US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan pledged Wednesday during a visit to Beijing that Washington would defend its regional allies, after Japan and the Philippines blamed China for stoking tensions.

US-China bilateral talks: Will Biden meet xi before leaving oval office?

Will Biden meet Xi before leaving the oval office?

Ahead of the US presidential elections scheduled for November, 'Taiwanese Americans for Harris' highlighted that there would be an "enormous" risk with a second Trump presidency.&nbsp;

'Taiwanese Americans for Harris' is an official grassroots affinity group gathering Taiwanese Americans to support US Presidential nominee Kamala Harris for president. It further aims to support the Taiwanese American community and help elect Democrats&nbsp;supporting Taiwan.&nbsp;

Although some US lawmakers have affirmed that support for Taiwan will continue regardless of who wins the 2024 elections, the organisation's national co-chair Jay Chen said, “There is an enormous risk with a second Trump presidency.”&nbsp;

<h2>'No individual has been more dismissive for Taiwan than Trump'</h2>

Chen told Taiwan News&nbsp;that as a lieutenant commander in the US Naval Reserves, no president has been more supportive of Taiwan than Biden, and no individual has been more dismissive than Trump.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-halts-arms-talks-blaming-us-taiwan-arms-sales-741913">Also read:&nbsp;China halts arms talks, blaming US-Taiwan arms sales</a>

However, Rupert-Hammond-Chambers, president of the US-Taiwan Business Council, said that they believe an administration led by Trump could adopt a clearer policy towards Taipei sooner and be more open to arms sales than a Democratic one.&nbsp;

<h2>'Current US policy offered no guarantee of support'&nbsp;</h2>

Hammond-Chambers told The Washington Post that while the current policy offered no guarantees of American defence support, it restricted Taiwan's ability to acquire comprehensive defence capabilities, with the US "directing Taiwan only to buy in a certain area and only providing technologies in that area”.

The council’s head stated an example, saying that Biden's administration has denied a Taiwanese request for anti-submarine helicopters that&nbsp;are needed to patrol waters around the island.

Watch |&nbsp;Taiwan reacts to Trump's 'pay US' comment; dedicated to bolster our defence: Taiwan

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Meanwhile, the national co-chair of 'Taiwanese Americans for Harris', said that after Harris replaced Biden in the US presidential race, the Harris campaign has been “incredibly receptive” to Taiwanese Americans’ concerns.&nbsp;

Notably in July, Trump questioned US support for Taiwan in an interview with Bloomberg, saying that they stole America's chip industry, adding that Taipei should pay the US for its defence as "it doesn’t give us anything.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of the US presidential elections scheduled for November, 'Taiwanese Americans for Harris' highlighted that there would be an "enormous" risk with a second Trump presidency.

Ahead of the US presidential elections scheduled for November, 'Taiwanese Americans for Harris' highlighted that there would be an "enormous" risk with a second Trump presidency. 'Taiwanese Americans for Harris' is an official grassroots affinity group gathering Taiwanese Americans to support US Presidential nominee Kamala Harris for president. It further aims to support the Taiwanese American community and help elect Democrats supporting Taiwan. Although some US lawmakers have affirmed that support for Taiwan will continue regardless of who wins the 2024 elections, the organisation's national co-chair Jay Chen said, “There is an enormous risk with a second Trump presidency.” 'No individual has been more dismissive for Taiwan than Trump' Chen told Taiwan News that as a lieutenant commander in the US Naval Reserves, no president has been more supportive of Taiwan than Biden, and no individual has been more dismissive than Trump. Also read: China halts arms talks, blaming US-Taiwan arms sales However, Rupert-Hammond-Chambers, president of the US-Taiwan Business Council, said that they believe an administration led by Trump could adopt a clearer policy towards Taipei sooner and be more open to arms sales than a Democratic one. 'Current US policy offered no guarantee of support' Hammond-Chambers told The Washington Post that while the current policy offered no guarantees of American defence support, it restricted Taiwan's ability to acquire comprehensive defence capabilities, with the US "directing Taiwan only to buy in a certain area and only providing technologies in that area”. The council’s head stated an example, saying that Biden's administration has denied a Taiwanese request for anti-submarine helicopters that are needed to patrol waters around the island. Watch | Taiwan reacts to Trump's 'pay US' comment; dedicated to bolster our defence: Taiwan × Meanwhile, the national co-chair of 'Taiwanese Americans for Harris', said that after Harris replaced Biden in the US presidential race, the Harris campaign has been “incredibly receptive” to Taiwanese Americans’ concerns. Notably in July, Trump questioned US support for Taiwan in an interview with Bloomberg, saying that they stole America's chip industry, adding that Taipei should pay the US for its defence as "it doesn’t give us anything.” (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwanese Americans for Harris sees 'enormous risk' for Taiwan if Trump wins elections

China's&nbsp;most senior uniformed military official,&nbsp;Zhang Youxia, on Thursday (Aug 29), warned the US National Security Adviser (NSA) Jake Sullivan that the White House must stop "military collusion"&nbsp;with Taiwan and stop spreading 'false narratives'.&nbsp;

Zhang is the&nbsp;vice-chair of the powerful Central Military Commission and is the most senior military official to meet a US official from the Biden administration. Sullivan on Thursday concluded a three-day&nbsp;trip to China, which was the first by a White House NSA in eight years.&nbsp;

"China demands that the US halts military collusion with Taiwan, ceases arming Taiwan, and stops spreading false narratives related to Taiwan," the readout from the Chinese side stated.&nbsp;

Zhang warned that the&nbsp;status of the island nation was "the first red line that cannot be crossed in China-US relations".

