Taiwan condemned China on Monday for holding its second military combat drills around the island in less than a month, with the defence ministry saying it had detected 57 Chinese aircraft.

China carries out more military drills around Taiwan

Germany's high-ranking parliamentary delegation announced that they will be visiting Taiwan on Sunday, ahead of the ministerial visit scheduled later this year that can escalate tensions with China.&nbsp;&nbsp;Free Democratic Party's (FDP) Johannes Vogel shared a picture of him and his party colleague Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann travelling on the plane to Taiwan.&nbsp;

Head of the parliamentary defence committee Strack-Zimmermann said that their visit is a way of showing "solidarity" with Taiwan, which the Chinese government claims to be part of their territory.&nbsp;

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-police-detain-25-far-right-extremists-seeking-to-overthrow-state-540903">Former right-wing MP among 25 detained in Germany for plot to ‘overthrow state’</a>

As per the sources, the trip will be followed by German Education Minister Bettina Stark-Watzinger's visit to Taiwan.&nbsp;

This will be the first official visit of a German cabinet member in 26 years. The delegation is set to hold talks with the Taiwanese government's representatives as well as the opposition party along with business leaders, military officials and human rights organisations during their visit, said Strack-Zimmermann said before the trip.&nbsp;

The diplomatic overtures of Berlin to Taiwan may escalate tensions with Beijing.&nbsp;

China's President Xi Jinping has clearly stated that the "reunification" of Taiwan cannot be handed over to future generations.

WATCH | Here's how Norway &amp; Germany plan to wean off Germany’s reliance on Russian gas

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Last year, tensions had escalated and&nbsp;military pressure was ramped up by Beijing in the wake of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan in August.&nbsp;

China has always criticised any official exchanges with the leaders of Taiwan and has expressed its anger over the increasing visits of Western politicians to the country.&nbsp;

In August, the presence of the German air force was boosted in the Indo-Pacific with 13 military aircraft's deployment, almost a year after a frigate was dispatched to the region in two decades.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Germany's high-ranking parliamentary delegation announced that they will be visiting Taiwan on Sunday, ahead of the ministerial visit scheduled later this year that can escalate tensions with China.

Germany's high-ranking parliamentary delegation announced that they will be visiting Taiwan on Sunday, ahead of the ministerial visit scheduled later this year that can escalate tensions with China. Free Democratic Party's (FDP) Johannes Vogel shared a picture of him and his party colleague Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann travelling on the plane to Taiwan. Head of the parliamentary defence committee Strack-Zimmermann said that their visit is a way of showing "solidarity" with Taiwan, which the Chinese government claims to be part of their territory. ALSO READ| Former right-wing MP among 25 detained in Germany for plot to ‘overthrow state’ As per the sources, the trip will be followed by German Education Minister Bettina Stark-Watzinger's visit to Taiwan. This will be the first official visit of a German cabinet member in 26 years. The delegation is set to hold talks with the Taiwanese government's representatives as well as the opposition party along with business leaders, military officials and human rights organisations during their visit, said Strack-Zimmermann said before the trip. The diplomatic overtures of Berlin to Taiwan may escalate tensions with Beijing. China's President Xi Jinping has clearly stated that the "reunification" of Taiwan cannot be handed over to future generations. WATCH | Here's how Norway & Germany plan to wean off Germany’s reliance on Russian gas Last year, tensions had escalated and military pressure was ramped up by Beijing in the wake of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan in August. China has always criticised any official exchanges with the leaders of Taiwan and has expressed its anger over the increasing visits of Western politicians to the country. In August, the presence of the German air force was boosted in the Indo-Pacific with 13 military aircraft's deployment, almost a year after a frigate was dispatched to the region in two decades. (With inputs from agencies)

Delegation of German MPs visits Taiwan ahead of cabinet minister’s visit

China has been accused of snooping on its neighbour Taiwan. Taiwan has detained 4 military officers for spying. Why are officers within the Taiwanese military turning against their own? Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: China's spying ring busted in Taiwan?

China and Taiwan are at loggerheads. Beijing caused the self-governed island nation and vowed to unify it by force if necessary. Self-ruled Taiwan sees itself as distinct from the mainland. But despite Taiwan making a firm statement about its independence, China has tested Taiwan's security.

Swiss firm sends Taiwan's 'Carrier Killer' device to China for repair

Taiwanese authorities have detained 4 military officers who are suspected of spying for China. According to the Taiwanese central news agency, a retired airforce captain and 3 active duty officers were taken into custody while 3 other active officers were freed on bail.

Taiwan detains military officers suspected of spying for China

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen inspects troops at an army barracks ahead of the Lunar New Year and oversee an exercise by the infantry repelling a mock attack by enemy forces.

Watch: Taiwan President oversees combat simulation before Lunar New Year

A key component of Taiwan's most advanced anti-ship missile has been sent to China, causing calls for greater safeguards in the former nation. A report by the South China Morning Post on Wednesday (January 4) said that a theodolite- which is an optical instrument- from the Hsiung-Feng III anti-ship missile was sent to China's Shandong province for repair.&nbsp;

Issuing a statement on Wednesday, the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST)- a Taiwanese-state-owned corporation- said that the optical instrument was bought from Swiss company Leica last year and it was sent back to the manufacturer for repair&nbsp;recently.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-incursions-into-taiwan-air-defence-zone-almost-doubled-in-2022-548723">China’s incursions into Taiwan air defence zone almost doubled in 2022</a>

The NCSIST said the unit's memory cards were removed before sending it back and it asked the agent to send the part to Switzerland, the South China Morning Post report said.&nbsp;

However, before the repaired optical instrument was returned, it was discovered the unit was sent to Taiwan from an airport in the Shandong province.&nbsp;

According to the NCSIST, Leica said its maintenance centre for Asia was in Qingdao city (in Shandong province) and hence the theodolite had been sent for repair.&nbsp;

The NCSIST added on Wednesday that it quickly ran a security check on the device and ensured that no malware was installed. The Taiwanese agency also pointed out it was discussing measures to ensure that similar devices would not be sent to China for repairs in future for national security reasons, the report said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Dr Su Tzu-yun from Taiwan's Institute of Defence Security Research told BBC on Wednesday that optical instruments were not direct missile components but the Taiwanese government had to be more careful. Dr Tzu-yun highlighted that the government must be "more strict and careful" in its contract management.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-set-to-extend-mandatory-military-service-to-one-year-after-beijings-christmas-strike-drills-546884">Taiwan extends mandatory military service to one year after Beijing's Christmas 'strike drills'</a>

