Taiwan on Monday (Sept 18) said that it detected 103 Chinese warplanes around the island in 24 hours, sounding alarm bells over the heightened presence of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

"103 PLA aircraft and 9 PLAN vessels around Taiwan were detected" between Sunday and Monday morning, the defence ministry said in a statement, referring to China's air force and navy.

The ministry said that the number of Chinese military aircraft carrying out missions over the sea in the last 24 hours was a "recent high".

The ministry said that 40 of the planes detected Sunday and early Monday crossed the symbolic median line between Taiwan and mainland China.

Taipei urged Beijing to stop “destructive, unilateral action”, warning such harassment could lead to a sharp increase in tensions.

<h2>Increased military drills </h2>

It comes at a time when China has been undertaking military drills near the self-ruled island in a bid to increase pressure as it asserts claim over Taiwan, which it considers a part of its territory.

Between Wednesday (Sept 13) and Thursday ((Sept 14) morning, Taiwan’s defence ministry detected 68 PLA aircraft and 10 PLAN vessels in a day.

The previous day on Tuesday, Taiwan said it detected 35 warplanes around the island.

It is believed that the Chinese drills coincided with a joint maritime exercise conducted by the US, South Korea and Canada that happened on the Yellow Sea on Thursday.

The military build-up is part of China’s attempts to lay claim over Taiwan and its integration into the mainland.

<h2>Plan for peaceful unification </h2>

On Tuesday (September 12), the Chinese policymakers unveiled a new plan to move forward with the country's bid for "peaceful unification" with Taiwan.

Under the measures, the Chinese policymakers plan to turn Fujian province into a model zone for "integration" with the island nation.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-detects-84-chinese-warplanes-and-33-warships-near-island-in-three-days-635821">Taiwan detects 84 Chinese warplanes and 33 warships near island in three days</a>

The plan, which has been jointly issued by the Communist Party's Central Committee and the State Council, China's cabinet, aims to "deepen cross-strait integrated development in all fields and promote the process of peaceful reunification".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-demands-clarification-after-ukrainian-official-questions-intellectual-potential-635807">Beijing demands clarification after Ukrainian official questions intellect</a>

Apart from that, the proposal includes making it easier for Taiwanese people to live, study and do business in Fujian and encouraging companies in the province to hire staff from Taiwan.&nbsp;

They also call for Xiamen coastal city to speed up integration with Kinmen and Matsu, two groups of islands that lie just a few miles off the coast of mainland China but are governed by Taiwan.&nbsp;

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Taiwan on Monday (Sept 18) said that it detected 103 Chinese warplanes around the island in 24 hours, sounding alarm bells over the heightened presence of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

Taiwan on Monday (Sept 18) said that it detected 103 Chinese warplanes around the island in 24 hours, sounding alarm bells over the heightened presence of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). "103 PLA aircraft and 9 PLAN vessels around Taiwan were detected" between Sunday and Monday morning, the defence ministry said in a statement, referring to China's air force and navy. The ministry said that the number of Chinese military aircraft carrying out missions over the sea in the last 24 hours was a "recent high". The ministry said that 40 of the planes detected Sunday and early Monday crossed the symbolic median line between Taiwan and mainland China. Taipei urged Beijing to stop “destructive, unilateral action”, warning such harassment could lead to a sharp increase in tensions. Increased military drills It comes at a time when China has been undertaking military drills near the self-ruled island in a bid to increase pressure as it asserts claim over Taiwan, which it considers a part of its territory. Between Wednesday (Sept 13) and Thursday ((Sept 14) morning, Taiwan’s defence ministry detected 68 PLA aircraft and 10 PLAN vessels in a day. The previous day on Tuesday, Taiwan said it detected 35 warplanes around the island. It is believed that the Chinese drills coincided with a joint maritime exercise conducted by the US, South Korea and Canada that happened on the Yellow Sea on Thursday. The military build-up is part of China’s attempts to lay claim over Taiwan and its integration into the mainland. Plan for peaceful unification On Tuesday (September 12), the Chinese policymakers unveiled a new plan to move forward with the country's bid for "peaceful unification" with Taiwan. Under the measures, the Chinese policymakers plan to turn Fujian province into a model zone for "integration" with the island nation. Also read | Taiwan detects 84 Chinese warplanes and 33 warships near island in three days The plan, which has been jointly issued by the Communist Party's Central Committee and the State Council, China's cabinet, aims to "deepen cross-strait integrated development in all fields and promote the process of peaceful reunification". Also read | Beijing demands clarification after Ukrainian official questions intellect Apart from that, the proposal includes making it easier for Taiwanese people to live, study and do business in Fujian and encouraging companies in the province to hire staff from Taiwan. They also call for Xiamen coastal city to speed up integration with Kinmen and Matsu, two groups of islands that lie just a few miles off the coast of mainland China but are governed by Taiwan. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Taiwan detects 103 Chinese warplanes, asks Beijing to stop 'destructive, unilateral action' 

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with the White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan this past weekend and on Monday he is in Russia and is all set to meet the Russian foreign minister. A clear reflection of China being on an endless streak of diplomatic visits and bilateral dialogue.

Wang Yi in Russia: Taiwan the 'red line' between US-China ties

China files 103 military planes towards Taiwan

China has sanctioned two US defense companies Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman for supplying arms to Taiwan in a press conference.

China slaps sanctions on US defence firms over sending arms to Taiwan

Taiwan said on September 14 that China had flown 68 warplanes and deployed 10 navy vessels into areas around the self-ruled island in one day.

