the island as a general rule may no longer post openings for jobs located in China, especially those involving critical industries such as integrated circuits and semiconductors.

Taiwan's government on April 28th accused China of waging economic warfare against the Chinese-claimed island's tech sector by stealing technology and enticing away engineers, as parliament considers strengthening legislation to prevent this.

Taiwan is home to a thriving and world-leading semiconductor industry, used in everything from fighter jets to cars, and the government has long worried about China's efforts to copy that success, including by industrial espionage and other underhand methods.

Four Taiwanese lawmakers from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party are leading a proposal to amend the commercial secrets law to widen the scope of what is considered a secret and toughen penalties.

Taiwan's Economy Ministry, in its report, said China was trying to boost its semiconductor industry by "poaching" Taiwanese talent "as well as obtaining our country's industry's commercial secrets, to harm the country's competitiveness".

In recent weeks, China has increased military pressure on Taiwan by conducting aircraft carrier drills near the island. China claims Taiwan as its territory and has historically not shied from advocating taking it by force.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan has told staffing companies to remove all listings for jobs in China, a drastic move to prevent the outflow of vital tech talent to the mainland amid rising tensions between Taipei and Beijing.

Taiwan has told staffing companies to remove all listings for jobs in China, a drastic move to prevent the outflow of vital tech talent to the mainland amid rising tensions between Taipei and Beijing. The Labor Ministry said that all Taiwanese and foreign staffing companies on the island as a general rule may no longer post openings for jobs located in China, especially those involving critical industries such as integrated circuits and semiconductors, according to a notice seen by Nikkei Asia. Also read| Taiwan's chip firms to adhere to new US rules blacklisting Chinese entities Taiwan government has asked the companies to remove all recruitment listings for jobs in China, to prevent the outflow of vital tech talent to the mainland. According to a notice seen by Nikkei Asia, the Labor Ministry said that all Taiwanese and foreign staffing companies on the island as a general rule may no longer post openings for jobs located in China, especially those involving critical industries such as integrated circuits and semiconductors. Taiwan's government on April 28th accused China of waging economic warfare against the Chinese-claimed island's tech sector by stealing technology and enticing away engineers, as parliament considers strengthening legislation to prevent this. Taiwan is home to a thriving and world-leading semiconductor industry, used in everything from fighter jets to cars, and the government has long worried about China's efforts to copy that success, including by industrial espionage and other underhand methods. Four Taiwanese lawmakers from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party are leading a proposal to amend the commercial secrets law to widen the scope of what is considered a secret and toughen penalties. Taiwan's Economy Ministry, in its report, said China was trying to boost its semiconductor industry by "poaching" Taiwanese talent "as well as obtaining our country's industry's commercial secrets, to harm the country's competitiveness". In recent weeks, China has increased military pressure on Taiwan by conducting aircraft carrier drills near the island. China claims Taiwan as its territory and has historically not shied from advocating taking it by force. (With inputs from agencies)

Economic warfare against tech sector: Taiwan bans recruitment for jobs in China to combat brain drain

Taiwan's government on Wednesday accused&nbsp;China&nbsp;of waging economic warfare against the Chinese-claimed island's tech sector by stealing technology and enticing away engineers, as parliament considers strengthening legislation to prevent this.

Taiwan is home to a thriving and world-leading semiconductor industry, used in everything from fighter jets to cars, and the government has long worried about&nbsp;China's efforts to copy that success, including by industrial espionage and other underhand methods.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-chip-firms-to-adhere-to-new-us-rules-blacklisting-chinese-entities-377434">Taiwan's chip firms to adhere to new US rules blacklisting Chinese entities</a>

Four Taiwanese lawmakers from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party are leading a proposal to amend the commercial secrets law to widen the scope of what is considered a secret and toughen penalties.

In a report to parliament about the proposed amendments, Taiwan's National Security Bureau blamed&nbsp;China&nbsp;for most cases of industrial espionage by foreign forces discovered in recent years.

"The Chinese Communists' orchestrated theft of technology from other countries poses a major threat to democracies," it said.

"The aim of the Chinese Communists' infiltration into our technology is not only about economic interests, but also has a political intention to make Taiwan poorer and weaker."

Taiwan's Economy Ministry, in its report, said&nbsp;China&nbsp;was trying to boost its semiconductor industry by "poaching" Taiwanese talent "as well as obtaining our country's industry's commercial secrets, to harm the country's competitiveness".

The Cabinet has met many times to work out how to address the problem, the ministry added.

Lawmaker Ho Hsin-chun, one of the legislators who has proposed the amendments, said the need was urgent.

"The infiltration of&nbsp;China's red supply chain is everywhere," she told a parliament committee meeting.

It is not clear when or if the amendments could be passed into law, and the Justice Ministry in its report suggested further discussion of the wording was needed.

Hu Mu-yuan, deputy head of Taiwan's National Security Bureau, expressed broad backing for the measure.

"As long as it's helpful for our country's security and interests, we support it," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan's government on Wednesday accused China of waging economic warfare against the Chinese-claimed island's tech sector by stealing technology and enticing away engineers, as parliament considers strengthening legislation to prevent this.

Taiwan's government on Wednesday accused China of waging economic warfare against the Chinese-claimed island's tech sector by stealing technology and enticing away engineers, as parliament considers strengthening legislation to prevent this. Taiwan is home to a thriving and world-leading semiconductor industry, used in everything from fighter jets to cars, and the government has long worried about China's efforts to copy that success, including by industrial espionage and other underhand methods. Also read| Taiwan's chip firms to adhere to new US rules blacklisting Chinese entities Four Taiwanese lawmakers from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party are leading a proposal to amend the commercial secrets law to widen the scope of what is considered a secret and toughen penalties. In a report to parliament about the proposed amendments, Taiwan's National Security Bureau blamed China for most cases of industrial espionage by foreign forces discovered in recent years. "The Chinese Communists' orchestrated theft of technology from other countries poses a major threat to democracies," it said. "The aim of the Chinese Communists' infiltration into our technology is not only about economic interests, but also has a political intention to make Taiwan poorer and weaker." Taiwan's Economy Ministry, in its report, said China was trying to boost its semiconductor industry by "poaching" Taiwanese talent "as well as obtaining our country's industry's commercial secrets, to harm the country's competitiveness". The Cabinet has met many times to work out how to address the problem, the ministry added. Lawmaker Ho Hsin-chun, one of the legislators who has proposed the amendments, said the need was urgent. "The infiltration of China's red supply chain is everywhere," she told a parliament committee meeting. It is not clear when or if the amendments could be passed into law, and the Justice Ministry in its report suggested further discussion of the wording was needed. Hu Mu-yuan, deputy head of Taiwan's National Security Bureau, expressed broad backing for the measure. "As long as it's helpful for our country's security and interests, we support it," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan accuses China of waging economic warfare against tech sector

Twenty Chinese military aircraft entered Taiwan's air defence identification zone on Friday, in the largest incursion yet reported by the island's defence ministry and marking a dramatic escalation of tension across the 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.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-taiwan-sign-first-agreement-under-biden-administration-after-china-law-373392" hreflang="en">US, Taiwan sign first agreement under Biden administration after China law</a>

China claims almost the entirety of the resource-rich sea, and was accused by the United States this week of efforts to "intimidate and provoke others" by parking its vessels near Whitsun Reef.

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.

&nbsp;Beijing routinely says such exercises are nothing unusual and are designed to show the country's determination to defend its sovereignty.

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.

Twenty Chinese military aircraft entered Taiwan's air defence identification zone on Friday, in the largest incursion yet reported by the island's defence ministry and marking a dramatic escalation of tension across the Taiwan Strait.

Twenty Chinese military aircraft entered Taiwan's air defence identification zone on Friday, in the largest incursion yet reported by the island's defence ministry and marking a dramatic escalation of tension across the 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. Also read| US, Taiwan sign first agreement under Biden administration after China law China claims almost the entirety of the resource-rich sea, and was accused by the United States this week of efforts to "intimidate and provoke others" by parking its vessels near Whitsun Reef. 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. Beijing routinely says such exercises are nothing unusual and are designed to show the country's determination to defend its sovereignty. 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.

'Largest ever incursion': Twenty Chinese military aircraft enter Taiwan

Taiwan's defence minister said on Wednesday that&nbsp;it has strengthened deployments in the disputed South China Sea and that the United States has approved the export of sensitive technology to equip&nbsp;Taiwan's new submarine fleet.

China, which claims democratic&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;as its own territory, has increased its military activity near the island in recent months seeking to pressure Taipei to accept Beijing's sovereignty.&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;has vowed to defend itself.

Speaking in parliament, Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng, who took up his post last month, said&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;has increased personnel and armaments on Itu Aba, the main island&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;occupies in the South China Sea.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/video-taiwan-begins-building-new-submarines-345222/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Itu Aba, also known as Taiping island, is the largest naturally occurring island in the Spratleys and is garrisoned by&nbsp;Taiwan's Coast Guard.