This news comes just days after news agency AFP reported that China's air incursions into Taiwan's air defence zone nearly doubled in 2022. China sent more than 1,700 warplanes into Taiwan's air defence identification zone (ADIZ) in 2022, compared to 960 air incursions in 2021 and 380 in 2020.&nbsp;

China has claimed Taiwan as its own and has been ramping up pressure in the democratic island to assert its sovereignty. On Thursday, former NATO general secretary Anders Fogh Rasmussen urged democratic countries to show China "severe economic consequences" if it attacks Taiwan.&nbsp;

"Any attempt by China to change the status quo in Taiwan by force should spark an equally unified response and we must make this clear to China now," Rasmussen told reporters in a news conference in Taipei, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

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A key component of Taiwan's most advanced anti-ship missile has been sent to China, causing calls for greater safeguards in the former nation. A report by the South China Morning Post on Wednesday (January 4) said that a theodolite- which is an optical instrument- from the Hsiung-Feng III anti-ship missile was sent to China's Shandong province for repair.

A key component of Taiwan's most advanced anti-ship missile has been sent to China, causing calls for greater safeguards in the former nation. A report by the South China Morning Post on Wednesday (January 4) said that a theodolite- which is an optical instrument- from the Hsiung-Feng III anti-ship missile was sent to China's Shandong province for repair. Issuing a statement on Wednesday, the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST)- a Taiwanese-state-owned corporation- said that the optical instrument was bought from Swiss company Leica last year and it was sent back to the manufacturer for repair recently. ALSO READ | China’s incursions into Taiwan air defence zone almost doubled in 2022 The NCSIST said the unit's memory cards were removed before sending it back and it asked the agent to send the part to Switzerland, the South China Morning Post report said. However, before the repaired optical instrument was returned, it was discovered the unit was sent to Taiwan from an airport in the Shandong province. According to the NCSIST, Leica said its maintenance centre for Asia was in Qingdao city (in Shandong province) and hence the theodolite had been sent for repair. The NCSIST added on Wednesday that it quickly ran a security check on the device and ensured that no malware was installed. The Taiwanese agency also pointed out it was discussing measures to ensure that similar devices would not be sent to China for repairs in future for national security reasons, the report said. Meanwhile, Dr Su Tzu-yun from Taiwan's Institute of Defence Security Research told BBC on Wednesday that optical instruments were not direct missile components but the Taiwanese government had to be more careful. Dr Tzu-yun highlighted that the government must be "more strict and careful" in its contract management. ALSO READ | Taiwan extends mandatory military service to one year after Beijing's Christmas 'strike drills' This news comes just days after news agency AFP reported that China's air incursions into Taiwan's air defence zone nearly doubled in 2022. China sent more than 1,700 warplanes into Taiwan's air defence identification zone (ADIZ) in 2022, compared to 960 air incursions in 2021 and 380 in 2020. China has claimed Taiwan as its own and has been ramping up pressure in the democratic island to assert its sovereignty. On Thursday, former NATO general secretary Anders Fogh Rasmussen urged democratic countries to show China "severe economic consequences" if it attacks Taiwan. "Any attempt by China to change the status quo in Taiwan by force should spark an equally unified response and we must make this clear to China now," Rasmussen told reporters in a news conference in Taipei, news agency Reuters reported. 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.

Key component of Taiwan's anti-ship missile sent to China for repair: Report

China’s warplane incursions into the Taiwanese air defence zone almost doubled in 2022 as conflict gripped the region. With the United States and some western countries sending delegations to Taiwan, the situation has gotten worse over time and in response, the Chinese military launched multiple drills at the Taiwan Strait.

Chinese President Xi Jinping maintained that Taiwan was part of mainland China and after Nancy Pelosi’s visit, the attacks have grown considerably from the Chinese military.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seoul-planning-joint-nuclear-exercises-with-us-says-president-yoon-suk-yeol-548712">Seoul planning joint nuclear exercises with US, says President Yoon Suk-yeol</a>

According to the AFP database based on Taiwan’s defence ministry, China has sent 1727 planes into Taiwan’s air defence identification zone (ADIZ) in 2022. In comparison, the number stood at 960 in 2021 and back in 2020, the situation was much better as the number of incursions was just 380.

The Chinese military has also deployed multiple fighter jets to just breach the border in the Taiwanese strait. The sorties also doubled in 2022 with 1241 such incidents taking place. The number was 538 in 2021 with the number going up considerably following Pelosi’s visits.

WATCH |&nbsp;What to expect from Qin Gang's stint as China's top diplomat?

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The impact was also seen when it comes to drone attacks as it went up by 71.

“They want to show their determination, their will and to coerce the United States: don’t get too close to their red lines, don’t cross their red lines,” Lee Hsi-min, Taiwan’s former chief of general staff, told AFP. He added that the show of power is likely to increase in 2023.

In the recent past, Taiwan has expressed its intent to increase the defence tactics against the drone attacks and US president Joe Biden also sanctioned $10 billion in military aid to Taiwan.

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China’s warplane incursions into the Taiwanese air defence zone almost doubled in 2022 as conflict gripped the region. With the United States and some western countries sending delegations to Taiwan, the situation has gotten worse over time and in response, the Chinese military launched multiple drills at the Taiwan Strait.

China’s warplane incursions into the Taiwanese air defence zone almost doubled in 2022 as conflict gripped the region. With the United States and some western countries sending delegations to Taiwan, the situation has gotten worse over time and in response, the Chinese military launched multiple drills at the Taiwan Strait. Chinese President Xi Jinping maintained that Taiwan was part of mainland China and after Nancy Pelosi’s visit, the attacks have grown considerably from the Chinese military. Also read | Seoul planning joint nuclear exercises with US, says President Yoon Suk-yeol According to the AFP database based on Taiwan’s defence ministry, China has sent 1727 planes into Taiwan’s air defence identification zone (ADIZ) in 2022. In comparison, the number stood at 960 in 2021 and back in 2020, the situation was much better as the number of incursions was just 380. The Chinese military has also deployed multiple fighter jets to just breach the border in the Taiwanese strait. The sorties also doubled in 2022 with 1241 such incidents taking place. The number was 538 in 2021 with the number going up considerably following Pelosi’s visits. WATCH | What to expect from Qin Gang's stint as China's top diplomat? The impact was also seen when it comes to drone attacks as it went up by 71. “They want to show their determination, their will and to coerce the United States: don’t get too close to their red lines, don’t cross their red lines,” Lee Hsi-min, Taiwan’s former chief of general staff, told AFP. He added that the show of power is likely to increase in 2023. In the recent past, Taiwan has expressed its intent to increase the defence tactics against the drone attacks and US president Joe Biden also sanctioned $10 billion in military aid to Taiwan.