"China has always been committed to maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait," he said.&nbsp;

"But 'Taiwan independence' and peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are incompatible."

While Beijing delivered a clear response, the US stressed the importance of stability in the tense Strait.&nbsp;

"Mr&nbsp;Sullivan underscored the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," stated the readout by the White House.&nbsp;

Sullivan also raised the importance of "freedom of navigation" in the South China Sea, where Beijing and Manila have clashed in recent months.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;US-China war over Taiwan? Xi Jinping demands 'modern system for military governance' | Details

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<h2>Hellscape strategy</h2>

Zhang's statement also comes in the backdrop of the US military releasing its "Hellscape' strategy in June under which the PLA troops will be stopped from setting foot on Taiwanese land by a swarm of drones.&nbsp;

“I want to turn the Taiwan Strait into an unmanned hellscape,” Admiral Samuel Paparo, head of US Indo-Pacific Command, told The Washington Post in an interview published on June 10.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-plans-to-use-drones-to-blockade-taiwan-after-us-unveils-hellscape-strategy-738679">Also read |&nbsp;China plans to use drones to blockade Taiwan after US unveils 'Hellscape' strategy</a>

China claims self-ruled democratic Taiwan as a part of its territory. Under President Xi Jinping's leadership, Beijing has not renounced the use of force to bring the island under control.&nbsp;

Apart from meeting Zhang, Sullivan also held a meeting with Foreign Minister Wang Yi and&nbsp;discussed plans for their leaders to talk in the coming weeks.&nbsp;

Chinese state media reported that Wang issued his own warning to Washington. The diplomat said the US must not use its bilateral treaties to "undermine China's sovereignty".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

China's most senior uniformed military official, Zhang Youxia, on Thursday (Aug 29), warned the US National Security Adviser (NSA) Jake Sullivan that the White House must stop "military collusion" with Taiwan and stop spreading 'false narratives'.

China's most senior uniformed military official, Zhang Youxia, on Thursday (Aug 29), warned the US National Security Adviser (NSA) Jake Sullivan that the White House must stop "military collusion" with Taiwan and stop spreading 'false narratives'. Zhang is the vice-chair of the powerful Central Military Commission and is the most senior military official to meet a US official from the Biden administration. Sullivan on Thursday concluded a three-day trip to China, which was the first by a White House NSA in eight years. "China demands that the US halts military collusion with Taiwan, ceases arming Taiwan, and stops spreading false narratives related to Taiwan," the readout from the Chinese side stated. Zhang warned that the status of the island nation was "the first red line that cannot be crossed in China-US relations". "China has always been committed to maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait," he said. "But 'Taiwan independence' and peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are incompatible." While Beijing delivered a clear response, the US stressed the importance of stability in the tense Strait. "Mr Sullivan underscored the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," stated the readout by the White House. Sullivan also raised the importance of "freedom of navigation" in the South China Sea, where Beijing and Manila have clashed in recent months. Also watch | US-China war over Taiwan? Xi Jinping demands 'modern system for military governance' | Details Hellscape strategy Zhang's statement also comes in the backdrop of the US military releasing its "Hellscape' strategy in June under which the PLA troops will be stopped from setting foot on Taiwanese land by a swarm of drones. “I want to turn the Taiwan Strait into an unmanned hellscape,” Admiral Samuel Paparo, head of US Indo-Pacific Command, told The Washington Post in an interview published on June 10. Also read | China plans to use drones to blockade Taiwan after US unveils 'Hellscape' strategy China claims self-ruled democratic Taiwan as a part of its territory. Under President Xi Jinping's leadership, Beijing has not renounced the use of force to bring the island under control. Apart from meeting Zhang, Sullivan also held a meeting with Foreign Minister Wang Yi and discussed plans for their leaders to talk in the coming weeks. Chinese state media reported that Wang issued his own warning to Washington. The diplomat said the US must not use its bilateral treaties to "undermine China's sovereignty". (With inputs from agencies)

'Stop spreading false narratives': China warns Sullivan to stop colluding with Taiwan during Beijing visit

Taiwan drilled Monday with anti-amphibious landing missiles as part of a strategy to remain mobile and deadly in an attempt to deter an attack from China, which claims the democratically ruled island as its own territory to be brought under its control by force if necessary.

Taiwan tests tube-launched, wireless-guided missile launch platforms

Taiwan tests new missile launch platforms at annual Pingtung drills

Taiwan carried out annual Pingtung drills, tests new missile launch platforms

The Taiwan High Court sentenced eight Taiwanese military officers on charges of spying for China in exchange for financial gain.&nbsp;

The prison sentence of these officers ranges from 18 months to 13 years, making it one of Taiwan's largest espionage cases in past years.&nbsp;

According to the experts, this case reflects a shift in China's espionage tactics in Taiwan.&nbsp;

In a statement, the court said that the defendants were "willing to collect intelligence for China that caused the leak of important secrets" and that "they were seduced by money."

