The Chinese military extended provocative exercises around Taiwan, days after the drills were scheduled to end. China says it is demonstrating its ability to blockade or invade the self-ruled island, which Beijing claims as its own. But Taiwanese residents are not impressed.

WION-VOA Co-Production: Chinese drills drive Taiwan's opinion further against China

Addressing a media briefing on the Taiwan crisis, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said that India it is concerned over the developments and called for avoiding unilateral action to change the status quo in the region.

India breaks silence on Taiwan issue, calls for de-escalation

A global LGBTQ event, WorldPride 2025 Taiwan,&nbsp;has been officially cancelled following the organisers’ demand that the word “Taiwan” be dropped from the title. Meanwhile, Taiwan on Friday blamed "political considerations" for the cancellation of the event. WorldPride&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;2025 said the organisers,&nbsp;LGBTQ rights group InterPride, wanted to change the name of the event to say "WorldPride Kaohsiung", the southern Taiwanese host city.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-porcupine-doctrine-and-how-can-taiwan-deter-potential-chinese-invasion-505193">Explained: What is ‘porcupine doctrine’ and how can Taiwan deter potential Chinese invasion?</a>

"Taiwan&nbsp;deeply regrets that InterPride, due to political considerations, has unilaterally rejected the mutually agreed upon consensus and broken a relationship of cooperation and trust. Not only does the decision disrespect&nbsp;Taiwan's rights and diligent efforts, it also harms Asia's vast LGBTIQ+ community,” Taipei's foreign ministry said in a statement.

Notably, China views Taiwan as its own territory, which is why anything that portrays Taiwan as a separate country is unacceptable to it. To avoid tensions, Taiwan has been participating in global events under the name&nbsp; "Chinese Taipei”.

Taiwan's southern city of Kaohsiung was set to host WorldPride 2025 Taiwan, after winning the right from InterPride.

But the Kaohsiung organisers said InterPride had recently "suddenly" asked them to change the name of the event to "Kaohsiung", removing the word "Taiwan".

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/taiwan-incorporates-ukraine-russia-lessons-during-military-drill-501331">Taiwan incorporates 'Ukraine-Russia lessons' during military drill</a>

"After careful evaluation, it is believed that if the event continues, it may harm the interests of Taiwan and the Taiwan gay community. Therefore, it is decided to terminate the project before signing the contract," said the Kaohsiung organisers.

Taiwan is proud of its reputation as a bastion of LGBTQ rights and liberalism. When the island nation&nbsp;legalised same-sex marriages in 2019, a record 200,000 people attended a&nbsp;pride&nbsp;march in Taipei.

Meanwhile, same sex marriage is illegal in China, and the government has been cracking down depictions of LGBTQ people in the media and of the community's use of social media.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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A global LGBTQ event, WorldPride 2025 Taiwan, has been officially cancelled following the organisers’ demand that the word “Taiwan” be dropped from the title. Meanwhile, Taiwan on Friday blamed "political considerations" for the cancellation of the event.

A global LGBTQ event, WorldPride 2025 Taiwan, has been officially cancelled following the organisers’ demand that the word “Taiwan” be dropped from the title. Meanwhile, Taiwan on Friday blamed "political considerations" for the cancellation of the event. WorldPride Taiwan 2025 said the organisers, LGBTQ rights group InterPride, wanted to change the name of the event to say "WorldPride Kaohsiung", the southern Taiwanese host city. Also Read | Explained: What is ‘porcupine doctrine’ and how can Taiwan deter potential Chinese invasion? "Taiwan deeply regrets that InterPride, due to political considerations, has unilaterally rejected the mutually agreed upon consensus and broken a relationship of cooperation and trust. Not only does the decision disrespect Taiwan's rights and diligent efforts, it also harms Asia's vast LGBTIQ+ community,” Taipei's foreign ministry said in a statement. Notably, China views Taiwan as its own territory, which is why anything that portrays Taiwan as a separate country is unacceptable to it. To avoid tensions, Taiwan has been participating in global events under the name "Chinese Taipei”. Taiwan's southern city of Kaohsiung was set to host WorldPride 2025 Taiwan, after winning the right from InterPride. But the Kaohsiung organisers said InterPride had recently "suddenly" asked them to change the name of the event to "Kaohsiung", removing the word "Taiwan". Also Read | Taiwan incorporates 'Ukraine-Russia lessons' during military drill "After careful evaluation, it is believed that if the event continues, it may harm the interests of Taiwan and the Taiwan gay community. Therefore, it is decided to terminate the project before signing the contract," said the Kaohsiung organisers. Taiwan is proud of its reputation as a bastion of LGBTQ rights and liberalism. When the island nation legalised same-sex marriages in 2019, a record 200,000 people attended a pride march in Taipei. Meanwhile, same sex marriage is illegal in China, and the government has been cracking down depictions of LGBTQ people in the media and of the community's use of social media. (With inputs from agencies)

Global Pride event scheduled to be held in Taiwan cancelled, Taipei blames 'political considerations'

After days of extending its intensive military drills near Taiwan, China has now said that its military has completed its tasks around the region and is now wrapping up its war games that began after US house speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to the island nation.