China’s incursions into Taiwan air defence zone almost doubled in 2022

As data related to the recent Covid surge in China remains shrouded in mystery, more countries are imposing mandatory testing requirements on arrivals from China. The latest Australia, Canada and Morocco have imposed these precautionary measures.

China braces up to mitigate Covid surge, Taiwan offers 'necessary assistance'

People across the world turned a new chapter of their lives as they bid farewell to 2022 and welcomed a new year on Sunday (January 1) with celebrations in different parts, including Auckland, Sydney, Hong Kong, and others. Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen on Sunday said Taiwan was ready to provide "necessary assistance" to China to help it deal with the fresh wave of Covid infections. China's defence ministry has accused the US military of misguiding the public about a previous confrontation between the two forces in the South China Sea about the disputed Paracel Islands.&nbsp;

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/from-new-zealand-to-hong-kong-world-welcomes-2023-with-fireworks-and-light-shows-548401">From New Zealand to Hong Kong: World welcomes 2023 with fireworks and light shows</a>

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With aspirations and expectations, the world's eight billion people look forward to the year 2023. They said goodbye to the chaotic 12 months, which were marred by several crises, including the Ukraine war, and other conflicts.&nbsp;

2022 was bittersweet and will be remembered for a lot of reasons like the Russia-Ukraine war, the cost of living crisis, the Covid pandemic etc. The past year will also be remembered for the deaths of Queen Elizabeth, Pele and former pope Benedict. There were some happy moments as well, such as Argentina's World Cup win.&nbsp;

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-offers-help-to-china-to-manage-fresh-covid-wave-548402">Taiwan offers help to China to manage fresh Covid wave</a>

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Tsai, in her traditional new year message, delivered at the presidential office, said everyone had seen the rise in cases in China.

"As long as there is a need, based on the position of humanitarian care, we are willing to provide the necessary assistance to help more people get out of the pandemic and have a healthy and safe new year," she said, without elaborating.

China considers Taiwan to be Chinese territory and has not ruled out the use of force to control the self-governing island.

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/china-accuses-us-military-of-distorting-information-after-close-aircraft-encounter-548406">China accuses US military of distorting information after close aircraft encounter</a>

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Two days after the US military alleged that a Chinese Navy aircraft flew dangerously close to a US air force jet, the defence ministry of China has accused the US military of fudging information, Reuters reported. According to a defence ministry spokesperson, the US military plane violated international law and compromised the safety of Chinese pilots.&nbsp;

Watch| Israel slams, Palestinians welcome UN vote; Israel PM Netanyahu says, 'UN vote 'despicable' | WION

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People across the world turned a new chapter of their lives as they bid farewell to 2022 and welcomed a new year on Sunday (January 1) with celebrations in different parts, including Auckland, Sydney, Hong Kong, and others.

People across the world turned a new chapter of their lives as they bid farewell to 2022 and welcomed a new year on Sunday (January 1) with celebrations in different parts, including Auckland, Sydney, Hong Kong, and others. Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen on Sunday said Taiwan was ready to provide "necessary assistance" to China to help it deal with the fresh wave of Covid infections. China's defence ministry has accused the US military of misguiding the public about a previous confrontation between the two forces in the South China Sea about the disputed Paracel Islands. From New Zealand to Hong Kong: World welcomes 2023 with fireworks and light shows With aspirations and expectations, the world's eight billion people look forward to the year 2023. They said goodbye to the chaotic 12 months, which were marred by several crises, including the Ukraine war, and other conflicts. 2022 was bittersweet and will be remembered for a lot of reasons like the Russia-Ukraine war, the cost of living crisis, the Covid pandemic etc. The past year will also be remembered for the deaths of Queen Elizabeth, Pele and former pope Benedict. There were some happy moments as well, such as Argentina's World Cup win. Taiwan offers help to China to manage fresh Covid wave Tsai, in her traditional new year message, delivered at the presidential office, said everyone had seen the rise in cases in China. "As long as there is a need, based on the position of humanitarian care, we are willing to provide the necessary assistance to help more people get out of the pandemic and have a healthy and safe new year," she said, without elaborating. China considers Taiwan to be Chinese territory and has not ruled out the use of force to control the self-governing island. China accuses US military of distorting information after close aircraft encounter Two days after the US military alleged that a Chinese Navy aircraft flew dangerously close to a US air force jet, the defence ministry of China has accused the US military of fudging information, Reuters reported. According to a defence ministry spokesperson, the US military plane violated international law and compromised the safety of Chinese pilots. Watch| Israel slams, Palestinians welcome UN vote; Israel PM Netanyahu says, 'UN vote 'despicable' | WION

Morning Brief: World greets 2023 with fireworks, Taiwan offers aid to China amid new Covid wave, and more

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen on Sunday (January 1) said Taiwan was ready to provide "necessary assistance" to China to help it deal with the fresh wave of Covid infections. She also noted that Chinese military activities near the island were not beneficial to peace and stability.

China, last month, abruptly relaxed its ultra-strict 'Zero-Covid' policy. This has led to a steep spike in number of new infections. As per some international health experts, Covid is spreading through China largely unchecked and may be infecting millions of people a day.

Watch | China: Covid-19 cases on the rise, WHO urges to share real-time data

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Tsai, in her traditional new year message, delivered at the presidential office, said everyone had seen the rise in cases in China.

"As long as there is a need, based on the position of humanitarian care, we are willing to provide the necessary assistance to help more people get out of the pandemic and have a healthy and safe new year," she said, without elaborating.

China considers Taiwan to be Chinese territory and has not ruled out the use of force to control the self-governing island.

Taiwan and China have repeatedly sparred over their respective measures to control the spread of Covid.

