Pelosi's proposed Taiwan visit is under scanner after opposition from the US NSA. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden is expected to hold talks with China's Xi soon.

US NSA against Pelosi's Taiwan visit amid looming threat from China

United States President Joe Biden plans to speak with his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, by the end of the month at a moment of simmering tensions between the countries over Taiwan. Speaking to the media, Biden appeared to cast doubt on a trip reportedly planned by House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi to visit Taiwan next month.

Biden plans talks with China's Xi soon, casts doubt on Pelosi Taiwan trip

US President Joe Biden said he expects to speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping by the end of the month. He did not elaborate on reasons for the call or planned topics of discussion.

US President Joe Biden expects to speak to Xi Jinping in 10 days

CIA chief Bill Burns on Wednesday (July 20) said that China appears all set on invading Taiwan with its force.&nbsp; But Beijing’s plans for when and how, not whether, to do so is influenced by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Burns stated at the Aspen Security Forum that China probably observed taking Ukraine’s example that “you don’t achieve quick, decisive victories with underwhelming force.”&nbsp; 
 
While downplaying rumours that the Chinese president might order an attack on Taiwan following a Communist party gathering this year, Burns warned that things might get worse as this decade goes on. The CIA director said, “I wouldn’t underestimate President Xi’s determination to assert China’s control over self-ruling Taiwan,” AFP reported.&nbsp; 
 
Burns claimed that China was unsettled by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which he called the Russian president’s failure since he wanted to topple the Kyiv administration in a week. He said, “Our sense is that it probably affects less the question of whether the Chinese leadership might choose some years down the road to use force to control Taiwan, but how and when they would do it,” AFP reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-plans-to-speak-with-his-chinese-counterpart-xi-jinping-499312">US President Joe Biden plans to speak with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping</a>

In a conversation with NBC News, he said, “Our sense is that it probably affects less the question of whether the Chinese leadership might choose some years down the road to use force to control Taiwan, but how and when they would do it.”&nbsp; 
 
He further continued, “I suspect the lesson that the Chinese leadership and military are drawing is that you’ve got to amass overwhelming force if you’re going to contemplate that in the future.” 
 
Watch |&nbsp;US to send more precision rocket systems to Ukraine after Moscow warns of intensifying attacks

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However, Qin Gang, China’s ambassador to the United States, stated that Beijing still favored ‘peaceful reunification.’ He said that the US was aiding independent forces in Taiwan, where President Tsai Ing-wen has proclaimed the island to be distinct from the rest of the world.&nbsp; 
 
In May, US President Joe Biden appeared to eliminate long-standing US ambiguity over whether it would intervene militarily when he indicated that the country was all ready to use force to defend Taiwan from Chinese attack.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-tries-to-prevent-the-un-rights-chief-from-releasing-report-on-human-rights-violations-in-xinjiang-499114">China tries to prevent the UN rights chief from releasing report on human rights violations in Xinjiang</a>

On Wednesday, Biden told reporters that he planned to speak to Xi Jinping in the next 10 days.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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CIA chief Bill Burns on Wednesday (July 20) said that China appears all set on invading Taiwan with its force. But Beijing’s plans for when and how, not whether, to do so is influenced by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