China wraps up military drills sparked by Pelosi's Taiwan visit

China ends military drills near Taiwan, vows regular patrols

After 22 years, China has released a white paper on Taiwan. Beijing has refused to rule out the use of force to achieve reunification. What is China's game plan? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: China unveils game plan for Taiwan reunification

Just days after US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, China conducted a series of military drills around the island, which it claims as its own. Speaking about the Chinese retaliatory drills on Wednesday, Pelosi said the US could not permit China to normalise the new level of pressure on Taiwan that it asserted with days of military drills.&nbsp;

As per a Reuters report, speaking at a press conference alongside other four Democratic House members who accompanied her on the Asia visit, Pelosi said: "What we saw with China is that they were trying to establish sort of a new normal. And we just can't let that happen".

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: China unveils game plan for Taiwan reunification

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Incensed at Pelosi's visit to Taipei last week, China had extended its largest-ever exercises around the self-ruled island it claims as its own, beyond the four days that were originally scheduled.&nbsp;

Pelosi, who has been a vocal critic of China for decades, said, "We went there to praise Taiwan. We went there to show our friendship, to say China cannot isolate Taiwan".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-whitepaper-on-taiwan-reunification-and-respond-with-the-use-of-force-505428">China's 'whitepaper' on Taiwan: 'Reunification' and 'respond with the use of force'</a>

When questioned about China's warning that she and her family would be subject to sanctions, she laughed and said "Who cares?"

"That is incidental to me, of no relevance whatsoever," she added.

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-chinese-fm-says-uss-attempt-to-contain-china-using-taiwan-card-wishful-thinking-505468">WATCH | Chinese FM says US's attempt to contain China using Taiwan card 'wishful thinking'</a>

Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi told the press that the delegation talked about a backlog of upcoming military shipments to Taiwan. Both he and Gregory Meeks, the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said that lawmakers were taking steps to move&nbsp;these deals along more rapidly.

Krishnamoorthi said:&nbsp;"We intend to fulfill all of our obligations to all of our partners and others who are counting on us for these vital supplies." Meeks added that his committee was drafting a legislation that would help expedite defence equipment agreements.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Just days after US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, China conducted a series of military drills around the island, which it claims as its own. Speaking about the Chinese retaliatory drills on Wednesday, Pelosi said the US could not permit China to normalise the new level of pressure on Taiwan that it asserted with days of military drills.

Just days after US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, China conducted a series of military drills around the island, which it claims as its own. Speaking about the Chinese retaliatory drills on Wednesday, Pelosi said the US could not permit China to normalise the new level of pressure on Taiwan that it asserted with days of military drills. As per a Reuters report, speaking at a press conference alongside other four Democratic House members who accompanied her on the Asia visit, Pelosi said: "What we saw with China is that they were trying to establish sort of a new normal. And we just can't let that happen". Watch | Gravitas: China unveils game plan for Taiwan reunification Incensed at Pelosi's visit to Taipei last week, China had extended its largest-ever exercises around the self-ruled island it claims as its own, beyond the four days that were originally scheduled. Pelosi, who has been a vocal critic of China for decades, said, "We went there to praise Taiwan. We went there to show our friendship, to say China cannot isolate Taiwan". Also read | China's 'whitepaper' on Taiwan: 'Reunification' and 'respond with the use of force' When questioned about China's warning that she and her family would be subject to sanctions, she laughed and said "Who cares?" "That is incidental to me, of no relevance whatsoever," she added. Also read | WATCH | Chinese FM says US's attempt to contain China using Taiwan card 'wishful thinking' Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi told the press that the delegation talked about a backlog of upcoming military shipments to Taiwan. Both he and Gregory Meeks, the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said that lawmakers were taking steps to move these deals along more rapidly. Krishnamoorthi said: "We intend to fulfill all of our obligations to all of our partners and others who are counting on us for these vital supplies." Meeks added that his committee was drafting a legislation that would help expedite defence equipment agreements. (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.

'Who cares?', Nancy Pelosi laughs at China's decision to sanction her and her family

'Will take Taiwan, use force if necessary,' China issues stern warning

The world was closely watching US House Speaker, Nancy Pelosi's Taiwan visit and anyone could tell it made China's blood boil. Beijing didn't wait for Nancy Pelosi's short trip to get over, it announced about a week long military exercise. Now Beijing has issued white paper hint on how it intends to claim Taiwan

Beijing issues white paper hint on how it intends to claim Taiwan

China on Wednesday vowed zero tolerance for "separatist activities" in Taiwan and reaffirmed that it would take the self-ruled island by force if necessary.