68 Chinese warplanes, 10 vessels detected near island: Taiwan

Taiwan slammed Elon Musk on Thursday (September 14) for his comment about the island nation. Taipei called out the US tech billionaire for "blindly flattering" Beijing after he called the self-ruled island "an integral part" of China. &nbsp;

China views self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and even claims that, in case needed, it will use force to unite the two territories. For the same, China boosted its military presence near democratically governed Taiwan in recent years.&nbsp;

Musk said, "Their (Beijing's) policy has been to reunite Taiwan with China. From their standpoint, maybe it is analogous to Hawaii or something like that, like an integral part of China that is arbitrarily not part of China mostly because ... the U.S. Pacific Fleet has stopped any sort of reunification effort by force."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-bags-saga-there-were-20-large-bags-with-suspicious-equipment-probe-on-635871">Chinese bags saga: There were 20 large bags with ‘suspicious equipment’, probe on</a>&nbsp;

Musk's comments came during an All-In Summit in Los Angeles, which was uploaded to the video-sharing site YouTube this week.&nbsp;

While responding to the same, Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said that he hoped Musk could ask China to "open @X to its people". China blocks X, along with other major Western social media like Facebook.&nbsp;

In a post on X late Wednesday, Wu said: "Perhaps he thinks banning it is a good policy, like turning off @Starlink to thwart Ukraine's counterstrike against Russia."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-detects-84-chinese-warplanes-and-33-warships-near-island-in-three-days-635821">Taiwan detects 84 Chinese warplanes and 33 warships near island in three days</a>&nbsp;

Wu referred to Musk's refusing a Ukrainian request to activate his Starlink satellite network in Crimea's port city of Sevastopol last year to aid an attack on Russia's fleet there.&nbsp;

"Listen up, Taiwan is not part of the PRC (People's Republic of China) &amp; certainly not for sale!" Wu said.&nbsp;

<h2>China's plans for strengthening integration with Taiwan&nbsp;</h2>

China has come up with a new path to move forward with its bid of "peaceful unification" with Taiwan and has unveiled a plan to turn Fujian province into a model zone for "integration" with the island nation.&nbsp;

The Chinese policymakers released detailed measures to turn the southeastern mainland province into a demonstration area for integrated development across the Taiwan Strait.&nbsp;

The move aims to "deepen cross-strait integrated development in all fields and promote the process of peaceful reunification".&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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The plans include proposals to make it easier for Taiwanese people to live, study and do business in Fujian, as well as encouragement for companies in the province to hire staff from Taiwan.&nbsp;

Taiwan's democratically elected government strongly rejects China's sovereignty claims and says only Taiwan's people can decide their future.&nbsp;

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Taiwan slammed Elon Musk on Thursday (September 14) for his comment about the island nation. Taipei called out the US tech billionaire for "blindly flattering" Beijing after he called the self-ruled island "an integral part" of China.

Taiwan slammed Elon Musk on Thursday (September 14) for his comment about the island nation. Taipei called out the US tech billionaire for "blindly flattering" Beijing after he called the self-ruled island "an integral part" of China. China views self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and even claims that, in case needed, it will use force to unite the two territories. For the same, China boosted its military presence near democratically governed Taiwan in recent years. Musk said, "Their (Beijing's) policy has been to reunite Taiwan with China. From their standpoint, maybe it is analogous to Hawaii or something like that, like an integral part of China that is arbitrarily not part of China mostly because ... the U.S. Pacific Fleet has stopped any sort of reunification effort by force." Also read: Chinese bags saga: There were 20 large bags with ‘suspicious equipment’, probe on Musk's comments came during an All-In Summit in Los Angeles, which was uploaded to the video-sharing site YouTube this week. While responding to the same, Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said that he hoped Musk could ask China to "open @X to its people". China blocks X, along with other major Western social media like Facebook. In a post on X late Wednesday, Wu said: "Perhaps he thinks banning it is a good policy, like turning off @Starlink to thwart Ukraine's counterstrike against Russia." Also read: Taiwan detects 84 Chinese warplanes and 33 warships near island in three days Wu referred to Musk's refusing a Ukrainian request to activate his Starlink satellite network in Crimea's port city of Sevastopol last year to aid an attack on Russia's fleet there. "Listen up, Taiwan is not part of the PRC (People's Republic of China) & certainly not for sale!" Wu said. China's plans for strengthening integration with Taiwan China has come up with a new path to move forward with its bid of "peaceful unification" with Taiwan and has unveiled a plan to turn Fujian province into a model zone for "integration" with the island nation. The Chinese policymakers released detailed measures to turn the southeastern mainland province into a demonstration area for integrated development across the Taiwan Strait. The move aims to "deepen cross-strait integrated development in all fields and promote the process of peaceful reunification". Watch this report: × The plans include proposals to make it easier for Taiwanese people to live, study and do business in Fujian, as well as encouragement for companies in the province to hire staff from Taiwan. Taiwan's democratically elected government strongly rejects China's sovereignty claims and says only Taiwan's people can decide their future. 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 'not for sale': Taipei slams Elon Musk over ‘blindly flattering’ comments for China

Taiwan lashed out at the US tech billionaire Elon Musk on Thursday for "blindly flattering" Beijing after he called the self-ruled island "an integral part" of China.

Taiwan slams Musk for calling it an 'integral part' of China

Taiwan on Thursday (Sept 14) said that it has detected at least 84 Chinese warplanes and 33 warships in three days near its territory, as the People Liberation of Army (PLA) conducts one of its biggest joint sea and air drills in months in the Western Pacific.

