Taiwan's government on Wednesday proposed tightening a law to prevent China from stealing key technology, reflecting concerns in Taipei that Beijing is stepping up espionage efforts against the island. 
 
Taiwan is home to a thriving and world-leading semiconductor industry, used in everything from fighter jets to cars, and the government has long worried about Chinese efforts to copy that success, including through industrial espionage, poaching talent and other methods. 
 
Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council said it was proposing a revision to an existing law governing China relations that would require people getting government money for certain technology to seek permission before going to China. 
 
There would be fines of up to T$10 million ($360,555) for those who breach the law. 
 
The council did not specify what constitutes "national core technology" or how the government defines "certain subsidies" provided by them, saying it will seek help from the technology ministry and further amend the regulations. 
 
A senior Taiwan government official familiar with the matter told Reuters last month the revision was meant to protect the island`s manufacturing technology for advanced chips, which industry experts say is generations ahead of China`s. 
 
Taiwan's parliament will need to pass the revisions. 
 
Four lawmakers from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party proposed in April&nbsp;amending the commercial secrets law to widen the scope of what is considered a secret and toughen penalties. 
 
Taiwan blames China for most cases of industrial espionage by foreign forces discovered in recent years. 
 
Taiwan has been particularly concerned by Chinese attempts to boost its semiconductor industry by "poaching" Taiwanese talent.

Taiwan's government on Wednesday proposed tightening a law to prevent China from stealing key technology, reflecting concerns in Taipei that Beijing is stepping up espionage efforts against the island.

Taiwan's government on Wednesday proposed tightening a law to prevent China from stealing key technology, reflecting concerns in Taipei that Beijing is stepping up espionage efforts against the island. Taiwan is home to a thriving and world-leading semiconductor industry, used in everything from fighter jets to cars, and the government has long worried about Chinese efforts to copy that success, including through industrial espionage, poaching talent and other methods. Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council said it was proposing a revision to an existing law governing China relations that would require people getting government money for certain technology to seek permission before going to China. There would be fines of up to T$10 million ($360,555) for those who breach the law. The council did not specify what constitutes "national core technology" or how the government defines "certain subsidies" provided by them, saying it will seek help from the technology ministry and further amend the regulations. A senior Taiwan government official familiar with the matter told Reuters last month the revision was meant to protect the island`s manufacturing technology for advanced chips, which industry experts say is generations ahead of China`s. Taiwan's parliament will need to pass the revisions. Four lawmakers from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party proposed in April amending the commercial secrets law to widen the scope of what is considered a secret and toughen penalties. Taiwan blames China for most cases of industrial espionage by foreign forces discovered in recent years. Taiwan has been particularly concerned by Chinese attempts to boost its semiconductor industry by "poaching" Taiwanese talent.

Taiwan proposes tightening law to prevent China stealing technology

Chinese President Xi Jinping has warned Taiwan to work on unification of the country and get out of the existing "grim" situation.<o:p></o:p>

The self-ruled democratic Taiwan is usually claimed as a part of its territory by China and the Asian country has, on several occasions,&nbsp;stressed that it will one day re-take the country.<o:p></o:p>

Now, in a congratulatory message to Eric Chu, who has just been elected as the leader of the Kuomintang (KMT) party — which is China-friendly — China's President XI Jinping said the Communist Party and KMT should work together.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-welcomes-huawei-executive-meng-wanzhou-home-416107">WATCH |</a></o:p>

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"In the past our two parties insisted on '1992 consensus' and opposing 'Taiwan independence' ... to promote peaceful developments in cross- strait relations," Xi said in the letter released by the KMT.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

He urged the two parties to come together for the ‘unification of the country’ and make sure the ‘grim’ situation is straightened out as soon as possible.<o:p></o:p>

"At present the situation in the Taiwan Strait is complex and grim," he said, urging the parties to jointly seek peace and "the unification of the country."&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Chu has replied back by saying he hopes the two parties will “seek common ground and respect their differences” to ensure and promote peace and stability in the area.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, Beijing has been building military, diplomatic and economic pressure on Taiwan to admit and follow the idea of “One China”.<o:p></o:p>

Chinese President Xi Jinping has warned Taiwan to work on unification of the country and get out of the existing "grim" situation. The self-ruled democratic Taiwan is usually claimed as a part of its territory by China and the Asian country has, on several occasions, stressed that it will one day re-take the country.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has warned Taiwan to work on unification of the country and get out of the existing "grim" situation. The self-ruled democratic Taiwan is usually claimed as a part of its territory by China and the Asian country has, on several occasions, stressed that it will one day re-take the country. Now, in a congratulatory message to Eric Chu, who has just been elected as the leader of the Kuomintang (KMT) party — which is China-friendly — China's President XI Jinping said the Communist Party and KMT should work together. WATCH | "In the past our two parties insisted on '1992 consensus' and opposing 'Taiwan independence' ... to promote peaceful developments in cross- strait relations," Xi said in the letter released by the KMT. He urged the two parties to come together for the ‘unification of the country’ and make sure the ‘grim’ situation is straightened out as soon as possible. "At present the situation in the Taiwan Strait is complex and grim," he said, urging the parties to jointly seek peace and "the unification of the country." Chu has replied back by saying he hopes the two parties will “seek common ground and respect their differences” to ensure and promote peace and stability in the area. Meanwhile, Beijing has been building military, diplomatic and economic pressure on Taiwan to admit and follow the idea of “One China”.

China warns Taiwan about existing 'grim' situation

Taiwan on Thursday accused China of "bullying" after Beijing sent a total of 24 warplanes into its air defence identification zone (ADIZ), the third-largest incursion in the past two years of heightened tensions between Beijing and Taipei, US media reported.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft, including bombers, fighter jets, anti-submarine planes, and airborne early warning and control planes, entered Taiwan's ADIZ in two groups—one of 19 planes and the second cohort of five jets that came later in the day, CNN reported.

Citing a map released by Taiwan's Defense Ministry, CNN reported that some Chinese aircraft, including H-6 bombers, were flying around the southern part of Taiwan, and angling up to the island's east.

In response, the ministry said radio warnings were issued and air defence missile systems were deployed to monitor the activity.

The air incursions came a day after Taiwan officially submitted an application to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) free-trade pact.

Beijing claims full sovereignty over Taiwan, a democracy of almost 24 million people located off the southeastern coast of mainland China, despite the fact that the two sides have been governed separately for more than seven decades.

Taipei, on the other hand, has countered Chinese aggression by increasing strategic ties with democracies, including the US, which has been repeatedly opposed by Beijing. China has threatened that "Taiwan's independence" means war.

On June 1, Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged to complete reunification with self-ruled Taiwan and vowed to smash any attempts at formal independence for the island.&nbsp;

Taiwan on Thursday accused China of "bullying" after Beijing sent a total of 24 warplanes into its air defence identification zone (ADIZ), the third-largest incursion in the past two years of heightened tensions between Beijing and Taipei, US media reported.

Taiwan on Thursday accused China of "bullying" after Beijing sent a total of 24 warplanes into its air defence identification zone (ADIZ), the third-largest incursion in the past two years of heightened tensions between Beijing and Taipei, US media reported. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft, including bombers, fighter jets, anti-submarine planes, and airborne early warning and control planes, entered Taiwan's ADIZ in two groups—one of 19 planes and the second cohort of five jets that came later in the day, CNN reported. Citing a map released by Taiwan's Defense Ministry, CNN reported that some Chinese aircraft, including H-6 bombers, were flying around the southern part of Taiwan, and angling up to the island's east. In response, the ministry said radio warnings were issued and air defence missile systems were deployed to monitor the activity. The air incursions came a day after Taiwan officially submitted an application to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) free-trade pact. Beijing claims full sovereignty over Taiwan, a democracy of almost 24 million people located off the southeastern coast of mainland China, despite the fact that the two sides have been governed separately for more than seven decades. Taipei, on the other hand, has countered Chinese aggression by increasing strategic ties with democracies, including the US, which has been repeatedly opposed by Beijing. China has threatened that "Taiwan's independence" means war. On June 1, Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged to complete reunification with self-ruled Taiwan and vowed to smash any attempts at formal independence for the island.

Taiwan accuses China of 'bullying' after largest warplane incursions

Taiwan's main opposition party elected former leader Eric Chu as its chairman on Saturday with a pledge to renew stalled talks with China, which has ramped up military and political pressure against the island Beijing claims as its own territory.

Chu, 60, a former mayor of New Taipei City, beat Kuomintang (KMT) incumbent Johnny Chiang and two other contenders in the chairmanship election, though he will not take over immediately.

The KMT was trounced in presidential and parliamentary elections last year, having failed to cast off the ruling Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) accusations a vote for them was no more than a vote for China.