CIA chief Bill Burns on Wednesday (July 20) said that China appears all set on invading Taiwan with its force. But Beijing’s plans for when and how, not whether, to do so is influenced by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Burns stated at the Aspen Security Forum that China probably observed taking Ukraine’s example that “you don’t achieve quick, decisive victories with underwhelming force.” While downplaying rumours that the Chinese president might order an attack on Taiwan following a Communist party gathering this year, Burns warned that things might get worse as this decade goes on. The CIA director said, “I wouldn’t underestimate President Xi’s determination to assert China’s control over self-ruling Taiwan,” AFP reported. Burns claimed that China was unsettled by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which he called the Russian president’s failure since he wanted to topple the Kyiv administration in a week. He said, “Our sense is that it probably affects less the question of whether the Chinese leadership might choose some years down the road to use force to control Taiwan, but how and when they would do it,” AFP reported. Also read | US President Joe Biden plans to speak with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping In a conversation with NBC News, he said, “Our sense is that it probably affects less the question of whether the Chinese leadership might choose some years down the road to use force to control Taiwan, but how and when they would do it.” He further continued, “I suspect the lesson that the Chinese leadership and military are drawing is that you’ve got to amass overwhelming force if you’re going to contemplate that in the future.” Watch | US to send more precision rocket systems to Ukraine after Moscow warns of intensifying attacks However, Qin Gang, China’s ambassador to the United States, stated that Beijing still favored ‘peaceful reunification.’ He said that the US was aiding independent forces in Taiwan, where President Tsai Ing-wen has proclaimed the island to be distinct from the rest of the world. In May, US President Joe Biden appeared to eliminate long-standing US ambiguity over whether it would intervene militarily when he indicated that the country was all ready to use force to defend Taiwan from Chinese attack. Also read | China tries to prevent the UN rights chief from releasing report on human rights violations in Xinjiang On Wednesday, Biden told reporters that he planned to speak to Xi Jinping in the next 10 days. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China to rethink whether to invade Taiwan or not: CIA chief

China has warned that it would take "forceful measures" if US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi travels to Taiwan. Earlier, the US approved an arms sale to Taiwan worth over $100 million. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: China threatens the US with 'forceful measures'

China said that the United States is playing with fire and will bear consequences of Pelosi's visit. This comes after Washington approved military assistance worth $108 million to Taiwan.

China asks US to halt Taiwan military ties

As tensions fray between Beijing and the bloc, China has denied a report that claimed that President Xi Jinping had invited top European leaders to meet him.

Referencing the report published in the South China Morning Post, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said “I don’t know what’s their source of information.” “I can tell you that is fake news,” he added.

Citing a person familiar with the matter, the newspaper had reported that French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, and Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi had been asked to meet the Chinese president in Beijing this November.

Interestingly, if the meeting would have taken place it would have clashed with the G20 summit along with a major Communist Party congress in China.

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Due to the nation’s zero-tolerance virus strategy, Jinping has not left China since the outset of the pandemic in January 2020 and this meeting would have marked his return to in-person diplomacy with the West.

With an exception made for the Beijing Olympics, foreign dignitaries visiting China during the pandemic have typically been hosted in cities such as Tianjin.

Weeks before Moscow invaded Ukraine, Jinping declared a “no limits” friendship with Russian President Vladimir Putin at that time.

According to an earlier statement from the European Commission, news of the invitations comes as the European Union and China prepare to hold a high-level dialogue on economy and trade Tuesday.

In the first official visit by a high-ranking member of the bloc’s legislative body, European Parliament Vice President Nicola Beer landed in Taiwan on Tuesday.

Over accusations of human rights abuse in Xinjiang, relations between China and European Union members soured leading to the freezing of a long-awaited investment deal.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As tensions fray between Beijing and the bloc, China has denied a report that claimed that President Xi Jinping had invited top European leaders to meet him. Referencing the report published in the South China Morning Post, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said “I don’t know what’s their source of information.

As tensions fray between Beijing and the bloc, China has denied a report that claimed that President Xi Jinping had invited top European leaders to meet him. Referencing the report published in the South China Morning Post, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said “I don’t know what’s their source of information.” “I can tell you that is fake news,” he added. Citing a person familiar with the matter, the newspaper had reported that French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, and Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi had been asked to meet the Chinese president in Beijing this November. Interestingly, if the meeting would have taken place it would have clashed with the G20 summit along with a major Communist Party congress in China. × Due to the nation’s zero-tolerance virus strategy, Jinping has not left China since the outset of the pandemic in January 2020 and this meeting would have marked his return to in-person diplomacy with the West. With an exception made for the Beijing Olympics, foreign dignitaries visiting China during the pandemic have typically been hosted in cities such as Tianjin. Weeks before Moscow invaded Ukraine, Jinping declared a “no limits” friendship with Russian President Vladimir Putin at that time. According to an earlier statement from the European Commission, news of the invitations comes as the European Union and China prepare to hold a high-level dialogue on economy and trade Tuesday. In the first official visit by a high-ranking member of the bloc’s legislative body, European Parliament Vice President Nicola Beer landed in Taiwan on Tuesday. Over accusations of human rights abuse in Xinjiang, relations between China and European Union members soured leading to the freezing of a long-awaited investment deal. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