"They are capable of starting a war," Chiu told the parliament when asked by a lawmaker on whether China could attack&nbsp;Taiwan. "My goal is for us to be ready at all times."

Chiu said&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;was bolstering its position there due to China's "expansionism" in the region, though it was not currently considering a return to a permanent army garrison.

China has built man-made islands in the South China Sea and air bases on some of them. Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia and Brunei all have competing claims in the strategic waterway.

Separately, Chiu said that the United States had approved export permits for all of the sensitive equipment needed by&nbsp;Taiwan's indigenous submarine fleet, which it started building last year.

He added that&nbsp;Taiwan's arms purchases from the United States - the island's main source of weapons - had not been impacted by the new Biden administration taking office in Washington and were continuing.

Taiwan&nbsp;is modernising its armed forces, especially as it face almost daily challenges from China in the airspace and waters near the island, including frequent Chinese air force missions into&nbsp;Taiwan's air defence identification zone.

Chiu said these missions were part of China's war of attrition against&nbsp;Taiwan, whose forces are dwarfed by Beijing's, and defence forces were already adjusting on how to deal with such incursions, though did not give details.

"If we match them one for one, it costs a lot," he said.

In response,&nbsp;Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said the country hopes that the United States will abide by the 'one-China' policy after it granted&nbsp;submarine approval for&nbsp;Taiwan.

Before leaving Tokyo, Secretary of State Blinken accused Beijing of acting more repressively at home and "more aggressively abroad", citing its activities in the East and South China Seas and towards&nbsp;Taiwan.

Taiwan's defence minister said on Wednesday that it has strengthened deployments in the disputed South China Sea and that the United States has approved the export of sensitive technology to equip Taiwan's new submarine fleet.

Taiwan's defence minister said on Wednesday that it has strengthened deployments in the disputed South China Sea and that the United States has approved the export of sensitive technology to equip Taiwan's new submarine fleet. China, which claims democratic Taiwan as its own territory, has increased its military activity near the island in recent months seeking to pressure Taipei to accept Beijing's sovereignty. Taiwan has vowed to defend itself. Speaking in parliament, Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng, who took up his post last month, said Taiwan has increased personnel and armaments on Itu Aba, the main island Taiwan occupies in the South China Sea. Itu Aba, also known as Taiping island, is the largest naturally occurring island in the Spratleys and is garrisoned by Taiwan's Coast Guard. "They are capable of starting a war," Chiu told the parliament when asked by a lawmaker on whether China could attack Taiwan. "My goal is for us to be ready at all times." Chiu said Taiwan was bolstering its position there due to China's "expansionism" in the region, though it was not currently considering a return to a permanent army garrison. China has built man-made islands in the South China Sea and air bases on some of them. Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia and Brunei all have competing claims in the strategic waterway. Separately, Chiu said that the United States had approved export permits for all of the sensitive equipment needed by Taiwan's indigenous submarine fleet, which it started building last year. He added that Taiwan's arms purchases from the United States - the island's main source of weapons - had not been impacted by the new Biden administration taking office in Washington and were continuing. Taiwan is modernising its armed forces, especially as it face almost daily challenges from China in the airspace and waters near the island, including frequent Chinese air force missions into Taiwan's air defence identification zone. Chiu said these missions were part of China's war of attrition against Taiwan, whose forces are dwarfed by Beijing's, and defence forces were already adjusting on how to deal with such incursions, though did not give details. "If we match them one for one, it costs a lot," he said. In response, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said the country hopes that the United States will abide by the 'one-China' policy after it granted submarine approval for Taiwan. Before leaving Tokyo, Secretary of State Blinken accused Beijing of acting more repressively at home and "more aggressively abroad", citing its activities in the East and South China Seas and towards Taiwan.

Taiwan strengthens deployments in South China Sea, gets US nod for submarine parts

Months after announcing plans to introduce new passports, Taiwan has rolled out the newly redesigned passport with the aim to separate their name from China.

All existing Taiwanese passports have "Republic of China" written in a large font at the top of the passport with 'Taiwan' printed at the bottom in a smaller font.

While 'Republic of China' has been taken as Taiwan's formal name for years, it has created confusion for the Taiwan residents as they are usually mistaken as Chinese citizens.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-praises-us-move-to-lift-restrictions-on-ties-355892">Taiwan praises US move to lift restrictions on ties</a>

Now, especially with the pandemic and China trying to step up efforts to assert sovereignty, Taiwan decided to change the text and design of their passports and focus on the 'Taiwan', rather than 'Republic of China'.

Taiwan officials feel their citizens are, at many points, treated unfairly and are subjected to excessive checks and racist remarks only because they are mistaken as Chinese nationals. To avoid this confusion and 'torture'&nbsp;on Taiwanese, the government decided to change their passports and mark it independent of China.

"The purpose is to increase the visibility of Taiwan so that our people will not be mistakenly identified as coming from China when they travel abroad,"&nbsp;Bureau of Consular Affairs Director General Phoebe Yeh said.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-taiwan-to-jack-ma-chinas-troubles-are-growing-on-all-fronts-355475">From Taiwan to Jack Ma, China's troubles are growing on all fronts</a>

As of now, the officials have already received more than 700 requests for the newly designed passports. The participants in this change have expressed happiness and relief over the redesigning of the passports. "I thought it would happen sooner or later. That is, sooner or later the word Taiwan would appear more and more. And in the future Republic of China will perhaps disappear," said&nbsp;Chen Li-ting, who was one of the first to receive the new passport.

The new passport has 'Taiwan' written on the passport in English in a large font and 'Republic of China' has been removed completely — except for the placing of it on the emblem.

China, however, expectedly has protested against this move and has claimed that it does not matter what "petty moves" are taken by Taiwan, the country will still remain an "inseparable part of China". The Asian country has also claimed to be the sole voice that has the right to represent the island on international level, especially at the World Health organization (WHO).

Months after announcing plans to introduce new passports, Taiwan has rolled out the newly redesigned passport with the aim to separate their name from China. All existing Taiwanese passports have "Republic of China" written in a large font at the top of the passport with 'Taiwan' printed at the bottom in a smaller font.

Months after announcing plans to introduce new passports, Taiwan has rolled out the newly redesigned passport with the aim to separate their name from China. All existing Taiwanese passports have "Republic of China" written in a large font at the top of the passport with 'Taiwan' printed at the bottom in a smaller font. While 'Republic of China' has been taken as Taiwan's formal name for years, it has created confusion for the Taiwan residents as they are usually mistaken as Chinese citizens. Also read| Taiwan praises US move to lift restrictions on ties Now, especially with the pandemic and China trying to step up efforts to assert sovereignty, Taiwan decided to change the text and design of their passports and focus on the 'Taiwan', rather than 'Republic of China'. Taiwan officials feel their citizens are, at many points, treated unfairly and are subjected to excessive checks and racist remarks only because they are mistaken as Chinese nationals. To avoid this confusion and 'torture' on Taiwanese, the government decided to change their passports and mark it independent of China. "The purpose is to increase the visibility of Taiwan so that our people will not be mistakenly identified as coming from China when they travel abroad," Bureau of Consular Affairs Director General Phoebe Yeh said. Also read| From Taiwan to Jack Ma, China's troubles are growing on all fronts As of now, the officials have already received more than 700 requests for the newly designed passports. The participants in this change have expressed happiness and relief over the redesigning of the passports. "I thought it would happen sooner or later. That is, sooner or later the word Taiwan would appear more and more. And in the future Republic of China will perhaps disappear," said Chen Li-ting, who was one of the first to receive the new passport. The new passport has 'Taiwan' written on the passport in English in a large font and 'Republic of China' has been removed completely — except for the placing of it on the emblem. China, however, expectedly has protested against this move and has claimed that it does not matter what "petty moves" are taken by Taiwan, the country will still remain an "inseparable part of China". The Asian country has also claimed to be the sole voice that has the right to represent the island on international level, especially at the World Health organization (WHO).

Taiwan's new passport gives hope amid growing resistance against China

In an exclusive interview with WION'S Executive Editor Palki Sharma, Taiwan's foreign minister Joseph Wu said China put pressure on other countries to not recognise Taiwan as a country. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-diplomat-hospitalised-after-scuffle-with-chinese-diplomats-in-fiji-336351">Also Read:&nbsp;Taiwan diplomat hospitalised after a scuffle with Chinese diplomats in Fiji</a>

After being asked that China doesn't recognise you as a foreign minister of a country and put pressure on other countries to do the same he said that "Countries call me 'Minister&nbsp;Wu' but there shouldn’t be any problem addressing us as a country. But most of the country in the world are interacting with us and they recognise me as a Foreign Minister of Taiwan."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StraightTalk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StraightTalk</a> | "National Day is the most important day for Taiwan, but the Chinese were trying to resort to physical violence to stop us from celebrating, and that is totally unacceptable," Foreign Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JosephWu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JosephWu</a> tells <a href="https://twitter.com/palkisu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@palkisu</a> on the attack on Taiwan official in Fiji <a href="https://t.co/IqA3YW1weJ">pic.twitter.com/IqA3YW1weJ</a>
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Talking about the confrontation at Fiji Chinese diplomats he said that On October 8th people in our Fiji office was celebrating our national day and Chinese people went overboard and one of our colleagues got injured. This act created a wave of national anger in our country. We strongly condemn the violence against our diplomat in Fiji by China’s diplomats.