Speaking after his victory, Chu said when it came to policy in relation to China his party would not become a "little" version of the DPP, which Beijing refuses to deal with believing they are separatists.

"We will re-build cross-Taiwan Strait exchange platforms and communication channels," he said.

The KMT ruled China until fleeing to Taiwan in 1949 after losing a civil war to the Communists. It traditionally favours close ties with Beijing, which has increasingly set it at odds with many Taiwanese.

High-level KMT contact with China's Communist Party stalled during Chiang's 17-month tenure amid increased pressure by China against Taiwan and suspicion in Beijing that the party was not sufficiently committed to accepting the island as part of "one China".

Chu met President Xi Jinping in Beijing in 2015, where he acknowledged that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are part of "one China" but they have different interpretations what this means.

The urbane, U.S.-educated Chu previously led the KMT until resigning in 2016 after he was defeated in Taiwan's presidential election by current President Tsai Ing-wen.

Deep disagreements remain in the KMT about its direction following its electoral defeat last year, and Chu pledged "unprecedented unity" under his leadership.

Taiwan will hold mayoral elections next year which, while mostly focusing on local issues, will be an important measure of support ahead of the 2024 presidential vote.

Taiwan's main opposition party elected former leader Eric Chu as its chairman on Saturday with a pledge to renew stalled talks with China, which has ramped up military and political pressure against the island Beijing claims as its own territory.

Taiwan's main opposition party elected former leader Eric Chu as its chairman on Saturday with a pledge to renew stalled talks with China, which has ramped up military and political pressure against the island Beijing claims as its own territory. Chu, 60, a former mayor of New Taipei City, beat Kuomintang (KMT) incumbent Johnny Chiang and two other contenders in the chairmanship election, though he will not take over immediately. The KMT was trounced in presidential and parliamentary elections last year, having failed to cast off the ruling Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) accusations a vote for them was no more than a vote for China. Speaking after his victory, Chu said when it came to policy in relation to China his party would not become a "little" version of the DPP, which Beijing refuses to deal with believing they are separatists. "We will re-build cross-Taiwan Strait exchange platforms and communication channels," he said. The KMT ruled China until fleeing to Taiwan in 1949 after losing a civil war to the Communists. It traditionally favours close ties with Beijing, which has increasingly set it at odds with many Taiwanese. High-level KMT contact with China's Communist Party stalled during Chiang's 17-month tenure amid increased pressure by China against Taiwan and suspicion in Beijing that the party was not sufficiently committed to accepting the island as part of "one China". Chu met President Xi Jinping in Beijing in 2015, where he acknowledged that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are part of "one China" but they have different interpretations what this means. The urbane, U.S.-educated Chu previously led the KMT until resigning in 2016 after he was defeated in Taiwan's presidential election by current President Tsai Ing-wen. Deep disagreements remain in the KMT about its direction following its electoral defeat last year, and Chu pledged "unprecedented unity" under his leadership. Taiwan will hold mayoral elections next year which, while mostly focusing on local issues, will be an important measure of support ahead of the 2024 presidential vote.

Taiwan opposition party's new leader pledges renewed talks with China

Taiwan condemned China for "bullying" after Beijing sent a total of 24 warplanes into its air defence identification zone (ADIZ) on Thursday (September 23) and also opposed Taiwan's bid to join a pan-Pacific trade pact.&nbsp;

Taiwan applied to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) but admitted that there's a potential political roadblock as China has also applied. China's Foreign Ministry said it opposed Taiwan "entering into any official treaty or organisation".

On Wednesday, Taiwan had formally applied to join CPTPP, and a day after that, China sent two dozen warplanes, including bombers, fighter jets, anti-submarine planes and airborne early warning and control planes in two groups.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-clothing-brand-faces-heat-over-inappropriate-messages-anti-india-depictions-printed-on-kids-shirts-415605">Chinese clothing brand faces heat over inappropriate messages, anti-India depictions printed on kids' shirts</a>

Taiwan's defence ministry had said the country's air force was scrambled to warn off the Chinese planes, which was the third-largest incursion in the past two years. The incident has further escalated the heightened tensions between Beijing and Taiwan.&nbsp;

In a statement late on Thursday, Taiwan's Foreign Ministry said China had "no right to speak" about Taiwan's bid.&nbsp;

"The Chinese government only wants to bully Taiwan in the international community, and is the arch criminal in increased hostility across the Taiwan Strait," it said.

ALSO READ&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-says-uks-boris-johnson-offered-to-re-establish-cooperation-415593">France says UK's Boris Johnson offered to 're-establish cooperation'</a>

China is not a member of the CPTPP, which consists of Canada, Australia, Brunei, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam.&nbsp;

The original 12-member agreement, known as the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), was seen as an important economic counterweight to China's growing influence.

But the TPP was thrown into limbo in early 2017 when then-US President Donald Trump withdrew the United States.&nbsp;

Taiwan condemned China for "bullying" after Beijing sent a total of 24 warplanes into its air defence identification zone (ADIZ) on Thursday (September 23) and also opposed Taiwan's bid to join a pan-Pacific trade pact.

Taiwan condemned China for "bullying" after Beijing sent a total of 24 warplanes into its air defence identification zone (ADIZ) on Thursday (September 23) and also opposed Taiwan's bid to join a pan-Pacific trade pact. Taiwan applied to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) but admitted that there's a potential political roadblock as China has also applied. China's Foreign Ministry said it opposed Taiwan "entering into any official treaty or organisation". On Wednesday, Taiwan had formally applied to join CPTPP, and a day after that, China sent two dozen warplanes, including bombers, fighter jets, anti-submarine planes and airborne early warning and control planes in two groups. ALSO READ | Chinese clothing brand faces heat over inappropriate messages, anti-India depictions printed on kids' shirts Taiwan's defence ministry had said the country's air force was scrambled to warn off the Chinese planes, which was the third-largest incursion in the past two years. The incident has further escalated the heightened tensions between Beijing and Taiwan. In a statement late on Thursday, Taiwan's Foreign Ministry said China had "no right to speak" about Taiwan's bid. "The Chinese government only wants to bully Taiwan in the international community, and is the arch criminal in increased hostility across the Taiwan Strait," it said. ALSO READ | France says UK's Boris Johnson offered to 're-establish cooperation' China is not a member of the CPTPP, which consists of Canada, Australia, Brunei, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam. The original 12-member agreement, known as the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), was seen as an important economic counterweight to China's growing influence. But the TPP was thrown into limbo in early 2017 when then-US President Donald Trump withdrew the United States.

Taiwan slams 'bully' China for warplane incursions and Pacific trade pact threats

China on Thursday said it "strongly opposes" Taiwan's bid to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a day after Taipei applied for membership in the 11-country trade bloc.Watch this report for more details.

China opposes Taiwan's Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership

After Taiwan applied to join a trans-Pacific trade pact, China has criticised the island nation’s attempt, saying it opposes its joining of any official international agreements and organisations. &nbsp;

Taiwan has filed an application to join the 11-member Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;

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In a bid to increase its economic influence in the region, Beijing has also applied to join the same pact some time ago. &nbsp;

“Taiwan is an inalienable part of China,” said Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian on being asked about Taiwan’s move. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/chinese-aircraft-including-nuclear-capable-bombers-entered-air-defence-zone-claims-taiwan-415251" hreflang="en">Chinese aircraft, including nuclear-capable bombers, entered air defence zone, claims Taiwan</a>

On Thursday, Zhao added, “We resolutely oppose any country’s official exchanges with Taiwan, and resolutely oppose the Taiwan region’s accession to any official agreements and organisations.” &nbsp;

Chen Chern-chyi, deputy economic minister, Taiwan, said on Wednesday that Taipei had submitted the application to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/lift-unilateral-sanctions-or-restrictions-on-afghanistan-says-chinese-fm-wang-yi-415189" hreflang="en">Lift unilateral sanctions or restrictions on Afghanistan, says Chinese FM Wang Yi</a>

Meanwhile, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) eastern theatre command dispatched naval and Air Forces to conduct joint patrols and combat exercises "in the waters and airspace southwest of Taiwan", as per China's state-run Global Times report. &nbsp;

The newspaper said the move came after "US warship transited the Taiwan Straits to provoke China concerning its sovereignty over the island again on Friday." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

After Taiwan applied to join a trans-Pacific trade pact, China has criticised the island nation’s attempt, saying it opposes its joining of any official international agreements and organisations.