China had criticised Taiwan for ineffective management of the pandemic after soaring domestic infections last year, while Taiwan has accused China of a lack of transparency and trying to interfere with vaccine supplies to Taiwan, which Beijing has denied.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/light-of-hope-in-front-of-us-xi-jinping-weighs-in-on-covid-situation-in-new-year-address-548368">'Light of hope in front of us': Xi Jinping calls for more efforts, unity to tackle Covid in 2023</a>

Tsai reiterated a call for dialogue with China, saying war was not an option to resolve problems.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, in his New Year address on Saturday evening, made only brief reference of Taiwan, saying people on either side of the Taiwan Strait "are members of one and the same family", and made no mention of seeking to bring the island under Chinese control.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen on Sunday (January 1) said Taiwan was ready to provide "necessary assistance" to China to help it deal with the fresh wave of Covid infections.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen on Sunday (January 1) said Taiwan was ready to provide "necessary assistance" to China to help it deal with the fresh wave of Covid infections. She also noted that Chinese military activities near the island were not beneficial to peace and stability. China, last month, abruptly relaxed its ultra-strict 'Zero-Covid' policy. This has led to a steep spike in number of new infections. As per some international health experts, Covid is spreading through China largely unchecked and may be infecting millions of people a day. Watch | China: Covid-19 cases on the rise, WHO urges to share real-time data × Tsai, in her traditional new year message, delivered at the presidential office, said everyone had seen the rise in cases in China. "As long as there is a need, based on the position of humanitarian care, we are willing to provide the necessary assistance to help more people get out of the pandemic and have a healthy and safe new year," she said, without elaborating. China considers Taiwan to be Chinese territory and has not ruled out the use of force to control the self-governing island. Taiwan and China have repeatedly sparred over their respective measures to control the spread of Covid. China had criticised Taiwan for ineffective management of the pandemic after soaring domestic infections last year, while Taiwan has accused China of a lack of transparency and trying to interfere with vaccine supplies to Taiwan, which Beijing has denied. Also Read | 'Light of hope in front of us': Xi Jinping calls for more efforts, unity to tackle Covid in 2023 Tsai reiterated a call for dialogue with China, saying war was not an option to resolve problems. Chinese President Xi Jinping, in his New Year address on Saturday evening, made only brief reference of Taiwan, saying people on either side of the Taiwan Strait "are members of one and the same family", and made no mention of seeking to bring the island under Chinese control. (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 ×

Taiwan offers help to China in tackling fresh spate of Covid-19 infections

Taiwan has extended the term of its compulsory military service from 4 months to a year. The announcement comes a day after China's largest incursion in Taiwan.

Gravitas: Taiwan extends compulsory military service from 4 months to a year

Dajia Jenn Lann Temple in Taiwan is minting and selling sea goddess non-fungible tokens (NFTs) that act as a priority pass for the pilgrimage.

WION Fineprint: Taiwan temple mints NFTs of local sea goddess

Taiwan has reported its biggest Chinese incursion yet. Over the weekend, 71 PLA warplanes surrounded Taiwan. Is Xi Jinping trying to distract the world from China's covid mess?

Gravitas: Biggest Chinese incursion in Taiwan

Non-fungible tokens (NFT) have gained a massive amount of popularity in the past&nbsp;couple of years but the Dajia Jenn Lann Temple in Taichung has found a never-seen-before way to use the modern technology. The temple, which is around 100 miles down the coast from Taiwan, introduced NFTs in connection to the sea goddess Mazu and they are already popular among younger people.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-extended-conscription-and-loss-of-face-for-xi-jinping-547113">Taiwan's extended conscription and 'loss of face' for Xi Jinping</a>

The temple organises a 300-kilometer pilgrimage in honour of the sea goddess every year and the economy of the region is mainly dependent on the revenue generated from tourism. The “Mazu economy” is driven by donations and the sale of merchandise associated with the temple.

As a result, the release of the NFTs have created a buzz among the devotees and media reports claimed that NFT acts a “priority pass” for people visiting the temple which was built in the 18th century by the Qing dynasty. Mazu, a mythical sea goddess who is popular for being the protector of seafarers, attracts several pilgrims every year and the digital tokens have increased the popularity.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/legendary-iranian-footballer-ali-daei-claims-family-not-allowed-to-leave-country-546929">Former Iranian footballer Ali Daei claims family not allowed to leave country</a>

Mingkun Cheng, vice chairman of the board of the Dajia Jenn Lann Temple, told Forkast that the NFTs have already increased the number of pilgrims and the tokens will generate more than five billion Taiwan dollars (US$163m) in spending. Since their initial launch in August 2021, over 2800 tokens have been sold till now and its current market price is somewhere around $18,800.

The popularity of the NFTs coincided with the global attraction towards cryptocurrencies but the dip in the market can see the temple diversify when it comes to their latest attractions.

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Non-fungible tokens (NFT) have gained a massive amount of popularity in the past couple of years but the Dajia Jenn Lann Temple in Taichung has found a never-seen-before way to use the modern technology.

Non-fungible tokens (NFT) have gained a massive amount of popularity in the past couple of years but the Dajia Jenn Lann Temple in Taichung has found a never-seen-before way to use the modern technology. The temple, which is around 100 miles down the coast from Taiwan, introduced NFTs in connection to the sea goddess Mazu and they are already popular among younger people. Also read | Taiwan's extended conscription and 'loss of face' for Xi Jinping The temple organises a 300-kilometer pilgrimage in honour of the sea goddess every year and the economy of the region is mainly dependent on the revenue generated from tourism. The “Mazu economy” is driven by donations and the sale of merchandise associated with the temple. As a result, the release of the NFTs have created a buzz among the devotees and media reports claimed that NFT acts a “priority pass” for people visiting the temple which was built in the 18th century by the Qing dynasty. Mazu, a mythical sea goddess who is popular for being the protector of seafarers, attracts several pilgrims every year and the digital tokens have increased the popularity. Also read | Former Iranian footballer Ali Daei claims family not allowed to leave country Mingkun Cheng, vice chairman of the board of the Dajia Jenn Lann Temple, told Forkast that the NFTs have already increased the number of pilgrims and the tokens will generate more than five billion Taiwan dollars (US$163m) in spending. Since their initial launch in August 2021, over 2800 tokens have been sold till now and its current market price is somewhere around $18,800. The popularity of the NFTs coincided with the global attraction towards cryptocurrencies but the dip in the market can see the temple diversify when it comes to their latest attractions.

18th century temple in Taiwan comes up with NFTs to boost popularity

Taiwan on Tuesday announced that it will extend mandatory military service from four months to one year, with Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen emphatically pointing out in Taipei that 'peace with China will not fall from the sky'. The decision, while under deliberations for nearly two years, is seen to be triggered by the 'strike drills' that Beijing conducted in the sea and airspace around the self-governing island nation on over the weekend.

According to the experts that WION reached out to, China's aggressive military manoeuvres that intensified after the US House of Representatives speaker Nancy Pelosi's Taipei visit earlier this year, have pushed the island nation to be better prepared for any contingency.