"National Day is the most important day for Taiwan, but the Chinese were trying to resort to physical violence to stop us from celebrating, and that is totally unacceptable," Foreign Minister said.

On the question of further threats like Fiji attack by the Chinese officials, he said that Chinese diplomat trying to pressure the host countries not to do something with Taiwan, in case of India Chinese diplomats were issuing orders to the Indian press not to report Taiwan National Day. But we don’t see the similar threats in India we have very good relations with the vibrant democracy India.

On the issue of China's preparation for a possible military invasion of Taiwan, he said that not only China is positioning missiles but also they have increased their land and air military activities and this is an alarming situation. China is not hiding its intention, we are also beefing our military capabilities and garner support from several countries.

China seems to be expanding its force of authoritarianism inside and outside China they are trying to prevent Mongolians to learn their traditional language.

On August 26 China passed a law to sideline teaching in the Mongolian language in the region of Inner Mongolia (also referred to as Southern Mongolia).

Joseph Wu said that whenever there is a domestic problem in China, they would try to find a scapegoat to divert attention and Taiwan is an easy scapegoat and we need to be careful we want to be friends with India.

According to the sources, Beijing is replacing its old DF-11s and DF-15s and deploying its most advanced hypersonic missile DF-17 in China's southeast coastal region.

China in recent years has also increased military drills around Taiwan, with almost 40 Chinese warplanes crossing the median line between the mainland and Taiwan on September 18-19 -- one of several sorties the island's President Tsai Ing-wen called a "threat of force. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

In an exclusive interview with WION'S Executive Editor Palki Sharma, Taiwan's foreign minister Joseph Wu said China put pressure on other countries to not recognise Taiwan as a country.

In an exclusive interview with WION'S Executive Editor Palki Sharma, Taiwan's foreign minister Joseph Wu said China put pressure on other countries to not recognise Taiwan as a country. Also Read: Taiwan diplomat hospitalised after a scuffle with Chinese diplomats in Fiji After being asked that China doesn't recognise you as a foreign minister of a country and put pressure on other countries to do the same he said that "Countries call me 'Minister Wu' but there shouldn’t be any problem addressing us as a country. But most of the country in the world are interacting with us and they recognise me as a Foreign Minister of Taiwan." #StraightTalk | "National Day is the most important day for Taiwan, but the Chinese were trying to resort to physical violence to stop us from celebrating, and that is totally unacceptable," Foreign Minister #JosephWu tells @palkisu on the attack on Taiwan official in Fiji pic.twitter.com/IqA3YW1weJ — WION (@WIONews) October 21, 2020 × Talking about the confrontation at Fiji Chinese diplomats he said that On October 8th people in our Fiji office was celebrating our national day and Chinese people went overboard and one of our colleagues got injured. This act created a wave of national anger in our country. We strongly condemn the violence against our diplomat in Fiji by China’s diplomats. "National Day is the most important day for Taiwan, but the Chinese were trying to resort to physical violence to stop us from celebrating, and that is totally unacceptable," Foreign Minister said. On the question of further threats like Fiji attack by the Chinese officials, he said that Chinese diplomat trying to pressure the host countries not to do something with Taiwan, in case of India Chinese diplomats were issuing orders to the Indian press not to report Taiwan National Day. But we don’t see the similar threats in India we have very good relations with the vibrant democracy India. On the issue of China's preparation for a possible military invasion of Taiwan, he said that not only China is positioning missiles but also they have increased their land and air military activities and this is an alarming situation. China is not hiding its intention, we are also beefing our military capabilities and garner support from several countries. China seems to be expanding its force of authoritarianism inside and outside China they are trying to prevent Mongolians to learn their traditional language. On August 26 China passed a law to sideline teaching in the Mongolian language in the region of Inner Mongolia (also referred to as Southern Mongolia). Joseph Wu said that whenever there is a domestic problem in China, they would try to find a scapegoat to divert attention and Taiwan is an easy scapegoat and we need to be careful we want to be friends with India. According to the sources, Beijing is replacing its old DF-11s and DF-15s and deploying its most advanced hypersonic missile DF-17 in China's southeast coastal region. China in recent years has also increased military drills around Taiwan, with almost 40 Chinese warplanes crossing the median line between the mainland and Taiwan on September 18-19 -- one of several sorties the island's President Tsai Ing-wen called a "threat of force. (With inputs from agencies)

China puts pressure on nations to not recognise Taiwan as a country: Foreign Minister Joseph Wu tells WION

In an exclusive interview with WION'S Executive Editor Palki Sharma, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/taiwans-new-envoy-to-india-arrives-in-the-country-336607">Taiwan's</a> foreign minister Joseph Wu said China may invade the country while adding that the Xi regime is trying to destabilize the region.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-diplomat-hospitalised-after-scuffle-with-chinese-diplomats-in-fiji-336351">Also Read:&nbsp;Taiwan diplomat hospitalised after scuffle with Chinese diplomats in Fiji</a>

Joseph Wu asserted that Taiwan can defend itself while stating that he believed the US will come to its aid in case <a href="China forces prepare for possible military invasion of Taiwan, deploy hypersonic missile">China</a> attacks.

Taiwan's foreign minister's comments come amid the country's deteriorating relations with China over the past few months. The Taiwan government had said recently that a diplomat was hospitalized after a scuffle with two Chinese diplomats who tried to force their way into Taiwan's representative office in Fiji during <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warship-transits-taiwan-strait-china-calls-it-undermining-peace-335434">National Day</a> celebrations.

The diplomat received head injuries during the scuffle as Fiji&nbsp;police officials forced the Chinese diplomats from the office. The two Chinese diplomats reportedly wanted to take pictures and collect information on who was attending Taiwan's National Day celebrations.

Taiwan later said it will not be intimidated by China's "hooligan" officials while condemning the "irrational acts" by the Chinese diplomats amid heightened tensions between the two countries.

Chinese officials, however, said that its diplomats were trying to find out whether any Fijian politician were present at the event.

Earlier in the month, Chinese jets had made repeated incursion into Taiwan's airspace as the National Day approached which was widely criticised by Tsai Ing-wen's government.

During a speech on Taiwan's National Day, President Tsai Ing-wen had said: 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.government.

"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 added. 
&nbsp;

In an exclusive interview with WION'S Executive Editor Palki Sharma, Taiwan's foreign minister Joseph Wu said China may invade the country while adding that the Xi regime is trying to destabilize the region.

In an exclusive interview with WION'S Executive Editor Palki Sharma, Taiwan's foreign minister Joseph Wu said China may invade the country while adding that the Xi regime is trying to destabilize the region. Also Read: Taiwan diplomat hospitalised after scuffle with Chinese diplomats in Fiji Joseph Wu asserted that Taiwan can defend itself while stating that he believed the US will come to its aid in case China attacks. Taiwan's foreign minister's comments come amid the country's deteriorating relations with China over the past few months. The Taiwan government had said recently that a diplomat was hospitalized after a scuffle with two Chinese diplomats who tried to force their way into Taiwan's representative office in Fiji during National Day celebrations. The diplomat received head injuries during the scuffle as Fiji police officials forced the Chinese diplomats from the office. The two Chinese diplomats reportedly wanted to take pictures and collect information on who was attending Taiwan's National Day celebrations. Taiwan later said it will not be intimidated by China's "hooligan" officials while condemning the "irrational acts" by the Chinese diplomats amid heightened tensions between the two countries. Chinese officials, however, said that its diplomats were trying to find out whether any Fijian politician were present at the event. Earlier in the month, Chinese jets had made repeated incursion into Taiwan's airspace as the National Day approached which was widely criticised by Tsai Ing-wen's government. During a speech on Taiwan's National Day, President Tsai Ing-wen had said: 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.government. "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 added.

China planning to invade Taiwan, says foreign minister Joseph Wu to WION

A United States warship sailed through the&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Strait on&nbsp;Thursday&nbsp;enraging China, which claims sovereignty over the island and surrounding seas.

