Taiwan expects that broadband satellite Internet service service by United Kingdom (UK)-based OneWeb would cover the entire island by the end of this year. Speaking to the Central news agency on Saturday (June 17), Taiwan's Minister of Digital Affairs Audrey Tang said the satellite service expansion would provide more options for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites to Taiwan, adding OneWeb services were only available in the northern part.

Taiwan expects that broadband satellite Internet service service by United Kingdom (UK)-based OneWeb would cover the entire island by the end of this year. Speaking to the Central news agency on Saturday (June 17), Taiwan's Minister of Digital Affairs Audrey Tang said the satellite service expansion would provide more options for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites to Taiwan, adding OneWeb services were only available in the northern part. OneWeb is “very willing” to work with Taiwan to bolster the island’s communication infrastructure, Tang said. Tang's rare trip to London The minister's remarks come after she made a rare trip to London, visiting the headquarters of OneWeb and meeting with British ministers. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Tang met British Security Minister Tom Tugendhat on Wednesday. A source told Reuters that the meeting between the two ministers was about mutual security interests. Tugendhat, who was sanctioned by China two years ago for speaking out about alleged human rights abuses in Xinjiang, is not a full cabinet minister but attends cabinet meetings in his role as security minister. And Tang's visit to the UK comes a year after Taiwan's top trade negotiator John Deng visited the country. Taiwan's disaster response plan On Saturday, Tang told the Central news agency that OneWeb was very willing to work with Taiwan to bolster the island’s communication infrastructure. Taiwan's disaster response plan calls for the establishment of 700 satellite receivers placed all over the island, the news agency Bloomberg reported. Some of the receivers would be fixed, others mobile, and they would have to be configured to receive communications from multiple constellations of satellites in LEO and Medium Earth Orbit. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taiwan expects broadband satellite internet cover by UK by year end: Report

Art is a reflection of the society. Paintings, movies, music, and even TV shows can help be a mirror. Proving this, a Netflix show has sparked a local MeToo movement in Taiwan. The country is experiencing a surge of sexual harassment and assault allegations, triggered by the show called ' Wave Makers'.&nbsp;

<h2>The outpouring of sexual harassment cases</h2>

Over the past two weeks, more than 90 people have come forward, accusing individuals across the island nation.&nbsp;

Initially, the allegations focused on politics and the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), leading to the resignation of several senior officials.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-study-shows-why-sexual-assault-victims-hesitate-to-come-forward-immediately-603065">Study shows why sexual assault victims hesitate to come forward immediately</a>

However, now the accusations have spread throughout Taiwanese society, targeting doctors, professors, sporting umpires, and YouTubers.

<h2>Better late than never!</h2>

As per a BBC report, the MeToo moment is long overdue for many women across Taiwanese society, which is otherwise commended globally for its progressive politics and commitment to gender equality.&nbsp;

President Tsai Ing-wen, the country's first female leader, has apologised and pledged to implement reforms.&nbsp;

According to social commentator Dr Liu Wen, the magnitude of these revelations and the exposure of underlying issues across various industries is unprecedented.

"Previously we had single cases around sexual harassment, but never in such magnitude."

"It's the first time a lot of the underlying issues in different industries are being revealed all at the same time," added Wen.

<h2>'Wave Makers' makes waves</h2>

The screen inspiration behind this important local moment as mentioned is a Netflix show called Wave Makers. The show about Taiwanese political staffers working on an election debuted on Netflix in late April.

A scene from the show has been credited as the clarion call for the MeToo moment now sweeping Taiwan.

In it, a young female aide finds herself alone with her mentor — a party spokeswoman and the show's main character.&nbsp;

On-screen, she is seen debating whether to confide in her senior the harassment she had endured from a male colleague "knowing that a public report would harm the party's standing and likely her own career", writes the BBC.

However, she finally decides to tell her and her confession is met with an offer of help.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-black-panther-actor-tenoch-huerta-denies-sexual-harassment-allegations-need-to-contest-claims-that-are-false-604471">Black Panther actor Tenoch Huerta denies sexual harassment allegations: Need to contest claims that are false</a>

"Let's not just let this go, ok," says the woman's senior, brushing away her staffer's concerns.&nbsp;

"We can't let things go this easily. Otherwise, we'll wither away and die."

Echoing the now iconic dialogue, on May 31, an ex-DPP staffer wrote an essay on Facebook.

"Let's not just let this go," wrote Chen Chiemn-jou. She went on to describe her experience of being sexually harassed at a work event. She alleges that when she had reported the harassment earlier, a female supervisor in charge of the party's women's affairs - had asked her "Why didn't you say anything?", before advising her to bury the claim.

<h2>Taiwan's #MeToo movement</h2>

Chen's post electrified Taiwan. The post which has been shared thousands of times, as per BBC, appears to have motivated others in politics and beyond to report their experiences of harassment and how authorities responded.

Another ex-DPP female staffer later alleged her male supervisor had verbally abused her and stymied her complaint about another male colleague's harassment.

Several senior DPP officials, including Hsu Chia-tien, the supervisor in Chen's case, who was suspended by the party, and Yen Chih-fa, an adviser to the president who has denied accusations of sexual harassment by a campaigner have resigned.

In addition to the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) party in Taiwan has also faced allegations of sexual harassment.&nbsp;

A journalist accused KMT lawmaker Fu Kun-chi of forcibly kissing her at a press event in 2014, which Fu has denied.&nbsp;

Another KMT councillor alleged harassment by a well-known media personality, who apologised for his behaviour, citing being drunk and having no recollection of the events.

More than 90 cases of sexual harassment and assault have been documented in an online database.&nbsp;

Among the high-profile men accused are Tiananmen protest leader Wang Dan, who has denied sexual assault allegations from two younger men, and exiled poet Bei Ling, who has been accused by a writer of the Wave Makers show of sexual assault, which he denies.&nbsp;

Polish diplomat Bartosz Ryś is another high-profile name. He has been accused of sexual assault by a Taiwanese think tank researcher, but prosecutors investigated the incident and decided not to charge him. Ryś has denied the allegations.

While this moment signifies a reckoning and an opportunity to address gender and sexual abuse in Taiwan, survivors find themselves thrust into a traumatic public conversation.&nbsp;Many remain sceptical of lasting change.

The MeToo movement in Taiwan has emerged at a significant time in the country's political landscape as it prepares for a presidential election next January.&nbsp;

The TV show's screenwriters, who sparked the initial wave of allegations, expressed their surprise at the public response. Talking to BBC, they explained that "through idealised depictions of addressing workplace harassment in drama, people can find a shared language to express their expectations of how such issues should be handled."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Art is a reflection of the society. Paintings, movies, music, and even TV shows can help be a mirror. Proving this, a Netflix show has sparked a local MeToo movement in Taiwan.