Between Wednesday and Thursday morning, 68 PLA aircraft and 10 PLAN vessels around Taiwan were detected, the Taipei defence ministry said in a statement.

The previous day on Tuesday, Taiwan said it detected 35 warplanes around the island.

Taiwan’s defence ministry said that some of the planes and warships detected on Wednesday were heading to an unspecified location at the Western Pacific to "conduct joint sea and air training with the Shandong aircraft carrier."

<h2>Movements spotted amidst Chinese military drills</h2>

Shandong is the first carrier built by the mainland and the PLA’s second battle group. The defence ministry said that it was spotted 60 nautical miles off Taiwan’s southernmost tip on Monday when it headed for combat training.

“Twenty-eight of them crossed the median line and entered our southwest air defence identification zone (ADIZ),” the ministry said, referring to the de facto line that separates the island from the mainland in the Taiwan Strait.

“Some of the warplanes headed towards the western Pacific through Bashi Channel to join the Shandong for a joint sea and air training.”

China has so far not officially commented on any drills being conducted in the Western Pacific.

But its Eastern Theatre Command, which organises drills around Taiwan, on Wednesday said that an "aviation unit" had carried out training "recently", in a range of "thousands of kilometres."

It, however, did not mention Taiwan.

<h2>Presence of&nbsp;Shandong rattles Taiwan</h2>

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-demands-clarification-after-ukrainian-official-questions-intellectual-potential-635807">Beijing demands clarification after Ukrainian official questions intellect</a>

Though China regularly conducts military drills around Taiwan in a bid to assert its authority over the self-ruled island, the presence of the Shandong aircraft carrier has rattled Taipei.

Major General Huang Wen-chi, of the ministry’s general staff for intelligence, said that Shandong would form a new risk for the island.

“The Shandong, flanked by such new destroyers as [the] Type 052C and Type O52D, evidently would form a considerable threat to our near-sea and coastal defence but the carrier still does not possess the full capability in air and sea strikes,” he said in Taipei on Tuesday, reports South China Morning Post.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Taiwan on Thursday (Sept 14) said that it has detected at least 84 Chinese warplanes and 33 warships in three days near its territory, as the People Liberation of Army (PLA) conducts one of its biggest joint sea and air drills in months in the Western Pacific.

Taiwan on Thursday (Sept 14) said that it has detected at least 84 Chinese warplanes and 33 warships in three days near its territory, as the People Liberation of Army (PLA) conducts one of its biggest joint sea and air drills in months in the Western Pacific. Between Wednesday and Thursday morning, 68 PLA aircraft and 10 PLAN vessels around Taiwan were detected, the Taipei defence ministry said in a statement. The previous day on Tuesday, Taiwan said it detected 35 warplanes around the island. Taiwan’s defence ministry said that some of the planes and warships detected on Wednesday were heading to an unspecified location at the Western Pacific to "conduct joint sea and air training with the Shandong aircraft carrier." Movements spotted amidst Chinese military drills Shandong is the first carrier built by the mainland and the PLA’s second battle group. The defence ministry said that it was spotted 60 nautical miles off Taiwan’s southernmost tip on Monday when it headed for combat training. “Twenty-eight of them crossed the median line and entered our southwest air defence identification zone (ADIZ),” the ministry said, referring to the de facto line that separates the island from the mainland in the Taiwan Strait. “Some of the warplanes headed towards the western Pacific through Bashi Channel to join the Shandong for a joint sea and air training.” China has so far not officially commented on any drills being conducted in the Western Pacific. But its Eastern Theatre Command, which organises drills around Taiwan, on Wednesday said that an "aviation unit" had carried out training "recently", in a range of "thousands of kilometres." It, however, did not mention Taiwan. Presence of Shandong rattles Taiwan Also read | Beijing demands clarification after Ukrainian official questions intellect Though China regularly conducts military drills around Taiwan in a bid to assert its authority over the self-ruled island, the presence of the Shandong aircraft carrier has rattled Taipei. Major General Huang Wen-chi, of the ministry’s general staff for intelligence, said that Shandong would form a new risk for the island. “The Shandong, flanked by such new destroyers as [the] Type 052C and Type O52D, evidently would form a considerable threat to our near-sea and coastal defence but the carrier still does not possess the full capability in air and sea strikes,” he said in Taipei on Tuesday, reports South China Morning Post. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Taiwan detects 84 Chinese warplanes and 33 warships near island in three days

China eyes Taiwan 'reunification' | China bolsters military aggression.

China eyes Taiwan 'reunification' | China bolsters military aggression | WION

China has come up with a new path to move forward its bid of "peaceful unification" with Taiwan. Beijing has unveiled a plan to turn Fujian province into a model zone for "integration" with the island nation.&nbsp;

Beijing views self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and even claims that, in case needed, it will use force to unite the two territories. For the same, China boosted its military presence near democratically governed Taiwan in recent years.&nbsp;

China's relations with the island soured since Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen came to power in 2016 and deteriorated further when coronavirus curbs impacted trade and other exchanges.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/head-of-chinas-largest-insurance-firm-sentenced-to-life-for-corruption-amid-xis-financial-sector-crackdown-635684">Head of China's largest insurance firm sentenced to life for corruption amid Xi's financial sector crackdown</a>&nbsp;

On Tuesday (September 12), the Chinese policymakers released detailed measures in a 21-article document to turn the southeastern mainland province into a demonstration area for integrated development across the Taiwan Strait.&nbsp;