China releases white paper on Taiwan, warns it will not tolerate separatists

Taiwan's Foreign Minister Joseph Wu has made a big claim. Wu said Chinese drills around the island are a part of a game-plan to prepare for an invasion. Will China invade Taiwan? Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Taiwan says China is preparing for an invasion

After attending a series of foreign ministers' talks on East Asia cooperation in Phnom Penh on August 5, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi conducted a press conference for Chinese and foreign media. Wang Yi stated his willingness to go into further detail about China's stance on the Taiwan issue. It is even more crucial that we dispel misinformation and correct the record with truth in light of the recent dissemination of falsehoods and misinformation by the United States.

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State Councilor and FM Wang Yi: The typical U.S. playbook is to create a problem first, and then use that problem to achieve its own objective. But in front of China, this just won't work! <a href="https://t.co/pHMN7C1s4K">pic.twitter.com/pHMN7C1s4K</a>
— Sun Weidong (@China_Amb_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/China_Amb_India/status/1556509293691957248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Wang Yi said at the press conference, "We will firmly safeguard China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, resolutely stop the United States' attempt to use the Taiwan card to contain China and firmly shatter the Taiwan authorities’ illusion to pursue Taiwan independence by soliciting the support of the United States. At the same time, we are upholding the international law and the basic norms governing international relations, particularly non-interference in countries' internal affairs, which is the most important international norm enshrined in the UN Charter."

In response, more than 100 nations have spoken out, reiterating their steadfast commitment to the one-China policy and highlighting their understanding and support of China's rightful position, according to Wang Yi. António Guterres, the secretary-general of the UN, made it clear that the organisation is still dedicated to Resolution 2758 of the UN General Assembly. The one-China principle, which states that there is only one China in the world, the People's Republic of China is the only legal government authorised to represent the entirety of China, and Taiwan is a part of China, serves as the foundation of this argument. This is the collective voice of justice for all nations.

Wang Yi emphasised that the U.S.'s attempt to restrict China by playing the Taiwan card is merely wishful thinking. Both the historical trend toward Taiwan's return to the motherland and the historical process leading to the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation cannot be stopped by it. The Taiwan independence&nbsp;forces' attempt to win American support for their cause of independence is a fiction that will lead nowhere and simply tighten the noose around their necks.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-trump-supporters-gather-outside-his-mar-a-lago-estate-say-fbi-raid-witch-hunt-505424">&nbsp;IN PICS | Trump supporters gather outside his Mar-a-Lago estate, say FBI raid a 'witch hunt'</a>

Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, according to Wang Yi, has turned into a spectacle. The world community's acceptance of the one-China principle was only strengthened as a result of what she did, thus she effectively lifted the rock only to let it fall on her own shoulders. The Chinese people are only strengthened in their unity and resolve to complete the process of creating a fantastic contemporary socialist nation and achieve national reunification.

(with inputs from agencies)

After attending a series of foreign ministers' talks on East Asia cooperation in Phnom Penh on August 5, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi conducted a press conference for Chinese and foreign media.

After attending a series of foreign ministers' talks on East Asia cooperation in Phnom Penh on August 5, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi conducted a press conference for Chinese and foreign media. Wang Yi stated his willingness to go into further detail about China's stance on the Taiwan issue. It is even more crucial that we dispel misinformation and correct the record with truth in light of the recent dissemination of falsehoods and misinformation by the United States. State Councilor and FM Wang Yi: The typical U.S. playbook is to create a problem first, and then use that problem to achieve its own objective. But in front of China, this just won't work! pic.twitter.com/pHMN7C1s4K — Sun Weidong (@China_Amb_India) August 8, 2022 × Wang Yi said at the press conference, "We will firmly safeguard China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, resolutely stop the United States' attempt to use the Taiwan card to contain China and firmly shatter the Taiwan authorities’ illusion to pursue Taiwan independence by soliciting the support of the United States. At the same time, we are upholding the international law and the basic norms governing international relations, particularly non-interference in countries' internal affairs, which is the most important international norm enshrined in the UN Charter." In response, more than 100 nations have spoken out, reiterating their steadfast commitment to the one-China policy and highlighting their understanding and support of China's rightful position, according to Wang Yi. António Guterres, the secretary-general of the UN, made it clear that the organisation is still dedicated to Resolution 2758 of the UN General Assembly. The one-China principle, which states that there is only one China in the world, the People's Republic of China is the only legal government authorised to represent the entirety of China, and Taiwan is a part of China, serves as the foundation of this argument. This is the collective voice of justice for all nations. Wang Yi emphasised that the U.S.'s attempt to restrict China by playing the Taiwan card is merely wishful thinking. Both the historical trend toward Taiwan's return to the motherland and the historical process leading to the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation cannot be stopped by it. The Taiwan independence forces' attempt to win American support for their cause of independence is a fiction that will lead nowhere and simply tighten the noose around their necks. Also Read: IN PICS | Trump supporters gather outside his Mar-a-Lago estate, say FBI raid a 'witch hunt' Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, according to Wang Yi, has turned into a spectacle. The world community's acceptance of the one-China principle was only strengthened as a result of what she did, thus she effectively lifted the rock only to let it fall on her own shoulders. The Chinese people are only strengthened in their unity and resolve to complete the process of creating a fantastic contemporary socialist nation and achieve national reunification. (with inputs from agencies)