Suyash Desai, Taiwan-based research scholar&nbsp;on China's military and foreign policy told WION that Beijing's&nbsp;aggression against Taiwan started in 2019 when it&nbsp;crossed the median line for the first time in 20 years.&nbsp;

"It was last crossed in 1999. Since September 2020, China started regular incursions in Taiwan's self-claimed Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ) on a regular basis," Desai pointed out.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinas-xi-jinpings-unification-plan-with-taiwan-523858">China's Xi Jinping's unification plan with Taiwan</a>

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"The increase in the duration of conscription is not a surprise," Commodore R.S. Vasan (Retd.), Director General of Chennai Centre of China Studies think-tank told WION.

"The Chinese white paper on Taiwan leaves no doubt about the intentions of Xi Jinping who is determined to achieve something by the use of force that his predecessors could not attempt in the past," Commodore Vasan said.

He was referring to a white paper that China released in August 2022, just days after Pelosi's visit to the island nation. It sought to realise "China's complete reunification" as a "historic mission" of the Communist Party of China (CPC).

To deter China, expanded conscription 'first step'

Experts further add that Taiwan's expanded conscription by itself is insufficient to deal with the threat from China, and that&nbsp;"additional reforms as well as a&nbsp;greater acquisition of modern weaponry" will be required if Taipei is to stand against Beijing.

"The Taiwanese military&nbsp;also has a challenge on its hands to reform current training methods and its treatment of conscripts," Jabin T. Jacob, Associate Professor at the Department of International Relations and Governance Studies at Shiv Nadar University and Adjunct Research Fellow at New Delhi-based National Maritime Foundation, told WION.

"This (conscription) is just the first step if Taiwan wants to maintain the existing cross-strait deterrence," Suyash Desai told WION.&nbsp;

A December of challenges for Beijing

For Beijing, the conclusion of 2022 has been far from smooth.

It began with a collective uproar from people across China against stringent Covid controls that finally <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-covid-xi-administration-gradually-dismantles-zero-covid-policy-541962">forced</a> a remarkable climbdown on ‘zero Covid policy’ from one of the world's most authoritarian governments, and its leader, Xi Jinping.

Beijing’s challenges further expanded with the optics of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/several-indian-soldiers-injured-in-clashes-with-chinese-army-in-arunchal-pradesh-report-542383">pushback</a> by Indian troops against Chinese aggression along the Line of Actual Control in northeastern Arunachal Pradesh state’s Yangtse area.

In the final weeks of December 2022, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-hospitals-under-seige-as-covid-crisis-worsens-547075">visuals</a> of burdened hospitals against millions of reported Covid cases forced President Xi to come out and say that he will "never fail"&nbsp;the Chinese people.

On Christmas, the Eastern Theater Command of China's People's Liberation Army said it had carried out "joint combat readiness patrols and joint firepower strike drills" around Taiwan.

Experts have contrasting views if China's handling of its Covid crisis with the failure of 'zero Covid policy' is related to its aggression in the Taiwanese strait and along the Line of Actual Control with India earlier this month.&nbsp;

"The undisputed leader needs an excuse to unify the nation and the failed transgression in Yangtse has not worked out as planned and has resulted in the loss of face for Xi,"&nbsp;Commodore Vasan told WION.

"So the recent increase in (Taiwanese) cross-strait violations and show of force is to divert the people's attention (from the Covid crisis) by displaying an intent to accelerate the process of unification,"&nbsp;he added. &nbsp;

For Jabin T. Jacob,&nbsp;&nbsp;it is quite possible that China's recent aggressions are meant "to distract attention from its shambolic handling of the Covid situation".&nbsp;

"But it should also be understood that Chinese military plans along its borders and especially with respect to Taiwan are long-standing and such transgressions would have occurred sooner or later, with or without the Covid crisis in China right now," Jacob told WION.&nbsp;

Between LAC and South China Sea, a common Chinese tactical&nbsp;book in play

Suyash Desai points to&nbsp;the Science of Military Strategy,&nbsp;the guiding text for the Chinese military that aims to&nbsp;create a new normal in its favour by repeatedly indulging in incursion-based armed movements. Desai adds that Beijing has adopted this strategy both with India as well as in the South China Sea.&nbsp;&nbsp;"The only difference is that in case of India, they use&nbsp;border defence units and in case of the South China Sea, they use maritime militia."

"But the People's Republic of China&nbsp;uses the People's Liberation Army&nbsp;with Taiwan, which makes the dispute much more escalatory," Desai adds.

"So, I see the recently increased assertion as a continuation of the policy approach rather than compensation for bad optics from the current Covid crisis," he reasons.&nbsp;

Beijing's preparedness for western support for Taiwan

In one of the rarest public expressions of China's continued alignment with Russia since the beginning of the conflict in Ukraine, Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi during a phone conversation with Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov in October 2022, said that Beijing is willing to deepen exchanges with Russia at all levels. Wang Yi said that China will help Russia to "overcome difficulties, eliminate disturbances, realise the strategic goals of development, and further establish Russia on the international stage."

Experts view that the organs of the Chinese Communist Party, with a "threadbare analysis" of the Russia-Ukraine war, would have also "factored the support of the West to Taiwan in the event of hostilities breaking out", according to Commodore Vasan, who also served as Regional Commander in the Indian Coast Guards (East) for about 1100 miles long coastline along the Bay of Bengal.&nbsp;

The sentiment was revelatory during Tuesday's press conference by Taiwan's President&nbsp;Tsai Ing-wen.&nbsp;China's "intimidation and threats against&nbsp;are getting more obvious", she said.&nbsp;

"We can only avoid a war by preparing for a war and we can only stop a war by being capable of fighting a war."

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Taiwan on Tuesday announced that it will extend mandatory military service from four months to one year, with Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen emphatically pointing out in Taipei that 'peace with China will not fall from the sky'.