According to the plan, which has been jointly issued by the Communist Party's Central Committee and the State Council, China's cabinet, the move aims to "deepen cross-strait integrated development in all fields and promote the process of peaceful reunification".&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-becomes-first-country-to-send-its-envoy-to-afghanistan-after-taliban-takeover-635591">China becomes first country to send envoy to Afghanistan after Taliban takeover</a>&nbsp;

The plans include proposals to make it easier for Taiwanese people to live, study and do business in Fujian, as well as encouragement for companies in the province to hire staff from Taiwan.&nbsp;

They also call for the coastal city of Xiamen to speed up integration with Kinmen and Matsu, two groups of islands that lie just a few miles off the coast of mainland China but are governed by Taiwan.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Former China life insurance Chief Wang Bin imprisoned&nbsp;

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The document said, "Solving the Taiwan issue and realising the complete reunification of the motherland is the unswerving historical task of the Chinese Communist Party... and the inevitable requirement for realising the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation."&nbsp;

The plan and details for integration have been announced just months before Taiwan goes to the polls in January to elect a new president for the next four years.&nbsp;

The United States recognises Beijing diplomatically over Taipei but maintains de facto relations with Taiwan and supports its right to decide its own future.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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China has come up with a new path to move forward its bid of "peaceful unification" with Taiwan. Beijing has unveiled a plan to turn Fujian province into a model zone for "integration" with the island nation.

China has come up with a new path to move forward its bid of "peaceful unification" with Taiwan. Beijing has unveiled a plan to turn Fujian province into a model zone for "integration" with the island nation. Beijing views self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and even claims that, in case needed, it will use force to unite the two territories. For the same, China boosted its military presence near democratically governed Taiwan in recent years. China's relations with the island soured since Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen came to power in 2016 and deteriorated further when coronavirus curbs impacted trade and other exchanges. Also read: Head of China's largest insurance firm sentenced to life for corruption amid Xi's financial sector crackdown On Tuesday (September 12), the Chinese policymakers released detailed measures in a 21-article document to turn the southeastern mainland province into a demonstration area for integrated development across the Taiwan Strait. According to the plan, which has been jointly issued by the Communist Party's Central Committee and the State Council, China's cabinet, the move aims to "deepen cross-strait integrated development in all fields and promote the process of peaceful reunification". Also read: China becomes first country to send envoy to Afghanistan after Taliban takeover The plans include proposals to make it easier for Taiwanese people to live, study and do business in Fujian, as well as encouragement for companies in the province to hire staff from Taiwan. They also call for the coastal city of Xiamen to speed up integration with Kinmen and Matsu, two groups of islands that lie just a few miles off the coast of mainland China but are governed by Taiwan. Watch: Former China life insurance Chief Wang Bin imprisoned × The document said, "Solving the Taiwan issue and realising the complete reunification of the motherland is the unswerving historical task of the Chinese Communist Party... and the inevitable requirement for realising the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation." The plan and details for integration have been announced just months before Taiwan goes to the polls in January to elect a new president for the next four years. The United States recognises Beijing diplomatically over Taipei but maintains de facto relations with Taiwan and supports its right to decide its own future. (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.

China outlines raft of measures for strengthening integration with Taiwan

Taiwan detected 39 Chinese warplanes and an aircraft carrier after a U.S. Destroyer and a Canadian frigate transited through the Taiwan strait over the weekend. In recent years, Beijing has ratcheted up military and political pressure on Taiwan. It often conducts naval exercises or sends warplanes buzzing overhead to coincide with any diplomatic engagements with Taipei.

Taiwan detects 39 Chinese warplanes after transit by U.S. & Canada warships | Details

A Chinese naval formation led by the aircraft carrier Shandong passed 60 nautical miles (111km) to Taiwan's southeast on Monday and entered the western Pacific for training, the island's defence ministry said.

The ministry said that beginning at 5:40 a.m., it also spotted 11 Chinese military aircraft, including J-16 fighters, in Taiwan's air defence identification zone and that its forces had made an "appropriate response".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-protests-ethiopias-gerd-filling-labels-move-illegal-634846">Egypt protests Ethiopia's Nile dam filling, labels move 'Illegal'</a>

The Shandong, commissioned in 2019, participated in Chinese military drills around Taiwan in April, operating in the western Pacific. It also sailed through the Taiwan Strait in June.

A U.S. and a Canadian warship sailed through the Taiwan Strait on Saturday, marking the second such joint mission since June and coinciding with the leaders of both countries attending the G20 summit in India.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-saudi-arabia-are-in-dialogue-to-secure-metals-in-africa-report-634827">US, Saudi Arabia are in dialogue to secure metals in Africa: Report</a>

China, which has never renounced the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control, has stepped up military activities near the democratically governed island, responding to what it calls "collusion" between Taiwan and the United States.

Watch | Morocco Earthquake: Death toll rises to over 2,122 rescue operation underway

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Taiwan strongly disputes Beijing's sovereignty claims.

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A Chinese naval formation led by the aircraft carrier Shandong passed 60 nautical miles (111km) to Taiwan's southeast on Monday and entered the western Pacific for training, the island's defence ministry said.