WATCH | Chinese FM says US's attempt to contain China using Taiwan card 'wishful thinking'

Days after US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan, President Joe Biden, for the first time remarked about the Chinese military exercise surrounding the island nation.

Days after US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan, President Joe Biden, for the first time remarked about the Chinese military exercise surrounding the island nation. Stating that he wasn't worried about China, Biden said, "I'm not worried but I'm concerned that they are moving as much as they are. But I don't think they're going to do anything more than they are." When pressed by a reporter if Pelosi's trip to Taiwan was a mistake, Biden asserted, “...that was her decision”. Building upon President Biden's statement, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre added, “We’ve been condemning them since they started escalating. They are provocative, irresponsible and raise the risk of miscalculation. And that’s what he – the president – was referring to.” Biden's statements come in the backdrop of Pelosi's visit as well as his telephonic call with the Chinese President Xi Jinping last month. During the call, Jinping made it clear that Taiwan belonged to China. ''The fact and status quo that both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one and same China.'' Xi reportedly told Biden. Not allowing any room for “Taiwan independence” forces, Xi said China firmly opposed separatist moves toward it. "On Taiwan, President Biden underscored that the United States policy has not changed and that the United States strongly opposes unilateral efforts to change the status quo or undermine peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," according to the White House. Today I spoke with President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China as part of our efforts to deepen lines of communication, responsibly manage our differences, and address issues of mutual interest. pic.twitter.com/mwIeg35h8j — President Biden (@POTUS) July 28, 2022 × Read more: 'Those who play with fire will perish by it': Xi Jinping warns Joe Biden over Taiwan However, despite the call and Jinping's passive aggressive threat, Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan and set the chain of motions which has kept the region in constant turmoil since. As reported extensively by WION, China concluded its four-day extensive military exercise near Taiwan on Sunday. The military drills, which took place in six zones around the island, began on Thursday. It deployed more than 100 fighter jets, fired ballistic missiles and dispatched dozens of warships for the drill, the largest such exercise to be held around Taiwan. “After completing the mock strike mission, several bomber formations flew across the Taiwan Strait from north to south and from south to north simultaneously, carrying out a deterrence mission around the island jointly with other PLA services and branches,” said Global Times, the Chinese mouthpiece. However, on Monday, a day after the end of drills, China announced that more such military drills were in the pipeline, including anti-submarine and sea assault operations. According to experts, Beijing wants to continue to mount pressure on Taiwan and the international community. The visit by Pelosi undermined Jinping's 'One-China policy' and since then, Beijing has upped the ante. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

I don’t think they’re going to do anything more: Biden on Chinese military drills near Taiwan

Amid the Taiwan crisis, a Lithuanian inter-parliamentary delegation consisting of two ministers of parliament are in New Delhi and are holding talks with several stakeholders with a focus on strengthening ties with India.

Lithuania: 'Our presence in New Delhi is a message in itself'

US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Tuesday had a slip of tongue — or did she mean it? — as she called China ‘one of the freest societies in the world’ in one of the first interviews since she returned from her controversial trip to Taiwan.

Reportedly, in an interview with NBC’s ‘TODAY’ show, Pelosi not only put her weight behind the ‘one China’ policy but also made the unfortunate gaffe that has caught the internet’s attention.&nbsp;

“We still support the ‘one China’ policy, we go there to acknowledge the status quo is what our policy is, there is nothing disruptive about that. It was only about saying, China is one of the freest societies in the world, don’t take it from me, that’s from Freedom House, it’s a strong democracy, courageous people,” said Pelosi.

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Nancy Pelosi: “China is one of the freest societies in the world.” 
 
Um… what?<a href="https://t.co/c06IHOhTSH">pic.twitter.com/c06IHOhTSH</a>
— LLadany (@lladany) <a href="https://twitter.com/lladany/status/1557039402966081536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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However, soon after Pelosi’s gaffe, Drew Hammill, her deputy chief of staff took to Twitter to clear the air and present her original stance.

“The Speaker is referencing Taiwan. The Speaker’s record of speaking out against the Chinese Communist Party for 35 years in the Congress is unsurpassed,” tweeted Hammill.