After Taiwan applied to join a trans-Pacific trade pact, China has criticised the island nation’s attempt, saying it opposes its joining of any official international agreements and organisations. Taiwan has filed an application to join the 11-member Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. Watch: × In a bid to increase its economic influence in the region, Beijing has also applied to join the same pact some time ago. “Taiwan is an inalienable part of China,” said Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian on being asked about Taiwan’s move. Also Read: Chinese aircraft, including nuclear-capable bombers, entered air defence zone, claims Taiwan On Thursday, Zhao added, “We resolutely oppose any country’s official exchanges with Taiwan, and resolutely oppose the Taiwan region’s accession to any official agreements and organisations.” Chen Chern-chyi, deputy economic minister, Taiwan, said on Wednesday that Taipei had submitted the application to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Also Read: Lift unilateral sanctions or restrictions on Afghanistan, says Chinese FM Wang Yi Meanwhile, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) eastern theatre command dispatched naval and Air Forces to conduct joint patrols and combat exercises "in the waters and airspace southwest of Taiwan", as per China's state-run Global Times report. The newspaper said the move came after "US warship transited the Taiwan Straits to provoke China concerning its sovereignty over the island again on Friday." (With inputs from agencies)

China slams Taiwan’s attempt to join key trans-Pacific trade pact

Amid escalated tensions, Taiwan's defence ministry said the country's air force scrambled again to warn off 19 Chinese aircraft that entered its air defence zone on Thursday (September 23).

Amid escalated tensions, Taiwan's defence ministry said the country's air force scrambled again to warn off 19 Chinese aircraft that entered its air defence zone on Thursday (September 23). The large display of force by China comes after Taiwan announced its intention to join an 11-nation Pacific trade group. The ministry further informed that the Chinese aircraft included 12 J-16 fighters and two nuclear-capable H-6 bombers as CAP aircraft was tasked, radio warnings were issued and air defence missile systems deployed to monitor the activity. This latest entry of Chinese aircraft is one of the many as Beijing has regularly been sending planes into Taiwan's ADIZ. Taiwan and China split during a civil war in 1949, but China continues to claim full sovereignty over Taiwan. ALSO READ | China worst abuser of internet freedom, Iceland with the most internet freedom, says report 19 PLA aircraft (J-16*12, Y-8 ASW*2, H-6*2, Y-8 EW and J-11*2) entered #Taiwan’s southwest ADIZ in the morning of September 23, 2021. Please check our official website for more information: https://t.co/c5EJJFhzKL pic.twitter.com/81fIdFbWFI — 國防部 Ministry of National Defense, R.O.C. 🇹🇼 (@MoNDefense) September 23, 2021 × Taiwan has also applied to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) on Wednesday (September 22) but admitted that there is a "risk". Taiwan's government addressed a potential political roadblock to joining the CPTPP after formally applying on Wednesday, less than a week after China. Taiwan has been trying to counter the Chinese aggression by increasing strategic ties with democracies including the US, which has been repeatedly opposed by Beijing. As China has threatened that "Taiwan's independence" means war. On June 1, Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged to complete reunification with self-ruled Taiwan and vowed to smash any attempts at formal independence for the island. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese aircraft, including nuclear-capable bombers, entered air defence zone, claims Taiwan

Taiwan threatened to take China to the World Trade Organization on Sunday after Beijing said it would suspend sugar apple and wax apple imports from Taiwan on pest concerns. This is the second time this year that China has halted fruit imports from Taiwan.

Taiwan threatens to take China to the World Trade Organization

Taiwan faces "severe threats" from China. It now wants to spend close to $9 billion extra for more arms. But that may not be enough to contain the tensions in the region. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Taiwan faces "severe threats" from China

As US President Joe Biden announced a new alliance with the UK and Australia (known as Ausuk), several international groups and governments were left surprised, including the European Union.<o:p></o:p>

The three countries have joined hands to share and better utilise their capabilities and technology to make sure people are "kept safe from harm and reinforcing our shared goals".

<o:p>Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aukus-china-calls-the-alliance-irresponsible-australia-shrugs-413679">&nbsp;Aukus: China calls the alliance 'irresponsible', Australia shrugs</a></o:p>

Taiwan, an island that China claims to be its province, has lent support to this newly formed alliance, unlike China. The nation has said it is not asking anyone to fight Taiwan’s wars on its behalf, and is therefore not riled up against the new alliance.<o:p></o:p>

A joint press statement from the alliance stated that the US and Australia will continue promoting "peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues without resorting to threats or coercion". <o:p></o:p>

While this angered China, Taiwan's government has thanked the US and Australia for its "firm and open" support.<o:p></o:p>

"Building on the solid existing foundations, our government will continue to work closely with the United States, Australia and other countries with similar ideas to expand Taiwan's international space, safeguard democracy and shared values, and a rules-based international order, and jointly safeguard peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region," said ministry spokesperson Joanne Ou.<o:p></o:p>

China’s anger towards the newly-formed alliance roots out of the open and clear criticism from the three involved nations that have protested China’s actions in the South China Sea.<o:p></o:p>

However, China has strongly opposed this move and has labelled the accusations to be 'unfounded'.<o:p></o:p>

"This petty move to put pressure on China will be of no avail but a staged farce," China's embassy in Canberra said.<o:p></o:p>

As US President Joe Biden announced a new alliance with the UK and Australia (known as Ausuk), several international groups and governments were left surprised, including the European Union.

As US President Joe Biden announced a new alliance with the UK and Australia (known as Ausuk), several international groups and governments were left surprised, including the European Union. The three countries have joined hands to share and better utilise their capabilities and technology to make sure people are "kept safe from harm and reinforcing our shared goals". Also read | Aukus: China calls the alliance 'irresponsible', Australia shrugs Taiwan, an island that China claims to be its province, has lent support to this newly formed alliance, unlike China. The nation has said it is not asking anyone to fight Taiwan’s wars on its behalf, and is therefore not riled up against the new alliance. A joint press statement from the alliance stated that the US and Australia will continue promoting "peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues without resorting to threats or coercion". While this angered China, Taiwan's government has thanked the US and Australia for its "firm and open" support. "Building on the solid existing foundations, our government will continue to work closely with the United States, Australia and other countries with similar ideas to expand Taiwan's international space, safeguard democracy and shared values, and a rules-based international order, and jointly safeguard peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region," said ministry spokesperson Joanne Ou. China’s anger towards the newly-formed alliance roots out of the open and clear criticism from the three involved nations that have protested China’s actions in the South China Sea. However, China has strongly opposed this move and has labelled the accusations to be 'unfounded'. "This petty move to put pressure on China will be of no avail but a staged farce," China's embassy in Canberra said.

As China fumes over new alliance, Taiwan thanks Australia and US for 'firm and open support' of Ausuk

In an effort to showcase its military capability Taiwan conducted military drills designed to replicate a potential offensive from China.

Taiwan holds military drill amid China tension

As annual drills reached their peak, Taiwanese fighter jets landed on a makeshift runway on a highway strip on Wednesday. &nbsp;

The drills, which were overseen by President Tsai Ing-wen, looked to enhance capabilities of the security forces that would come in handy if China attacks and targets Taiwan's vulnerable air bases. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;North Korea fires ballistic missiles into sea

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In the exercise, three fighters, an F-16, French-made Mirage and a Ching-kuo indigenous defence fighter, and an E-2 Hawkeye early warning aircraft landed on a highway strip specially designed to be straight and flat for rapid conversion from a road into a runway in rural southern Pingtung county.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Across the island, Taiwan has constructed five emergency highway runways, which can be pressed into service in the event a Chinese attack takes out air force bases. It means the air force will still be able to operate. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-test-fires-first-submarine-launched-ballistic-missile-hours-after-north-korean-launches-413239" hreflang="en">South Korea test-fires first submarine-launched ballistic missile, hours after North Korean launches</a>

The week-long Han Kuang drills are taking place around Taiwan. In it, exercises are being undertaken to practise repelling a Chinese invasion, protecting critical infrastructure and night operations. &nbsp;

On Facebook, Tsai wrote, "Such splendid combat skills and rapid and real actions come from solid everyday training and also demonstrate the confidence of the Republic of China Air Force in defending its airspace." &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

As annual drills reached their peak, Taiwanese fighter jets landed on a makeshift runway on a highway strip on Wednesday. The drills, which were overseen by President Tsai Ing-wen, looked to enhance capabilities of the security forces that would come in handy if China attacks and targets Taiwan's vulnerable air bases.