While&nbsp;the American military described it as a "routine" passage, China called it a ''serious attempt to&nbsp;undermine peace and stability''.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warns-china-against-any-attempt-to-take-taiwan-by-force-333453">US warns China against any attempt to take Taiwan by force</a>

According to a statement by the US Pacific Fleet, "The ship's transit through the&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Strait demonstrates the US commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific," the statement said.

"The US Navy will continue to fly, sail and operate anywhere international law allows," it added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/set-off-war-china-threatens-retaliation-after-us-diplomats-visit-to-taiwan-329155">'Set off war': China threatens retaliation after US diplomat's visit to Taiwan</a>

Ties between Beijing and Washington have deteriorated in recent months, over issues including trade and Hong Kong, with the self-ruled island of&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;a long-running source of tension.

Any US Navy operations in the&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Strait, which separates China from the island, provoke a strong response from Beijing, which considers&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;to be an inviolable part of its territory.

In an angry riposte, the Chinese People's Liberation Army said it tracked the USS Barry by sea and air "throughout the entire process."

Beijing has accused Washington and Taipei of "collusion" towards the island declaring formal independence and recently ramped up air force activity near&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;in a show of force.

The White House is pushing forward to sell to&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;sophisticated military equipment including MQ-9 drones and a coastal defensive missile system, fuelling further tensions in what is already an increasingly adversarial Sino-US&nbsp;relations.

&nbsp;

A United States warship sailed through the Taiwan Strait on Thursday enraging China, which claims sovereignty over the island and surrounding seas. While the American military described it as a "routine" passage, China called it a ''serious attempt to undermine peace and stability''.

A United States warship sailed through the Taiwan Strait on Thursday enraging China, which claims sovereignty over the island and surrounding seas. While the American military described it as a "routine" passage, China called it a ''serious attempt to undermine peace and stability''. Also read: US warns China against any attempt to take Taiwan by force According to a statement by the US Pacific Fleet, "The ship's transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the US commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific," the statement said. "The US Navy will continue to fly, sail and operate anywhere international law allows," it added. Also read: 'Set off war': China threatens retaliation after US diplomat's visit to Taiwan Ties between Beijing and Washington have deteriorated in recent months, over issues including trade and Hong Kong, with the self-ruled island of Taiwan a long-running source of tension. Any US Navy operations in the Taiwan Strait, which separates China from the island, provoke a strong response from Beijing, which considers Taiwan to be an inviolable part of its territory. In an angry riposte, the Chinese People's Liberation Army said it tracked the USS Barry by sea and air "throughout the entire process." Beijing has accused Washington and Taipei of "collusion" towards the island declaring formal independence and recently ramped up air force activity near Taiwan in a show of force. The White House is pushing forward to sell to Taiwan sophisticated military equipment including MQ-9 drones and a coastal defensive missile system, fuelling further tensions in what is already an increasingly adversarial Sino-US relations.

US warship transits Taiwan Strait; China calls it undermining 'peace'

Taiwan's military has launched aircraft to intercept Chinese planes more than twice as much as all of last year, the island's defence ministry said, describing Taiwan as facing severe security challenges from its huge neighbour.

China, which claims democratic Taiwan as its own territory, has stepped up its military activities near the island, responding to what Beijing calls "collusion" between Taipei and Washington.

Also see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-taiwan-china-relations-since-1949-188037">In pictures: Taiwan-China relations since 1949</a>

In the past few weeks, Chinese fighter jets have crossed the mid-line of the Taiwan Strait, which normally serves as an official buffer between the island and the mainland, and have flown into Taiwan's southwestern air defence identification zone.

In a report to parliament, a copy of which was reviewed by Reuters, Taiwan's Defence Ministry said so far this year the air force had scrambled 4,132 times, up 129 per cent&nbsp;compared to all of last year, according to Reuters calculations.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/real-possibility-of-war-taiwan-calls-for-global-coalition-against-china-328167">&nbsp;'Real possibility of war': Taiwan calls for global coalition against China</a>

China "is trying to use unilateral military actions to change the security status quo in the Taiwan Strait, and at the same time is testing our response, increasing pressure on our air defences and shrinking our space for activity," it said.

The rapid development of China's military has been accompanied by "targeted" military actions against Taiwan, the ministry added.

China has been particularly angered by growing U.S. support for Taiwan, including senior US&nbsp;officials visiting the island, adding to broader Sino-U.S. tensions.

While Taiwan is unable to compete numerically with China's armed forces, President Tsai Ing-wen has been overseeing a military modernisation programme, aiming to make the island's armed forces more nimble and Taiwan more difficult to attack.

Addressing a Taiwan-US&nbsp;defence conference late Monday, Vice Defence Minister Chang Guan-chung said China has been ramping up what he called "realistic training against Taiwan".

"We are developing systems that are small, numerous, smart, stealthy, fast, mobile, low-cost, survivable, effective, easy to develop, maintain and preserve, and difficult to detect and counter," he said.

Chang called for enhanced cooperation with the United States that goes beyond weapons sales, saying that would further invigorate Taiwan's defence reform and military modernisation.

"We will also emphasise joint effort in training, operational concepts, capability assessment, intelligence sharing, and armament cooperation. These are equally important as the acquisition of hardware," he said.

Taiwan's military has launched aircraft to intercept Chinese planes more than twice as much as all of last year, the island's defence ministry said, describing Taiwan as facing severe security challenges from its huge neighbour.

Taiwan's military has launched aircraft to intercept Chinese planes more than twice as much as all of last year, the island's defence ministry said, describing Taiwan as facing severe security challenges from its huge neighbour. China, which claims democratic Taiwan as its own territory, has stepped up its military activities near the island, responding to what Beijing calls "collusion" between Taipei and Washington. Also see| In pictures: Taiwan-China relations since 1949 In the past few weeks, Chinese fighter jets have crossed the mid-line of the Taiwan Strait, which normally serves as an official buffer between the island and the mainland, and have flown into Taiwan's southwestern air defence identification zone. In a report to parliament, a copy of which was reviewed by Reuters, Taiwan's Defence Ministry said so far this year the air force had scrambled 4,132 times, up 129 per cent compared to all of last year, according to Reuters calculations. Also read| 'Real possibility of war': Taiwan calls for global coalition against China China "is trying to use unilateral military actions to change the security status quo in the Taiwan Strait, and at the same time is testing our response, increasing pressure on our air defences and shrinking our space for activity," it said. The rapid development of China's military has been accompanied by "targeted" military actions against Taiwan, the ministry added. China has been particularly angered by growing U.S. support for Taiwan, including senior US officials visiting the island, adding to broader Sino-U.S. tensions. While Taiwan is unable to compete numerically with China's armed forces, President Tsai Ing-wen has been overseeing a military modernisation programme, aiming to make the island's armed forces more nimble and Taiwan more difficult to attack. Addressing a Taiwan-US defence conference late Monday, Vice Defence Minister Chang Guan-chung said China has been ramping up what he called "realistic training against Taiwan". "We are developing systems that are small, numerous, smart, stealthy, fast, mobile, low-cost, survivable, effective, easy to develop, maintain and preserve, and difficult to detect and counter," he said. Chang called for enhanced cooperation with the United States that goes beyond weapons sales, saying that would further invigorate Taiwan's defence reform and military modernisation. "We will also emphasise joint effort in training, operational concepts, capability assessment, intelligence sharing, and armament cooperation. These are equally important as the acquisition of hardware," he said.

Taiwan says military under pressure from China as missions mount

Taiwan on Monday&nbsp;expressed its gratitude towards the European Union for its help after a global alliance of mayors stopped referring to Taiwanese cities as part of China, in a rare win for the island amid growing Chinese pressure.

The dispute over international organisations referring to Taiwan as Chinese has moved from wild bird conservation to climate change, after a global alliance of mayors began listing Taiwanese cities as belonging to China on its website.

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>

China has ramped up pressure on international groups and companies to refer to democratic, self-ruled Taiwan as being part of China, to the anger of Taiwan’s government and many of its people.

Beijing views the island as merely a wayward Chinese province.

This month a Taiwan bird conservation body said it had been expelled from a partnership with a British-based wildlife charity after it demanded the Taiwan group change its name and sign documents stating it did not support Taiwan’s independence.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/set-off-war-china-threatens-retaliation-after-us-diplomats-visit-to-taiwan-329155">'Set off war': China threatens retaliation after US diplomat's visit to Taiwan</a>

Late on Saturday, the southern Taiwanese city of Kaohsiung’s government said the website of the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy had begun listing Taiwan member cities like itself as part of China.

On Sunday, Taiwan’s government expressed it fury.

“Taiwan is Taiwan. China is China. Taiwan is not a city of China’s. If there is incorrect usage we think this is extremely improper,” Premier Su Tseng-chang told reporters.

The Kaohsiung city government circulated to reporters a draft of a joint letter from six Taiwanese mayors to the Global Covenant asking it to fix the name issue, or they would withdraw from the group.