Art is a reflection of the society. Paintings, movies, music, and even TV shows can help be a mirror. Proving this, a Netflix show has sparked a local MeToo movement in Taiwan. The country is experiencing a surge of sexual harassment and assault allegations, triggered by the show called ' Wave Makers'. The outpouring of sexual harassment cases Over the past two weeks, more than 90 people have come forward, accusing individuals across the island nation. Initially, the allegations focused on politics and the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), leading to the resignation of several senior officials. Also read | Study shows why sexual assault victims hesitate to come forward immediately However, now the accusations have spread throughout Taiwanese society, targeting doctors, professors, sporting umpires, and YouTubers. Better late than never! As per a BBC report, the MeToo moment is long overdue for many women across Taiwanese society, which is otherwise commended globally for its progressive politics and commitment to gender equality. President Tsai Ing-wen, the country's first female leader, has apologised and pledged to implement reforms. According to social commentator Dr Liu Wen, the magnitude of these revelations and the exposure of underlying issues across various industries is unprecedented. "Previously we had single cases around sexual harassment, but never in such magnitude." "It's the first time a lot of the underlying issues in different industries are being revealed all at the same time," added Wen. 'Wave Makers' makes waves The screen inspiration behind this important local moment as mentioned is a Netflix show called Wave Makers. The show about Taiwanese political staffers working on an election debuted on Netflix in late April. A scene from the show has been credited as the clarion call for the MeToo moment now sweeping Taiwan. In it, a young female aide finds herself alone with her mentor — a party spokeswoman and the show's main character. On-screen, she is seen debating whether to confide in her senior the harassment she had endured from a male colleague "knowing that a public report would harm the party's standing and likely her own career", writes the BBC. However, she finally decides to tell her and her confession is met with an offer of help. Also read | Black Panther actor Tenoch Huerta denies sexual harassment allegations: Need to contest claims that are false "Let's not just let this go, ok," says the woman's senior, brushing away her staffer's concerns. "We can't let things go this easily. Otherwise, we'll wither away and die." Echoing the now iconic dialogue, on May 31, an ex-DPP staffer wrote an essay on Facebook. "Let's not just let this go," wrote Chen Chiemn-jou. She went on to describe her experience of being sexually harassed at a work event. She alleges that when she had reported the harassment earlier, a female supervisor in charge of the party's women's affairs - had asked her "Why didn't you say anything?", before advising her to bury the claim. Taiwan's #MeToo movement Chen's post electrified Taiwan. The post which has been shared thousands of times, as per BBC, appears to have motivated others in politics and beyond to report their experiences of harassment and how authorities responded. Another ex-DPP female staffer later alleged her male supervisor had verbally abused her and stymied her complaint about another male colleague's harassment. Several senior DPP officials, including Hsu Chia-tien, the supervisor in Chen's case, who was suspended by the party, and Yen Chih-fa, an adviser to the president who has denied accusations of sexual harassment by a campaigner have resigned. In addition to the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) party in Taiwan has also faced allegations of sexual harassment. A journalist accused KMT lawmaker Fu Kun-chi of forcibly kissing her at a press event in 2014, which Fu has denied. Another KMT councillor alleged harassment by a well-known media personality, who apologised for his behaviour, citing being drunk and having no recollection of the events. More than 90 cases of sexual harassment and assault have been documented in an online database. Among the high-profile men accused are Tiananmen protest leader Wang Dan, who has denied sexual assault allegations from two younger men, and exiled poet Bei Ling, who has been accused by a writer of the Wave Makers show of sexual assault, which he denies. Polish diplomat Bartosz Ryś is another high-profile name. He has been accused of sexual assault by a Taiwanese think tank researcher, but prosecutors investigated the incident and decided not to charge him. Ryś has denied the allegations. While this moment signifies a reckoning and an opportunity to address gender and sexual abuse in Taiwan, survivors find themselves thrust into a traumatic public conversation. Many remain sceptical of lasting change. The MeToo movement in Taiwan has emerged at a significant time in the country's political landscape as it prepares for a presidential election next January. The TV show's screenwriters, who sparked the initial wave of allegations, expressed their surprise at the public response. Talking to BBC, they explained that "through idealised depictions of addressing workplace harassment in drama, people can find a shared language to express their expectations of how such issues should be handled." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Netflix show 'Wave Makers' creates waves in Taiwan, triggers flood of #MeToo complaints

Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang has told US Secretary of State Antony Blinken that America should “show respect” and stop meddling in China’s internal affairs with respect to the Taiwan issue.

In a phone call on Wednesday morning, the Chinese minister asked the US to meet China halfway, and effectively manage differences, promote communication and cooperation.

Qin reiterated Beijing’s firm stance on core concerns like Taiwan and said that China has always viewed and handled the relationship with mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The minister further said that since the beginning of this year, China-US relations have faced new difficulties and challenges and added “It’s clear who is responsible."

<h2>China's stimulus efforts fail to boost market confidence</h2>

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He also hoped US works to manage differences and stabilise Sino-US relations so that their relations come back on track with sound and steady development.

“I hope that the US side will take practical actions to implement the important consensus of the meeting between the two heads of state in Bali, move in the same direction as the Chinese side, effectively manage differences, promote exchanges and cooperation, and promote the stabilisation of&nbsp;China-US relations,” Qin said, according to a Chinese foreign ministry readout of the phone call.

Later, Blinken confirmed via Twitter that he spoke to Foreign Minister Qin Gang and “discussed ongoing efforts to keep communication channels open, as well as bilateral and global issues."

Blinken also "made clear that the US would continue to use diplomatic engagements to raise areas of concern as well as areas of potential cooperation".&nbsp;

<h2>Thaw in ties</h2>

Wednesday’s engagement comes on the backdrop of Blinken’s expected visit to China for talks this Sunday. However, no official confirmation has been given so far.

The talks seek to bring a thaw in the tense Sino-US relations, which have seen turbulent days due to the spy balloon incident in February.

Blinken was expected to travel to Beijing at that time, which would have been the first by a US secretary of state in five years, but he cancelled his trip following the suspected Chinese spy balloon incident that flew over the United States.

The two sides had hoped to improve bilateral relations during a Bali summit between Chinese leader Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden in November.

Last month, a closed-door meeting took place between Biden’s national security advisor Jake Sullivan and top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi in Vienna.

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Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang has told US Secretary of State Antony Blinken that America should “show respect” and stop meddling in China’s internal affairs with respect to the Taiwan issue.

Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang has told US Secretary of State Antony Blinken that America should “show respect” and stop meddling in China’s internal affairs with respect to the Taiwan issue. In a phone call on Wednesday morning, the Chinese minister asked the US to meet China halfway, and effectively manage differences, promote communication and cooperation. Qin reiterated Beijing’s firm stance on core concerns like Taiwan and said that China has always viewed and handled the relationship with mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping. The minister further said that since the beginning of this year, China-US relations have faced new difficulties and challenges and added “It’s clear who is responsible." China's stimulus efforts fail to boost market confidence He also hoped US works to manage differences and stabilise Sino-US relations so that their relations come back on track with sound and steady development. “I hope that the US side will take practical actions to implement the important consensus of the meeting between the two heads of state in Bali, move in the same direction as the Chinese side, effectively manage differences, promote exchanges and cooperation, and promote the stabilisation of China-US relations,” Qin said, according to a Chinese foreign ministry readout of the phone call. Later, Blinken confirmed via Twitter that he spoke to Foreign Minister Qin Gang and “discussed ongoing efforts to keep communication channels open, as well as bilateral and global issues." Blinken also "made clear that the US would continue to use diplomatic engagements to raise areas of concern as well as areas of potential cooperation". Thaw in ties Wednesday’s engagement comes on the backdrop of Blinken’s expected visit to China for talks this Sunday. However, no official confirmation has been given so far. The talks seek to bring a thaw in the tense Sino-US relations, which have seen turbulent days due to the spy balloon incident in February. Blinken was expected to travel to Beijing at that time, which would have been the first by a US secretary of state in five years, but he cancelled his trip following the suspected Chinese spy balloon incident that flew over the United States. The two sides had hoped to improve bilateral relations during a Bali summit between Chinese leader Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden in November. Last month, a closed-door meeting took place between Biden’s national security advisor Jake Sullivan and top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi in Vienna. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Don’t meddle in Taiwan issue': Chinese Foreign Minister Qin tells US’ Antony Blinken

Taiwan has released an updated defence handbook. The book shows the difference between Taiwanese and Chinese military uniforms. What more does the handbook contain? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Taiwan releases an updated civil defence handbook

Patrol boats circled and officers descended by rope from a helicopter during a staged hostage crisis in the southern city of Kaohsiung, as Taiwan's armed forces held drills on Saturday.

Taiwan's Armed Forces hold coastal drills

The air force of Taiwan came into action on Sunday after 10 Chinese warplanes were spotted crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait, as the defence ministry of the island further added that combat patrols were carried out by four Chinese warships. 
 
For the second time in a week, renewed Chinese military activity has been reported by Taiwan after 37 Chinese military aircraft flew into the air defence zone of the island on Thursday, some of which then flew into the western Pacific. 
 
China, which has continued to claim the democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, in the past three years has regularly flown its air force near the island, though it has not entered into the territorial air space of Taiwan. 
 
Taiwan's defence ministry, in a short statement, said that around 2 pm (0600 GMT) on Sunday, 24 Chinese air force planes were detected by them, which included J-10, J-11, J-16 and Su-30 fighters, as well as H-6 bombers.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-president-pledges-to-strengthen-islands-defence-capability-with-new-technologies-602946">Taiwan president pledges to strengthen island’s defence capabilities with new technologies</a>

The ministry stated that 10 had crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, which separates the two countries and was considered as an unofficial barrier earlier. 
 
Four Chinese naval ships were also involved in "joint combat readiness patrols", stated the ministry. 
 
Taiwan stated that it has its own fighters and deployed land-based missile systems and ships to keep watch.

<h2>Honduras opens its embassy in China after severing ties with Taiwan</h2>

The embassy of Honduras was officially opened in China on Sunday, months after it changed its diplomatic allegiance from Taipei to Beijing. 
 
"The relations between Honduras and China will open new opportunities and capabilities to strengthen the cooperation between both countries," said Honduran Foreign Minister Enrique Reina while speaking to Chinese state media after attending a ceremony in which the plaque for the new embassy was unveiled. 
 
Honduran President Xiomara Castro reached Shanghai on Friday to embark on his five-day visit to cement the relationship and is scheduled to hold talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing.

WATCH |&nbsp;China's territorial ambitions, claims over Taiwan

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During her visit, Castro is expected to sign a host of agreements. Earlier this month, Reina said that China had already started importing melons, shrimp, bananas and other products from Honduras. 
 
The ceremony was attended by Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang on Sunday, the official Xinhua news agency stated. 
 
He shook hands with Reina in front of a row of Honduran and Chinese flags. Honduras severed its diplomatic ties with Taiwan in March in favour of Beijing.

 
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The air force of Taiwan came into action on Sunday after 10 Chinese warplanes were spotted crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait, as the defence ministry of the island further added that combat patrols were carried out by four Chinese warships.

The air force of Taiwan came into action on Sunday after 10 Chinese warplanes were spotted crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait, as the defence ministry of the island further added that combat patrols were carried out by four Chinese warships. For the second time in a week, renewed Chinese military activity has been reported by Taiwan after 37 Chinese military aircraft flew into the air defence zone of the island on Thursday, some of which then flew into the western Pacific. China, which has continued to claim the democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, in the past three years has regularly flown its air force near the island, though it has not entered into the territorial air space of Taiwan. Taiwan's defence ministry, in a short statement, said that around 2 pm (0600 GMT) on Sunday, 24 Chinese air force planes were detected by them, which included J-10, J-11, J-16 and Su-30 fighters, as well as H-6 bombers. ALSO READ | Taiwan president pledges to strengthen island’s defence capabilities with new technologies The ministry stated that 10 had crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, which separates the two countries and was considered as an unofficial barrier earlier. Four Chinese naval ships were also involved in "joint combat readiness patrols", stated the ministry. Taiwan stated that it has its own fighters and deployed land-based missile systems and ships to keep watch. Honduras opens its embassy in China after severing ties with Taiwan The embassy of Honduras was officially opened in China on Sunday, months after it changed its diplomatic allegiance from Taipei to Beijing. "The relations between Honduras and China will open new opportunities and capabilities to strengthen the cooperation between both countries," said Honduran Foreign Minister Enrique Reina while speaking to Chinese state media after attending a ceremony in which the plaque for the new embassy was unveiled. Honduran President Xiomara Castro reached Shanghai on Friday to embark on his five-day visit to cement the relationship and is scheduled to hold talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. WATCH | China's territorial ambitions, claims over Taiwan During her visit, Castro is expected to sign a host of agreements. Earlier this month, Reina said that China had already started importing melons, shrimp, bananas and other products from Honduras. The ceremony was attended by Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang on Sunday, the official Xinhua news agency stated. He shook hands with Reina in front of a row of Honduran and Chinese flags. Honduras severed its diplomatic ties with Taiwan in March in favour of Beijing. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taiwan scrambles jets as 10 Chinese warplanes cross median line of strait

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen on Saturday said the self-ruled island would work to improve its rescue and defence capabilities with new technologies, adding that strengthening Taiwan is key to maintaining peace.

Tsai also pledged that her government would promote policies to safeguard maritime and border security after inspecting an anti-terror drill in Kaohsiung city in southwestern Taiwan.

“The safer Taiwan is, the safer the world is,” she said.

Tsai's remarks came as the democratic island faces increasing military threats from China, which sees Taiwan as a breakaway province to be retaken by force if necessary.

During Saturday's drills, Taiwanese security officers demonstrated how they would defend against terrorist acts at sea.

Some climbed from small boats onto a vessel controlled by “terrorists” and brought them under control.

Others rappelled down from a flying helicopter. The simulation ended with a dramatic scene in which some officers hung in the air as they were sent back to the helicopter.

Taiwan and China split in 1949 following a civil war that ended with the ruling Communist Party in control of the mainland.

The island has never been part of the People's Republic of China, but Beijing says it must unite with the mainland.