As annual drills reached their peak, Taiwanese fighter jets landed on a makeshift runway on a highway strip on Wednesday. The drills, which were overseen by President Tsai Ing-wen, looked to enhance capabilities of the security forces that would come in handy if China attacks and targets Taiwan's vulnerable air bases. Watch: North Korea fires ballistic missiles into sea × In the exercise, three fighters, an F-16, French-made Mirage and a Ching-kuo indigenous defence fighter, and an E-2 Hawkeye early warning aircraft landed on a highway strip specially designed to be straight and flat for rapid conversion from a road into a runway in rural southern Pingtung county. Across the island, Taiwan has constructed five emergency highway runways, which can be pressed into service in the event a Chinese attack takes out air force bases. It means the air force will still be able to operate. Also Read: South Korea test-fires first submarine-launched ballistic missile, hours after North Korean launches The week-long Han Kuang drills are taking place around Taiwan. In it, exercises are being undertaken to practise repelling a Chinese invasion, protecting critical infrastructure and night operations. On Facebook, Tsai wrote, "Such splendid combat skills and rapid and real actions come from solid everyday training and also demonstrate the confidence of the Republic of China Air Force in defending its airspace." (With inputs from agencies)

In drills to prepare for a China attack, Taiwan lands jets on highway

For 9 days, Chinese warplanes have been buzzing around Taiwan. Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense fears China could launch a 'simulated bio-chemical attack'. Palki Sharma tells you how this signals the beginning of a new escalation.

Gravitas: China-Taiwan tensions are escalating once again

A Bizarre article from 2013 has resurfaced on Chinese social media. It claims that Beijing will invade Taiwan by 2025 and Arunachal Pradesh by 2040. The article's nuances are laughable, the endgame is not. Palki Sharma tells you why.

Gravitas: Bizarre article claims China will invade Arunachal

Reports say the Biden administration is considering a request from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-says-19-chinese-warplanes-entered-air-defence-zone-411139">Taiwan</a> government to change the name of its mission in Washington from Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office to Taiwan Representative Office.

China has reportedly hit out at the move and warned the US government not to intervene in the One-China policy. Reports added that the US government is "seriously considering" allowing Taiwan to use its name which is being widely seen as a symbolic gesture amid tensions with China.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-china-taiwan-tensions-are-escalating-once-again-412875/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The US had repeatedly stressed its support for Taiwan maintaining that it is "rock solid". Taiwan had earlier opened a &nbsp;representative office in Lithuania and named it "Taiwanese Representative Office in Lithuania".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-will-beat-russia-in-war-bizarre-article-that-also-talks-about-reunifying-taiwan-taking-arunachal-pradesh-from-india-goes-viral-after-8-years-412766">Also Read: 'China will beat Russia in war'- Bizarre article that also talks about reunifying Taiwan</a>

China reacted angrily as it recalled its envoy from the country and imposed sanctions on Lithuania, however, the country's foreign minister backed the move amid tensions with China although he added that&nbsp;Lithuania is keen on finding a diplomatic solution to the tussle with China.

China considers Taiwan as a breakaway province and has vowed to unify the country with the mainland by force if necessary. Taiwan's relations with China has been going downhill for the past few years even as the US government has sold several state of the art arms to the country amid China's threat.

The US government had recently approved howitzers and munitions kit worth $750 million&nbsp;and given advanced jets to the country. Amid tensions with Taiwan, Chinese jets have repeatedly entered Taipei's airspace in the past year raising tensions between the two countries.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Taiwan began its five-day military exercise on Monday with live-fire drills. The drill&nbsp;involved fighter jets and Naval ships. Taiwan also deployed the C-130 transport aircraft as it conducted a simulated Chinese attack.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

Reports say the Biden administration is considering a request from the Taiwan government to change the name of its mission in Washington from Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office to Taiwan Representative Office.

Reports say the Biden administration is considering a request from the Taiwan government to change the name of its mission in Washington from Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office to Taiwan Representative Office. China has reportedly hit out at the move and warned the US government not to intervene in the One-China policy. Reports added that the US government is "seriously considering" allowing Taiwan to use its name which is being widely seen as a symbolic gesture amid tensions with China. Watch: The US had repeatedly stressed its support for Taiwan maintaining that it is "rock solid". Taiwan had earlier opened a representative office in Lithuania and named it "Taiwanese Representative Office in Lithuania". Also Read: 'China will beat Russia in war'- Bizarre article that also talks about reunifying Taiwan China reacted angrily as it recalled its envoy from the country and imposed sanctions on Lithuania, however, the country's foreign minister backed the move amid tensions with China although he added that Lithuania is keen on finding a diplomatic solution to the tussle with China. China considers Taiwan as a breakaway province and has vowed to unify the country with the mainland by force if necessary. Taiwan's relations with China has been going downhill for the past few years even as the US government has sold several state of the art arms to the country amid China's threat. The US government had recently approved howitzers and munitions kit worth $750 million and given advanced jets to the country. Amid tensions with Taiwan, Chinese jets have repeatedly entered Taipei's airspace in the past year raising tensions between the two countries. Meanwhile, Taiwan began its five-day military exercise on Monday with live-fire drills. The drill involved fighter jets and Naval ships. Taiwan also deployed the C-130 transport aircraft as it conducted a simulated Chinese attack. (With inputs from Agencies)

Taiwan wants its US office to be renamed; China retaliates: Report

Typhoon Chanthu unleashed powerful winds and heavy rain on eastern Taiwan on Sunday. Nearly 100 flights and ferries have been cancelled due to the typhoon.

Typhoon Chanthu brings heavy rainfall to Taiwan, over 100 flights cancelled

Typhoon Chanthu drenched Taiwan on Sunday as the storm's center passed the island's east coast.

Typhoon Chanthu drenches Taiwan

Fishermen and restaurant owners in Taiwan prepared for typhoon&nbsp;Chanthu&nbsp;on Saturday, tying up ships in the Harbour and preparing to close shop/

Chanthu&nbsp;was downgraded to a medium typhoon on Saturday by Taiwan's weather authorities, who said that while it would bring heavy rain and gusting winds to most of the island it was unlikely to make direct landfall.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/super-typhoon-chanthu-threatens-philippines-taiwan-412119">Also read |&nbsp;Super typhoon Chanthu threatens Philippines, Taiwan</a>

Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau said the storm, which was at one point categorised a super typhoon, was losing strength as it headed up the Bashi Channel that separates Taiwan from the Philippines.

It forecast&nbsp;Chanthu&nbsp;would skirt Taiwan's sparsely populated and mountainous east coast on Saturday night and into Sunday (September 12) morning, then head towards China's Zhejiang province and Shanghai.

Taiwanese airlines cancelled their Saturday afternoon domestic flights, though there was only limited impact on international services. The government has ordered disaster preparations in case of landslides or flooding.

Fishermen and restaurant owners in Taiwan prepared for typhoon Chanthu on Saturday, tying up ships in the Harbour and preparing to close shop/ Chanthu was downgraded to a medium typhoon on Saturday by Taiwan's weather authorities, who said that while it would bring heavy rain and gusting winds to most of the island it was unlikely to make direct landfall.

Fishermen and restaurant owners in Taiwan prepared for typhoon Chanthu on Saturday, tying up ships in the Harbour and preparing to close shop/ Chanthu was downgraded to a medium typhoon on Saturday by Taiwan's weather authorities, who said that while it would bring heavy rain and gusting winds to most of the island it was unlikely to make direct landfall. Also read | Super typhoon Chanthu threatens Philippines, Taiwan Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau said the storm, which was at one point categorised a super typhoon, was losing strength as it headed up the Bashi Channel that separates Taiwan from the Philippines. It forecast Chanthu would skirt Taiwan's sparsely populated and mountainous east coast on Saturday night and into Sunday (September 12) morning, then head towards China's Zhejiang province and Shanghai. Taiwanese airlines cancelled their Saturday afternoon domestic flights, though there was only limited impact on international services. The government has ordered disaster preparations in case of landslides or flooding.

Taiwan prepares as weakening typhoon approaches

A super typhoon that rapidly formed in just 48 hours is threatening both the Philippines and Taiwan with destructive winds and torrential rains over the coming days.

Chanthu&nbsp;was about 580 kilometres&nbsp;southeast of Taiwan's southernmost tip on Friday morning, packing gusts of up to 234 kilometres&nbsp; an hour, according to Taiwan's central weather bureau.

The Philippine state weather agency said the typhoon was expected to graze the northeastern tip of the country later Friday.