In an emailed statement, the Global Covenant’s secretariat said it was an apolitical organisation promoting climate action.

“Since our inception, we have designated cities in accordance with international practices and this has not changed since. We have received and are evaluating the request from the six mayors,” it said, without elaborating.

The Global Covenant says its mission is to “galvanise climate and energy action across cities worldwide”, representing a population of over 800 million. The only Chinese city it lists as a member is Hong Kong.

Taiwan on Monday expressed its gratitude towards the European Union for its help after a global alliance of mayors stopped referring to Taiwanese cities as part of China, in a rare win for the island amid growing Chinese pressure.

Taiwan on Monday expressed its gratitude towards the European Union for its help after a global alliance of mayors stopped referring to Taiwanese cities as part of China, in a rare win for the island amid growing Chinese pressure. The dispute over international organisations referring to Taiwan as Chinese has moved from wild bird conservation to climate change, after a global alliance of mayors began listing Taiwanese cities as belonging to China on its website. Also read: 'Real possibility of war': Taiwan calls for global coalition against China China has ramped up pressure on international groups and companies to refer to democratic, self-ruled Taiwan as being part of China, to the anger of Taiwan’s government and many of its people. Beijing views the island as merely a wayward Chinese province. This month a Taiwan bird conservation body said it had been expelled from a partnership with a British-based wildlife charity after it demanded the Taiwan group change its name and sign documents stating it did not support Taiwan’s independence. Also read: 'Set off war': China threatens retaliation after US diplomat's visit to Taiwan Late on Saturday, the southern Taiwanese city of Kaohsiung’s government said the website of the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy had begun listing Taiwan member cities like itself as part of China. On Sunday, Taiwan’s government expressed it fury. “Taiwan is Taiwan. China is China. Taiwan is not a city of China’s. If there is incorrect usage we think this is extremely improper,” Premier Su Tseng-chang told reporters. The Kaohsiung city government circulated to reporters a draft of a joint letter from six Taiwanese mayors to the Global Covenant asking it to fix the name issue, or they would withdraw from the group. In an emailed statement, the Global Covenant’s secretariat said it was an apolitical organisation promoting climate action. “Since our inception, we have designated cities in accordance with international practices and this has not changed since. We have received and are evaluating the request from the six mayors,” it said, without elaborating. The Global Covenant says its mission is to “galvanise climate and energy action across cities worldwide”, representing a population of over 800 million. The only Chinese city it lists as a member is Hong Kong.

Taiwan gets rare win in China naming dispute

There is a looming threat of a Chinese invasion in Taiwan, but the world is still playing games about Taiwan's status. A democratic Taiwan is single-handedly fighting an authoritarian China. On Gravitas Plus Palki Sharma asks: Which side are you on in this David vs Goliath fight?

Gravitas Plus: Dear World, Taiwan needs your support

Fed up with being confused for China amid the coronavirus pandemic and Beijing's stepped-up efforts to assert sovereignty, Taiwan said on Wednesday it would redesign its passport to give greater prominence to the island's name.

Taiwan&nbsp;has complained during the outbreak that its nationals have encountered problems entering other countries, as&nbsp;Taiwanese passports have the words "Republic of China", its formal name, written in large English font at the top, with "Taiwan" printed at the bottom.

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Times change &amp; so do passports. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TAIWAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TAIWAN</a>🇹🇼 is front &amp; center of the new design. Greater visibility equals easier recognition &amp; less confusion. The country's passport is the 33rd best worldwide, affording holders visa privileges in 170 countries &amp; regions! 
➡️<a href="https://t.co/BIDqHtGkMh">https://t.co/BIDqHtGkMh</a> <a href="https://t.co/vhe5Suwh62">pic.twitter.com/vhe5Suwh62</a>
— 外交部 Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ROC (Taiwan) 🇹🇼 (@MOFA_Taiwan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MOFA_Taiwan/status/1300995149942501376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The new passport, expected to come into circulation in January, removes the large English words "Republic of China", though the name in Chinese characters will remain, and enlarges the word "Taiwan" in English.

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The design of the new Taiwan passport, due to apply from Jan 2021, is out. Sadly it does not feature any birds with bubble tea on their heads but does significantly enlarged the word “Taiwan” in English and relegate “Republic of China” to small text enclosing the national emblem. <a href="https://t.co/iBLoQewxAP">pic.twitter.com/iBLoQewxAP</a>
— Ryan Ho Kilpatrick 何松濤 (@rhokilpatrick) <a href="https://twitter.com/rhokilpatrick/status/1300992198800863232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Taiwan&nbsp;Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said new passports were needed to prevent their nationals being mistaken for Chinese citizens, especially with the stepped up entry checks many countries have begun since the pandemic began.

<img alt="Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2151abe9-2a08-4832-a53b-a522d29d5e03" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2865%29_4.jpg" />

Taiwan&nbsp;Foreign Minister Joseph Wu&nbsp;unveils the new passport design in Taipei,&nbsp;Taiwan 
&nbsp;

"Since the beginning of the Wuhan pneumonia outbreak this year our people have kept hoping that we can give more prominence to&nbsp;Taiwan's visibility, avoiding people mistakenly thinking they are from China," Wu told reporters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/i-am-taiwanese-czech-speaker-channels-kennedy-in-taiwan-speech-324470">'I am Taiwanese': Czech speaker channels Kennedy in Taiwan speech</a>

China claims democratic&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;as its sovereign territory, and says only it has the right to speak for the island internationally, a position it has pushed strongly during the pandemic, especially at the World Health Organization.

Taipei says this has confused countries and led them to impose the same restrictions on&nbsp;Taiwanese travellers as on Chinese, and has minimised&nbsp;Taiwan's own successful efforts to control the virus and far lower case number.

Taiwan&nbsp;has been debating for years who it is and what exactly its relationship should be with China, including the island's name. But the pandemic has shot the issue back into the spotlight.

The government is also considering a name change - or at least a full redesign,&nbsp;for&nbsp;Taiwan's largest carrier, China Airlines, again to avoid confusion with China.

Fed up with being confused for China amid the coronavirus pandemic and Beijing's stepped-up efforts to assert sovereignty, Taiwan said on Wednesday it would redesign its passport to give greater prominence to the island's name.

Fed up with being confused for China amid the coronavirus pandemic and Beijing's stepped-up efforts to assert sovereignty, Taiwan said on Wednesday it would redesign its passport to give greater prominence to the island's name. Taiwan has complained during the outbreak that its nationals have encountered problems entering other countries, as Taiwanese passports have the words "Republic of China", its formal name, written in large English font at the top, with "Taiwan" printed at the bottom. Times change & so do passports. #TAIWAN🇹🇼 is front & center of the new design. Greater visibility equals easier recognition & less confusion. The country's passport is the 33rd best worldwide, affording holders visa privileges in 170 countries & regions! ➡️https://t.co/BIDqHtGkMh pic.twitter.com/vhe5Suwh62 — 外交部 Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ROC (Taiwan) 🇹🇼 (@MOFA_Taiwan) September 2, 2020 × The new passport, expected to come into circulation in January, removes the large English words "Republic of China", though the name in Chinese characters will remain, and enlarges the word "Taiwan" in English. The design of the new Taiwan passport, due to apply from Jan 2021, is out. Sadly it does not feature any birds with bubble tea on their heads but does significantly enlarged the word “Taiwan” in English and relegate “Republic of China” to small text enclosing the national emblem. pic.twitter.com/iBLoQewxAP — Ryan Ho Kilpatrick 何松濤 (@rhokilpatrick) September 2, 2020 × Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said new passports were needed to prevent their nationals being mistaken for Chinese citizens, especially with the stepped up entry checks many countries have begun since the pandemic began. Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu unveils the new passport design in Taipei, Taiwan "Since the beginning of the Wuhan pneumonia outbreak this year our people have kept hoping that we can give more prominence to Taiwan's visibility, avoiding people mistakenly thinking they are from China," Wu told reporters. Also read: 'I am Taiwanese': Czech speaker channels Kennedy in Taiwan speech China claims democratic Taiwan as its sovereign territory, and says only it has the right to speak for the island internationally, a position it has pushed strongly during the pandemic, especially at the World Health Organization. Taipei says this has confused countries and led them to impose the same restrictions on Taiwanese travellers as on Chinese, and has minimised Taiwan's own successful efforts to control the virus and far lower case number. Taiwan has been debating for years who it is and what exactly its relationship should be with China, including the island's name. But the pandemic has shot the issue back into the spotlight. The government is also considering a name change - or at least a full redesign, for Taiwan's largest carrier, China Airlines, again to avoid confusion with China.

Now, Taiwan unveils new passport design to resolve China confusion

Taiwan's former president Lee Teng-hui, who defied China and earned the nickname "Mr Democracy" for the part he played in the island's transition away from authoritarian rule, has died.&nbsp;

He was credited with paving the way for Taiwan to become a modern, free society after decades of one-party dictatorship and became a champion of the island's bid to be treated as a sovereign state internationally.