Beijing also has intensified its battle to win away Taiwan's diplomatic allies since independence-leaning Tsai took office in 2016.&nbsp;

In March, Honduras established formal relations with China, becoming the latest in a string of countries to break diplomatic ties with Taiwan.

Honduran President Xiomara Castro arrived in Shanghai on Friday on her first visit since the establishment of ties.

She said her country would strengthen cooperation with the financial hub and actively participate in the China International Import Expo to be held there in November, according to a report by state media Xinhua on Saturday.&nbsp;

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Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen on Saturday said the self-ruled island would work to improve its rescue and defence capabilities with new technologies, adding that strengthening Taiwan is key to maintaining peace.

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen on Saturday said the self-ruled island would work to improve its rescue and defence capabilities with new technologies, adding that strengthening Taiwan is key to maintaining peace. Tsai also pledged that her government would promote policies to safeguard maritime and border security after inspecting an anti-terror drill in Kaohsiung city in southwestern Taiwan. “The safer Taiwan is, the safer the world is,” she said. Tsai's remarks came as the democratic island faces increasing military threats from China, which sees Taiwan as a breakaway province to be retaken by force if necessary. During Saturday's drills, Taiwanese security officers demonstrated how they would defend against terrorist acts at sea. Some climbed from small boats onto a vessel controlled by “terrorists” and brought them under control. Others rappelled down from a flying helicopter. The simulation ended with a dramatic scene in which some officers hung in the air as they were sent back to the helicopter. Taiwan and China split in 1949 following a civil war that ended with the ruling Communist Party in control of the mainland. The island has never been part of the People's Republic of China, but Beijing says it must unite with the mainland. Beijing also has intensified its battle to win away Taiwan's diplomatic allies since independence-leaning Tsai took office in 2016. In March, Honduras established formal relations with China, becoming the latest in a string of countries to break diplomatic ties with Taiwan. Honduran President Xiomara Castro arrived in Shanghai on Friday on her first visit since the establishment of ties. She said her country would strengthen cooperation with the financial hub and actively participate in the China International Import Expo to be held there in November, according to a report by state media Xinhua on Saturday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Taiwan president pledges to strengthen island’s defence capabilities with new technologies

In East Asia, intentions are running high. Under the one China policy, Beijing has repeatedly invaded the area around Taiwan, which it claims to be a part of its own territory. However, the self-governing island is making every effort to beef up its preparedness on the occasion of the nation's National Ocean Day.

Taiwan holds maritime-anti terror drills on National Ocean Day

China-Taiwan tensions continue to mount as more than 30 Chinese warplanes entered Taiwan's Air Defence zone today over the course of about 6 hours. Watch the video to know more.

How serious is the risk of war over Taiwan?

After 37 Chinese military aircraft flew into Taiwan's air defence zone for "long-range aerial reconnaissance training" on Thursday (June 8), the island nation activated its air defence systems.

After 37 Chinese military aircraft flew into Taiwan's air defence zone for "long-range aerial reconnaissance training" on Thursday (June 8), the island nation activated its air defence systems. Taiwan's defence ministry said it detected the Chinese air force planes that included J-11 and J-16 fighters as well as nuclear-capable H-6 bombers, flying into the southwestern corner of its air defence identification zone around 5 am (2100 GMT on Wednesday). "Since 0500 (UTC+8) today (Jun. 8), 37 PLA aircraft, including J-11, J-16, H-6, YU-20, and AWACS, have successively entered Taiwan's SW airspace. Several aircraft entered the western Pacific through Taiwan's SE airspace for long-range aerial reconnaissance training," the ministry said. Taipei deploys quick countermeasures As a countermeasure, Taipei activated land-based missile systems and deployed its aircraft and ships to keep watch on any suspected movement, the ministry added. "R.O.C. Armed Forces are monitoring the situation closely with our ISR system and have dispatched CAP aircraft, naval vessels, and land-based missile systems in response." WATCH | Taiwan and its challenges with China, will US support Taiwan like Ukraine? × China unhappy with Taiwan-US deal The latest incursion by the Chinese side comes days after Taiwan and the United States signed the first deal under a new trade talks framework. Beijing has been seething ever since the talks between Washington and Taipei began over the trade deal. It asked Washington to 'refrain' from interfering in the region. “The United States should stop any form of official exchanges with Taiwan, refrain from negotiating agreements with Taiwan that have sovereign connotations or official nature and refrain from sending wrong signals to the Taiwan independence’ secessionist forces,” said a ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning. Meanwhile, the White House has said it fears China's "growing aggressiveness" in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea may soon lead to casualties. "It won't be long before somebody gets hurt," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters. "That's the concern with these unsafe and unprofessional intercepts." Also read | White House warns someone may get 'hurt' by Chinese military's 'aggressiveness' The US military alleged that the Chinese Navy knowingly carried out “unsafe manoeuvres” near its destroyer transiting the sensitive Taiwan Strait. China considers Taiwan a crucial part of its sovereign territory. Under its 'Once China' diplomacy, Beijing does not appreciate any country keeping diplomatic ties with Taipei. Although Washington does not have formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, it continues to engage with the island nation, much to China's chagrin. Since former House speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan last year, Beijing has increased the intensity of its incursion in Taiwanese water and air zones. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Taiwan activates air defence system after Chinese aircraft encroach zone

Two global leaders in a chipmaking industry are fighting a legal battle against each other - Realtek and Mediatek. The stage is set in Northern California Federal Court where Realtek has accused its rival Taiwanese Chipmaker of engaging in a conspiracy to disrupt its business.

Realtek vs Mediatek: Chipmaking giants in a legal battle | World DNA

US and Canada were conducting joint drills in Taiwan Strait when Chinese warship came dangerously close to US vessel. US has condemned China's dangerous maneuver while China says US' actions were 'provoking'. Will the ties between two superpowers continue to fray? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: 'Dangerous interaction' between Chinese & US warships in Taiwan Strait

Tensions are high in the Taiwan Strait a US and a Chinese warship had a dangerous interaction. This comes as ties between the two superpowers continue to worsen. Take a look at the incident as the US Navy released a new video showing Chinese warships coming within 137 years of its destroyer in the Taiwan Strait. To know more watch this interview with Elisabeth Braw who is a Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute.

U.S.-China ships close encounter in Taiwan Strait

China defends intercepting the US destroyer at Taiwan Strait

US-China tensions are on the rise again and Taiwan continues to be the flash point for the same. In the latest US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin rebuked China for refusing to hold military talks leaving the superpowers deadlocked over Taiwan and disputes in the South China Sea.

US-China lock horns at Shangri-La Dialogue as US Defence Secretary speaks on Taiwan

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - Air raid alerts lifted across Ukraine, Zelensky expresses frustration over civilian deaths, BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting in South Africa, US-Taiwan trade deal, Debt ceiling bill cleared.

Air raid alerts lifted across Ukraine | US debt ceiling bill cleared | WION Speed News

The United States and Taiwan have signed a trade deal aimed at deepening economic relations between both sides. Slamming the United States, China had said that should stop any form of official exchanges with Taiwan under the guise of trade.