The agency warned of "destructive" winds in Santa Ana town, where around 35,000 people live, and the eastern part of the remote Babuyan Islands.&nbsp;

Rough seas will throw up 2.5 to 10-metre waves, it added.&nbsp;

The Cagayan governor has ordered government and private sector workers, except those in frontline services, to stay home and "fortify" their houses, said Rogelio Sending, the provincial information officer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Most projections forecast the storm will then continue to swing northeast and could hit Taiwan directly over the weekend.&nbsp;

"It will be closest to Taiwan on Saturday and Sunday. The public should take precautions against strong winds and downpours," said Taiwanese forecaster Hsu Chung-yi.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hurricane-olaf-weakens-over-mexicos-baja-california-peninsula-412088">Also read |&nbsp;Hurricane Olaf weakens over Mexico's Baja California peninsula</a>

Meteorologists have marvelled at how quickly&nbsp;Chanthu&nbsp;morphed into a powerful storm after it first emerged on Monday in between Guam and the Philippines.&nbsp;

"Chanthu&nbsp;went from a depression to a category-5-equivalent typhoon in 48 hours," Sam Lillo, a researcher at the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

Only five other storms, all this century, have done that, he added.&nbsp;

Over just two days,&nbsp;Chanthu's wind speeds went from 30 miles per hour to 160 miles per hour at their height.&nbsp;

Scientists have long warned that typhoons are becoming more powerful, and strengthening more rapidly, as the world becomes warmer because of man-made climate change.&nbsp;

"This week, Super Typhoon&nbsp;Chanthu&nbsp;provided another stark example of how quickly a storm can strengthen," NASA wrote in an article about the storm on its Earth Observatory blog.&nbsp;

A super typhoon is also known as a category five hurricane in the US.&nbsp;The Earth tends to experience around five storms of that power a year.&nbsp;

Meteorologists say that while&nbsp;Chanthu&nbsp;is powerful, it is small in size and will be unpredictable.&nbsp;

"Small tropical cyclones are capable of very rapid intensity changes, both strengthening and weakening," hurricane scientist Jeff Masters wrote on Yale Climate Connections. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Taiwan is regularly hit by tropical storms in the summer months.&nbsp;

In a rare exception to the rule, not a single typhoon made landfall last year, the first time in 56 years.&nbsp;

That helped fuel the worst drought in decades until heavy rains set in a few months ago and brought needed relief.

The Hong Kong Observatory's projection has&nbsp;Chanthu&nbsp;reducing from a super to a severe typhoon on Sunday as it nears Taiwan's southeastern coast.

A super typhoon that rapidly formed in just 48 hours is threatening both the Philippines and Taiwan with destructive winds and torrential rains over the coming days.

A super typhoon that rapidly formed in just 48 hours is threatening both the Philippines and Taiwan with destructive winds and torrential rains over the coming days. Chanthu was about 580 kilometres southeast of Taiwan's southernmost tip on Friday morning, packing gusts of up to 234 kilometres an hour, according to Taiwan's central weather bureau. The Philippine state weather agency said the typhoon was expected to graze the northeastern tip of the country later Friday. The agency warned of "destructive" winds in Santa Ana town, where around 35,000 people live, and the eastern part of the remote Babuyan Islands. Rough seas will throw up 2.5 to 10-metre waves, it added. The Cagayan governor has ordered government and private sector workers, except those in frontline services, to stay home and "fortify" their houses, said Rogelio Sending, the provincial information officer. Most projections forecast the storm will then continue to swing northeast and could hit Taiwan directly over the weekend. "It will be closest to Taiwan on Saturday and Sunday. The public should take precautions against strong winds and downpours," said Taiwanese forecaster Hsu Chung-yi. Also read | Hurricane Olaf weakens over Mexico's Baja California peninsula Meteorologists have marvelled at how quickly Chanthu morphed into a powerful storm after it first emerged on Monday in between Guam and the Philippines. "Chanthu went from a depression to a category-5-equivalent typhoon in 48 hours," Sam Lillo, a researcher at the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, wrote on Twitter. Only five other storms, all this century, have done that, he added. Over just two days, Chanthu's wind speeds went from 30 miles per hour to 160 miles per hour at their height. Scientists have long warned that typhoons are becoming more powerful, and strengthening more rapidly, as the world becomes warmer because of man-made climate change. "This week, Super Typhoon Chanthu provided another stark example of how quickly a storm can strengthen," NASA wrote in an article about the storm on its Earth Observatory blog. A super typhoon is also known as a category five hurricane in the US. The Earth tends to experience around five storms of that power a year. Meteorologists say that while Chanthu is powerful, it is small in size and will be unpredictable. "Small tropical cyclones are capable of very rapid intensity changes, both strengthening and weakening," hurricane scientist Jeff Masters wrote on Yale Climate Connections. Taiwan is regularly hit by tropical storms in the summer months. In a rare exception to the rule, not a single typhoon made landfall last year, the first time in 56 years. That helped fuel the worst drought in decades until heavy rains set in a few months ago and brought needed relief. The Hong Kong Observatory's projection has Chanthu reducing from a super to a severe typhoon on Sunday as it nears Taiwan's southeastern coast.

Super typhoon Chanthu threatens Philippines, Taiwan

Taiwan has said that an incursion of Chinese military jets flew into its air defence zone on Sunday. The defence ministry said that a total of 19 aircraft, including fighters and nuclear-capable bombers entered its so-called air defence identification zone (ADIZ).

Taipei has been complaining for more than a year about repeated missions by China's air force near the island.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/panjshir-afghan-resistance-leader-ahmad-shah-massoud-calls-for-a-national-uprising-411119">Also read |&nbsp;Panjshir: Afghan resistance leader Ahmad Shah Massoud calls for a ‘national uprising’</a>

Taiwan's defence ministry said Sunday's mission by the Chinese air force involved four H-6 bombers, which can carry nuclear weapons, as well as an anti-submarine aircraft.

On the other hand, China sees democratic Taiwan as a breakaway province, but Taiwan sees itself as a sovereign state.

An air defence identification zone is an area outside of a country's territory and national airspace.

However, the foreign aircraft here are still identified, monitored, and controlled in the interest of national security.

Taiwan has said that an incursion of Chinese military jets flew into its air defence zone on Sunday. The defence ministry said that a total of 19 aircraft, including fighters and nuclear-capable bombers entered its so-called air defence identification zone (ADIZ).

Taiwan has said that an incursion of Chinese military jets flew into its air defence zone on Sunday. The defence ministry said that a total of 19 aircraft, including fighters and nuclear-capable bombers entered its so-called air defence identification zone (ADIZ). Taipei has been complaining for more than a year about repeated missions by China's air force near the island. Also read | Panjshir: Afghan resistance leader Ahmad Shah Massoud calls for a ‘national uprising’ Taiwan's defence ministry said Sunday's mission by the Chinese air force involved four H-6 bombers, which can carry nuclear weapons, as well as an anti-submarine aircraft. On the other hand, China sees democratic Taiwan as a breakaway province, but Taiwan sees itself as a sovereign state. An air defence identification zone is an area outside of a country's territory and national airspace. However, the foreign aircraft here are still identified, monitored, and controlled in the interest of national security.

Taiwan says 19 Chinese warplanes entered air defence zone

Taiwan launched a new English-language news and media streaming platform on Monday aiming to give it a greater voice on the world stage and help to tackle Beijing`s "squeeze" of the Chinese-claimed island on the world stage.

Taiwan+, backed by T$775 million ($28 million) in government funding, will broadcast content online focusing on news, as well as features about Taiwan, from food and tourism to culture and technology.

President Tsai Ing-wen, in a recorded message to the launch party at a Taipei museum, said Taiwan needed a platform to highlight to the world the island`s diversity, democratic achievements and aspiration to contribute to the international community.

"It is our own international media platform, a key part of our collective effort to show what Taiwan has to offer," she said. 
Taiwan+`s founding comes at a time when China is increasingly active in English-language media, putting across the ruling Communist Party`s views to an outside audience, especially via state television`s English language news channel China Global Television Network, or CGTN.

China is also squeezing Taiwan`s international space, including forcing foreign companies to refer to it as being part of China on their websites and routinely carrying out military drills near the island.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/respect-human-rights-and-dignities-taiwans-former-defence-minister-to-china-at-wion-global-summit-372787">Respect human rights and dignities': Taiwan's Former Defence Minister to China at WION Global Summit</a>

Parliament speaker You Si-kun said Taiwan needs to be able to tell its own stories and confront misconceptions put about by China.

"For a long time, the Chinese Communists have been squeezing Taiwan`s international space and creating a false image of Taiwan, leading to the diplomatic challenges Taiwan now faces," You said.

"In recent years, however, there has been a dramatic change in how the world sees the Chinese Communists. Major democracies around the world are now raising the alarm over China`s rise," he added.

Taiwan already has a handful of domestic English-language media, the most prominent of which is the Taipei Times, founded in 1999 and published by the mass circulation Liberty Times.

Taiwan launched a new English-language news and media streaming platform on Monday aiming to give it a greater voice on the world stage and help to tackle Beijing`s "squeeze" of the Chinese-claimed island on the world stage.