Chen Yuxin, who fled to China, was found to have contacted and recruited the defendants at key military sites to create a spy network for China.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-men-indicted-in-taiwan-for-leaking-technology-trade-secrets-to-chinese-company-751926">Also read:&nbsp;Two men indicted in Taiwan for leaking technology, trade secrets to Chinese company</a>

Timothy Heath, a senior international defense researcher with the RAND Corporation, told VOA in an email, "The impact could have been severe if Taiwan's authorities did not stop the espionage and defection of military assets like a helicopter in time.

"It is demoralizing to read of Taiwan soldiers voluntarily making videos that advertise their willingness to surrender to China," he said.

Watch |&nbsp;China prepares for military solution to Taiwan in 2027

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Moreover, these military officers were also accused of planning to fly a CH-47 Chinook military helicopter to a Chinese aircraft carrier in the Taiwan Strait and of shooting a video, showing that they would surrender to Beijing in the event of war, Taiwan-based Central News Agency reported.&nbsp;

Reportedly, China has used virtual currency to pay these defendants, as reported by Bloomberg.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, Taiwan's cabinet announced to increase defence spending by 7.7 per cent to USD 20.25 billion in 2025.&nbsp;

<h2>China-Taiwan dispute</h2>

China has claimed democratic Taiwan as its territory and has increased its military presence and political pressure in the Taiwan region. Since then, Taiwan has tracked several Chinese military aircraft across its region regularly.&nbsp;

<h2>Other incidents of spying</h2>

Last month, a Taiwanese sergeant, who worked at a navy training centre was indicted for allegedly taking photographs and leaking confidential defense information to China.&nbsp;

In June, the court upheld the sentences given to two retired Taiwanese Air Force officers for helping or attempting to help China in its move to recruit intelligence assets in Taiwan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Taiwan High Court sentenced eight Taiwanese military officers on charges of spying for China in exchange for financial gain. The prison sentence of these officers ranges from 18 months to 13 years, making it one of Taiwan's largest espionage cases in past years.

The Taiwan High Court sentenced eight Taiwanese military officers on charges of spying for China in exchange for financial gain. The prison sentence of these officers ranges from 18 months to 13 years, making it one of Taiwan's largest espionage cases in past years. According to the experts, this case reflects a shift in China's espionage tactics in Taiwan. In a statement, the court said that the defendants were "willing to collect intelligence for China that caused the leak of important secrets" and that "they were seduced by money." Chen Yuxin, who fled to China, was found to have contacted and recruited the defendants at key military sites to create a spy network for China. Also read: Two men indicted in Taiwan for leaking technology, trade secrets to Chinese company Timothy Heath, a senior international defense researcher with the RAND Corporation, told VOA in an email, "The impact could have been severe if Taiwan's authorities did not stop the espionage and defection of military assets like a helicopter in time. "It is demoralizing to read of Taiwan soldiers voluntarily making videos that advertise their willingness to surrender to China," he said. Watch | China prepares for military solution to Taiwan in 2027 × Moreover, these military officers were also accused of planning to fly a CH-47 Chinook military helicopter to a Chinese aircraft carrier in the Taiwan Strait and of shooting a video, showing that they would surrender to Beijing in the event of war, Taiwan-based Central News Agency reported. Reportedly, China has used virtual currency to pay these defendants, as reported by Bloomberg. Earlier this week, Taiwan's cabinet announced to increase defence spending by 7.7 per cent to USD 20.25 billion in 2025. China-Taiwan dispute China has claimed democratic Taiwan as its territory and has increased its military presence and political pressure in the Taiwan region. Since then, Taiwan has tracked several Chinese military aircraft across its region regularly. Other incidents of spying Last month, a Taiwanese sergeant, who worked at a navy training centre was indicted for allegedly taking photographs and leaking confidential defense information to China. In June, the court upheld the sentences given to two retired Taiwanese Air Force officers for helping or attempting to help China in its move to recruit intelligence assets in Taiwan. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan issues up to 13 years of prison sentences to 8 military officers for spying for China

Two men working at a Japanese company in Taiwan have been allegedly indicted for stealing technology from their Japan-based employer on behalf of a Chinese company, according to Taiwan state media.&nbsp;

The Japan-based company specialises&nbsp;in technologies, including cameras and mobile phone lens functions.

The suspects, surnamed&nbsp;Wu and Huang, worked as research and development manager, and chief engineer&nbsp;respectively. They were also involved in designing and developing manufacturing processes for the company's patented microactuators.&nbsp;

They were suspected of copying and disclosing the company's core technology to a man surnamed Wang, who owns a precision industry company in China.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;China-Taiwan tensions: Is China preparing to invade Taiwan?