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The Speaker is referencing Taiwan. The Speaker’s record of speaking out against the Chinese Communist Party for 35 years in the Congress is unsurpassed. <a href="https://t.co/acLlwEaQbU">https://t.co/acLlwEaQbU</a>
— Drew Hammill (@Drew_Hammill) <a href="https://twitter.com/Drew_Hammill/status/1557033560103534592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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While Pelosi quoted Freedom House, it is pertinent to note that the DC-based non-profit does not list China as a free country. In fact, China and its communist government are classed as an ‘authoritarian regime’ on the NGO’s website.

“The ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) continues to tighten control over all aspects of life and governance, including the state bureaucracy, the media, online speech, religious practice, universities, businesses, and civil society associations, and it has undermined an earlier series of modest rule-of-law reforms,” <a href="https://freedomhouse.org/country/china">reads </a>the website.

Read More:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nancy-pelosis-taiwan-trip-provokes-china-a-win-for-her-but-a-headache-for-the-region-503310">&nbsp;Nancy Pelosi's Taiwan trip provokes China: A win for her, but a headache for the region</a>

Pelosi’s Taiwan visit

As reported by WION, Nancy Pelosi’s trip to Taiwan became a flashpoint between US and China.&nbsp;Immediately after&nbsp;landing in Taipei, Pelosi&nbsp;stated that US was not contradicting any longstanding policy by visiting Taiwan.

However, China took offence to the visit and started with its most-extensive military drill surrounding the island nation. The four-day exercise ended on Sunday but Beijing quickly announced that more such exercises were in the pipeline.

In Pics|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/nancy-pelosis-whirlwind-asia-pacific-tour-503689#nancy-pelosi-in-singapore-503682">&nbsp;From Singapore to Malaysia to Taiwan to South Korea to Japan: Nancy Pelosi's whirlwind Asia-pacific tour</a>

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Tuesday had a slip of tongue — or did she mean it? — as she called China ‘one of the freest societies in the world’ in one of the first interviews since she returned from her controversial trip to Taiwan.

US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Tuesday had a slip of tongue — or did she mean it? — as she called China ‘one of the freest societies in the world’ in one of the first interviews since she returned from her controversial trip to Taiwan. Reportedly, in an interview with NBC’s ‘TODAY’ show, Pelosi not only put her weight behind the ‘one China’ policy but also made the unfortunate gaffe that has caught the internet’s attention. “We still support the ‘one China’ policy, we go there to acknowledge the status quo is what our policy is, there is nothing disruptive about that. It was only about saying, China is one of the freest societies in the world, don’t take it from me, that’s from Freedom House, it’s a strong democracy, courageous people,” said Pelosi. Nancy Pelosi: “China is one of the freest societies in the world.” Um… what?pic.twitter.com/c06IHOhTSH — LLadany (@lladany) August 9, 2022 × However, soon after Pelosi’s gaffe, Drew Hammill, her deputy chief of staff took to Twitter to clear the air and present her original stance. “The Speaker is referencing Taiwan. The Speaker’s record of speaking out against the Chinese Communist Party for 35 years in the Congress is unsurpassed,” tweeted Hammill. The Speaker is referencing Taiwan. The Speaker’s record of speaking out against the Chinese Communist Party for 35 years in the Congress is unsurpassed. https://t.co/acLlwEaQbU — Drew Hammill (@Drew_Hammill) August 9, 2022 × While Pelosi quoted Freedom House, it is pertinent to note that the DC-based non-profit does not list China as a free country. In fact, China and its communist government are classed as an ‘authoritarian regime’ on the NGO’s website. “The ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) continues to tighten control over all aspects of life and governance, including the state bureaucracy, the media, online speech, religious practice, universities, businesses, and civil society associations, and it has undermined an earlier series of modest rule-of-law reforms,” reads the website. Read More: Nancy Pelosi's Taiwan trip provokes China: A win for her, but a headache for the region Pelosi’s Taiwan visit As reported by WION, Nancy Pelosi’s trip to Taiwan became a flashpoint between US and China. Immediately after landing in Taipei, Pelosi stated that US was not contradicting any longstanding policy by visiting Taiwan. However, China took offence to the visit and started with its most-extensive military drill surrounding the island nation. The four-day exercise ended on Sunday but Beijing quickly announced that more such exercises were in the pipeline. In Pics| From Singapore to Malaysia to Taiwan to South Korea to Japan: Nancy Pelosi's whirlwind Asia-pacific tour WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Nancy Pelosi’s tongue slip? Calls China one of the ‘freest’ societies in the world

English singer, songwriter, composer and Pink Floyd co-founder Roger Waters has faced some flak online for calling Joe Biden a 'war criminal' of Ukraine and saying Taiwan is part of China.