Taiwan launched a new English-language news and media streaming platform on Monday aiming to give it a greater voice on the world stage and help to tackle Beijing`s "squeeze" of the Chinese-claimed island on the world stage. Taiwan+, backed by T$775 million ($28 million) in government funding, will broadcast content online focusing on news, as well as features about Taiwan, from food and tourism to culture and technology. President Tsai Ing-wen, in a recorded message to the launch party at a Taipei museum, said Taiwan needed a platform to highlight to the world the island`s diversity, democratic achievements and aspiration to contribute to the international community. "It is our own international media platform, a key part of our collective effort to show what Taiwan has to offer," she said. Taiwan+`s founding comes at a time when China is increasingly active in English-language media, putting across the ruling Communist Party`s views to an outside audience, especially via state television`s English language news channel China Global Television Network, or CGTN. China is also squeezing Taiwan`s international space, including forcing foreign companies to refer to it as being part of China on their websites and routinely carrying out military drills near the island. Also read | Respect human rights and dignities': Taiwan's Former Defence Minister to China at WION Global Summit Parliament speaker You Si-kun said Taiwan needs to be able to tell its own stories and confront misconceptions put about by China. "For a long time, the Chinese Communists have been squeezing Taiwan`s international space and creating a false image of Taiwan, leading to the diplomatic challenges Taiwan now faces," You said. "In recent years, however, there has been a dramatic change in how the world sees the Chinese Communists. Major democracies around the world are now raising the alarm over China`s rise," he added. Taiwan already has a handful of domestic English-language media, the most prominent of which is the Taipei Times, founded in 1999 and published by the mass circulation Liberty Times.

Facing China ''squeeze'', Taiwan launches English-language news platform

Taiwan's government said that global supply and demand for auto chips should reach a "balance" by the fourth quarter of 2021. Democratic US senators from Michigan and Ohio this week asked the Taiwanese government to help address the shortage, given that the island is a major semiconductor producer.

World Business Watch: Taiwan sees 'balance' in auto chip supplies by Q4

Taiwan on Monday rolled out its first domestically developed COVID-19 vaccine amid criticisms from the medical fraternity that the jab was given emergency approval hastily.

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen received her first dose, which was made by Medigen Vaccine Biologics Corp, at a gymnasium at National Taiwan University in Taipei.

The whole process was broadcast&nbsp;live on the President’s Facebook page where she was seen chatting with medical workers as they prepared the shot.

When asked by one of the reporters whether she was nervous taking the first jab, Tsai replied “no”.

“It doesn't hurt, I’m in good spirits, and I'm going to continue working for the day,” she later wrote on Facebook.

Last month, the health ministry approved the emergency use of Medigen Vaccine Biologics Corp’s (6547.TWO)&nbsp;COVID-19 vaccine, after delays in vaccine deliveries from global drug companies.

The recombinant protein vaccine has been developed in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health in the United States, and the government has ordered 5 million doses for now.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-to-extend-covid-19-curbs-into-next-month-393463">Also read |&nbsp;Taiwan to extend COVID-19 curbs into next month</a>

The medical fraternity has been apprehensive about the vaccine rollout as it has yet to finish clinical trials and no efficacy data is available, reports Reuters.

However, the government, citing a study, has claimed that the antibodies created by the indigenously made shot are “no worse than” those created by AstraZeneca's vaccine.

Meanwhile, China’s health officials on Monday said there were no new locally transmitted COVID&nbsp;cases for the first time since July, days after it reported a cluster of local outbreaks among airport cleaning staff in the eastern city of Nanjing.

The country has reported 21 imported cases and zero locally transmitted symptomatic infections, the first time since July 16. It has also reported 16 asymptomatic cases, all of which were imported too, China’s National Health Commission said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan on Monday rolled out its first domestically developed COVID-19 vaccine amid criticisms from the medical fraternity that the jab was given emergency approval hastily.

Taiwan on Monday rolled out its first domestically developed COVID-19 vaccine amid criticisms from the medical fraternity that the jab was given emergency approval hastily. Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen received her first dose, which was made by Medigen Vaccine Biologics Corp, at a gymnasium at National Taiwan University in Taipei. The whole process was broadcast live on the President’s Facebook page where she was seen chatting with medical workers as they prepared the shot. When asked by one of the reporters whether she was nervous taking the first jab, Tsai replied “no”. “It doesn't hurt, I’m in good spirits, and I'm going to continue working for the day,” she later wrote on Facebook. Last month, the health ministry approved the emergency use of Medigen Vaccine Biologics Corp’s (6547.TWO) COVID-19 vaccine, after delays in vaccine deliveries from global drug companies. The recombinant protein vaccine has been developed in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health in the United States, and the government has ordered 5 million doses for now. Also read | Taiwan to extend COVID-19 curbs into next month The medical fraternity has been apprehensive about the vaccine rollout as it has yet to finish clinical trials and no efficacy data is available, reports Reuters. However, the government, citing a study, has claimed that the antibodies created by the indigenously made shot are “no worse than” those created by AstraZeneca's vaccine. Meanwhile, China’s health officials on Monday said there were no new locally transmitted COVID cases for the first time since July, days after it reported a cluster of local outbreaks among airport cleaning staff in the eastern city of Nanjing. The country has reported 21 imported cases and zero locally transmitted symptomatic infections, the first time since July 16. It has also reported 16 asymptomatic cases, all of which were imported too, China’s National Health Commission said. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan rolls out its first indigenously made COVID-19 vaccine

The United States has agreed on “bilateral coordination action” to help Lithuania withstand the diplomatic onslaught from China after it allowed Taiwan to establish an embassy under its own name in the Baltic country.

US secretary of state Antony Blinken spoke with Lithuania`s foreign minister Gabrielius Landsbergis on Saturday, weeks after China threatened to withdraw its ambassador to Vilnius and asked the latter to recall their envoy from Beijing.

“Blinken and Gabrielius Landsbergis agreed that China’s unilateral aggressive actions and political pressure on Lithuania were totally unacceptable,” Reuters quoted a statement from the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry published on Sunday.

However, the statement did not dwell into the specifics of the “bilateral action”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-asks-lithuanias-envoy-to-leave-beijing-over-taiwan-row-404881">Also read |&nbsp;China asks Lithuania's envoy to leave Beijing over Taiwan row</a>

In a separate statement, the US department of state said, “Blinken underscored ironclad US solidarity with our NATO ally and EU partner Lithuania in the face of the People`s Republic of China`s coercive behaviour.”

The row between China and Lithuania erupted last month when Taiwan, which China considers to be a part of its territory under its One Country, Two Systems’ policy, said it was setting up a representative office in Vilnius under the name of ‘Taiwan’ instead of ‘Taipei’ — an act Beijing considers as a diplomatic insult.

Protesting the move, China asked Lithuania's envoy to leave Beijing.

However, Lithuania's foreign ministry expressed regret over Beijing's decision.

“While respecting the principle of one China, (Lithuania) is determined to develop mutually beneficial relations with Taiwan,” the ministry said in a statement.

The United States is Taiwan's strongest international backer and main supplier of arms, according to Reuters.

The United States has agreed on “bilateral coordination action” to help Lithuania withstand the diplomatic onslaught from China after it allowed Taiwan to establish an embassy under its own name in the Baltic country.

The United States has agreed on “bilateral coordination action” to help Lithuania withstand the diplomatic onslaught from China after it allowed Taiwan to establish an embassy under its own name in the Baltic country. US secretary of state Antony Blinken spoke with Lithuania`s foreign minister Gabrielius Landsbergis on Saturday, weeks after China threatened to withdraw its ambassador to Vilnius and asked the latter to recall their envoy from Beijing. “Blinken and Gabrielius Landsbergis agreed that China’s unilateral aggressive actions and political pressure on Lithuania were totally unacceptable,” Reuters quoted a statement from the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry published on Sunday. However, the statement did not dwell into the specifics of the “bilateral action”. Also read | China asks Lithuania's envoy to leave Beijing over Taiwan row In a separate statement, the US department of state said, “Blinken underscored ironclad US solidarity with our NATO ally and EU partner Lithuania in the face of the People`s Republic of China`s coercive behaviour.” The row between China and Lithuania erupted last month when Taiwan, which China considers to be a part of its territory under its One Country, Two Systems’ policy, said it was setting up a representative office in Vilnius under the name of ‘Taiwan’ instead of ‘Taipei’ — an act Beijing considers as a diplomatic insult. Protesting the move, China asked Lithuania's envoy to leave Beijing. However, Lithuania's foreign ministry expressed regret over Beijing's decision. “While respecting the principle of one China, (Lithuania) is determined to develop mutually beneficial relations with Taiwan,” the ministry said in a statement. The United States is Taiwan's strongest international backer and main supplier of arms, according to Reuters.

US, Lithuania agree on ‘bilateral coordination action’ against China over Taiwan row

After Lithuania allowed Taiwan to set up an office under its own name in the country, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unacceptable-and-unjust-justin-trudeau-slams-chinas-jail-sentence-for-canadian-michael-spavor-404592">China</a> demanded&nbsp;Lithuania recall its envoy to Beijing.

Taiwan had said last month it was setting up a representative office in Vilnius under the name "Taiwan" instead of "Taipei" attracting China's ire.

China considers Taiwan as a breakaway province which it intends to unify with the mainland by force if necessary. China's foreign ministry said the move "severely undermines China's sovereignty and territorial integrity".