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&nbsp;

Wang established a computer and consumer electronics component sales business in China and came to Taiwan for research and development, according to the prosecutors.&nbsp;

Wang consulted Wu to integrate the company's industrial supply chain and promised him an annual salary of NT$5 million if he worked for his company. He also paid USD 98,000 and USD 66,000 to Wu and his spouse and agreed to give the spouse stocks and a nominal company position.&nbsp;

Wu and Huang are accused of breaching trust and obtaining records from another's computer without good reason, in violation of the Criminal Code. Moreover, they are also accused of violating the Trade Secrets Act and Copyright Act.&nbsp;

The prosecutors further stated that their actions are believed to have resulted in the company losing at least NT$12.3 billion.&nbsp;

However, later, when the company was checking email records of former employees, the case was revealed. After the case came to light, the company reported it to prosecutors.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-growing-authoritarianism-wont-stop-with-taiwan-lai-751895">Also read:&nbsp;China's 'growing authoritarianism' won't stop with Taiwan: Lai</a>

The prosecutors have suggested that the two men should receive heavy sentences, to protect the stable development of high-tech industries and ensure Taiwan's industrial competitiveness.&nbsp;

Earlier in July, 60-year-old Tsou was indicted by the Taoyuan District Prosecutors Office for stealing USD 60 million in trade secrets from his former employer and violating the Trade Secrets Act.&nbsp;

He was suspected of copying and taking under possession a total of 5681 confidential business files belonging to HCM Co. on the company's materials, processes, design and equipment development. HCM is a Taiwan-based lithium battery material supplier specializing in lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP) production.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Two men working at a Japanese company in Taiwan have been allegedly indicted for stealing technology from their Japan-based employer on behalf of a Chinese company, according to Taiwan state media.

Two men working at a Japanese company in Taiwan have been allegedly indicted for stealing technology from their Japan-based employer on behalf of a Chinese company, according to Taiwan state media. The Japan-based company specialises in technologies, including cameras and mobile phone lens functions. The suspects, surnamed Wu and Huang, worked as research and development manager, and chief engineer respectively. They were also involved in designing and developing manufacturing processes for the company's patented microactuators. They were suspected of copying and disclosing the company's core technology to a man surnamed Wang, who owns a precision industry company in China. Watch | China-Taiwan tensions: Is China preparing to invade Taiwan? × Wang established a computer and consumer electronics component sales business in China and came to Taiwan for research and development, according to the prosecutors. Wang consulted Wu to integrate the company's industrial supply chain and promised him an annual salary of NT$5 million if he worked for his company. He also paid USD 98,000 and USD 66,000 to Wu and his spouse and agreed to give the spouse stocks and a nominal company position. Wu and Huang are accused of breaching trust and obtaining records from another's computer without good reason, in violation of the Criminal Code. Moreover, they are also accused of violating the Trade Secrets Act and Copyright Act. The prosecutors further stated that their actions are believed to have resulted in the company losing at least NT$12.3 billion. However, later, when the company was checking email records of former employees, the case was revealed. After the case came to light, the company reported it to prosecutors. Also read: China's 'growing authoritarianism' won't stop with Taiwan: Lai The prosecutors have suggested that the two men should receive heavy sentences, to protect the stable development of high-tech industries and ensure Taiwan's industrial competitiveness. Earlier in July, 60-year-old Tsou was indicted by the Taoyuan District Prosecutors Office for stealing USD 60 million in trade secrets from his former employer and violating the Trade Secrets Act. He was suspected of copying and taking under possession a total of 5681 confidential business files belonging to HCM Co. on the company's materials, processes, design and equipment development. HCM is a Taiwan-based lithium battery material supplier specializing in lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP) production. (With inputs from agencies)

Two men indicted in Taiwan for leaking technology, trade secrets to Chinese company

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te warned Wednesday that China's "growing authoritarianism will not stop with" the island and urged democratic countries to unite to curb its expansion.

China claims Taiwan as part of its territory, and a senior Chinese Communist Party official said Tuesday that Beijing was confident of "complete reunification" with the island.

Speaking at the annual Ketagalan Forum on Indo-Pacific security in Taipei, Lai cautioned that Taiwan was not "the only target" of Beijing.

"We are all fully aware that China's growing authoritarianism will not stop with Taiwan, nor is Taiwan the only target of China's economic pressures," he told politicians and scholars from 11 countries attending the forum.

"China intends to change the rules-based international order. That is why democratic countries must come together and take concrete action. Only by working together can we inhibit the expansion of authoritarianism."

Lai, who was sworn in on May 20, has been labelled a "dangerous separatist" by China for his staunch defence of Taiwan's sovereignty.&nbsp;

Beijing has ramped up military and political pressure on Taiwan in recent years, and launched wargames days after Lai's inauguration, encircling the island with fighter jets and naval vessels.

Taiwan's military has been reporting near-daily sightings of Chinese warships around its waters, as well as sorties by fighter jets and drones around the island.

But Lai said China's "military expansionism" was taking place elsewhere, pointing to Beijing's joint exercises with Russia in the South China Sea, Western Pacific and Sea of Japan.

"Such actions are intended to intimidate China's neighbours and undermine regional peace and stability," he said.

"Taiwan will not be intimidated. We will take responsibility to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait."

Lai has repeatedly made overtures for dialogue with Beijing but talks have effectively dried up since the 2016 election of his predecessor, Tsai Ing-wen, who has long said Taiwan is not part of China.&nbsp;

"Taiwan will neither yield nor provoke ... On the condition of parity and dignity, we are willing to conduct exchanges and cooperate with China," Lai reiterated Wednesday.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te warned Wednesday that China's "growing authoritarianism will not stop with" the island and urged democratic countries to unite to curb its expansion.