US & Taiwan sign historic trade deal, China criticises US plan of trade deal

Boosting ties between the two nations and simultaneously antagonising China, Taiwan and the United States signed the first deal under a new trade talks framework on Thursday.

Boosting ties between the two nations and simultaneously antagonising China, Taiwan and the United States signed the first deal under a new trade talks framework on Thursday. In a brief statement released by Taiwan's Office of Trade Negotiations, it was stated that the first agreement under the framework was in Washington. US Trade Representative's office confirmed Deputy United States Trade Representative Sarah Bianchi attended the event. The pact is expected to strengthen the economic bond between the US and Taiwan with the island nation receiving more US exports. It will also allow Taipei to resist economic coercion from China. 21st century trade initiative The trade talks, named US-Taiwan initiative on "21st Century Trade" were initiated in August last year. The talks began after Washington kept Taipei out of its larger pan-Asian trade initiative — the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. Last month, the two sides reached an agreement on the first part of the trade initiative — covering customs and border procedures, regulatory practices, and small business. Taiwan hailed the agreement as "historically significant", adding that it aimed to finalise negotiations on all remaining issues by the end of the year. More complicated trade areas such as agriculture, digital trade, labour and environmental standards, state-owned enterprises, and non-market policies and practices continue to be discussed. WATCH | Taiwan and its challenges with China, will US support Taiwan like Ukraine? × China remains antagonised Beijing has been seething ever since the talks between Washington and Taipei began over the trade deal. Chinese mouthpiece 'Global Times' in an op-ed said the trade talks were a product of political collusion, aimed at targeting "mainland China". "The meetings on the 'US-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century Trade' are the product of their political collusion targeting the Chinese mainland, and any possible agreement of an 'official nature' will be strongly counteracted by the mainland," read the op-ed. ALSO READ | China tells United States to not cross the 'red line' on Taiwan question "Against the backdrop of the US playing the 'Taiwan card' to contain China and the DPP's 'dependence on the US for secession,' any economic agreement signed by the US and DPP authorities of an 'official nature' will be strongly counteracted by the Chinese mainland," it added. The signing of the first deal comes a couple of days after Beijing declined Washington's invite to hold talks between the defence chiefs. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin termed the cancellation of the meeting between him and his Chinese counterpart as "unfortunate". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Much to China's chagrin, Taiwan and US sign first deal under new trade framework

Feeling adventurous? This restaurant offers a 14-legged, deep-sea dwelling creature on its menu

Taiwan has been excluded from the World Health Organization's (WHO) annual assembly - the World Health Assembly (WHA) - following opposition from China, despite Taipei asserting that support was growing for its participation.

Taiwan has been excluded from the World Health Organization's (WHO) annual assembly - the World Health Assembly (WHA) - following opposition from China, despite Taipei asserting that support was growing for its participation. The WHA in Geneva decided not to extend Taiwan an invitation to the summit that started on Sunday (May 21) and will go on till May 30. According to a report by the news agency Reuters on Monday, China, as well as Pakistan, urged members to reject Taiwan's inclusion while eSwatini and the Marshall Islands spoke in favour. China welcomes WHO's decision The Chinese government welcomed the WHO's decision to exclude Taiwan from its annual assembly. In a statement, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said, "This fully shows that the one-China principle is the aspiration of the people and the trend of the times in the international community and cannot be challenged in any way." The ministry added that before the opening of the conference, nearly 100 countries expressed their adherence to the one-China principle and their opposition to Taiwan's participation in the assembly. "China also urges certain countries not to pretend to be confused, stop politicising the health issue, stop interfering in China's internal affairs under the pretext of the Taiwan issue, and stop the erroneous practice of using 'Taiwan to control China'," the ministry added. Exclusion poses significant threat to global health: Taiwan's health minister Taiwan's Health Minister Hsueh Jui-yuan slammed the WHO's decision by saying that his country's exclusion from the UN health agency's annual assembly posed a significant threat to global health. "Excluding Taiwan from WHO not only jeopardises the right to health of the 23.5 million people of Taiwan, it also seriously undermines WHO's efforts to achieve health for all," Jui-yuan said on Sunday at an event hosted by the Geneva Press Club, news agency AFP reported. Jui-yuan warned that leaving the self-ruled island out in the cold hampered the swift and efficient sharing of information that would be needed to prevent or more efficiently respond to the next pandemic threat. "I am afraid that Taiwan will become the gap of the next pandemic," the health minister added. The US mission in Geneva too criticised the WHO's decision by saying Taiwan's exclusion "undermines inclusive global public health cooperation led by WHO." Taiwan was expelled from the WHO in 1972, a year after it lost the "China" seat at the UN to the People's Republic of China. But Taiwan was allowed to attend the agency's top annual meetings between 2009 and 2016 as an observer when relations with China were warmer. However, it has been blocked from attending the annual assembly in recent years by China and the Chinese government staunchly opposed efforts to include Taiwan as a WHA observer. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taiwan excluded from WHO annual assembly after China's opposition; Taipei reacts

Former British prime minister Liz Truss, on Wednesday (May 17), in a speech called for tougher action against China and in a personal plea to her successor Rishi Sunak asked that Beijing be branded as a “threat” to the United Kingdom’s security. This comes amid her five-day trip to Taiwan which the Chinese embassy in London has called a “dangerous political stunt”.&nbsp;

Notably, Truss, who is also Britain’s shortest-serving PM, arrived in Taiwan on Tuesday and is also the first former British leader to visit Taiwan since Margaret Thatcher in 1996. Upon her arrival in Taiwan, the former UK PM was greeted by Taiwanese Foreign Minister Joseph Wu.&nbsp;

According to media reports, Truss is also due to meet President Tsai Ing-wen, however, officials are yet to confirm if the meeting will take place. The press conference on Wednesday also follows a closed-door speech at Taipei’s Grand Hyatt Hotel hosted by the Prospect Foundation, a government-funded think tank that focuses on cross-strait relations.

Truss’ visit to Taiwan

Truss addressed the press in Taipei City on Wednesday and challenged the incumbent PM to follow through his rhetoric when he called China “the biggest-long term threat to Britain,” during the Conservative party leadership contest. In the speech, Sunak also vowed to close nearly 30 Confucius Institutes in the UK, which promote Chinese culture on campus in higher education and some British schools.&nbsp;

However, the institutes teaching Chinese language and culture recently came under fire amid allegations that these centres are being used by Beijing’s government to spread propaganda, interfere with free speech on campuses, and even spy on students, reported BBC.&nbsp;

During a press conference in Taipei, the former UK PM also asked democratic countries to take a stand against China and make it clear to Beijing that it would face sanctions and other repercussions if it attacked Taiwan. It is “absolutely clear” that Chinese President Xi Jinping has the ambition of taking over Taiwan, said Truss.&nbsp;

She added, “We don’t know exactly when that could take place, we also don’t know how, and it’s my view that the preference of President Xi and the Chinese Communist Party would be to do it in a way that doesn’t involve using force, but I certainly think they would be prepared to use force if necessary,” as quoted by Al Jazeera.&nbsp;

As per media reports, she also drew comparisons between escalating tensions in China and Taiwan and the Russian invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp; 
 
China’s reaction to the visit

A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in London, on Wednesday, said that Truss’s visit to Taiwan was a “dangerous political show which will do nothing but harm to the UK”.&nbsp;

The statement added, “We urge the relevant British politician to correct her wrongdoing, stop making political shows with the Taiwan question and stop conniving at and supporting ‘Taiwan independence’ secessionist forces.”