Lee had been in hospital since February after choking on some food and had a history in recent years of chronic illnesses.

He died on Thursday aged 97, of septic shock and multiple organ failure, Taipei Veterans General Hospital vice president Hwang Shinn-jang told reporters.

Lee's 1988-2000 term in office was marked by growing cross-strait tensions as he pitched himself against Beijing, infuriating Chinese authorities for daring to carve out a separate identity for Taiwan.

Despite being self-ruled since 1949, Taiwan has never formally declared independence from the mainland and Beijing has vowed to react with force if it ever does.&nbsp;

China still regards Taiwan as part of its territory.&nbsp;

Born into a colony&nbsp; 
Lee was born in Taiwan in 1923 and educated in Japan, which at the time ruled the island as a colony.

In 1945 Taiwan was handed back to China, then under the rule of Nationalist Kuomintang (KMT) leader Chiang Kai-shek.&nbsp;

After Chiang lost a civil war to communist forces four years later, he fled to Taiwan to set up a rival government.

Ruling with an iron fist, Chiang instigated a "White Terror" purge of opponents which lasted until his death in 1975.&nbsp;

Lee, a professor of agricultural economics, was introduced to Chiang's son Chiang Ching-kuo in the 1970s and gained his trust.&nbsp;

By 1984 Lee was vice president and four years later was appointed leader following the younger Chiang's death, becoming the island's first Taiwan-born president.

China missiles&nbsp;

Martial law had already been lifted by the younger Chiang in 1987 but it was Lee who drove forward Taiwan's largely peaceful transition into a fully functional democracy.

His government introduced wide-ranging political reforms, including the election of a new parliament and a direct vote for president.&nbsp;

Lee then won Taiwan's first ever public leadership elections in 1996, which he took by a landslide despite threats from Beijing.

China fired ballistic missiles into the Taiwan Strait in a bid to stop voters choosing Lee, prompting the US to send warships to the area.

Once in office, Lee urged local firms to avoid extensive investments in China, promoting a separate cultural identity from the mainland, which in turn branded him a "sinner" and "splittist".

Lee was succeeded by Chen Shui-bian of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in 2000 when the KMT lost for the first time.&nbsp;

Lee's commitment to formally declaring an independent Taiwan only became clear after he stepped down and helped found the Taiwan Solidarity Union which advocates a split from China, a move that prompted the KMT to expel him from the party.&nbsp;

After Ma Ying-jeou of the KMT succeeded Chen in 2008 and oversaw a rapprochement with China, Lee became a vocal critic of the government's Beijing-friendly policies.

He was indicted on corruption charges in 2011 but was acquitted and accused the Ma government of "inventing" offences to persecute him.

Since 2016, Taiwan has been run by president Tsai Ing-wen who is also loathed by Beijing because she views the island as a sovereign state.

In a statement she described Lee as "irreplaceable, and his passing is a tremendous loss to our country".&nbsp;

A spokeswoman for Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office -- the mainland's top body overseeing policy towards the island -- said Taiwan independence was a "dead end".

"The historical trend of national reunification... cannot be stopped by anyone or any forces," said Zhu Fenglian on Thursday.

China's nationalistic state-run Global Times newspaper meanwhile labelled Lee the "godfather of Taiwan secessionism".

"Lee's death is definitely not sad news to most people in the Chinese mainland," the tabloid wrote.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo offered condolences, saying Washington would celebrate Lee by "continuing to strengthen our bond with Taiwan and its vibrant democracy".

Taiwan's former president Lee Teng-hui, who defied China and earned the nickname "Mr Democracy" for the part he played in the island's transition away from authoritarian rule, has died.

Taiwan's former president Lee Teng-hui, who defied China and earned the nickname "Mr Democracy" for the part he played in the island's transition away from authoritarian rule, has died. He was credited with paving the way for Taiwan to become a modern, free society after decades of one-party dictatorship and became a champion of the island's bid to be treated as a sovereign state internationally. Lee had been in hospital since February after choking on some food and had a history in recent years of chronic illnesses. He died on Thursday aged 97, of septic shock and multiple organ failure, Taipei Veterans General Hospital vice president Hwang Shinn-jang told reporters. Lee's 1988-2000 term in office was marked by growing cross-strait tensions as he pitched himself against Beijing, infuriating Chinese authorities for daring to carve out a separate identity for Taiwan. Despite being self-ruled since 1949, Taiwan has never formally declared independence from the mainland and Beijing has vowed to react with force if it ever does. China still regards Taiwan as part of its territory. Born into a colony Lee was born in Taiwan in 1923 and educated in Japan, which at the time ruled the island as a colony. In 1945 Taiwan was handed back to China, then under the rule of Nationalist Kuomintang (KMT) leader Chiang Kai-shek. After Chiang lost a civil war to communist forces four years later, he fled to Taiwan to set up a rival government. Ruling with an iron fist, Chiang instigated a "White Terror" purge of opponents which lasted until his death in 1975. Lee, a professor of agricultural economics, was introduced to Chiang's son Chiang Ching-kuo in the 1970s and gained his trust. By 1984 Lee was vice president and four years later was appointed leader following the younger Chiang's death, becoming the island's first Taiwan-born president. China missiles Martial law had already been lifted by the younger Chiang in 1987 but it was Lee who drove forward Taiwan's largely peaceful transition into a fully functional democracy. His government introduced wide-ranging political reforms, including the election of a new parliament and a direct vote for president. Lee then won Taiwan's first ever public leadership elections in 1996, which he took by a landslide despite threats from Beijing. China fired ballistic missiles into the Taiwan Strait in a bid to stop voters choosing Lee, prompting the US to send warships to the area. Once in office, Lee urged local firms to avoid extensive investments in China, promoting a separate cultural identity from the mainland, which in turn branded him a "sinner" and "splittist". Lee was succeeded by Chen Shui-bian of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in 2000 when the KMT lost for the first time. Lee's commitment to formally declaring an independent Taiwan only became clear after he stepped down and helped found the Taiwan Solidarity Union which advocates a split from China, a move that prompted the KMT to expel him from the party. After Ma Ying-jeou of the KMT succeeded Chen in 2008 and oversaw a rapprochement with China, Lee became a vocal critic of the government's Beijing-friendly policies. He was indicted on corruption charges in 2011 but was acquitted and accused the Ma government of "inventing" offences to persecute him. Since 2016, Taiwan has been run by president Tsai Ing-wen who is also loathed by Beijing because she views the island as a sovereign state. In a statement she described Lee as "irreplaceable, and his passing is a tremendous loss to our country". A spokeswoman for Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office -- the mainland's top body overseeing policy towards the island -- said Taiwan independence was a "dead end". "The historical trend of national reunification... cannot be stopped by anyone or any forces," said Zhu Fenglian on Thursday. China's nationalistic state-run Global Times newspaper meanwhile labelled Lee the "godfather of Taiwan secessionism". "Lee's death is definitely not sad news to most people in the Chinese mainland," the tabloid wrote. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo offered condolences, saying Washington would celebrate Lee by "continuing to strengthen our bond with Taiwan and its vibrant democracy".

Former Taiwan president dubbed 'Mr Democracy' dies aged 97

Eye on Taiwan: Now, China puts stealth fighter jet J-20B in mass production

The Solomon Islands said Friday that no decision had yet been made on switching the Pacific island nation's diplomatic allegiance from Taiwan to China.

The Solomons are among only 17 nations to recognise Taiwan, but Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare vowed to review the relationship after he was elected in April.

A switch would reduce the number of nations backing Taiwan which Beijing regards as a renegade province as well as boosting China's influence among the strategically important Pacific isles.

For the Solomons, where less than half the population has access to electricity, the debate offers a chance to weigh up promises of aid from Taipei and Beijing.

Government frontbencher Peter Shanel Agovaka, who led a recent ministerial delegation to Beijing to discuss the issue, told a parliamentary committee this week that his preference was to recognise China.

"We cannot sit for the next 40 years with our friends Taiwan, it is time that we make new friends," he said, arguing links with China would help boost the Pacific nation's economy.

The Solomon Islands' foreign affairs department said no decision had been made and the issue would not be finalised until the cabinet had reviewed a task force report.

"As far as can be determined, the Office of Prime Minister has not announced when it is likely to decide on whether or not the government agrees to switch diplomatic ties to China or remain with Taiwan," the department said in a statement issued to media in Taiwan on Friday.

The Solomons parliament's foreign relations committee is accepting submissions on the Taiwan-China issue until the end of this month and has an October 31 deadline to report to the legislature.

Nations such as Australia and the United States fear Beijing's interest is fuelled by a long-term goal to establish a military base in the islands, offering control of vast swathes of the Pacific Ocean.