Taiwan on Tuesday announced that it will extend mandatory military service from four months to one year, with Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen emphatically pointing out in Taipei that 'peace with China will not fall from the sky'. The decision, while under deliberations for nearly two years, is seen to be triggered by the 'strike drills' that Beijing conducted in the sea and airspace around the self-governing island nation on over the weekend. According to the experts that WION reached out to, China's aggressive military manoeuvres that intensified after the US House of Representatives speaker Nancy Pelosi's Taipei visit earlier this year, have pushed the island nation to be better prepared for any contingency. Suyash Desai, Taiwan-based research scholar on China's military and foreign policy told WION that Beijing's aggression against Taiwan started in 2019 when it crossed the median line for the first time in 20 years. "It was last crossed in 1999. Since September 2020, China started regular incursions in Taiwan's self-claimed Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ) on a regular basis," Desai pointed out. WATCH | China's Xi Jinping's unification plan with Taiwan × "The increase in the duration of conscription is not a surprise," Commodore R.S. Vasan (Retd.), Director General of Chennai Centre of China Studies think-tank told WION. "The Chinese white paper on Taiwan leaves no doubt about the intentions of Xi Jinping who is determined to achieve something by the use of force that his predecessors could not attempt in the past," Commodore Vasan said. He was referring to a white paper that China released in August 2022, just days after Pelosi's visit to the island nation. It sought to realise "China's complete reunification" as a "historic mission" of the Communist Party of China (CPC). To deter China, expanded conscription 'first step' Experts further add that Taiwan's expanded conscription by itself is insufficient to deal with the threat from China, and that "additional reforms as well as a greater acquisition of modern weaponry" will be required if Taipei is to stand against Beijing. "The Taiwanese military also has a challenge on its hands to reform current training methods and its treatment of conscripts," Jabin T. Jacob, Associate Professor at the Department of International Relations and Governance Studies at Shiv Nadar University and Adjunct Research Fellow at New Delhi-based National Maritime Foundation, told WION. "This (conscription) is just the first step if Taiwan wants to maintain the existing cross-strait deterrence," Suyash Desai told WION. A December of challenges for Beijing For Beijing, the conclusion of 2022 has been far from smooth. It began with a collective uproar from people across China against stringent Covid controls that finally forced a remarkable climbdown on ‘zero Covid policy’ from one of the world's most authoritarian governments, and its leader, Xi Jinping. Beijing’s challenges further expanded with the optics of pushback by Indian troops against Chinese aggression along the Line of Actual Control in northeastern Arunachal Pradesh state’s Yangtse area. In the final weeks of December 2022, the visuals of burdened hospitals against millions of reported Covid cases forced President Xi to come out and say that he will "never fail" the Chinese people. On Christmas, the Eastern Theater Command of China's People's Liberation Army said it had carried out "joint combat readiness patrols and joint firepower strike drills" around Taiwan. Experts have contrasting views if China's handling of its Covid crisis with the failure of 'zero Covid policy' is related to its aggression in the Taiwanese strait and along the Line of Actual Control with India earlier this month. "The undisputed leader needs an excuse to unify the nation and the failed transgression in Yangtse has not worked out as planned and has resulted in the loss of face for Xi," Commodore Vasan told WION. "So the recent increase in (Taiwanese) cross-strait violations and show of force is to divert the people's attention (from the Covid crisis) by displaying an intent to accelerate the process of unification," he added. For Jabin T. Jacob, it is quite possible that China's recent aggressions are meant "to distract attention from its shambolic handling of the Covid situation". "But it should also be understood that Chinese military plans along its borders and especially with respect to Taiwan are long-standing and such transgressions would have occurred sooner or later, with or without the Covid crisis in China right now," Jacob told WION. Between LAC and South China Sea, a common Chinese tactical book in play Suyash Desai points to the Science of Military Strategy, the guiding text for the Chinese military that aims to create a new normal in its favour by repeatedly indulging in incursion-based armed movements. Desai adds that Beijing has adopted this strategy both with India as well as in the South China Sea. "The only difference is that in case of India, they use border defence units and in case of the South China Sea, they use maritime militia." "But the People's Republic of China uses the People's Liberation Army with Taiwan, which makes the dispute much more escalatory," Desai adds. "So, I see the recently increased assertion as a continuation of the policy approach rather than compensation for bad optics from the current Covid crisis," he reasons. Beijing's preparedness for western support for Taiwan In one of the rarest public expressions of China's continued alignment with Russia since the beginning of the conflict in Ukraine, Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi during a phone conversation with Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov in October 2022, said that Beijing is willing to deepen exchanges with Russia at all levels. Wang Yi said that China will help Russia to "overcome difficulties, eliminate disturbances, realise the strategic goals of development, and further establish Russia on the international stage." Experts view that the organs of the Chinese Communist Party, with a "threadbare analysis" of the Russia-Ukraine war, would have also "factored the support of the West to Taiwan in the event of hostilities breaking out", according to Commodore Vasan, who also served as Regional Commander in the Indian Coast Guards (East) for about 1100 miles long coastline along the Bay of Bengal. The sentiment was revelatory during Tuesday's press conference by Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen. China's "intimidation and threats against are getting more obvious", she said. "We can only avoid a war by preparing for a war and we can only stop a war by being capable of fighting a war." 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 extended conscription and 'loss of face' for Xi Jinping

Days after China's military said it had conducted "strike drills" around Taiwanese sea and airspace, Taiwan announced its decision to extend the current four-month-long mandatory military service to a year. The longer service requirements will be implemented from 2024.

Taiwan to extend compulsory military service as China shows air power

Days after China's military said it had conducted "strike drills" around Taiwanese sea and airspace, Taiwan announced its decision to extend the current four-month-long mandatory military service&nbsp;to a year. The longer service requirements will&nbsp;be implemented from 2024, reflecting the self-governing island nation's&nbsp;sense of urgency&nbsp;to bolster its defences amid China's ascending assertions for 'unification'. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/east-asia/china-deployed-71-airforce-planes-in-weekend-strike-drills-47-crossed-taiwan-strait-taiwan-defence-ministry-546569">China deployed 71 jets into Taiwan air defence zone in largest incursion so far, says Taiwan</a>

Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen in a press briefing on Tuesday said that&nbsp;the island needs to prepare for the increasing threat from China. "The current four-month military service is not enough to meet the fast and ever-changing situation," she said. "We have decided to restore the one-year military service from 2024."

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taiwan-china-wants-to-control-everything-idea-of-unifying-with-china-more-unpopular-than-ever-508944">Taiwan: China wants to control everything, idea of unifying with China more unpopular than ever</a>

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All Taiwanese men over 18 initially had to serve two to three years in the military as part of a conscription system adopted by Taiwan in 1949 in the events following the Chinese civil war.

After 1996, conscription was gradually reduced, reaching one year in 2008 and four months in 2018.&nbsp;

Taiwan-China tensions: Why extension of mandatory military service?

China sent 47 aircraft across the median line of the Taiwan Strait on Sunday, its largest incursion into Taiwan’s air defence zone in recent months.&nbsp;The Chinese incursions and military exercises have continued all through 2022, with tensions peaking in August after a visit to the island by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi that prompted fury from the Chinese Communist Party.