'Fake news': China denies that President Xi Jinping invited European leaders for meeting in Beijing

Seven men in Hong Kong who tried to flee to Taiwan in a boat to escape protest related charges have been handed jail sentences. The jail sentences are between seven and 10 months long and hav been handed for acts to "pervert the course of justice."

Six of the men were jailed for 10 months, while Li Tsz-yin, 32, was jailed seven months. Li is currently serving a 3.5-year jail term for rioting and assaulting a policeman.

Defence lawyers had argued earlier that the men had already served time in a mainland jail. However, deputy district judge Newman Wong opined that the men had "given the public a sense of contempt for the judiciary and a deliberate challenge to the legal system".

All of them faced pro-democracy movement-linked charges. The protests had rocked Hong Kong in 2019. Many of the men who were sentenced on Friday face separate criminal proceedings even now. This may see them jailed for longer.

At the time when it happened, the boat incident has fuelled tension between the US and China. US State Department had said that it was deeply concerned about the case and that detainees were being denied access to lawyers of their chioce.

One of those sentenced, Andy Li, is now in a Hong Kong prison awaiting sentencing for a charge of collusion with foreign forces under a China-imposed national security law - a case linked to jailed media tycoon and China critic Jimmy Lai.

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Seven men in Hong Kong who tried to flee to Taiwan in a boat to escape protest related charges have been handed jail sentences. The jail sentences are between seven and 10 months long and hav been handed for acts to "pervert the course of justice.

Seven men in Hong Kong who tried to flee to Taiwan in a boat to escape protest related charges have been handed jail sentences. The jail sentences are between seven and 10 months long and hav been handed for acts to "pervert the course of justice." Six of the men were jailed for 10 months, while Li Tsz-yin, 32, was jailed seven months. Li is currently serving a 3.5-year jail term for rioting and assaulting a policeman. Defence lawyers had argued earlier that the men had already served time in a mainland jail. However, deputy district judge Newman Wong opined that the men had "given the public a sense of contempt for the judiciary and a deliberate challenge to the legal system". All of them faced pro-democracy movement-linked charges. The protests had rocked Hong Kong in 2019. Many of the men who were sentenced on Friday face separate criminal proceedings even now. This may see them jailed for longer. At the time when it happened, the boat incident has fuelled tension between the US and China. US State Department had said that it was deeply concerned about the case and that detainees were being denied access to lawyers of their chioce. One of those sentenced, Andy Li, is now in a Hong Kong prison awaiting sentencing for a charge of collusion with foreign forces under a China-imposed national security law - a case linked to jailed media tycoon and China critic Jimmy Lai. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Hong Kong: Men trying to flee to Taiwan on boat get jail sentence

From unrest in Sri Lanka to raging Russian attacks in Ukraine, here are some impactful images from around the world.

World in pictures: Sri Lanka to get a new President; Russian rockets hit Ukraine apartment block

Mohammed Salah's 23rd-minute strike was enough to earn Liverpool a 1-0 win over a dogged Brighton and Hove Albion and give them an early top spot in the Premier League with three wins out of three.

Juergen Klopp's side made a strong start, and Brighton's Australian keeper Mathew Ryan did well to keep out a Roberto Firmino header before Trent Alexander-Arnold rattled the crossbar with a 15th-minute free kick.

The breakthrough came when James Milner robbed Yves Bissouma as Brighton tried to play the ball out from the back and a quick exchange of passes from Sadio Mane and Firmino ended with a clinical finish from Salah, last season's top scorer with 32 league goals.