US Defence Secretary Mark Esper last month accused China of destabilising the region using such tactics, citing "predatory economics and debt-for-sovereignty deals".

However, China's ambassador to Samoa Chao Xiaoliang has labelled critics "ignorant" and "prejudiced", saying Beijing's main interest is forming partnerships to help Pacific nations.

The Solomon Islands said Friday that no decision had yet been made on switching the Pacific island nation's diplomatic allegiance from Taiwan to China. The Solomons are among only 17 nations to recognise Taiwan, but Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare vowed to review the relationship after he was elected in April.

The Solomon Islands said Friday that no decision had yet been made on switching the Pacific island nation's diplomatic allegiance from Taiwan to China. The Solomons are among only 17 nations to recognise Taiwan, but Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare vowed to review the relationship after he was elected in April. A switch would reduce the number of nations backing Taiwan which Beijing regards as a renegade province as well as boosting China's influence among the strategically important Pacific isles. For the Solomons, where less than half the population has access to electricity, the debate offers a chance to weigh up promises of aid from Taipei and Beijing. Government frontbencher Peter Shanel Agovaka, who led a recent ministerial delegation to Beijing to discuss the issue, told a parliamentary committee this week that his preference was to recognise China. "We cannot sit for the next 40 years with our friends Taiwan, it is time that we make new friends," he said, arguing links with China would help boost the Pacific nation's economy. The Solomon Islands' foreign affairs department said no decision had been made and the issue would not be finalised until the cabinet had reviewed a task force report. "As far as can be determined, the Office of Prime Minister has not announced when it is likely to decide on whether or not the government agrees to switch diplomatic ties to China or remain with Taiwan," the department said in a statement issued to media in Taiwan on Friday. The Solomons parliament's foreign relations committee is accepting submissions on the Taiwan-China issue until the end of this month and has an October 31 deadline to report to the legislature. Nations such as Australia and the United States fear Beijing's interest is fuelled by a long-term goal to establish a military base in the islands, offering control of vast swathes of the Pacific Ocean. US Defence Secretary Mark Esper last month accused China of destabilising the region using such tactics, citing "predatory economics and debt-for-sovereignty deals". However, China's ambassador to Samoa Chao Xiaoliang has labelled critics "ignorant" and "prejudiced", saying Beijing's main interest is forming partnerships to help Pacific nations.

Solomons say no decision yet in Taiwan-China debate

President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/hope-chinese-could-experience-blessing-of-democracy-taiwan-takes-dig-at-china-in-new-year-message-194937">Tsai Ing-wen</a> on Wednesday said no formal peace deal could be signed with China until leaders in Beijing rule out using force against the island.

Tsai was speaking a day after she confirmed she would run for re-election in early 2020 despite falling ratings and an increasingly strained relationship with China.

Beijing still sees democratic Taiwan as part of its territory to be reunified, despite the two sides being ruled separately since the end of a civil war in 1949.

Tsai was responding to recent comments by Wu Den-yih, head of the main opposition Kuomintang (KMT), that his party would pursue a peace treaty with Beijing if it were to regain power next year.

In pictures: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-taiwan-china-relations-since-1949-188037">Taiwan-China relations since 1949</a>

"There would be no so-called negotiation on equal footing and no real peace as China refuses to give up the use of force against Taiwan and forcefully pushes the 'one country, two systems' framework," she said in a media briefing.

"China's military intentions and its refusal to give up the use of force against Taiwan is a real source of regional instability and a threat to regional peace," she added.

"One country, two systems" is China's proposal to absorb Taiwan into the mainland but allow it to keep some of its freedoms.

Beijing has made its dislike of Tsai and her independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party clear.&nbsp;

After her election in 2016, it cut communication with her administration, stepped up military drills and poached several of Taiwan's dwindling diplomatic allies.

President Xi Jinping reiterated in a speech last month that China would not renounce the option of using military force to bring Taiwan into the fold, describing unification with the mainland as "inevitable".

A KMT win in 2020 would likely please leaders in Beijing given the much closer relationship it forged with the previous administration of Ma Ying-jeou.&nbsp;

Ma suggested in 2011 that Taiwan should consider a peace treaty with China within the coming decade, to formally bring an end to a civil war that has actually been over for seventy years.

The proposal sparked criticism from detractors that it would be tantamount to a unification or surrender treaty.&nbsp;

Ma later stressed that he would only move ahead for a peace agreement with the approval of both the parliament and the public, and the issue had been shelved since.

The KMT's drubbing at the 2016 election partly stemmed from voter unease over the party's perceived cosiness to the mainland.

But Wu -- a former vice president under Ma -- has resurrected the issue ahead of next year's polls. He is among the KMT bigwigs who have been tipped to run for president.

Tsai said she believed voters would balk at the proposal unless Beijing withdrew its threats.

"I believe Taiwanese society would not accept any political agreement that could harm or eliminate our sovereignty or eliminate Taiwan's democracy," she said. 
&nbsp;

President Tsai Ing-wen on Wednesday said no formal peace deal could be signed with China until leaders in Beijing rule out using force against the island. Tsai was speaking a day after she confirmed she would run for re-election in early 2020 despite falling ratings and an increasingly strained relationship with China.

President Tsai Ing-wen on Wednesday said no formal peace deal could be signed with China until leaders in Beijing rule out using force against the island. Tsai was speaking a day after she confirmed she would run for re-election in early 2020 despite falling ratings and an increasingly strained relationship with China. Beijing still sees democratic Taiwan as part of its territory to be reunified, despite the two sides being ruled separately since the end of a civil war in 1949. Tsai was responding to recent comments by Wu Den-yih, head of the main opposition Kuomintang (KMT), that his party would pursue a peace treaty with Beijing if it were to regain power next year. In pictures: Taiwan-China relations since 1949 "There would be no so-called negotiation on equal footing and no real peace as China refuses to give up the use of force against Taiwan and forcefully pushes the 'one country, two systems' framework," she said in a media briefing. "China's military intentions and its refusal to give up the use of force against Taiwan is a real source of regional instability and a threat to regional peace," she added. "One country, two systems" is China's proposal to absorb Taiwan into the mainland but allow it to keep some of its freedoms. Beijing has made its dislike of Tsai and her independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party clear. After her election in 2016, it cut communication with her administration, stepped up military drills and poached several of Taiwan's dwindling diplomatic allies. President Xi Jinping reiterated in a speech last month that China would not renounce the option of using military force to bring Taiwan into the fold, describing unification with the mainland as "inevitable". A KMT win in 2020 would likely please leaders in Beijing given the much closer relationship it forged with the previous administration of Ma Ying-jeou. Ma suggested in 2011 that Taiwan should consider a peace treaty with China within the coming decade, to formally bring an end to a civil war that has actually been over for seventy years. The proposal sparked criticism from detractors that it would be tantamount to a unification or surrender treaty. Ma later stressed that he would only move ahead for a peace agreement with the approval of both the parliament and the public, and the issue had been shelved since. The KMT's drubbing at the 2016 election partly stemmed from voter unease over the party's perceived cosiness to the mainland. But Wu -- a former vice president under Ma -- has resurrected the issue ahead of next year's polls. He is among the KMT bigwigs who have been tipped to run for president. Tsai said she believed voters would balk at the proposal unless Beijing withdrew its threats. "I believe Taiwanese society would not accept any political agreement that could harm or eliminate our sovereignty or eliminate Taiwan's democracy," she said.

No peace talks unless China gives up force against Taiwan: President Tsai Ing-wen

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen took a dig at China's lack of freedom in a message to mark Tuesday's start of the Lunar New Year, saying she hoped ethnic Chinese all over the world could experience the "blessing" of democracy.

Self-governed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/taiwan-conducts-military-exercise-amid-tensions-with-china-142795">Taiwan </a>is <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-warships-pass-through-taiwan-strait-amid-china-tensions-192610">China's most sensitive issue</a> and is claimed by Beijing as its sacred territory.

In pics: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-taiwan-china-relations-since-1949-188037">Taiwan-China relations since 1949</a>

President Xi Jinping has stepped up pressure on the democratic island since Tsai, from the pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party, became president in 2016.

He kicked off 2019 with a speech warning that China reserves the right to use force to bring Taiwan under its control, though it will strive for peaceful "reunification".

Taiwan is able to maintain cultural traditions and is committed to upholding the values of freedom and democracy, Tsai said in the message, posted late on Sunday on her official social media accounts.

"Those in places lacking democracy may not understand this commitment. We hope that ethnic Chinese all over the world can experience this blessing," she added, without directly mentioning China.

"So I want to make three new year's wishes for our ethnic Chinese friends both at home and abroad. I hope that you may all enjoy democracy, freedom and continued prosperity."

There was no immediate reaction from Beijing. Xi's new year's speech, also on Sunday, did not mention Taiwan, apart from new year wishes to people on the island.