Taiwan has active military personnel totalling about 170,000, nearly ten times less than mainland China. Taiwan reportedly estimates that 100,000 men will turn 18 each year, following which the self-governing island nation could ready up its defences during contingencies by increasing the&nbsp;mandatory military service.&nbsp;

An extension of military service up to one year requires no related law revisions, thereby, the government may comfortably implement the change.

The issue has been deliberated upon by the Ministry of National Defense and National Security Council for around two years as part of Taiwan's review of its "all-out defence" system.

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Days after China's military said it had conducted "strike drills" around Taiwanese sea and airspace, Taiwan announced its decision to extend the current four-month-long mandatory military service to a year.

Days after China's military said it had conducted "strike drills" around Taiwanese sea and airspace, Taiwan announced its decision to extend the current four-month-long mandatory military service to a year. The longer service requirements will be implemented from 2024, reflecting the self-governing island nation's sense of urgency to bolster its defences amid China's ascending assertions for 'unification'. ALSO READ | China deployed 71 jets into Taiwan air defence zone in largest incursion so far, says Taiwan Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen in a press briefing on Tuesday said that the island needs to prepare for the increasing threat from China. "The current four-month military service is not enough to meet the fast and ever-changing situation," she said. "We have decided to restore the one-year military service from 2024." WATCH | Taiwan: China wants to control everything, idea of unifying with China more unpopular than ever × All Taiwanese men over 18 initially had to serve two to three years in the military as part of a conscription system adopted by Taiwan in 1949 in the events following the Chinese civil war. After 1996, conscription was gradually reduced, reaching one year in 2008 and four months in 2018. Taiwan-China tensions: Why extension of mandatory military service? China sent 47 aircraft across the median line of the Taiwan Strait on Sunday, its largest incursion into Taiwan’s air defence zone in recent months. The Chinese incursions and military exercises have continued all through 2022, with tensions peaking in August after a visit to the island by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi that prompted fury from the Chinese Communist Party. Taiwan has active military personnel totalling about 170,000, nearly ten times less than mainland China. Taiwan reportedly estimates that 100,000 men will turn 18 each year, following which the self-governing island nation could ready up its defences during contingencies by increasing the mandatory military service. An extension of military service up to one year requires no related law revisions, thereby, the government may comfortably implement the change. The issue has been deliberated upon by the Ministry of National Defense and National Security Council for around two years as part of Taiwan's review of its "all-out defence" system. 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 extends mandatory military service to one year after Beijing's Christmas 'strike drills'

China staged 'strike drills' around Taiwan's airspace, saying it was conducted in response to the provocation from the self-governed island and the United States.

WION Fineprint: China conducts 'strike drills' around Taiwan, sends 71 aircraft and 7 ships

Seventy-one Chinese air force aircraft including fighter jets and drones entered Taiwan's air defence identification zone in the past 24 hours. This is the largest reported incursion to date. Watch further to know more.

China claims Taiwan as its own territory

Vincent Chao, Political Analyst speaks up on China's claim of acquiring Taiwan as it's territory

Taiwan's Defence Ministry reported that China deployed 71 warplanes around the island during 'weekend war drills.'

Earlier on Monday, it said that 47 planes from the Chinese air force crossed the Taiwan Strait's median&nbsp;line in the previous&nbsp;24 hours.

Responding to the statement, China said it operated "strike drills"&nbsp;in the sea and airspace around Taiwan on Sunday.&nbsp;

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71 PLA aircraft and 7 PLAN vessels around Taiwan were detected in our surrounding region by 6 a.m.(UTC+8) today. R.O.C. Armed Forces have monitored the situation and tasked CAP aircraft, Navy vessels, and land-based missile systems to respond these activities. <a href="https://t.co/DagRhnN69F">pic.twitter.com/DagRhnN69F</a>
— 國防部 Ministry of National Defense, R.O.C. 🇹🇼 (@MoNDefense) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoNDefense/status/1607180600355721217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

China, which claims Taiwan as its territory, called the drills a response to the provocation from Taiwan and the United States. Beijing continues its military activities close to the democratically governed island.&nbsp;

The Chinese-claimed island rejects&nbsp;the sovereignty claims. They revealed Beijing has been trying to disturb regional peace. They have also tried to intimidate Taiwan's citizens.

Also Read|&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/photos/covid-horror-six-pictures-show-reality-of-coronavirus-outbreak-haunting-china-546043">COVID Horror: Six pictures show reality of coronavirus outbreak haunting China</a>

Taiwan's defence ministry&nbsp;said that the planes and jets implicated during the incursion crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait.&nbsp;

The ministry provided a map showing the brief crossing was an unofficial buffer.

Furthermore, Taiwan's Defence Ministry has reported the presence of seven Chinese navy ships. They also mentioned using unspecified combat aircraft to warn the Chinese planes.&nbsp;

The ministry also mentioned that the missile systems monitored their flight using standard wording for its response. In recent years, China has increased the strain on the self-governed island to accept Beijing's rule. On the other hand, Taiwan's government says it wants peace but will defend itself if China attacks.&nbsp;

Watch|&nbsp;<a href="Ukraine war: Russian bombardment rain down on Kherson">Ukraine war: Russian bombardment rain down on Kherson</a>

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The Defence Ministry of Taiwan posted the update on Twitter. The tweet stated, "71 PLA aircraft and 7 PLAN vessels around Taiwan were detected in our surrounding region by 6 a.m.(UTC+8) today. R.O.C. Armed Forces have monitored the situation and tasked CAP aircraft, Navy vessels, and land-based missile systems to respond to these activities."

The conflict between China and Taiwan is a complex one. After the end of World War II in 1945, Taiwan's administration transferred from Japan to the Republic of China. The subsequent splits between PCR People's Republic of China) and ROC (Republic of China), due to the Chinese civil war, has made the situation more controversial.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Taiwan's Defence Ministry reported that China deployed 71 warplanes around the island during 'weekend war drills.' Earlier on Monday, it said that 47 planes from the Chinese air force crossed the Taiwan Strait's median line in the previous 24 hours.