A Chinese naval formation led by the aircraft carrier Shandong passed 60 nautical miles (111km) to Taiwan's southeast on Monday and entered the western Pacific for training, the island's defence ministry said. The ministry said that beginning at 5:40 a.m., it also spotted 11 Chinese military aircraft, including J-16 fighters, in Taiwan's air defence identification zone and that its forces had made an "appropriate response". Also Read | Egypt protests Ethiopia's Nile dam filling, labels move 'Illegal' The Shandong, commissioned in 2019, participated in Chinese military drills around Taiwan in April, operating in the western Pacific. It also sailed through the Taiwan Strait in June. A U.S. and a Canadian warship sailed through the Taiwan Strait on Saturday, marking the second such joint mission since June and coinciding with the leaders of both countries attending the G20 summit in India. Also Read | US, Saudi Arabia are in dialogue to secure metals in Africa: Report China, which has never renounced the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control, has stepped up military activities near the democratically governed island, responding to what it calls "collusion" between Taiwan and the United States. Watch | Morocco Earthquake: Death toll rises to over 2,122 rescue operation underway × Taiwan strongly disputes Beijing's sovereignty claims. 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 Chinese carrier group in Western Pacific for training

Tensions are running high around Taiwan - a self-ruled island that China claims to be part of its own territory.

Xi Jinping calls for higher military combat readiness

Beijing's warning for the world?

The Taiwan government’s new logo to mark the upcoming Double Tenth holiday unveiled&nbsp;last week&nbsp;has sparked a debate amid rumours that the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) may try to change the self-governing island’s official name, the Republic of China, reported the South China Morning Post (SCMP), on Sunday (September 10).&nbsp;

The speculations and supposed move could provoke Beijing which has ramped up military and political pressure on Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty and reiterated calls for reunification with the self-governing island.

<h2>What is the logo about?</h2>

Last week, organisers of this year’s Double Tenth celebrations which will take place on October 10 revealed the logo which features two “10” characters and its slogan in Chinese reads: “Democratic Taiwan, resilience and sustainability,” as per the SCMP. While the words in English underneath read: “2023 Taiwan National Day”.&nbsp;

However, none of the versions mentions the Republic of China, which has drawn criticism from the Beijing-friendly main opposition Kuomintang party.&nbsp;

The day, for which the logo was unveiled, marks the beginning of the 1911 revolution that led to the fall of the Qing dynasty and the founding of the Republic of China, which is celebrated in Taiwan every year since Nationalists were defeated by the Communists in the Chinese Civil War in 1949 and fled to the island.&nbsp;

<h2>Opposition party calls the move ‘absurd’</h2>

“The ROC national day celebration is a very important event and it is absurd for the government to do away with the ROC title on this occasion,” said Lin Te-fu, former deputy secretary general of the Kuomintang party, as quoted by the SCMP.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the leader of the opposition Taiwan People’s Party caucus in the legislature suggested that the English be amended to “ROC (Taiwan) National Day” after saying it gives an impression that the DPP government is pushing for the independence of the island.&nbsp;

<h2>Is it about the upcoming elections?</h2>

Others have perceived the move as a “gimmick to sway votes” in favour of Vice-President William Lai Ching-te and the DPP’s candidate for the upcoming presidential elections which are set to take place in January 2024.&nbsp;

“The ruling party is switching back and forth in using that reference, sometimes calling it Taiwan and other times ROC – strictly depending on what it wants to achieve,” said the head of the pro-independence Formosa Alliance Kuo Pei-hung, as quoted by SCMP.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Nothing to worry about’: Govt responds to criticism</h2>

A day after the logo was released, Hua Ching-chun, deputy interior minister, said that they have used ROC “in front of the general title of the entire event. So there is nothing to worry about and no political action either”.&nbsp;

Additionally, Vice-Premier Cheng Wen-tsan said that a “different presentation” of the island’s name “no way changes the fact that we are the ROC government”.

Beijing continues to maintain its military and political pressure for democratically-elected Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty and reiterated calls for reunification with the self-governing island.

The People’s Liberation Army has intensified military activity near the island, particularly after then-United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taipei which Beijing perceived as a violation of its sovereignty. 
&nbsp;

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The Taiwan government’s new logo to mark the upcoming Double Tenth holiday unveiled last week has sparked a debate amid rumours that the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) may try to change the self-governing island’s official name, the Republic of China, reported the South China Morning Post (SCMP), on Sunday (September 10).

The Taiwan government’s new logo to mark the upcoming Double Tenth holiday unveiled last week has sparked a debate amid rumours that the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) may try to change the self-governing island’s official name, the Republic of China, reported the South China Morning Post (SCMP), on Sunday (September 10). The speculations and supposed move could provoke Beijing which has ramped up military and political pressure on Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty and reiterated calls for reunification with the self-governing island. What is the logo about? Last week, organisers of this year’s Double Tenth celebrations which will take place on October 10 revealed the logo which features two “10” characters and its slogan in Chinese reads: “Democratic Taiwan, resilience and sustainability,” as per the SCMP. While the words in English underneath read: “2023 Taiwan National Day”. However, none of the versions mentions the Republic of China, which has drawn criticism from the Beijing-friendly main opposition Kuomintang party. The day, for which the logo was unveiled, marks the beginning of the 1911 revolution that led to the fall of the Qing dynasty and the founding of the Republic of China, which is celebrated in Taiwan every year since Nationalists were defeated by the Communists in the Chinese Civil War in 1949 and fled to the island. Opposition party calls the move ‘absurd’ “The ROC national day celebration is a very important event and it is absurd for the government to do away with the ROC title on this occasion,” said Lin Te-fu, former deputy secretary general of the Kuomintang party, as quoted by the SCMP. Meanwhile, the leader of the opposition Taiwan People’s Party caucus in the legislature suggested that the English be amended to “ROC (Taiwan) National Day” after saying it gives an impression that the DPP government is pushing for the independence of the island. Is it about the upcoming elections? Others have perceived the move as a “gimmick to sway votes” in favour of Vice-President William Lai Ching-te and the DPP’s candidate for the upcoming presidential elections which are set to take place in January 2024. “The ruling party is switching back and forth in using that reference, sometimes calling it Taiwan and other times ROC – strictly depending on what it wants to achieve,” said the head of the pro-independence Formosa Alliance Kuo Pei-hung, as quoted by SCMP. ‘Nothing to worry about’: Govt responds to criticism A day after the logo was released, Hua Ching-chun, deputy interior minister, said that they have used ROC “in front of the general title of the entire event. So there is nothing to worry about and no political action either”. Additionally, Vice-Premier Cheng Wen-tsan said that a “different presentation” of the island’s name “no way changes the fact that we are the ROC government”. Beijing continues to maintain its military and political pressure for democratically-elected Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty and reiterated calls for reunification with the self-governing island. The People’s Liberation Army has intensified military activity near the island, particularly after then-United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taipei which Beijing perceived as a violation of its sovereignty. 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’s official name omitted from Double Tenth logo, sparks criticism: Report