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taiwan-to-open-representative-office-in-lithuania-399295/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-leader-carrie-lam-backs-chinas-anti-sanctions-law-404412">China</a> asked Lithuania "not to move further down the wrong path" while asking it to "rectify its wrong decision".

Lithuania however said it is determined to develop mutually beneficial relations with Taiwan while saying that it "respects the principle of One-China".

The European Union&nbsp;backed Lithuania and asserted that it did not view the opening of a representative office in or from Taiwan as a breach of the EU's One-China policy.

"This is the first time China has recalled an ambassador in an EU member state for opening or maintaining an office in Taiwan," the EU said.

Lithuania has also promised to send 20,000 coronavirus vaccine&nbsp;doses to Taiwan as it seeks to strengthen diplomatic relations with Taiwan. Lithuania earlier had also decided to quit China's 17+1 cooperation forum with central and eastern European states.

Lithuania's ambassador to China Diana Mickeviciene confirmed China's intention as the Communist Party decided to recall the Chinese envoy to Lithuania.

Mickeviciene had just arrived in the country as Chinese officials asked her to leave amid the row over Taiwan. &nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

&nbsp;&nbsp;

After Lithuania allowed Taiwan to set up an office under its own name in the country, China demanded Lithuania recall its envoy to Beijing. Taiwan had said last month it was setting up a representative office in Vilnius under the name "Taiwan" instead of "Taipei" attracting China's ire.

After Lithuania allowed Taiwan to set up an office under its own name in the country, China demanded Lithuania recall its envoy to Beijing. Taiwan had said last month it was setting up a representative office in Vilnius under the name "Taiwan" instead of "Taipei" attracting China's ire. China considers Taiwan as a breakaway province which it intends to unify with the mainland by force if necessary. China's foreign ministry said the move "severely undermines China's sovereignty and territorial integrity". Watch: China asked Lithuania "not to move further down the wrong path" while asking it to "rectify its wrong decision". Lithuania however said it is determined to develop mutually beneficial relations with Taiwan while saying that it "respects the principle of One-China". The European Union backed Lithuania and asserted that it did not view the opening of a representative office in or from Taiwan as a breach of the EU's One-China policy. "This is the first time China has recalled an ambassador in an EU member state for opening or maintaining an office in Taiwan," the EU said. Lithuania has also promised to send 20,000 coronavirus vaccine doses to Taiwan as it seeks to strengthen diplomatic relations with Taiwan. Lithuania earlier had also decided to quit China's 17+1 cooperation forum with central and eastern European states. Lithuania's ambassador to China Diana Mickeviciene confirmed China's intention as the Communist Party decided to recall the Chinese envoy to Lithuania. Mickeviciene had just arrived in the country as Chinese officials asked her to leave amid the row over Taiwan. (With inputs from Agencies)

China asks Lithuania's envoy to leave Beijing over Taiwan row

A Taiwanese ceramist made his name by making large ceramic bowls "dance". Huang Cheng-nan started making thin ceramic works about two decades ago, trying different clay formulas and manufacturing processes.

Taiwanese potter creates "dancing" ceramic bowls

At the medal ceremony for the badminton men’s doubles Saturday, the winning players watched a flag being raised, but it was not their own. They sang as a song reverberated in the mostly empty venue, but it was not their anthem.

For decades, politics has been getting in the way of Olympic glory for Taiwan, a self-governing democracy that China claims as its territory. Rather than using its formal name, the Republic of China, or even Taiwan, the island competes in international sporting events as Chinese Taipei, under a resolution passed by the International Olympic Committee. The terms prohibit the use of any symbols suggesting that Taiwan is a sovereign nation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-another-medal-for-india-pv-sindhu-batters-chinas-he-to-win-bronze-402223">Olympics: Another medal for India, PV Sindhu batters China's He to win bronze</a>

On Saturday, Taiwanese badminton duo Lee Yang and Wang Chi-lin prevailed over Liu Yuchen and Li Junhui of China, winning Taiwan’s first gold medal in the sport. In accordance with regulations, their victory was marked by the raising of the flag it uses at the Olympics, a white banner featuring a plum blossom motif and Olympic rings, and the playing of a song known as its flag anthem, commonly used at international sporting events it attends. ​​

Tensions between the two sides had been raised even before the final, with both Lee and Wang emphasising their Taiwanese identity on social media. In a Facebook post afterward, Lee said his gold medal was "dedicated to my country, Taiwan."

Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan’s president, also congratulated the players for "winning our country’s first gold medal in badminton."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/olympics-as-pv-sindhu-wins-bronze-for-india-a-look-at-her-outstanding-journey-at-tokyo-2020-bronze-medal-402245">IN PICS: A look at PV Sindhu's outstanding journey at Tokyo 2020</a>

Badminton is one of the Olympic sports traditionally dominated by China, where the state-run sports system is designed to maximise the number of gold medals in part by focusing on less-prominent sports.

Taiwan’s badminton victory has drawn some anger on Weibo, a popular social media platform in China, as well as comments from users congratulating China on a victory that, like Taiwan itself, they see as belonging to Beijing. Others accused the badminton players of advocating Taiwanese independence and criticized them as ungrateful.

“You can participate in The Games because there’s ‘Chinese Taipei’ on your shirts,” wrote one Weibo user who said the Taiwanese players’ allusions to national sovereignty left him speechless.

Similar nationalist attacks have focused on athletes from Hong Kong, a Chinese territory that fields its own Olympic team.

Social media users in Taiwan have responded with memes depicting a badminton court as the island’s new national flag.

The results were reversed in the women’s singles final Sunday night when Chen Yufei of China defeated the top-ranked Tai Tzu-ying of Taiwan. Before the match, many Weibo users in China had already accused Tai of being pro-independence, citing past remarks lamenting her inability to hold Taiwan’s flag at international competitions.

“We can lose to anyone but Taiwanese and Hong Kongese independentists,” one user wrote.

At the medal ceremony for the badminton men’s doubles Saturday, the winning players watched a flag being raised, but it was not their own. They sang as a song reverberated in the mostly empty venue, but it was not their anthem.

At the medal ceremony for the badminton men’s doubles Saturday, the winning players watched a flag being raised, but it was not their own. They sang as a song reverberated in the mostly empty venue, but it was not their anthem. For decades, politics has been getting in the way of Olympic glory for Taiwan, a self-governing democracy that China claims as its territory. Rather than using its formal name, the Republic of China, or even Taiwan, the island competes in international sporting events as Chinese Taipei, under a resolution passed by the International Olympic Committee. The terms prohibit the use of any symbols suggesting that Taiwan is a sovereign nation. Also read | Olympics: Another medal for India, PV Sindhu batters China's He to win bronze On Saturday, Taiwanese badminton duo Lee Yang and Wang Chi-lin prevailed over Liu Yuchen and Li Junhui of China, winning Taiwan’s first gold medal in the sport. In accordance with regulations, their victory was marked by the raising of the flag it uses at the Olympics, a white banner featuring a plum blossom motif and Olympic rings, and the playing of a song known as its flag anthem, commonly used at international sporting events it attends. Tensions between the two sides had been raised even before the final, with both Lee and Wang emphasising their Taiwanese identity on social media. In a Facebook post afterward, Lee said his gold medal was "dedicated to my country, Taiwan." Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan’s president, also congratulated the players for "winning our country’s first gold medal in badminton." IN PICS: A look at PV Sindhu's outstanding journey at Tokyo 2020 Badminton is one of the Olympic sports traditionally dominated by China, where the state-run sports system is designed to maximise the number of gold medals in part by focusing on less-prominent sports. Taiwan’s badminton victory has drawn some anger on Weibo, a popular social media platform in China, as well as comments from users congratulating China on a victory that, like Taiwan itself, they see as belonging to Beijing. Others accused the badminton players of advocating Taiwanese independence and criticized them as ungrateful. “You can participate in The Games because there’s ‘Chinese Taipei’ on your shirts,” wrote one Weibo user who said the Taiwanese players’ allusions to national sovereignty left him speechless. Similar nationalist attacks have focused on athletes from Hong Kong, a Chinese territory that fields its own Olympic team. Social media users in Taiwan have responded with memes depicting a badminton court as the island’s new national flag. The results were reversed in the women’s singles final Sunday night when Chen Yufei of China defeated the top-ranked Tai Tzu-ying of Taiwan. Before the match, many Weibo users in China had already accused Tai of being pro-independence, citing past remarks lamenting her inability to hold Taiwan’s flag at international competitions. “We can lose to anyone but Taiwanese and Hong Kongese independentists,” one user wrote.

Taiwan’s gold medal win over China in badminton raises tensions

Taiwan's police on Wednesday said they had launched an investigation after local media&nbsp;reported&nbsp;more than 100 LINE&nbsp;messaging&nbsp;app&nbsp;accounts&nbsp;used by&nbsp;officials&nbsp;had been hacked and the company admitted "abnormal activities" had been detected.