Pink Floyd's Roger Waters draws flak for his comments over China & Russia's military aggression

Apple has reportedly asked Taiwan-based suppliers to label their products as being produced in China, in an effort to avoid disruption from strict Chinese customs. Molly Gambhir explains.

WION Fineprint | Explained: Apple's compromises in China

Apple Inc has asked suppliers to ensure that shipments from Taiwan to China comply with Chinese customs regulations amid fears of facing trade barriers resulting from US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit.

'Taiwan to comply with Chinese custom rules,' Apple's good intentions halt at China's borders?

One year after ending the war in Afghanistan, the CIA speak less about counterterrorism and more about the political, economic and military threats posed by China. Molly Gambhir tells you all about this pivot by the US spy agency.

WION Fineprint: The CIA is shifting its focus to China amid Taiwan tensions

Amid the Taiwan crisis, a Lithuanian Inter Parliamentary delegation consisting of two Ministers of Parliament (MPs) is in Delhi and is holding talks with several stakeholders with a focus on strengthening ties and the opening of the Indian embassy in the national capital, Vilnius. The delegation is led by MPs Mykolas Majauskas and Vytautas Gapšys, both of whom are members of the Group of Inter-Parliamentary Relations with India.

Speaking to WION, MP Mykolas Majauskas said, "India is a global superpower and a great democratic nation. Lithuania sees India as a stable, stable, thoughtful, and careful partner that every country would like to have. Of course, Lithuania can not only learn from the past of India but can learn from the recent past, how India managed to vaccinate a lot of people."

Mykolas is also the Chair of the Parliamentary Committee for Budget and Finance. Both the MPs held talks at the ruling BJP headquarters in Delhi on Tuesday, alongside RS Prasad, Dilip Saikia and Gaurav Bhatia. The Lithuanian delegation also met Indian MPs and business leaders in Mumbai and Bengaluru.

Earlier this year, India's cabinet approved the opening of a new embassy in Lithuania, and an Indian preparatory team has visited the country for a recce of the site. The MP pointed out, "We hope to tighten our relationship. It is very important to know that this year, there will be an Indian embassy opening in Lithuania. That shows our significance and relationship between the countries have been developing" and "we hope that it will all happen this year. That was the promise from the Indian government."

Remember that both India and Lithuania do share a common language, with Lithuanian tracing its origins from Sanskrit, and both have similar words. Both countries are also celebrating 30 years of the establishment of diplomatic ties.

Asked about if Taiwan was discussed during the meeting in Delhi, he said, "We touched on that subject. Our main principle, our main idea is we talk about the partnerships that we like to develop and the partnership we value a lot is India ''. Last year was very significant in Lithuania-Taiwan ties as the latter opened its office in the capital Vinius which angered China. A miffed Beijing recalled its envoy from Lithuania and expelled the Lithuanian envoy in the country.&nbsp;

On the ongoing crisis developing over Taiwan with Chinese military exercises, and what is Lithuania's view, the MP explained, "our presence here ,in Delhi, is the main message. We choose India as a stable, thoughtful, and careful partner and therefore we are here. It's a democracy, it's a country we respect, it's a country we would like to tighten our relationship. '', adding, "we do respect one China policy but that doesn't stop us from developing economic and cultural ties with Taiwan".

Interestingly, MP Vytautas Gapšys was part of a Lithuanian Parliamentary delegation to visit Taiwan last year, another sign of growing closeness between Vilnius and Taipei. On that visit, he said, "each country has the right to own economic and cultural relations and Lithuania decided that we should improve those relations with Taiwan as well, so the visit was to show we share the same values, democracy values as we share with India and the visit was a real success".&nbsp;

Mentioning Taiwan's semiconductor industry, he hoped his country "could learn new things from there and we have some educational exchanges as well. Our students will go to Taiwan and our professors, possibly will go to Lithuania, so I hope those practices we have in Taiwan will also be useful in developing relations with India as well".

Lithuania is the only country in the European Union to publicly back the visit of US House speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan. Currently, Lithuania's Transport and Communications Vice Minister, Agne Vaiciukeviciute, is on a visit to Taipei.&nbsp;

On Pelosi's visit and Chinese military exercises thereafter, he said, "of course it is a complicated situation, and we understand that it is a difficult time for Taiwan. As I mentioned, in the case of Lithuania, other countries like the US, they have the right to decide who wants to come to visit Taiwan, we respect their right. If all countries look from that point of view, no conflict will happen. Respect other country's rights as well".

Asked about China threatening Lithuania with actions, Gapšys said, "we would like to have good relationships with each country in the world. We are a sovereign country and have the right to decide with whom we have cultural and economic relations and it's our right. We understand that China takes some attention to that topic, we understand as well that the international rule of law prohibits some actions from their side as well".