A move by the Taiwanese government has sparked speculation over changing the self-ruled Island's official name.

Tussle in Taiwan over new logo

Taiwanese Presidential hopeful Terry Gou has proposed boosting the declining birthrate by offering couples free pets if they have a baby. Do new parents need another responsibility on their hands? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Pets for pregnancies in Taiwan?

Terry Gou, a presidential candidate from Taiwan, has suggested giving couples free pets if they have a child in order to increase the decreasing birthrate. Do newly minted parents require yet another obligation?

Taiwan: Terry Gou creates a stir with his solution to demographic crisis

Having a child is an important decision in any couple's life. Current times also compel everyone to regard pet-owners as 'parents' of their pets. If you are in Taiwan, you can kill both birds in one go as there is a talk of possibly gifting a cat or a dog to couples having a child. The person behind this proposal is Terry Gou, the billionaire entrepreneur who is aiming to become the next president of the democratically-ruled island.

Gou, the founder of Foxconn, declared his ambition as an independent candidate.

He told attendees at a Taipei city temple that the problem of declining birthrate in Taiwan could be solved by gifting a cat or a dog to new parents.

Taiwan has one of world's lowest birthrates. Delayed marriages, high cost of living are cited as some reasons among others. Rapid aging of the population is a concern for economy and military.

Pet ownership meanwhile, is skyrocketing. Media reports cite anecdotal references of people preferring animals over children.

Gou feels Taiwanese can be motivated to have children with promise of a pet.

“Give birth to a child and I will let you raise one more pet,” he said, according to a translation by Formosa TV. “A cat, a dog. Give birth to two, and I will let you adopt two more.”

“If there is no birthrate in the future, who will take care of our furry friends?” he told reporters later. “So I have put these two issues together. You can’t expect me, one person, to propose a complete policy for every little matter. Adding and multiplying love, that’s my goal.”

Getting a pet does not require permission from government in Taiwan.

Gou's proposal attracted criticism from some politicians and animal welfare groups.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-in-talks-to-develop-port-in-philippines-facing-taiwan-632344">US military in talks to develop port in Philippines facing Taiwan</a>

He has till the month of November to get 290,000 signatures to secure his nomination. However, his presence in the presidential fray has already shaken up the race. He is the third opposition candidate besides the KMT’s Hou You-ih and Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People's party.

Vice-President Lai Ching-te, the nominee from Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party, is currently leading the polls with one-third of support.

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Having a child is an important decision in any couple's life. Current times also compel everyone to regard pet-owners as 'parents' of their pets. If you are in Taiwan, you can kill both birds in one go as there is a talk of possibly gifting a cat or a dog to couples having a child.

Having a child is an important decision in any couple's life. Current times also compel everyone to regard pet-owners as 'parents' of their pets. If you are in Taiwan, you can kill both birds in one go as there is a talk of possibly gifting a cat or a dog to couples having a child. The person behind this proposal is Terry Gou, the billionaire entrepreneur who is aiming to become the next president of the democratically-ruled island. Gou, the founder of Foxconn, declared his ambition as an independent candidate. He told attendees at a Taipei city temple that the problem of declining birthrate in Taiwan could be solved by gifting a cat or a dog to new parents. Taiwan has one of world's lowest birthrates. Delayed marriages, high cost of living are cited as some reasons among others. Rapid aging of the population is a concern for economy and military. Pet ownership meanwhile, is skyrocketing. Media reports cite anecdotal references of people preferring animals over children. Gou feels Taiwanese can be motivated to have children with promise of a pet. “Give birth to a child and I will let you raise one more pet,” he said, according to a translation by Formosa TV. “A cat, a dog. Give birth to two, and I will let you adopt two more.” “If there is no birthrate in the future, who will take care of our furry friends?” he told reporters later. “So I have put these two issues together. You can’t expect me, one person, to propose a complete policy for every little matter. Adding and multiplying love, that’s my goal.” Getting a pet does not require permission from government in Taiwan. Gou's proposal attracted criticism from some politicians and animal welfare groups. Also Read | US military in talks to develop port in Philippines facing Taiwan He has till the month of November to get 290,000 signatures to secure his nomination. However, his presence in the presidential fray has already shaken up the race. He is the third opposition candidate besides the KMT’s Hou You-ih and Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People's party. Vice-President Lai Ching-te, the nominee from Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party, is currently leading the polls with one-third of support. 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 ×

Taiwan presidential hopeful offers pets to couples who are having babies

Typhoon Haikui leaves a trail of destruction across Taiwan. Authorities continue to restore power after typhoon batters island.