Brighton, who beat Manchester United last week, defended with determination, frustrating Liverpool but creating little until a Pascal Gross header in the 88th minute forced a good save out Liverpool keeper Alisson Becker.

Mohammed Salah's 23rd-minute strike was enough to earn Liverpool a 1-0 win over a dogged Brighton and Hove Albion and give them an early top spot in the Premier League with three wins out of three.

Mohammed Salah's 23rd-minute strike was enough to earn Liverpool a 1-0 win over a dogged Brighton and Hove Albion and give them an early top spot in the Premier League with three wins out of three. Juergen Klopp's side made a strong start, and Brighton's Australian keeper Mathew Ryan did well to keep out a Roberto Firmino header before Trent Alexander-Arnold rattled the crossbar with a 15th-minute free kick. The breakthrough came when James Milner robbed Yves Bissouma as Brighton tried to play the ball out from the back and a quick exchange of passes from Sadio Mane and Firmino ended with a clinical finish from Salah, last season's top scorer with 32 league goals. Brighton, who beat Manchester United last week, defended with determination, frustrating Liverpool but creating little until a Pascal Gross header in the 88th minute forced a good save out Liverpool keeper Alisson Becker.

After seeing parallels in Russia, China, Ukrainian students seeking new lives in Taiwan

China has reiterated its plans of "reunification" with Taiwan and said Taiwan reunification a part of its revival plan. Beijing has also warned against foreign interference.

'Taiwan reunification a part of its revival plan,' says China

China said that it held military exercises around Taiwan during a senior US senator's visit to Taipei to meet President Tsai Ing-wen. Eastern Theatre Command of the People's Liberation Army said on Friday that it recently held joint combat readiness exercises, patrols and combat drills in the sea and airspace around Taiwan.

China said that it held military exercises around Taiwan during a senior US senator's visit to Taipei to meet President Tsai Ing-wen. Eastern Theatre Command of the People's Liberation Army said on Friday that it recently held joint combat readiness exercises, patrols and combat drills in the sea and airspace around Taiwan. Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Wu Qian said in a statement that the exercises were organised in response to "collusion and provocations" by the United States and Taiwan. News agency Reuters reported that several Chinese fighter jets crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait on Friday in the northern part of the waterway. Quoting a source, the news agency further reported that the aircraft did not enter Taiwan's airspace. ALSO READ | Shinzo Abe dead: Why Chinese hail attacker as 'hero' and celebrate the shocking attack? As per the source mentioned by the news agency, it was rare for Chinese aircraft to cross the unofficial buffer, especially from Taiwan's northwest. The person, whose identity was not revealed, the aircraft "flew straight across" the median line and then "circled around" carrying out tactical operations. He added that Taiwan scrambled fighter jets to intercept the Chinese planes. "It was a clear message of provocation," the person said, citing Friday's visit to Taipei by U.S. Senator Rick Scott, a senior Republican who chairs the National Republican Senatorial Committee and sits on the Senate's Armed Services Committee. China claims Taiwan as its territory China claims Taiwan as its territory since the Chinese civil war of the 1940s. At that time, Chiang Kai-shek's Nationalists lost to Mao Zedong's Communists. They had rebased in Taipei. China has even said that, in case needed, it will use force to unite the two sides. BBC recently reported that a top US general said that the United States is "very closely" watching the Chinese activities near Taiwan. In a report on July 3, the media outlet published Gen Mark Milley said that an attack on Taiwan is not imminent. ALSO READ | Indian cement maker used yuan to purchase Russian coal: Report Meanwhile, the United States says it backs Taiwan's sovereignty. The island has its own constitution and leaders are elected democratically. But in the past two-three years, China has increased the number of military flights into Taiwan's air defence identification zone at sea. China also accuses the US of supporting Taiwan's independence. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China's military holds exercises around Taiwan as a senior US senator visited Taipei

The war in Ukraine saw civilians take up arms and put up a fierce fight for their homeland. As the war rages on, Taiwan is now taking cues to strengthen its home grown defence program in particular with with civilians now proactively studying urban warfare to bolster their defences against China's increasing military.