The MP called India a "major partner" for Lithuania and "economic potential is a huge one", hoping the "relation will improve much more". 
&nbsp;

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Amid the Taiwan crisis, a Lithuanian Inter Parliamentary delegation consisting of two Ministers of Parliament (MPs) is in Delhi and is holding talks with several stakeholders with a focus on strengthening ties and the opening of the Indian embassy in the national capital, Vilnius.

Amid the Taiwan crisis, a Lithuanian Inter Parliamentary delegation consisting of two Ministers of Parliament (MPs) is in Delhi and is holding talks with several stakeholders with a focus on strengthening ties and the opening of the Indian embassy in the national capital, Vilnius. The delegation is led by MPs Mykolas Majauskas and Vytautas Gapšys, both of whom are members of the Group of Inter-Parliamentary Relations with India. Speaking to WION, MP Mykolas Majauskas said, "India is a global superpower and a great democratic nation. Lithuania sees India as a stable, stable, thoughtful, and careful partner that every country would like to have. Of course, Lithuania can not only learn from the past of India but can learn from the recent past, how India managed to vaccinate a lot of people." Mykolas is also the Chair of the Parliamentary Committee for Budget and Finance. Both the MPs held talks at the ruling BJP headquarters in Delhi on Tuesday, alongside RS Prasad, Dilip Saikia and Gaurav Bhatia. The Lithuanian delegation also met Indian MPs and business leaders in Mumbai and Bengaluru. Earlier this year, India's cabinet approved the opening of a new embassy in Lithuania, and an Indian preparatory team has visited the country for a recce of the site. The MP pointed out, "We hope to tighten our relationship. It is very important to know that this year, there will be an Indian embassy opening in Lithuania. That shows our significance and relationship between the countries have been developing" and "we hope that it will all happen this year. That was the promise from the Indian government." Remember that both India and Lithuania do share a common language, with Lithuanian tracing its origins from Sanskrit, and both have similar words. Both countries are also celebrating 30 years of the establishment of diplomatic ties. Asked about if Taiwan was discussed during the meeting in Delhi, he said, "We touched on that subject. Our main principle, our main idea is we talk about the partnerships that we like to develop and the partnership we value a lot is India ''. Last year was very significant in Lithuania-Taiwan ties as the latter opened its office in the capital Vinius which angered China. A miffed Beijing recalled its envoy from Lithuania and expelled the Lithuanian envoy in the country. On the ongoing crisis developing over Taiwan with Chinese military exercises, and what is Lithuania's view, the MP explained, "our presence here ,in Delhi, is the main message. We choose India as a stable, thoughtful, and careful partner and therefore we are here. It's a democracy, it's a country we respect, it's a country we would like to tighten our relationship. '', adding, "we do respect one China policy but that doesn't stop us from developing economic and cultural ties with Taiwan". Interestingly, MP Vytautas Gapšys was part of a Lithuanian Parliamentary delegation to visit Taiwan last year, another sign of growing closeness between Vilnius and Taipei. On that visit, he said, "each country has the right to own economic and cultural relations and Lithuania decided that we should improve those relations with Taiwan as well, so the visit was to show we share the same values, democracy values as we share with India and the visit was a real success". Mentioning Taiwan's semiconductor industry, he hoped his country "could learn new things from there and we have some educational exchanges as well. Our students will go to Taiwan and our professors, possibly will go to Lithuania, so I hope those practices we have in Taiwan will also be useful in developing relations with India as well". Lithuania is the only country in the European Union to publicly back the visit of US House speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan. Currently, Lithuania's Transport and Communications Vice Minister, Agne Vaiciukeviciute, is on a visit to Taipei. On Pelosi's visit and Chinese military exercises thereafter, he said, "of course it is a complicated situation, and we understand that it is a difficult time for Taiwan. As I mentioned, in the case of Lithuania, other countries like the US, they have the right to decide who wants to come to visit Taiwan, we respect their right. If all countries look from that point of view, no conflict will happen. Respect other country's rights as well". Asked about China threatening Lithuania with actions, Gapšys said, "we would like to have good relationships with each country in the world. We are a sovereign country and have the right to decide with whom we have cultural and economic relations and it's our right. We understand that China takes some attention to that topic, we understand as well that the international rule of law prohibits some actions from their side as well". The MP called India a "major partner" for Lithuania and "economic potential is a huge one", hoping the "relation will improve much more". 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.

In Delhi, Lithuanian MPs laud ties with India and back Taiwan

Taiwan’s military began a live-fire artillery drill Tuesday simulating a defence of the island against an attack after days of massive Chinese military exercises.

Taiwan carries out military drills in Southern county of Pingtung amid China's exercises

Apple is said to have asked its suppliers in Taiwan to avoid using "Made in Taiwan" labels. The tech giant apparently wants products to be labeled as made in "Chinese Taipei" or "Taiwan, China".