Notably, the former UK PM is the most senior British lawmaker to visit the country since Thatcher in the 1990s. The embassy also suggested that the visit could have repercussions for the government of the incumbent PM Sunak.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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Former British prime minister Liz Truss, on Wednesday (May 17), in a speech called for tougher action against China and in a personal plea to her successor Rishi Sunak asked that Beijing be branded as a “threat” to the United Kingdom’s security.

Former British prime minister Liz Truss, on Wednesday (May 17), in a speech called for tougher action against China and in a personal plea to her successor Rishi Sunak asked that Beijing be branded as a “threat” to the United Kingdom’s security. This comes amid her five-day trip to Taiwan which the Chinese embassy in London has called a “dangerous political stunt”. Notably, Truss, who is also Britain’s shortest-serving PM, arrived in Taiwan on Tuesday and is also the first former British leader to visit Taiwan since Margaret Thatcher in 1996. Upon her arrival in Taiwan, the former UK PM was greeted by Taiwanese Foreign Minister Joseph Wu. According to media reports, Truss is also due to meet President Tsai Ing-wen, however, officials are yet to confirm if the meeting will take place. The press conference on Wednesday also follows a closed-door speech at Taipei’s Grand Hyatt Hotel hosted by the Prospect Foundation, a government-funded think tank that focuses on cross-strait relations. Truss’ visit to Taiwan Truss addressed the press in Taipei City on Wednesday and challenged the incumbent PM to follow through his rhetoric when he called China “the biggest-long term threat to Britain,” during the Conservative party leadership contest. In the speech, Sunak also vowed to close nearly 30 Confucius Institutes in the UK, which promote Chinese culture on campus in higher education and some British schools. However, the institutes teaching Chinese language and culture recently came under fire amid allegations that these centres are being used by Beijing’s government to spread propaganda, interfere with free speech on campuses, and even spy on students, reported BBC. During a press conference in Taipei, the former UK PM also asked democratic countries to take a stand against China and make it clear to Beijing that it would face sanctions and other repercussions if it attacked Taiwan. It is “absolutely clear” that Chinese President Xi Jinping has the ambition of taking over Taiwan, said Truss. She added, “We don’t know exactly when that could take place, we also don’t know how, and it’s my view that the preference of President Xi and the Chinese Communist Party would be to do it in a way that doesn’t involve using force, but I certainly think they would be prepared to use force if necessary,” as quoted by Al Jazeera. As per media reports, she also drew comparisons between escalating tensions in China and Taiwan and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. China’s reaction to the visit A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in London, on Wednesday, said that Truss’s visit to Taiwan was a “dangerous political show which will do nothing but harm to the UK”. The statement added, “We urge the relevant British politician to correct her wrongdoing, stop making political shows with the Taiwan question and stop conniving at and supporting ‘Taiwan independence’ secessionist forces.” Notably, the former UK PM is the most senior British lawmaker to visit the country since Thatcher in the 1990s. The embassy also suggested that the visit could have repercussions for the government of the incumbent PM Sunak. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former UK PM Liz Truss calls for tough stance against China amid visit to Taiwan

Taiwan sits in the so-called first Island gym it includes a list of US friendly territories that are crucial to its foreign policy but but it also sits roughly 100 miles from the coast of China a country that has time and again threatened the island with its words and its military China sees Taiwan as its own and hence does not respect its Sovereign right or its airspace but there is a lesson it can learn from a country not far away U.S defense secretary Lloyd Austin says Ukraine is proof that a smaller military can successfully defend against a larger one point in case here being Taiwan and China now experts say this is a sign that the kind of international backing Ukraine has enjoyed could be extended to Taiwan.

Taiwan and its challenges with China, will US support Taiwan like Ukraine?

During a visit to Taiwan, former Prime Minister Liz Truss made a personal plea to Rishi Sunak to label China as a 'threat' to UK security. The former Prime Minister challenged Sunak to keep his promises to rein in China made last summer.

Former UK PM Liz Truss warns against appeasing China, urges PM Sunak to label China as 'threat'

Over the last year and a half, China has upped the ante on Taiwan, especially after former US House speaker Nancy Pelosi visited the island nation. Now, Chinese propagandists masquerading as marketing professionals are&nbsp;attempting to brainwash Taiwanese nationals to achieve&nbsp;total unification.

Recently, a&nbsp;Taiwanese woman named Yang Hsin-tzu was targetted incessantly by the Chinese IT cell after she&nbsp;purchased a book titled 'If China Attacks'&nbsp; which essentially is anti-CPC (Communist Party of China) in its leanings.&nbsp;

Yang bought the book from&nbsp;Eslite Bookstore in February but received a mysterious call last Saturday (May 13) which piqued her interest. Yang, who is a deputy executive secretary for a non-profit, "Here I Stand Project" took to Facebook to chronicle her experience.&nbsp;

Yang&nbsp;said she missed two "strange" calls with the country code +28. However, when the phone rang the third time, she picked up the call and heard a soft female voice on the receiver's end.&nbsp;

“The voice was female, and from the beginning, she spoke in a very diffident tone,” Yang wrote, adding that the woman claimed to a representative of&nbsp;Eslite Bookstore who was conducting a survey following&nbsp;Yang’s purchase of the book.&nbsp;

When she quizzed the caller on what the survey was regarding, the Chinese propagandist said, “The book you bought contains very sensitive content...This book’s content is inappropriate, so I wish to hear your opinion.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinas-territorial-ambitions-claims-over-taiwan-571910">WATCH |&nbsp;China's territorial ambitions, claims over Taiwan</a>

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&nbsp;

Having talked for a few minutes on the phone, Yang realised that the accent of the caller was faux-Taiwanese, meaning she was not a Taiwanese native.&nbsp;

“At that moment, I was both nervous and excited, not wanting to miss the chance to face-off directly with Chinese communists," added Yang who told the caller to revert once she has picked up the book.

This time Yang prepared to record the call but instead of the woman, she got a man on the follow-up call. The said man claimed to be from&nbsp;&nbsp;Eslite Bookstore’s marketing department.