Taiwan is gearing up for presidential elections early next year. Tsai's party suffered stinging losses to the China-friendly Kuomintang in mayoral and local elections in November.

Tsai has repeatedly called on China to respect Taiwan's democracy and to embrace democratic reforms itself.

Taiwan has shown no interest in being ruled by autocratic China, where Xi has overseen a sweeping crackdown on dissent since assuming office six years ago and the ruling Communist Party has tightened controls on all facets of society.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen took a dig at China's lack of freedom in a message to mark Tuesday's start of the Lunar New Year, saying she hoped ethnic Chinese all over the world could experience the "blessing" of democracy.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen took a dig at China's lack of freedom in a message to mark Tuesday's start of the Lunar New Year, saying she hoped ethnic Chinese all over the world could experience the "blessing" of democracy. Self-governed Taiwan is China's most sensitive issue and is claimed by Beijing as its sacred territory. In pics: Taiwan-China relations since 1949 President Xi Jinping has stepped up pressure on the democratic island since Tsai, from the pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party, became president in 2016. He kicked off 2019 with a speech warning that China reserves the right to use force to bring Taiwan under its control, though it will strive for peaceful "reunification". Taiwan is able to maintain cultural traditions and is committed to upholding the values of freedom and democracy, Tsai said in the message, posted late on Sunday on her official social media accounts. "Those in places lacking democracy may not understand this commitment. We hope that ethnic Chinese all over the world can experience this blessing," she added, without directly mentioning China. "So I want to make three new year's wishes for our ethnic Chinese friends both at home and abroad. I hope that you may all enjoy democracy, freedom and continued prosperity." There was no immediate reaction from Beijing. Xi's new year's speech, also on Sunday, did not mention Taiwan, apart from new year wishes to people on the island. Taiwan is gearing up for presidential elections early next year. Tsai's party suffered stinging losses to the China-friendly Kuomintang in mayoral and local elections in November. Tsai has repeatedly called on China to respect Taiwan's democracy and to embrace democratic reforms itself. Taiwan has shown no interest in being ruled by autocratic China, where Xi has overseen a sweeping crackdown on dissent since assuming office six years ago and the ruling Communist Party has tightened controls on all facets of society.

'Hope ethnic Chinese could experience blessing of democracy,' Taiwan takes dig at China in new year message

Chinese state-run media on Monday blamed the electoral defeat of Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen's party on her "separatist stance", saying it must make an "about-face" on ties with the mainland.

Tsai resigned as head of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) after it was dealt a massive loss in city and county seats during Saturday's wide-ranging vote in self-ruled and democratic Taiwan.

The main opposition Kuomintang (KMT), which oversaw an unprecedented thaw with Beijing before Tsai took office in 2016, made gains in the face of China's increasing pressure on the island, which it considers as part of its territory to be reunified.

The state-run China Daily said Taiwan's people are unhappy the government has not pulled the island out of quasi-economic stagnation and that its policies "have ignored the interests of many groups".

"The Tsai administration's secessionist stance has not only soured its crucial relations with the Chinese mainland, but also made it unpopular with people on both sides of the straits," the daily said in an editorial.

"The election shows that the Tsai administration has betrayed Taiwan's interests and become a troublemaker whose actions have drifted farther away from the practical needs of the Taiwan people and the historical truth of the consensus there is only one China."

Cross-Strait communication and cooperation between local governments are now expected to strengthen following the election, it added.

The DPP is traditionally pro-independence and Tsai has refused to acknowledge Beijing's stance that Taiwan is part of "one China", unlike her KMT predecessor Ma Ying-jeou.

Beijing has sought to punish Tsai and the DPP by ramping up military drills, poaching allies and successfully persuading international businesses, including airlines, to list the island as part of China on their websites.

"Radical thinking and paranoia that permeates the green camp have misguided the DPP," the nationalistic Global Times said in an editorial.

"The party needs to reflect on this failure and make an about-face on its stance... (on) cross-Strait ties."

Chinese state-run media on Monday blamed the electoral defeat of Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen's party on her "separatist stance", saying it must make an "about-face" on ties with the mainland.

Chinese state-run media on Monday blamed the electoral defeat of Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen's party on her "separatist stance", saying it must make an "about-face" on ties with the mainland. Tsai resigned as head of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) after it was dealt a massive loss in city and county seats during Saturday's wide-ranging vote in self-ruled and democratic Taiwan. The main opposition Kuomintang (KMT), which oversaw an unprecedented thaw with Beijing before Tsai took office in 2016, made gains in the face of China's increasing pressure on the island, which it considers as part of its territory to be reunified. The state-run China Daily said Taiwan's people are unhappy the government has not pulled the island out of quasi-economic stagnation and that its policies "have ignored the interests of many groups". "The Tsai administration's secessionist stance has not only soured its crucial relations with the Chinese mainland, but also made it unpopular with people on both sides of the straits," the daily said in an editorial. "The election shows that the Tsai administration has betrayed Taiwan's interests and become a troublemaker whose actions have drifted farther away from the practical needs of the Taiwan people and the historical truth of the consensus there is only one China." Cross-Strait communication and cooperation between local governments are now expected to strengthen following the election, it added. The DPP is traditionally pro-independence and Tsai has refused to acknowledge Beijing's stance that Taiwan is part of "one China", unlike her KMT predecessor Ma Ying-jeou. Beijing has sought to punish Tsai and the DPP by ramping up military drills, poaching allies and successfully persuading international businesses, including airlines, to list the island as part of China on their websites. "Radical thinking and paranoia that permeates the green camp have misguided the DPP," the nationalistic Global Times said in an editorial. "The party needs to reflect on this failure and make an about-face on its stance... (on) cross-Strait ties."

Taiwan leader's 'separatist stance' cost election: Chinese media

China today opposed Taiwan&#39;s reported plans to join the UN saying only &quot;sovereign states&quot; can apply for a membership of the top world body and the communist nation is firmly opposed to any attempts by Taipei to seek independence. 
 
China firmly opposes any acts or words supporting &quot;Taiwan independence&quot;, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said in response to a question about Taiwan&#39;s possible application for UN membership. 
 
He was reacting to reports from Taipei that Tsai Ming Shian, a senior member of the &quot;Taiwan United Nations Alliance&quot;, asked Taiwan&#39;s new President Tsai Ing-Wen to write to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to apply for membership last week. It is known to all that the UN is an inter-governmental organisation consisting of sovereign states. 
 
&quot;Only a sovereign state can apply for a membership,&quot; Lu told a media briefing here. 
 
&quot;There is only one China in the world, and Taiwan is a part of China,&quot; Lu said. 
 
The Chinese government and people firmly oppose any form of &quot;Taiwan independence&quot; secessionist activities, Lu said. 
 
&quot;Any attempt to challenge the &#39;one-China policy&#39; or create &#39;two Chinas&#39; or &#39;one China, one Taiwan&#39; will not succeed,&quot; he said. 
China claims Taiwan as part of the mainland never recognised Taiwan&#39;s estrangement in 1949. 
 
Taiwan, which enjoys close ties with the US has been carrying out military buildup to deter any threat from China. Relations between the two sides which showed significant improvement in recent years took a hit after the&nbsp;election of Tsai defeating Ma Ying-Jeou who promoted normalisation of ties between the two sides in the&nbsp;recent election. 
 
China has scaled down the normalisation process since then.&nbsp; 
 
(PTI)

China said only 'sovereign states' can apply for a membership of the UN and Taiwan is a part of China

China today opposed Taiwan's reported plans to join the UN saying only "sovereign states" can apply for a membership of the top world body and the communist nation is firmly opposed to any attempts by Taipei to seek independence. China firmly opposes any acts or words supporting "Taiwan independence", Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said in response to a question about Taiwan's possible application for UN membership. He was reacting to reports from Taipei that Tsai Ming Shian, a senior member of the "Taiwan United Nations Alliance", asked Taiwan's new President Tsai Ing-Wen to write to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to apply for membership last week. It is known to all that the UN is an inter-governmental organisation consisting of sovereign states. "Only a sovereign state can apply for a membership," Lu told a media briefing here. "There is only one China in the world, and Taiwan is a part of China," Lu said. The Chinese government and people firmly oppose any form of "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities, Lu said. "Any attempt to challenge the 'one-China policy' or create 'two Chinas' or 'one China, one Taiwan' will not succeed," he said. China claims Taiwan as part of the mainland never recognised Taiwan's estrangement in 1949. Taiwan, which enjoys close ties with the US has been carrying out military buildup to deter any threat from China. Relations between the two sides which showed significant improvement in recent years took a hit after the election of Tsai defeating Ma Ying-Jeou who promoted normalisation of ties between the two sides in the recent election. China has scaled down the normalisation process since then. (PTI)

China firmly opposes Taiwan joining UN: Official

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