Inspired by Ukrainian Defences, Taiwan civilians study urban warfare

A top US general has said that the United States is "very closely" watching the Chinese activities near Taiwan. While speaking to BBC, Gen Mark Milley added that an attack on Taiwan is not imminent, a report by the UK-based media outlet published Sunday (July 3).&nbsp;

China claims Taiwan as its territory since the Chinese civil war of the 1940s. At that time, Chiang Kai-shek's Nationalists lost to Mao Zedong's Communists. They had rebased in Taipei. China has even said that, in case needed, it will use force to unite the two sides.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-hong-kong-lawmaker-tests-positive-after-photo-with-xi-jinping-494097">Coronavirus: Hong Kong lawmaker tests positive after photo with Xi Jinping</a>&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the United States says it backs Taiwan's sovereignty. The island has its own constitution and leaders are elected democratically.&nbsp;

But in the past two-three years, China has increased the number of military flights into Taiwan's air defence identification zone at sea. China also accuses the US of supporting Taiwan's independence.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/talibans-reclusive-leader-akhundzada-warns-foreigners-not-to-interfere-calls-sharia-law-supreme-494006">Taliban’s reclusive leader Akhundzada warns foreigners not to interfere, calls Sharia law supreme</a>&nbsp;

On being asked about his thoughts on whether China would attack Taiwan, Gen Milley, who is the chairman of the US joint chiefs of staff, told the BBC: "Could, should, would, those are key words there."&nbsp;

"In terms of capability, I think China clearly is developing a capability. President Xi [Jinping] has mentioned that in public forums, he's mentioned it in speeches, that he has challenged the PLA [China's People's Liberation Army] to develop the capability to attack Taiwan at some point in time," he said.&nbsp;

"And whether they would or not, it's a political choice, it's a policy choice, that will be based off of how the Chinese view the cost risk-benefit at the time. There's no indications or warnings of anything imminent at this time. But again, we watch it very, very closely," Gen Milley added.&nbsp;

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A top US general has said that the United States is "very closely" watching the Chinese activities near Taiwan. While speaking to BBC, Gen Mark Milley added that an attack on Taiwan is not imminent, a report by the UK-based media outlet published Sunday (July 3).

A top US general has said that the United States is "very closely" watching the Chinese activities near Taiwan. While speaking to BBC, Gen Mark Milley added that an attack on Taiwan is not imminent, a report by the UK-based media outlet published Sunday (July 3). China claims Taiwan as its territory since the Chinese civil war of the 1940s. At that time, Chiang Kai-shek's Nationalists lost to Mao Zedong's Communists. They had rebased in Taipei. China has even said that, in case needed, it will use force to unite the two sides. ALSO READ | Coronavirus: Hong Kong lawmaker tests positive after photo with Xi Jinping Meanwhile, the United States says it backs Taiwan's sovereignty. The island has its own constitution and leaders are elected democratically. But in the past two-three years, China has increased the number of military flights into Taiwan's air defence identification zone at sea. China also accuses the US of supporting Taiwan's independence. ALSO READ | Taliban’s reclusive leader Akhundzada warns foreigners not to interfere, calls Sharia law supreme On being asked about his thoughts on whether China would attack Taiwan, Gen Milley, who is the chairman of the US joint chiefs of staff, told the BBC: "Could, should, would, those are key words there." "In terms of capability, I think China clearly is developing a capability. President Xi [Jinping] has mentioned that in public forums, he's mentioned it in speeches, that he has challenged the PLA [China's People's Liberation Army] to develop the capability to attack Taiwan at some point in time," he said. "And whether they would or not, it's a political choice, it's a policy choice, that will be based off of how the Chinese view the cost risk-benefit at the time. There's no indications or warnings of anything imminent at this time. But again, we watch it very, very closely," Gen Milley added. 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.

Top US general says 'China clearly is developing a capability' but attack on Taiwan not imminent

Tensions rise between Taiwan and China as Taipei sends jets to warn China. China recently entered Taiwan's AIDZ, its largest since late May. What led to this situation?