Unlike the woman caller, the man had no pretence and right off the bat, started kicking Taiwan and schooling Yang that even though she was not born in China, she was a native.&nbsp;

“China has strong military prowess, there is no way Taiwan will come out victorious," said the caller, who repeatedly claimed that the US won't help Taiwan and that&nbsp;Kuomintang (KMT) is better.&nbsp;

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He also declared, “the unification of Taiwan is inevitable, voting for the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) will result in unification by force, and voting for the KMT will result in peaceful unification and one country, two systems!”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-condemns-meeting-between-us-house-speaker-and-taiwan-president-vows-resolute-response-579595">ALSO READ |&nbsp;China condemns meeting between US House speaker and Taiwan president, vows 'resolute' response</a>

<h2>China's&nbsp;psychological warfare</h2>

It is common knowledge that scammers from China have been targeting online shoppers in Taiwan. Their main aim is to not engage in financial fraud but to conduct psychological warfare and sow seeds of confusion about the Taiwanese Army and government.&nbsp;

“This time, they weren’t trying to scam me for my money, they were trying to conduct cognitive warfare with me, trying to find out Taiwan’s public opinion and Taiwanese’s thoughts about the book," added Yang.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Taiwan's Administration for Digital Industries has summoned&nbsp;Eslite Bookstore representatives to explain the loopholes in their cyber security system which allowed non-state actors to get hold of customer data.&nbsp;

China drumming up the intensity of scam calls comes in the backdrop of Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen recently visiting the US and meeting the top leaders.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Over the last year and a half, China has upped the ante on Taiwan, especially after former US House speaker Nancy Pelosi visited the island nation. Now, Chinese propagandists masquerading as marketing professionals are attempting to brainwash Taiwanese nationals to achieve total unification.

Over the last year and a half, China has upped the ante on Taiwan, especially after former US House speaker Nancy Pelosi visited the island nation. Now, Chinese propagandists masquerading as marketing professionals are attempting to brainwash Taiwanese nationals to achieve total unification. Recently, a Taiwanese woman named Yang Hsin-tzu was targetted incessantly by the Chinese IT cell after she purchased a book titled 'If China Attacks' which essentially is anti-CPC (Communist Party of China) in its leanings. Yang bought the book from Eslite Bookstore in February but received a mysterious call last Saturday (May 13) which piqued her interest. Yang, who is a deputy executive secretary for a non-profit, "Here I Stand Project" took to Facebook to chronicle her experience. Yang said she missed two "strange" calls with the country code +28. However, when the phone rang the third time, she picked up the call and heard a soft female voice on the receiver's end. “The voice was female, and from the beginning, she spoke in a very diffident tone,” Yang wrote, adding that the woman claimed to a representative of Eslite Bookstore who was conducting a survey following Yang’s purchase of the book. When she quizzed the caller on what the survey was regarding, the Chinese propagandist said, “The book you bought contains very sensitive content...This book’s content is inappropriate, so I wish to hear your opinion.” WATCH | China's territorial ambitions, claims over Taiwan × Having talked for a few minutes on the phone, Yang realised that the accent of the caller was faux-Taiwanese, meaning she was not a Taiwanese native. “At that moment, I was both nervous and excited, not wanting to miss the chance to face-off directly with Chinese communists," added Yang who told the caller to revert once she has picked up the book. This time Yang prepared to record the call but instead of the woman, she got a man on the follow-up call. The said man claimed to be from Eslite Bookstore’s marketing department. Unlike the woman caller, the man had no pretence and right off the bat, started kicking Taiwan and schooling Yang that even though she was not born in China, she was a native. “China has strong military prowess, there is no way Taiwan will come out victorious," said the caller, who repeatedly claimed that the US won't help Taiwan and that Kuomintang (KMT) is better. × He also declared, “the unification of Taiwan is inevitable, voting for the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) will result in unification by force, and voting for the KMT will result in peaceful unification and one country, two systems!” ALSO READ | China condemns meeting between US House speaker and Taiwan president, vows 'resolute' response China's psychological warfare It is common knowledge that scammers from China have been targeting online shoppers in Taiwan. Their main aim is to not engage in financial fraud but to conduct psychological warfare and sow seeds of confusion about the Taiwanese Army and government. “This time, they weren’t trying to scam me for my money, they were trying to conduct cognitive warfare with me, trying to find out Taiwan’s public opinion and Taiwanese’s thoughts about the book," added Yang. Meanwhile, Taiwan's Administration for Digital Industries has summoned Eslite Bookstore representatives to explain the loopholes in their cyber security system which allowed non-state actors to get hold of customer data. China drumming up the intensity of scam calls comes in the backdrop of Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen recently visiting the US and meeting the top leaders. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Chinese propagandists are scam-calling those buying anti-Communist party books

A top Chinese general has urged the adoption of novel capabilities of warfare including artificial intelligence integrated with conventional warfare tactics with an eye on lessons emerging from conflict in Ukraine. General Wang Haijiang, commander of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Western Theatre Command wrote a front-page article in an official newspaper on Monday (May 15). He said "political warfare, financial warfare, technological warfare, cyber warfare, and cognitive warfare" were important factors in emerging warfare tactics.

"At present and in the future, local conflicts and turmoil are frequent, global problems are intensifying, and the world has entered a new period of turmoil and change," Wang wrote in Study Times.

"Various 'black swan' and 'grey rhinoceros' events may occur at any time, especially with the containing, encircling, decoupling, suppressing, and military threats of some Western nations," he continued.

Gravitas: Can China broker peace between Russia &amp; Ukraine?

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China has been increasing its defence spending for eighth year straight in 2023. Slowing economy and Covid have not deterred the country from spending big on defence.&nbsp;

The scale and sweep of Chinese military preparations are closely watched not just by the West, but also by China's neighbours and democratically governed Taiwan.

China claims Taiwan to be its own territory and has not ruled out use of force to capture the island nation.

Despite the hundreds of billions of dollars poured into defence spending, China's armed forces do not have much recent experience in a hot war, with its last - and brief - military conflict in 1979 with Vietnam.

Wang wrote that ability to win is needed to maintain national security.&nbsp;

China has flexed its military muscle over Taiwan in recent months. Chinese drones have been seen encircling the island. Any aggressive action against Taiwan brings China closer to a potential conflict with the United States, the biggest international backer of Taiwan. This has brought the PLA's combat-readiness in a hypothetical war in focus.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientist-working-in-uk-for-last-20-years-joins-chinas-hypersonic-programme-592323">Scientist working in UK for last 20 years joins China’s hypersonic programme</a>

Washington has a policy of "strategic ambiguity" over whether it would intervene militarily to defend Taiwan, but is bound by law to provide the island with the means to defend itself.

Wang said that China will seek new military advantages by building up capacity in areas like information networks, artificial intelligence, aviation and space.

In a separate rare critique in January reflecting on lessons learned from the Ukraine war, the PLA Daily noted Russia's military flaws, including the need to improve its "situation awareness" in the battlefield.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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A top Chinese general has urged the adoption of novel capabilities of warfare including artificial intelligence integrated with conventional warfare tactics with an eye on lessons emerging from conflict in Ukraine.