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te warned Wednesday that China's "growing authoritarianism will not stop with" the island and urged democratic countries to unite to curb its expansion. China claims Taiwan as part of its territory, and a senior Chinese Communist Party official said Tuesday that Beijing was confident of "complete reunification" with the island. Speaking at the annual Ketagalan Forum on Indo-Pacific security in Taipei, Lai cautioned that Taiwan was not "the only target" of Beijing. "We are all fully aware that China's growing authoritarianism will not stop with Taiwan, nor is Taiwan the only target of China's economic pressures," he told politicians and scholars from 11 countries attending the forum. "China intends to change the rules-based international order. That is why democratic countries must come together and take concrete action. Only by working together can we inhibit the expansion of authoritarianism." Lai, who was sworn in on May 20, has been labelled a "dangerous separatist" by China for his staunch defence of Taiwan's sovereignty. Beijing has ramped up military and political pressure on Taiwan in recent years, and launched wargames days after Lai's inauguration, encircling the island with fighter jets and naval vessels. Taiwan's military has been reporting near-daily sightings of Chinese warships around its waters, as well as sorties by fighter jets and drones around the island. But Lai said China's "military expansionism" was taking place elsewhere, pointing to Beijing's joint exercises with Russia in the South China Sea, Western Pacific and Sea of Japan. "Such actions are intended to intimidate China's neighbours and undermine regional peace and stability," he said. "Taiwan will not be intimidated. We will take responsibility to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait." Lai has repeatedly made overtures for dialogue with Beijing but talks have effectively dried up since the 2016 election of his predecessor, Tsai Ing-wen, who has long said Taiwan is not part of China. "Taiwan will neither yield nor provoke ... On the condition of parity and dignity, we are willing to conduct exchanges and cooperate with China," Lai reiterated Wednesday. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China's 'growing authoritarianism' won't stop with Taiwan: Lai

Chinese coast guard accused the Philippines of deliberately crashing one of its ships into a Chinese vessel early Monday near Sabina Shoal a new flashpoint in the increasingly alarming territorial disputes between the countries in the South China Sea. Beijing said Chinese and Philippine ships "collided" during a confrontation. According to footage purporting to show the incident attributed to the Chinese coast guard and shared by state broadcaster CCTV, one ship, identified as a Philippine vessel by the Chinese side ran into the left side of a Chinese ship before moving on. Watch in for more details!

South China Sea Tensions: Chinese, & Philippine ships 'collide' in disputed  waters | WION Originals

A former preschool teacher has been handed a&nbsp;28-year&nbsp;prison sentence&nbsp;after he was found guilty of more than 200 sexual offences against children, in a case which has led to widespread uproar in Taiwan.

The Taipei District Court judge found a 30-year-old&nbsp;man, identified as&nbsp;Mao, guilty of committing "vicious" crimes because of which six children suffered "severe physical and mental trauma". All the children were under the age of seven.

Anger has been brewing among the citizens of the island over the crimes committed by the&nbsp;former preschool teacher&nbsp;and the way it was earlier handled by the authorities.

A lot of people have underlined that after an initial report regarding his crimes emerged in 2022, Mao did not face suspension because of this more children became his victims.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-alleged-rape-case-police-say-victim-who-claimed-to-be-belgian-national-is-local-resident-750593">Pakistan: No evidence found in initial examination of alleged Belgian national’s sexual&nbsp;assault&nbsp;claim</a>

In July 2023, the police arrested Mao after complaints were filed by more parents against the kindergarten teacher.

"If the local government could have done a better job in 2022, there wouldn't be the tragedy in 2023," MP Lin Yueh-chin was quoted as saying by media outlets.

<h2>Parents speak against lack of transparency in Mao's child sexual abuse case</h2>

The parents said that there was a lack of transparency in the investigation of the case, adding&nbsp;that they were not given access to the investigation reports and the CCTV footage.

Last year, Mao faced suspension and was banned from teaching. The license of the kindergarten teacher was also revoked by the Taiwanese authorities.

Mao, on Friday (August 16), was convicted of multiple crimes, which included forcing children to film sexually explicit videos and raping them.

According to the documents submitted in the court, the crimes were committed by Mao when he was working at a private kindergarten in Taipei.

The teacher has a college degree in social work and joined the pre-school in September 2021.

Watch:&nbsp;UK private tutor jailed for 6 years, arrested for sexually abusing teenage boy

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The 30-year-old Mao was given the duties of assisting in teaching, managing CCTV, supervising lunch breaks as well as picking up and dropping off the children.

"The number of victims was large, the crime was vicious, the victims suffered severe physical and mental trauma, and the accused's attitude after committing the crimes was awful," said the judge.

The details of the case had left the people horrified after the media started exposing it earlier this year.

The first complaint was made against the teacher in July 2022. However, the investigation in the case was dropped after the authorities failed to find any evidence.

(With inputs from agencies)

A former preschool teacher has been handed a 28-year prison sentence after he was found guilty of more than 200 sexual offences against children, in a case which has led to widespread uproar in Taiwan.