Tensions rise between Taiwan & China – what led to this situation?

Taiwan accused China of bullying on Monday after organisers of the World Cup in Qatar again changed the reference for Taiwanese visitors applying for an identification card that doubles as an entry visa to list their nationality as "Chinese Taipei".

All World Cup ticket holders must apply for the Hayya card used to identify fans, which also serves as their Qatar visa, but Taiwan`s government expressed concern after discovering the online application system made no mention of the island.

It was subsequently listed as, "Taiwan, Province of China", terminology that equally angers Taiwan`s government and many of its people, and then changed again to just "Taiwan", earning praise from the government in Taipei.

However, the listing has changed again, to "Chinese Taipei", the name Taiwan uses to compete in most international sporting events like the Olympics to avoid political problems.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/those-who-say-ronaldo-is-better-than-messi-van-basten-feels-theres-clear-winner-between-the-two-489905">'Those who say Ronaldo is better than Messi...' - Van Basten feels there's clear winner between the two</a>

China`s Foreign Ministry expressed its "appreciation" to the Qatari government`s "adherence to the one-China principle and its handling of relevant matters in accordance with the usual practices of international sports events".

Taiwan`s Foreign Ministry condemned the move, saying organisers were "unable to strictly reject the intervention of improper political forces".

China engaged in "bullying", and "has repeatedly and blatantly used its fictitious `One-China Principle` to continue to belittle Taiwan internationally and create the false impression that Taiwan that belongs to China", it added.

There was no immediate response to requests for comment from the World Cup organisers or Qatar`s government communications office. Taiwan`s democratically-elected government rejects China`s sovereignty claims, saying only the island`s people can decide their own future.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/poor-man-will-already-be-sorry-real-madrid-president-aims-a-dig-at-kylian-mbappe-after-transfer-snub-489972">'Poor man, will already be sorry': Real Madrid president aims a dig at Kylian Mbappe after transfer snub</a>

China, seeking to assert its sovereignty claims, has stepped up pressure for countries and foreign companies to refer to Taiwan as part of China in official documents and on websites, with phrasing such as "Taiwan, Province of China", or "Taiwan, China".

Taiwan has never played at the World Cup finals and crashed out in the second round of Asian qualifying for the 2022 tournament last year after losing all eight matches. Taiwan has no diplomatic relations with Qatar, which, like most countries, only recognises China`s government.

Taiwan accused China of bullying on Monday after organisers of the World Cup in Qatar again changed the reference for Taiwanese visitors applying for an identification card that doubles as an entry visa to list their nationality as "Chinese Taipei".

Taiwan accused China of bullying on Monday after organisers of the World Cup in Qatar again changed the reference for Taiwanese visitors applying for an identification card that doubles as an entry visa to list their nationality as "Chinese Taipei". All World Cup ticket holders must apply for the Hayya card used to identify fans, which also serves as their Qatar visa, but Taiwan`s government expressed concern after discovering the online application system made no mention of the island. It was subsequently listed as, "Taiwan, Province of China", terminology that equally angers Taiwan`s government and many of its people, and then changed again to just "Taiwan", earning praise from the government in Taipei. However, the listing has changed again, to "Chinese Taipei", the name Taiwan uses to compete in most international sporting events like the Olympics to avoid political problems. Also Read: 'Those who say Ronaldo is better than Messi...' - Van Basten feels there's clear winner between the two China`s Foreign Ministry expressed its "appreciation" to the Qatari government`s "adherence to the one-China principle and its handling of relevant matters in accordance with the usual practices of international sports events". Taiwan`s Foreign Ministry condemned the move, saying organisers were "unable to strictly reject the intervention of improper political forces". China engaged in "bullying", and "has repeatedly and blatantly used its fictitious `One-China Principle` to continue to belittle Taiwan internationally and create the false impression that Taiwan that belongs to China", it added. There was no immediate response to requests for comment from the World Cup organisers or Qatar`s government communications office. Taiwan`s democratically-elected government rejects China`s sovereignty claims, saying only the island`s people can decide their own future. Also Read: 'Poor man, will already be sorry': Real Madrid president aims a dig at Kylian Mbappe after transfer snub China, seeking to assert its sovereignty claims, has stepped up pressure for countries and foreign companies to refer to Taiwan as part of China in official documents and on websites, with phrasing such as "Taiwan, Province of China", or "Taiwan, China". Taiwan has never played at the World Cup finals and crashed out in the second round of Asian qualifying for the 2022 tournament last year after losing all eight matches. Taiwan has no diplomatic relations with Qatar, which, like most countries, only recognises China`s government.