A top Chinese general has urged the adoption of novel capabilities of warfare including artificial intelligence integrated with conventional warfare tactics with an eye on lessons emerging from conflict in Ukraine. General Wang Haijiang, commander of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Western Theatre Command wrote a front-page article in an official newspaper on Monday (May 15). He said "political warfare, financial warfare, technological warfare, cyber warfare, and cognitive warfare" were important factors in emerging warfare tactics. "At present and in the future, local conflicts and turmoil are frequent, global problems are intensifying, and the world has entered a new period of turmoil and change," Wang wrote in Study Times. "Various 'black swan' and 'grey rhinoceros' events may occur at any time, especially with the containing, encircling, decoupling, suppressing, and military threats of some Western nations," he continued. Gravitas: Can China broker peace between Russia & Ukraine? × China has been increasing its defence spending for eighth year straight in 2023. Slowing economy and Covid have not deterred the country from spending big on defence. The scale and sweep of Chinese military preparations are closely watched not just by the West, but also by China's neighbours and democratically governed Taiwan. China claims Taiwan to be its own territory and has not ruled out use of force to capture the island nation. Despite the hundreds of billions of dollars poured into defence spending, China's armed forces do not have much recent experience in a hot war, with its last - and brief - military conflict in 1979 with Vietnam. Wang wrote that ability to win is needed to maintain national security. China has flexed its military muscle over Taiwan in recent months. Chinese drones have been seen encircling the island. Any aggressive action against Taiwan brings China closer to a potential conflict with the United States, the biggest international backer of Taiwan. This has brought the PLA's combat-readiness in a hypothetical war in focus. Also Read | Scientist working in UK for last 20 years joins China’s hypersonic programme Washington has a policy of "strategic ambiguity" over whether it would intervene militarily to defend Taiwan, but is bound by law to provide the island with the means to defend itself. Wang said that China will seek new military advantages by building up capacity in areas like information networks, artificial intelligence, aviation and space. In a separate rare critique in January reflecting on lessons learned from the Ukraine war, the PLA Daily noted Russia's military flaws, including the need to improve its "situation awareness" in the battlefield. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Top Chinese general bats for building up hybrid warfare capabilities

First women reservists training held in Taiwan

Taiwan's vibrant culture, rich history, and natural wonders make it a magnet for tourists from across the world, including India. With its world-class facilities and ease of doing business, Taiwan has also emerged as a sought-after business travel destination. All this and more in our special show - Taiwan - The Heart of Asia.

Taiwan - The Heart of Asia

Taiwan is conducting drills to protect itself from probable Chinese attacks. The Mayor of Taipei says they won't back down from a fight. Molly gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Taiwan conducts drills to prepare for Chinese attack

Taiwan's defence ministry said on Wednesday (May 3) that the self-ruled island detected a Chinese reconnaissance drone sent to conduct a so-called 'island encirclement patrol,' reported South China Morning Post (SCMP). This is the second time Taiwan has announced that a Chinese drone encircled the island in the last two weeks. According to a report by SCMP, the Taiwanese Defence Ministry said that the drone was accompanied by a transport aircraft which had an advanced jamming system.

Chinese drone encircles Taiwan again, second time in recent weeks: Report

Taiwan Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said on Thursday that the delivery of 66 advanced new F-16Vs from the United States has been delayed due to supply chain disruptions and the ministry was working to minimise the damage and "make up for deficiencies".

The United States in 2019 approved an eight billion dollar sale of Lockheed Martin Corp (LMT.N) F-16 fighter jets to Taiwan, a deal that would take the island's F-16 fleet to more than 200 jets, the largest in Asia, to strengthen its defences in the face of a stepped-up threat from China, which claims Taiwan as its own.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-leader-says-ukraine-counter-offensive-has-begun-death-toll-from-kherson-shelling-rises-to-21-588678">Wagner leader says Ukraine counter-offensive has begun; Death toll from Kherson shelling rises to 21</a>

Taiwan has been converting 141 F-16A/B jets into the F-16V type and has in addition ordered 66 new F-16Vs, which have new avionics, weapons and radar systems to better face down the Chinese air force, including its J-20 stealth fighter.

The first of the new F-16Vs was meant to be delivered in the fourth quarter of this year but that has been delayed to the third quarter of next year due to pandemic-related supply chain disruptions, the ministry said.

Speaking to reporters at parliament, Chiu said Taiwan had asked the United States to "make up the deficiency", including prioritising spare part deliveries for the existing fleet.

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"Multiple channels are being used, and we are minimising the damage from this," he said, adding they still expected to get the full order delivered before 2026.

The ministry is using diplomatic channels, such as via the de facto U.S. embassy in Taipei, to resolve the problem, Chiu said.

Neither the de facto embassy, the American Institute in Taiwan, nor Lockheed Martin immediately responded to a request for comment.

Taiwan has since last year complained of delays to U.S. weapons deliveries, such as Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, as manufacturers turn supplies to Ukraine as it battles invading Russian forces, and the issue has concerned U.S. lawmakers.

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Michael McCaul, chairman of the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, said during a visit to Taipei last month he was doing everything possible to speed up arms deliveries.

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Taiwan Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said on Thursday that the delivery of 66 advanced new F-16Vs from the United States has been delayed due to supply chain disruptions and the ministry was working to minimise the damage and "make up for deficiencies".

Taiwan Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said on Thursday that the delivery of 66 advanced new F-16Vs from the United States has been delayed due to supply chain disruptions and the ministry was working to minimise the damage and "make up for deficiencies". The United States in 2019 approved an eight billion dollar sale of Lockheed Martin Corp (LMT.N) F-16 fighter jets to Taiwan, a deal that would take the island's F-16 fleet to more than 200 jets, the largest in Asia, to strengthen its defences in the face of a stepped-up threat from China, which claims Taiwan as its own. Also Read | Wagner leader says Ukraine counter-offensive has begun; Death toll from Kherson shelling rises to 21 Taiwan has been converting 141 F-16A/B jets into the F-16V type and has in addition ordered 66 new F-16Vs, which have new avionics, weapons and radar systems to better face down the Chinese air force, including its J-20 stealth fighter. The first of the new F-16Vs was meant to be delivered in the fourth quarter of this year but that has been delayed to the third quarter of next year due to pandemic-related supply chain disruptions, the ministry said. Speaking to reporters at parliament, Chiu said Taiwan had asked the United States to "make up the deficiency", including prioritising spare part deliveries for the existing fleet. Also Read | At least 14 killed, 25 injured after road accident in Egypt: Reports "Multiple channels are being used, and we are minimising the damage from this," he said, adding they still expected to get the full order delivered before 2026. The ministry is using diplomatic channels, such as via the de facto U.S. embassy in Taipei, to resolve the problem, Chiu said. Neither the de facto embassy, the American Institute in Taiwan, nor Lockheed Martin immediately responded to a request for comment. Taiwan has since last year complained of delays to U.S. weapons deliveries, such as Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, as manufacturers turn supplies to Ukraine as it battles invading Russian forces, and the issue has concerned U.S. lawmakers. Watch | Iran seizes Panama-flagged oil tanker in Tehran on judicial order | World News | WION × Michael McCaul, chairman of the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, said during a visit to Taipei last month he was doing everything possible to speed up arms deliveries. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taiwan says F-16 deliveries delayed, working to minimise damage

Taiwan's Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said that the delivery of 66 advanced new F-16V jets from the United States has been delayed due to supply chain disruptions and the ministry was working to minimize the damage.

Taiwan awaiting delivery of 66 advanced new F-16V jets to counter China threat

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