A former preschool teacher has been handed a 28-year prison sentence after he was found guilty of more than 200 sexual offences against children, in a case which has led to widespread uproar in Taiwan. The Taipei District Court judge found a 30-year-old man, identified as Mao, guilty of committing "vicious" crimes because of which six children suffered "severe physical and mental trauma". All the children were under the age of seven. Anger has been brewing among the citizens of the island over the crimes committed by the former preschool teacher and the way it was earlier handled by the authorities. A lot of people have underlined that after an initial report regarding his crimes emerged in 2022, Mao did not face suspension because of this more children became his victims. Also Read: Pakistan: No evidence found in initial examination of alleged Belgian national’s sexual assault claim In July 2023, the police arrested Mao after complaints were filed by more parents against the kindergarten teacher. "If the local government could have done a better job in 2022, there wouldn't be the tragedy in 2023," MP Lin Yueh-chin was quoted as saying by media outlets. Parents speak against lack of transparency in Mao's child sexual abuse case The parents said that there was a lack of transparency in the investigation of the case, adding that they were not given access to the investigation reports and the CCTV footage. Last year, Mao faced suspension and was banned from teaching. The license of the kindergarten teacher was also revoked by the Taiwanese authorities. Mao, on Friday (August 16), was convicted of multiple crimes, which included forcing children to film sexually explicit videos and raping them. According to the documents submitted in the court, the crimes were committed by Mao when he was working at a private kindergarten in Taipei. The teacher has a college degree in social work and joined the pre-school in September 2021. Watch: UK private tutor jailed for 6 years, arrested for sexually abusing teenage boy The 30-year-old Mao was given the duties of assisting in teaching, managing CCTV, supervising lunch breaks as well as picking up and dropping off the children. "The number of victims was large, the crime was vicious, the victims suffered severe physical and mental trauma, and the accused's attitude after committing the crimes was awful," said the judge. The details of the case had left the people horrified after the media started exposing it earlier this year. The first complaint was made against the teacher in July 2022. However, the investigation in the case was dropped after the authorities failed to find any evidence. (With inputs from agencies)

Teacher gets 28 years of imprisonment for more than 200 sexual offences against children in Taiwan

#Gravitas | As per reports, the U.S. will place the AIM-174B, an air-to-air missile with the longest range, in the South China Sea. The missile capable of travelling up to 400 kilometres could significantly reduce China's aerial superiority and put any aggressions against Taiwan or the South China Sea at great risk.

Gravitas: U.S. to place long-range missile at China's doorstep

Taiwan dispatched three F-16 fighter jets to accompany its Olympic athletes on the final hours of their flight home from the Paris Games on Tuesday. Competing under the name Chinese Taipei, Taiwanese athletes brought home seven medals - two golds and five bronzes - the second-best result for the island in an Olympic Games.

Taiwan welcomes Olympic athletes in Gran ceremony with fighter escorts

Taiwan's defense ministry reported sighting 28 Chinese military aircraft and 10 naval vessels. Twenty-two of the planes crossed into Taiwan's air defense identification zone in a 24-hour period.

Of the 28 Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), 22 aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southeastern and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ)&nbsp;

Taiwan's MND on Friday said that it has monitored the situation and responded accordingly.

Responding to China's military action, Taiwan sent aircraft and naval ships and deployed coastal-based missile systems to monitor PLA activity.

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Taking to social media handle, X, Taiwan's MND stated, "28 PLA aircraft and 10 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 22 of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's southeastern and southwestern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly."

This latest incident is part of a growing trend of Chinese military aggression towards Taiwan. Beijing has intensified air and naval operations near the island, including repeated incursions into Taiwan's air defense identification zone.

Taiwanese MND said on Friday (Aug 8), that 18 Chinese military aircraft and nine naval vessels were operating from 6 am (local time) on Thursday to 6 am (local time) on Friday.

Of the 18 Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), 12 aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southeastern and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ).

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As per the Taiwan News report, grey zone tactics are "an effort or series of efforts beyond steady-state deterrence and assurance that attempts to achieve one's security objectives without resort to direct and sizable use of force."

It may be mentioned here, Taiwan has been governed independently since 1949. However, China considers Taiwan part of its territory and insists on eventual reunification, by force if necessary.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan's defense ministry reported sighting 28 Chinese military aircraft and 10 naval vessels. Twenty-two of the planes crossed into Taiwan's air defense identification zone in a 24-hour period.

Taiwan's defense ministry reported sighting 28 Chinese military aircraft and 10 naval vessels. Twenty-two of the planes crossed into Taiwan's air defense identification zone in a 24-hour period. Of the 28 Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), 22 aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southeastern and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ) Taiwan's MND on Friday said that it has monitored the situation and responded accordingly. Responding to China's military action, Taiwan sent aircraft and naval ships and deployed coastal-based missile systems to monitor PLA activity. Also read: Taiwan tracks 66 Chinese military aircraft near its territory within a day Taking to social media handle, X, Taiwan's MND stated, "28 PLA aircraft and 10 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 22 of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's southeastern and southwestern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly." This latest incident is part of a growing trend of Chinese military aggression towards Taiwan. Beijing has intensified air and naval operations near the island, including repeated incursions into Taiwan's air defense identification zone. Taiwanese MND said on Friday (Aug 8), that 18 Chinese military aircraft and nine naval vessels were operating from 6 am (local time) on Thursday to 6 am (local time) on Friday. Of the 18 Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), 12 aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southeastern and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ). Also read: Taiwan FM Joseph Wu speaks to WION on India-Taiwan ties As per the Taiwan News report, grey zone tactics are "an effort or series of efforts beyond steady-state deterrence and assurance that attempts to achieve one's security objectives without resort to direct and sizable use of force." It may be mentioned here, Taiwan has been governed independently since 1949. However, China considers Taiwan part of its territory and insists on eventual reunification, by force if necessary. (With inputs from agencies)