Gravitas: Apple toes China's line on Taiwan

Chinese aggression near Taiwan is being called the new normal. The PLA has extended its drills around the island. The Chinese military is said to have simulated an attack on Taiwan. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: China simulates an invasion of Taiwan

In the aftermath of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, tensions have risen between China and Japan. Reportedly, after Japan condemned China's military drills around Taiwan as a 'threat to regional peace and security', the Chinese Foreign Ministry released a lengthy statement questioning Tokyo's motives.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wang Wenbin, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a press conference, "Japan has been acting so high-profile on the Taiwan question. Has it forgotten the commitment it made when signing the Sino-Japanese Joint Statement? Is it trying to subvert the political foundation of China-Japan relations?"

The ministry spokesperson further added, "Does it have the ambition to touch Taiwan again? Is Japan going to take this opportunity to expand its arms, abandon its pacifist constitution and abandon the path of peaceful development?"

Read More: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-dont-think-theyre-going-to-do-anything-more-biden-on-chinese-military-drills-near-taiwan-504990">I don’t think they’re going to do anything more: Biden on Chinese military drills near Taiwan</a>

As reported extensively by WION, after Japan released a joint statement alongside G7 nations on Taiwan and Pelosi visited Japan, a miffed China fired five ballistic missiles in Japan's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

However, at the conference, China's foreign ministry refused to accept that such an incident took place even place. Furthermore, Wang stated&nbsp;that there is no such thing as 'Japan's EEZ' in the area.&nbsp;

The G7 foreign ministers in their joint statement titled "Preserving peace and stability across the Taiwan strait" had called on China to resolve the tensions peacefully.&nbsp;

"We are concerned by recent and announced threatening actions by the People’s Republic of China (PRC), particularly live-fire exercises and economic coercion, which risk unnecessary escalation. There is no justification to use a visit as pretext for aggressive military activity in the Taiwan Strait," read the statement, of which Japan was a signatory.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/miffed-china-shelves-bilateral-meeting-with-japan-after-g7-statement-on-taiwan-503600">Nancy Pelosi Taiwan trip: China scraps meet with Japan over G7 statement</a>

Ever since Nancy Pelosi announced her decision to visit Taiwan, China had been threatening of dire consequences. While it didn't do much when Pelosi was in Taipei, it sure has engaged its afterburners since then.

A day after completing its biggest military exercise around the island nation, China announced that&nbsp;more such military drills were in the pipeline, including anti-submarine and sea assault operations.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In the aftermath of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, tensions have risen between China and Japan. Reportedly, after Japan condemned China's military drills around Taiwan as a 'threat to regional peace and security', the Chinese Foreign Ministry released a lengthy statement questioning Tokyo's motives.

In the aftermath of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, tensions have risen between China and Japan. Reportedly, after Japan condemned China's military drills around Taiwan as a 'threat to regional peace and security', the Chinese Foreign Ministry released a lengthy statement questioning Tokyo's motives. Wang Wenbin, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a press conference, "Japan has been acting so high-profile on the Taiwan question. Has it forgotten the commitment it made when signing the Sino-Japanese Joint Statement? Is it trying to subvert the political foundation of China-Japan relations?" The ministry spokesperson further added, "Does it have the ambition to touch Taiwan again? Is Japan going to take this opportunity to expand its arms, abandon its pacifist constitution and abandon the path of peaceful development?" Read More: I don’t think they’re going to do anything more: Biden on Chinese military drills near Taiwan As reported extensively by WION, after Japan released a joint statement alongside G7 nations on Taiwan and Pelosi visited Japan, a miffed China fired five ballistic missiles in Japan's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). However, at the conference, China's foreign ministry refused to accept that such an incident took place even place. Furthermore, Wang stated that there is no such thing as 'Japan's EEZ' in the area. The G7 foreign ministers in their joint statement titled "Preserving peace and stability across the Taiwan strait" had called on China to resolve the tensions peacefully. "We are concerned by recent and announced threatening actions by the People’s Republic of China (PRC), particularly live-fire exercises and economic coercion, which risk unnecessary escalation. There is no justification to use a visit as pretext for aggressive military activity in the Taiwan Strait," read the statement, of which Japan was a signatory. Read More: Nancy Pelosi Taiwan trip: China scraps meet with Japan over G7 statement Ever since Nancy Pelosi announced her decision to visit Taiwan, China had been threatening of dire consequences. While it didn't do much when Pelosi was in Taipei, it sure has engaged its afterburners since then. A day after completing its biggest military exercise around the island nation, China announced that more such military drills were in the pipeline, including anti-submarine and sea assault operations. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

"Does it have the ambition to touch Taiwan again?", Chinese foreign ministry questions Japan

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