'Haikui' leaves trail of destruction after double landfall

Typhoon&nbsp;Haikui toppled hundreds of trees, damaged coastal roads and dumped torrential rains across Taiwan Monday before it weakened into a severe storm and headed for southern China.

Haikui had initially appeared to depart the island but made a second landfall early Monday in southwest Kaohsiung, before it was downgraded to a severe tropical storm as it moved out into the Taiwan Strait.

There were no reports of deaths, but destruction was seen in coastal Taitung, a mountainous county in lesser-populated eastern Taiwan where the storm directly hit the day before.

"I've lived here for so long and I have never seen such wind gusts," said Chen Hai-feng, 55, a village chief in Taitung's Donghe township, where he was with an early-morning work crew removing trees from a road.

Although Haikui is considered to be less severe than previous storms, Chen said it felt more powerful.

"It came straight through us."

Workers carefully manoeuvred diggers to move downed tree branches and electrical wiring that had snapped and splayed across the rain-drenched road.

Further north in coastal Changbin township, workers ferried massive concrete blocks to a coastal highway that had partially collapsed from the force of waves slamming into it, hoping they would absorb the impact.

Heavy orange-coloured barriers were placed near the edge to prevent cars from skidding over on the slippery roads.

Haikui -- the first&nbsp;typhoon&nbsp;landfall in Taiwan in four years -- forced the evacuation of more than 7,000 people across the island, particularly from landslide-prone mountainous regions. Hundreds of flights were cancelled and businesses were closed.

More than 217,000 households temporarily lost power through Sunday and overnight. By midday Monday, 11,000 homes still had no electricity, while schools and businesses remained closed in 14 cities as torrential rain bucketed down.

A forecaster with Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau said Haikui initially appeared to track away from the island and out to sea but made a second landfall in Kaohsiung at around 4:00 am (2000 GMT Sunday).

During the night "the centre of the&nbsp;typhoon&nbsp;was almost circling" the port city, but as it moved along the coastline "the structure of the&nbsp;typhoon&nbsp;is damaged by the terrain and gradually weakens", she said.

By mid-day, the storm had moved southwest of Taiwan's outlying island of Penghu, but was still bringing torrential rain and strong winds to the south and northeast.

In picturesque Hualien county, waterfalls cascaded down the lush cliffs along Taiwan's east coast, while market vendors in Keelung -- a northern port city surrounded by mountains -- braved the rain to sell fruit to raincoat-clad shoppers.

In Kaohsiung, the local government reported hundreds of toppled trees and flooding in dozens of locations, although the situation was easing as the storm departed and the weather conditions improved.

Nearly 80 people suffered injuries during the&nbsp;typhoon, according to authorities, though they were minor -- mostly due to fallen trees and car accidents.

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Typhoon Haikui toppled hundreds of trees, damaged coastal roads and dumped torrential rains across Taiwan Monday before it weakened into a severe storm and headed for southern China.

Typhoon Haikui toppled hundreds of trees, damaged coastal roads and dumped torrential rains across Taiwan Monday before it weakened into a severe storm and headed for southern China. Haikui had initially appeared to depart the island but made a second landfall early Monday in southwest Kaohsiung, before it was downgraded to a severe tropical storm as it moved out into the Taiwan Strait. There were no reports of deaths, but destruction was seen in coastal Taitung, a mountainous county in lesser-populated eastern Taiwan where the storm directly hit the day before. "I've lived here for so long and I have never seen such wind gusts," said Chen Hai-feng, 55, a village chief in Taitung's Donghe township, where he was with an early-morning work crew removing trees from a road. Although Haikui is considered to be less severe than previous storms, Chen said it felt more powerful. "It came straight through us." Workers carefully manoeuvred diggers to move downed tree branches and electrical wiring that had snapped and splayed across the rain-drenched road. Further north in coastal Changbin township, workers ferried massive concrete blocks to a coastal highway that had partially collapsed from the force of waves slamming into it, hoping they would absorb the impact. Heavy orange-coloured barriers were placed near the edge to prevent cars from skidding over on the slippery roads. Haikui -- the first typhoon landfall in Taiwan in four years -- forced the evacuation of more than 7,000 people across the island, particularly from landslide-prone mountainous regions. Hundreds of flights were cancelled and businesses were closed. More than 217,000 households temporarily lost power through Sunday and overnight. By midday Monday, 11,000 homes still had no electricity, while schools and businesses remained closed in 14 cities as torrential rain bucketed down. A forecaster with Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau said Haikui initially appeared to track away from the island and out to sea but made a second landfall in Kaohsiung at around 4:00 am (2000 GMT Sunday). During the night "the centre of the typhoon was almost circling" the port city, but as it moved along the coastline "the structure of the typhoon is damaged by the terrain and gradually weakens", she said. By mid-day, the storm had moved southwest of Taiwan's outlying island of Penghu, but was still bringing torrential rain and strong winds to the south and northeast. In picturesque Hualien county, waterfalls cascaded down the lush cliffs along Taiwan's east coast, while market vendors in Keelung -- a northern port city surrounded by mountains -- braved the rain to sell fruit to raincoat-clad shoppers. In Kaohsiung, the local government reported hundreds of toppled trees and flooding in dozens of locations, although the situation was easing as the storm departed and the weather conditions improved. Nearly 80 people suffered injuries during the typhoon, according to authorities, though they were minor -- mostly due to fallen trees and car accidents. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Storm Haikui heads to China after double landfall in Taiwan

Typhoon Saola left a trail of destruction in the southern Chinese province of Guangdong as it weakened to a tropical storm over the weekend. The typhoon that earlier hit this coastal province, forced several businesses, schools and financial markets to shut down.