22 Chinese military aircraft breach Taiwan's air defence zone

#Gravitas | Taiwan has condemned the tearing up of a fan's banner reading "Go Taiwan" by another spectator during a badminton match on Friday. Taiwan competes at the Olympics as Chinese Taipei to avoid objections from China, which claims the self-ruled island country island as its own territory. Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the incident as "violent" and has urged IOC to investigate.

Olympics Paris 2024: Taipei Condemns Tearing Up of 'Go Taiwan' Banner at Badminton Venue

Iran has rejected attempts by the US and Arab nations to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East, as Israel braces for an attack from the Islamic Republic and the Lebanese Iran-supported Hezbollah. Watch in for more details!

Algeria's Khelif and Taiwan's Lin assured of boxing medal amid outcry tied to gender misconceptions

Typhoon Gaemi submerge towns on China's coastal Fujian province on Friday with heavy rains and strong winds as the most powerful storm to hit the country this year began its widely watched trek into the populous interior.

Typhoon Gaemi: China hit by torrential rain after Typhoon passes Taiwan and Philippines | WION

Taiwanese law enforcement authorities have arrested 449 people after busting its largest illegal pornography ring. Those arrested engaged in making, selling, or possessing child pornography as well as recordings of women in restrooms. Out of those arrested, 178 were buyers of the explicit content.&nbsp;

At a news conference on Thursday (July 31), the Criminal Investigation Bureau (CIB) said that all arrested are Taiwanese but the forums were operated from overseas domains.

The arrests were made after a series of raids in June and July that targeted two porn rings, Chuangyi Sifang and SCP, which were operating through the messaging app Telegram.

Most of those detained were paid members of the networks, suspected of viewing and trading in illegal pornography, as well as uploading content.

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The suspects include some teachers, software professionals and&nbsp;even military personnel, CIB's High-tech Crime Center chief Lin Chien-lung was quoted as saying in Taipei Times.

The suspects were charged under Taiwan's Child and Youth Sexual Exploitation Prevention Act as well as laws against money laundering and organised crime, Lin told a news conference in Taipei.

Members paid in cryptocurrency and network tokens to join the porn ring, Lin said, adding that transactions were done in accounts as well as web domains registered overseas.

Chuangyi Sifang was raided after TV host Mickey Huang's indictment in May for allegedly possessing child pornography. Huang was reportedly a paid member of the network since 2014, reported Taipei Times citing the Taichung Prosecutors’ Office.

Police arrested a man surnamed Chang who was reportedly managing Chuangyi Sifang forum. The owner of the forum is thought to be Lao Ma, a Chinese citizen based in China, according to Taiwanese authorities. Currency worth US$30,454 was confiscated in the raid.

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Another raid in July targeted SCP and its affiliate site OAT, where visuals of women in restrooms in public places, hotel restrooms and bars were shared. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Taiwanese law enforcement authorities have arrested 449 people after busting its largest illegal pornography ring. Those arrested engaged in making, selling, or possessing child pornography as well as recordings of women in restrooms.

Taiwanese law enforcement authorities have arrested 449 people after busting its largest illegal pornography ring. Those arrested engaged in making, selling, or possessing child pornography as well as recordings of women in restrooms. Out of those arrested, 178 were buyers of the explicit content. At a news conference on Thursday (July 31), the Criminal Investigation Bureau (CIB) said that all arrested are Taiwanese but the forums were operated from overseas domains. The arrests were made after a series of raids in June and July that targeted two porn rings, Chuangyi Sifang and SCP, which were operating through the messaging app Telegram. Most of those detained were paid members of the networks, suspected of viewing and trading in illegal pornography, as well as uploading content. Also read: Revealed! Pak Army's secret programme to target dissenters on social media The suspects include some teachers, software professionals and even military personnel, CIB's High-tech Crime Center chief Lin Chien-lung was quoted as saying in Taipei Times. The suspects were charged under Taiwan's Child and Youth Sexual Exploitation Prevention Act as well as laws against money laundering and organised crime, Lin told a news conference in Taipei. Members paid in cryptocurrency and network tokens to join the porn ring, Lin said, adding that transactions were done in accounts as well as web domains registered overseas. Chuangyi Sifang was raided after TV host Mickey Huang's indictment in May for allegedly possessing child pornography. Huang was reportedly a paid member of the network since 2014, reported Taipei Times citing the Taichung Prosecutors’ Office. Police arrested a man surnamed Chang who was reportedly managing Chuangyi Sifang forum. The owner of the forum is thought to be Lao Ma, a Chinese citizen based in China, according to Taiwanese authorities. Currency worth US$30,454 was confiscated in the raid. Also read: US man gets high on edibles, attempts sex with flight attendant, opens door mid-air Another raid in July targeted SCP and its affiliate site OAT, where visuals of women in restrooms in public places, hotel restrooms and bars were shared. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan's largest illegal porn ring busted, 449 arrested for crimes including child pornography

#Gravitas | Is china preparing to invade Taiwan in 2027? This question stems from a series of strategic moves and statements from Chinese President Xi Jinping which suggest a significant shift in china’s military posture and capabilities.