The hacked&nbsp;accounts&nbsp;belong to "high ranking&nbsp;officials" in the presidential office, the cabinet, the military, members of the ruling and opposition parties, and regional government chiefs, the Liberty Times&nbsp;reported, citing unnamed sources.

The Criminal Investigation Bureau confirmed it had begun investigating after LINE formally&nbsp;reported&nbsp;the case to authorities on Tuesday, but did not provide further details.&nbsp;

Taiwan's cybersecurity agency says the island faces an estimated 30 million cyber attacks every month, around half of them believed to originate from China.

In a statement, LINE said it had "taken necessary measures to protect users as soon as abnormal account activities were detected".

"We will continue to take necessary responsive measures," the company added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/respect-human-rights-and-dignities-taiwans-former-defence-minister-to-china-at-wion-global-summit-372787">Also read |&nbsp;'Respect human rights and dignities': Taiwan's Former Defence Minister to China at WION Global Summit</a>

The Liberty Times report said LINE had briefed&nbsp;Taiwan's National Security Council on the matter.&nbsp;The council could not be immediately reached for comment.

Taipei has accused Beijing of stepping up a cyberattacks since the 2016 election of President Tsai Ing-wen, who rejects Beijing's stance that the island is part of "one China".&nbsp;

Beijing views democratic, self-ruled&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;as its own territory and has vowed to one day seize the island, by force if needs.&nbsp;

"Cyberattacks and disinformation are threatening democracies worldwide," foreign minister Joseph Wu said in a tweet on Wednesday that linked to a Jerusalem Post column he had co-written with&nbsp;Taiwan's digital minister Audrey Tang.

The column did not mention the latest alleged hacking but it detailed how&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;was being inundated with cyberattacks.

In his tweet, Wu called on allies "to form an unbreakable knot and crush the tools of authoritarianism".

The Liberty Times report said national security agencies will look into whether the hackers could have used the Israeli spyware programme Pegasus or have "help from insiders".&nbsp;

Pegasus, which can switch on a phone's camera or microphone and harvest its data, is at the centre of a storm after a list of about 50,000 potential surveillance targets was leaked to human rights groups.

Last year, Taiwanese authorities said Chinese hackers infiltrated at least 10&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;government agencies and gained access to around 6,000 email&nbsp;accounts&nbsp;in an attempt to steal data.&nbsp;

They said two well-known Chinese hacking groups -- Blacktech and Taidoor -- have been targeting government departments and information service providers since 2018.

Taiwan's police on Wednesday said they had launched an investigation after local media reported more than 100 LINE messaging app accounts used by officials had been hacked and the company admitted "abnormal activities" had been detected.

Taiwan's police on Wednesday said they had launched an investigation after local media reported more than 100 LINE messaging app accounts used by officials had been hacked and the company admitted "abnormal activities" had been detected. The hacked accounts belong to "high ranking officials" in the presidential office, the cabinet, the military, members of the ruling and opposition parties, and regional government chiefs, the Liberty Times reported, citing unnamed sources. The Criminal Investigation Bureau confirmed it had begun investigating after LINE formally reported the case to authorities on Tuesday, but did not provide further details. Taiwan's cybersecurity agency says the island faces an estimated 30 million cyber attacks every month, around half of them believed to originate from China. In a statement, LINE said it had "taken necessary measures to protect users as soon as abnormal account activities were detected". "We will continue to take necessary responsive measures," the company added. Also read | 'Respect human rights and dignities': Taiwan's Former Defence Minister to China at WION Global Summit The Liberty Times report said LINE had briefed Taiwan's National Security Council on the matter. The council could not be immediately reached for comment. Taipei has accused Beijing of stepping up a cyberattacks since the 2016 election of President Tsai Ing-wen, who rejects Beijing's stance that the island is part of "one China". Beijing views democratic, self-ruled Taiwan as its own territory and has vowed to one day seize the island, by force if needs. "Cyberattacks and disinformation are threatening democracies worldwide," foreign minister Joseph Wu said in a tweet on Wednesday that linked to a Jerusalem Post column he had co-written with Taiwan's digital minister Audrey Tang. The column did not mention the latest alleged hacking but it detailed how Taiwan was being inundated with cyberattacks. In his tweet, Wu called on allies "to form an unbreakable knot and crush the tools of authoritarianism". The Liberty Times report said national security agencies will look into whether the hackers could have used the Israeli spyware programme Pegasus or have "help from insiders". Pegasus, which can switch on a phone's camera or microphone and harvest its data, is at the centre of a storm after a list of about 50,000 potential surveillance targets was leaked to human rights groups. Last year, Taiwanese authorities said Chinese hackers infiltrated at least 10 Taiwan government agencies and gained access to around 6,000 email accounts in an attempt to steal data. They said two well-known Chinese hacking groups -- Blacktech and Taidoor -- have been targeting government departments and information service providers since 2018.

Taiwan probes reported hack of officials' messaging accounts

HMS Queen Elizabeth, a British aircraft carrier, and its Carrier Strike Group have entered the South China Sea, a territory predominantly claimed by China, reports the UK Defence Journal.

China claims practically the whole 1.3 million-square-mile South China Sea as its sovereign territory, and it has blamed foreign warships for escalating tensions in the region.

Freedom of navigation operations (or FONOPs) are routinely conducted by the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia to counter what Washington refers to as "attempts by coastal states to unjustly limit access to the seas."

Both the US and the UK have previously enraged China by conducting FONOPs in the South China Sea to assert freedom of navigation rights. 
 
Watch | Gravitas: British warship to challenge Beijing in South China Sea

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The HMS Queen Elizabeth is escorted by six Royal Navy ships, a Royal Navy submarine, a US Navy destroyer, and a Dutch frigate, and is carrying eight F-35B Lightning II fast jets, four Wildcat maritime attack helicopters, seven Merlin Mk2 anti-submarine and airborne early warning helicopters, and three Merlin Mk4 commando helicopters on deck.

China has been carrying out incursions, sinking foreign ships, establishing new districts, giving Chinese names to islands, building new artificial islands and using fishing vessels as maritime militias in the South China Sea.

The South China Sea is a strategic waterway surrounded by six nations, such as China, Taiwan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei. &nbsp;

Two groups of islands here are at the centre of a fierce territorial dispute. The first is the Paracel Archipelago, contested by China, Taiwan and Vietnam.

The second is the Spratly Islands, disputed between China and all other five nations. These islands are strategic because they are surrounded by waters teeming with marine life and are rich in oil and gas resources. &nbsp;

One-third of the world's shipping traffic also passes through the South China Sea. Beijing claims sovereignty over nearly the entire sea.

(With inputs from agencies)

HMS Queen Elizabeth, a British aircraft carrier, and its Carrier Strike Group have entered the South China Sea, a territory predominantly claimed by China, reports the UK Defence Journal.

HMS Queen Elizabeth, a British aircraft carrier, and its Carrier Strike Group have entered the South China Sea, a territory predominantly claimed by China, reports the UK Defence Journal. China claims practically the whole 1.3 million-square-mile South China Sea as its sovereign territory, and it has blamed foreign warships for escalating tensions in the region. Freedom of navigation operations (or FONOPs) are routinely conducted by the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia to counter what Washington refers to as "attempts by coastal states to unjustly limit access to the seas." Both the US and the UK have previously enraged China by conducting FONOPs in the South China Sea to assert freedom of navigation rights. Watch | Gravitas: British warship to challenge Beijing in South China Sea The HMS Queen Elizabeth is escorted by six Royal Navy ships, a Royal Navy submarine, a US Navy destroyer, and a Dutch frigate, and is carrying eight F-35B Lightning II fast jets, four Wildcat maritime attack helicopters, seven Merlin Mk2 anti-submarine and airborne early warning helicopters, and three Merlin Mk4 commando helicopters on deck. China has been carrying out incursions, sinking foreign ships, establishing new districts, giving Chinese names to islands, building new artificial islands and using fishing vessels as maritime militias in the South China Sea. The South China Sea is a strategic waterway surrounded by six nations, such as China, Taiwan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei. Two groups of islands here are at the centre of a fierce territorial dispute. The first is the Paracel Archipelago, contested by China, Taiwan and Vietnam. The second is the Spratly Islands, disputed between China and all other five nations. These islands are strategic because they are surrounded by waters teeming with marine life and are rich in oil and gas resources. One-third of the world's shipping traffic also passes through the South China Sea. Beijing claims sovereignty over nearly the entire sea. (With inputs from agencies)

UK warship ignores Beijing warnings and enters the South China Sea

In Pics | Approaching typhoon threatens to dump more rain in Taiwan

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