Taiwan's Defence Ministry reported that China deployed 71 warplanes around the island during 'weekend war drills.' Earlier on Monday, it said that 47 planes from the Chinese air force crossed the Taiwan Strait's median line in the previous 24 hours. Responding to the statement, China said it operated "strike drills" in the sea and airspace around Taiwan on Sunday. 71 PLA aircraft and 7 PLAN vessels around Taiwan were detected in our surrounding region by 6 a.m.(UTC+8) today. R.O.C. Armed Forces have monitored the situation and tasked CAP aircraft, Navy vessels, and land-based missile systems to respond these activities. pic.twitter.com/DagRhnN69F — 國防部 Ministry of National Defense, R.O.C. 🇹🇼 (@MoNDefense) December 26, 2022 × China, which claims Taiwan as its territory, called the drills a response to the provocation from Taiwan and the United States. Beijing continues its military activities close to the democratically governed island. The Chinese-claimed island rejects the sovereignty claims. They revealed Beijing has been trying to disturb regional peace. They have also tried to intimidate Taiwan's citizens. Also Read| COVID Horror: Six pictures show reality of coronavirus outbreak haunting China Taiwan's defence ministry said that the planes and jets implicated during the incursion crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait. The ministry provided a map showing the brief crossing was an unofficial buffer. Furthermore, Taiwan's Defence Ministry has reported the presence of seven Chinese navy ships. They also mentioned using unspecified combat aircraft to warn the Chinese planes. The ministry also mentioned that the missile systems monitored their flight using standard wording for its response. In recent years, China has increased the strain on the self-governed island to accept Beijing's rule. On the other hand, Taiwan's government says it wants peace but will defend itself if China attacks. Watch| Ukraine war: Russian bombardment rain down on Kherson The Defence Ministry of Taiwan posted the update on Twitter. The tweet stated, "71 PLA aircraft and 7 PLAN vessels around Taiwan were detected in our surrounding region by 6 a.m.(UTC+8) today. R.O.C. Armed Forces have monitored the situation and tasked CAP aircraft, Navy vessels, and land-based missile systems to respond to these activities." The conflict between China and Taiwan is a complex one. After the end of World War II in 1945, Taiwan's administration transferred from Japan to the Republic of China. The subsequent splits between PCR People's Republic of China) and ROC (Republic of China), due to the Chinese civil war, has made the situation more controversial. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China deployed 71 jets into Taiwan air defence zone in largest incursion so far, says Taiwan

Taiwan’s government has been planning to restrict pain relief medications’ bulk buying as people have started stocking up, some even trying to ship their bulk purchases to China, where the worsening situation of Covid-19 has dried up the medical supplies.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Taiwan’s Minister of Health and Welfare Hsueh Jui-yuan, while speaking to the lawmakers on Thursday at a legislative committee hearing, said that firstly the pharmacies will be instructed by the health agency to advise customers against stocking up on Panadol and related drugs.

Hsueh said that a discussion would be held by the health authorities regarding imposing restrictions if needed later, however, they have no such concrete plan in place as of now, reported the official news agency Focus Taiwan.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-may-complaint-with-wto-over-chinese-import-bans-541841">Taiwan may file complaint with WTO against China for import ban on several items</a>

Taiwan has been facing a shortage of Covid-related medicine and fever reducer paracetamol since May when there was a surge in local cases, reported by several pharmacies in Taipei. One of the pharmacies said that, in the past weeks, customers have been stocking up on medicine amid the fear of surging Covid cases after Taiwan’s borders were re-opened for tourists in October.

“We ran out of stock for Panadol fairly quickly and we don’t expect restocking any time soon until probably after the lunar new year, which falls in late January next year,” one of the employees working at a pharmacy in Taipei’s Da’an district said.

Few drug buyers in Taiwan are planning to ship the painkiller to China which is witnessing a sudden surge in Covid-19 cases and related deaths after the country’s zero-Covid restrictions were relaxed.

WATCH| WION Dispatch | 'Will defend Taiwan but not encourage independence,' says Joe Biden

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“I plan to purchase a variety of drugs that can help fight Covid when I return to work in Shenzhen,” stated Taiwanese entrepreneur Lee, adding, “I even plan to resell some of the drugs to my friends.”

Chang, who is currently in Taipei on a vacation and works as a Taiwanese product designer in Beijing, said that he plans to purchase rapid antigen test kits and fever drugs before coming back to work next year.

“I feel there’s a high chance for me to get infected after I return to Beijing, so I figure I’d prepare some drugs to avoid all the hectic I may experience trying to get a hold of drugs,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Taiwan’s government has been planning to restrict pain relief medications’ bulk buying as people have started stocking up, some even trying to ship their bulk purchases to China, where the worsening situation of Covid-19 has dried up the medical supplies.

Taiwan’s government has been planning to restrict pain relief medications’ bulk buying as people have started stocking up, some even trying to ship their bulk purchases to China, where the worsening situation of Covid-19 has dried up the medical supplies. Taiwan’s Minister of Health and Welfare Hsueh Jui-yuan, while speaking to the lawmakers on Thursday at a legislative committee hearing, said that firstly the pharmacies will be instructed by the health agency to advise customers against stocking up on Panadol and related drugs. Hsueh said that a discussion would be held by the health authorities regarding imposing restrictions if needed later, however, they have no such concrete plan in place as of now, reported the official news agency Focus Taiwan. ALSO READ| Taiwan may file complaint with WTO against China for import ban on several items Taiwan has been facing a shortage of Covid-related medicine and fever reducer paracetamol since May when there was a surge in local cases, reported by several pharmacies in Taipei. One of the pharmacies said that, in the past weeks, customers have been stocking up on medicine amid the fear of surging Covid cases after Taiwan’s borders were re-opened for tourists in October. “We ran out of stock for Panadol fairly quickly and we don’t expect restocking any time soon until probably after the lunar new year, which falls in late January next year,” one of the employees working at a pharmacy in Taipei’s Da’an district said. Few drug buyers in Taiwan are planning to ship the painkiller to China which is witnessing a sudden surge in Covid-19 cases and related deaths after the country’s zero-Covid restrictions were relaxed. WATCH| WION Dispatch | 'Will defend Taiwan but not encourage independence,' says Joe Biden “I plan to purchase a variety of drugs that can help fight Covid when I return to work in Shenzhen,” stated Taiwanese entrepreneur Lee, adding, “I even plan to resell some of the drugs to my friends.” Chang, who is currently in Taipei on a vacation and works as a Taiwanese product designer in Beijing, said that he plans to purchase rapid antigen test kits and fever drugs before coming back to work next year. “I feel there’s a high chance for me to get infected after I return to Beijing, so I figure I’d prepare some drugs to avoid all the hectic I may experience trying to get a hold of drugs,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan plans to restrict sales of Panadol to stop bulk-buying for China

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