Gravitas: China prepares for military solution to Taiwan in 2027

Economic growth in trade-dependent Taiwan likely slowed in the second quarter, despite robust exports driven by high demand for AI technology. A report by Reuters expects gross domestic product to have expanded by around 4.8% from a year earlier. The previous quarter's strong performance was bolstered by exports and construction, although domestic consumption remained soft.

AI exports lift Taiwan's slowing economy

Taiwan's coast guard tried on Friday to rescue dozens of sailors stranded off the southern coast after Typhoon Gaemi sank a freighter and grounded eight others in the Taiwan Strait. The powerful typhoon swept through Taiwan on Thursday with gusts of up to 227 kph before barrelling west across the Taiwan Strait towards China where it is expected to dump more torrential rain.

Typhoon Gaemi sank Tanzania-flagged cargo ship

Conditions in Taiwan have worsened as Typhoon Gaemi brought heavy rainfall, gusty winds and a dangerous storm surge. Watch the video to find out more.

Typhoon Gaemi makes landfall in Taiwan, churns toward China

Taiwan is bracing for the impact of Typhoon Gaemi, the strongest storm to hit the island in eight years, as the storm bears down on the East Coast.&nbsp;

As per reports, already two deaths have been reported due to Gaemi. Amid torrential rains and high winds, Taiwan's financial markets have been shut, while flights have been cancelled.

The transport ministry reported that almost all domestic flights and 227 international flights have been cancelled. On Thursday, all domestic flights and an additional 185 international flights are expected to be halted.

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<h2>Typhoon Gaemi intensifies</h2>

Typhoon Gaemi, as per news agency AFP, has been upgraded to a strong typhoon with gusts reaching 227 kph (141 mph) near its centre.&nbsp;

It is expected to make landfall on Taiwan's east coast late on Wednesday evening. As of 8 pm (1200 GMT), the eye of the storm was hovering off Hualien county.

Following its path across the Taiwan Strait, Gaemi is anticipated to hit southeastern China's Fujian province late on Thursday (Jul&nbsp;25) afternoon.

<h2>Government announces emergency measures</h2>

The Taiwanese government has announced the closure of financial markets and suspended work and school activities for the&nbsp;second day.&nbsp;

The disaster management centre has confirmed two deaths,&nbsp;one from a falling tree and another caused by a building collapse. An additional 201 people have been injured.

Premier Cho Jung-tai, addressing a televised meeting of the emergency response centre, emphasised the gravity of the situation and warned,&nbsp;"The next 24 hours will present a very severe challenge."

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In rural Yilan County, where the typhoon is expected to make its initial landfall, increasing wind and rain have led to the closure of businesses and the emptying of streets.&nbsp;

Over 8,000 people have been evacuated from high-risk mountainous areas prone to landslides due to "extremely torrential rain," according to government reports.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan is bracing for the impact of Typhoon Gaemi, the strongest storm to hit the island in eight years, as the storm bears down on the East Coast. As per reports, already two deaths have been reported due to Gaemi.

Taiwan is bracing for the impact of Typhoon Gaemi, the strongest storm to hit the island in eight years, as the storm bears down on the East Coast. As per reports, already two deaths have been reported due to Gaemi. Amid torrential rains and high winds, Taiwan's financial markets have been shut, while flights have been cancelled. The transport ministry reported that almost all domestic flights and 227 international flights have been cancelled. On Thursday, all domestic flights and an additional 185 international flights are expected to be halted. Also read | Typhoon Gaemi causes floods, flight cancellations, and school closures in Philippines Typhoon Gaemi intensifies Typhoon Gaemi, as per news agency AFP, has been upgraded to a strong typhoon with gusts reaching 227 kph (141 mph) near its centre. It is expected to make landfall on Taiwan's east coast late on Wednesday evening. As of 8 pm (1200 GMT), the eye of the storm was hovering off Hualien county. Following its path across the Taiwan Strait, Gaemi is anticipated to hit southeastern China's Fujian province late on Thursday (Jul 25) afternoon. Government announces emergency measures The Taiwanese government has announced the closure of financial markets and suspended work and school activities for the second day. The disaster management centre has confirmed two deaths, one from a falling tree and another caused by a building collapse. An additional 201 people have been injured. Premier Cho Jung-tai, addressing a televised meeting of the emergency response centre, emphasised the gravity of the situation and warned, "The next 24 hours will present a very severe challenge." Also read | 'Lyin Kamala': Trump slams Harris, calls her a 'lunatic,' claims she wants to 'execute' babies In rural Yilan County, where the typhoon is expected to make its initial landfall, increasing wind and rain have led to the closure of businesses and the emptying of streets. Over 8,000 people have been evacuated from high-risk mountainous areas prone to landslides due to "extremely torrential rain," according to government reports. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan braces for Typhoon Gaemi: Two deaths reported, hundreds of flights cancelled

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