Typhoon Saola heads towards Beibu gulf

The first tropical storm to directly strike the island in four years, Typhoon Haikui, has forced nearly 3,000 residents to leave high-risk locations in eastern Taiwan.

Typhoon Haikui: First typhoon to hit island in four years

Thousands of people were evacuated from eastern Taiwan ahead of Typhoon Haikui's expected landfall. Typhoon Haikui is the first tropical storm to directly hit the self-ruled island since 2019.&nbsp;

Typhoon Haikui is expected to make landfall in Taiwan's eastern Taitung area by 5:00 PM, local time (0900 Greenwich Mean Time; 2:30 PM, Indian Standard Time).&nbsp;

Haikui is expected to be less severe than Saola, which bypassed Taiwan but triggered the highest threat level in nearby Hong Kong and southern China.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/typhoon-saola-slams-shores-of-southern-china-after-lashing-hong-kong-631500">Typhoon Saola slams shores of southern China after lashing Hong Kong</a> 
 
Haikui has already brought heavy rains since Sunday morning.

It is currently packing a sustained wind speed of about 140 kilometres (39 miles) per hour, and has kept Taiwan on alert.

<h2>Typhoon Haikui: Measures taken in Taiwan</h2>

Schools and offices around the southern and eastern parts of Taiwan were closed Sunday, and more than 200 domestic flights cancelled.

Haikui "will be the first typhoon to make landfall in Taiwan in four years", Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen said Sunday.

"I remind the people to make preparations for the typhoon and watch out for your safety, avoid going out or any dangerous activities."

The storm was around 180 kilometres (110 miles) east of Taiwan just before 9:00 am, Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau said in a press conference.

Also watch |&nbsp;Hong Kong shuts down as super Typhoon Saola approaches

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"It has gathered some strength since yesterday," said deputy director Fong Chin-tzu, while asking&nbsp;to be "on guard".

"It is expected to pose a considerable threat to most areas in Taiwan with winds, rains and waves," he said, adding that the storm would move west to the Taiwan Strait by Monday.

The Interior Ministry said authorities had evacuated more than 2,800 people across seven cities in Taiwan, the majority of them from the mountainous county of Hualien, which neighbours Taitung.

The streets of Hualien were deserted Sunday morning, battered by unrelenting torrential rain under dark skies, AFP reported.

Taiwanese military has also mobilised the soldiers and equipment for rescue missions, if it comes to that.&nbsp;

Amphibious vehicles and inflatable rubber boats have been mobilised in parts of Taiwan&nbsp;where Haikui is expected to have the heaviest impact.

The last major storm to hit Taiwan was Typhoon Bailu in 2019, which left one person dead. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Thousands of people were evacuated from eastern Taiwan ahead of Typhoon Haikui's expected landfall. Typhoon Haikui is the first tropical storm to directly hit the self-ruled island since 2019.

Thousands of people were evacuated from eastern Taiwan ahead of Typhoon Haikui's expected landfall. Typhoon Haikui is the first tropical storm to directly hit the self-ruled island since 2019. Typhoon Haikui is expected to make landfall in Taiwan's eastern Taitung area by 5:00 PM, local time (0900 Greenwich Mean Time; 2:30 PM, Indian Standard Time). Haikui is expected to be less severe than Saola, which bypassed Taiwan but triggered the highest threat level in nearby Hong Kong and southern China. Also read | Typhoon Saola slams shores of southern China after lashing Hong Kong Haikui has already brought heavy rains since Sunday morning. It is currently packing a sustained wind speed of about 140 kilometres (39 miles) per hour, and has kept Taiwan on alert. Typhoon Haikui: Measures taken in Taiwan Schools and offices around the southern and eastern parts of Taiwan were closed Sunday, and more than 200 domestic flights cancelled. Haikui "will be the first typhoon to make landfall in Taiwan in four years", Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen said Sunday. "I remind the people to make preparations for the typhoon and watch out for your safety, avoid going out or any dangerous activities." The storm was around 180 kilometres (110 miles) east of Taiwan just before 9:00 am, Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau said in a press conference. Also watch | Hong Kong shuts down as super Typhoon Saola approaches × "It has gathered some strength since yesterday," said deputy director Fong Chin-tzu, while asking to be "on guard". "It is expected to pose a considerable threat to most areas in Taiwan with winds, rains and waves," he said, adding that the storm would move west to the Taiwan Strait by Monday. The Interior Ministry said authorities had evacuated more than 2,800 people across seven cities in Taiwan, the majority of them from the mountainous county of Hualien, which neighbours Taitung. The streets of Hualien were deserted Sunday morning, battered by unrelenting torrential rain under dark skies, AFP reported. Taiwanese military has also mobilised the soldiers and equipment for rescue missions, if it comes to that. Amphibious vehicles and inflatable rubber boats have been mobilised in parts of Taiwan where Haikui is expected to have the heaviest impact. The last major storm to hit Taiwan was Typhoon Bailu in 2019, which left one person dead. (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.

Typhoon Haikui puts Taiwan on high alert; thousands evacuated ahead of likely landfall

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