Taiwan accuses China of bullying over FIFA World Cup name change

With an eye on Taiwan, China today launched its largest and most advanced warship. The Chinese Defence Minister recently said Beijing won't shy away from a war to take Taiwan. Palki Sharma tells you why the threats from China shouldn't be ignored.

Gravitas: With Taiwan on target, China launches warship

Authorities in Taiwanese capital Taipei have reduced waiting time at traffic lights. The step has been taken to prevent discomfort and illness among pedestrians who would wait in scorching summer Sun.

Summers in Taipei are hot and humid. Temperatures often exceed 35 degrees Celcius (95F).

Announcement on reducing waiting times at the signals will result in reduction in wait times at 770 intersections in the city. The waiting time will reduce by up to one and half minutes.

The weather would be “very uncomfortable for motorcycles and pedestrians stopping and being exposed to the sun,” said Wang Yao-to, director of the Traffic Engineering Office. Wang was quoted by The Guardian.

Wait times for pedestrians at traffic signals is often topic of discussion in the city of 2.6 million residents. These wait times are long and often inconsistent. Wait times of of more than 70, 80 seconds are reportedly not uncommon.

The issue of traffic light wait-times is also caught on by advertisers. At an intersection near Taipei's famous 101 building, a giant foodpanda tells people, “Just to let you know … this red light will make you wait 115 seconds.” The advertisement jokingly tells people to order dinner while they wait for the light to turn green.

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Authorities in Taiwanese capital Taipei have reduced waiting time at traffic lights. The step has been taken to prevent discomfort and illness among pedestrians who would wait in scorching summer Sun.

Authorities in Taiwanese capital Taipei have reduced waiting time at traffic lights. The step has been taken to prevent discomfort and illness among pedestrians who would wait in scorching summer Sun. Summers in Taipei are hot and humid. Temperatures often exceed 35 degrees Celcius (95F). Announcement on reducing waiting times at the signals will result in reduction in wait times at 770 intersections in the city. The waiting time will reduce by up to one and half minutes. The weather would be “very uncomfortable for motorcycles and pedestrians stopping and being exposed to the sun,” said Wang Yao-to, director of the Traffic Engineering Office. Wang was quoted by The Guardian. Wait times for pedestrians at traffic signals is often topic of discussion in the city of 2.6 million residents. These wait times are long and often inconsistent. Wait times of of more than 70, 80 seconds are reportedly not uncommon. The issue of traffic light wait-times is also caught on by advertisers. At an intersection near Taipei's famous 101 building, a giant foodpanda tells people, “Just to let you know … this red light will make you wait 115 seconds.” The advertisement jokingly tells people to order dinner while they wait for the light to turn green. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Taipei cuts traffic-light wait time for relief from summer heat

Taiwan&nbsp;on Wednesday demanded organisers of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar correct an official fan identification card which labels its citizens as Chinese, and urged that politics be kept out of sports.

The "Hayya" fan ID card acts as a visa to enter the country and a pass to access stadiums.

But neither&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;or "Chinese Taipei" -- the name used for the island in international sports events -- are listed on the online portal as options.&nbsp;

China claims self-ruled, democratic&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;as part of its territory, a stance Taipei firmly rejects.

The island lives under the constant threat of invasion by China, which Beijing has vowed to retake one day, by force if necessary.&nbsp;

Taiwan's foreign ministry said it has demanded that organisers in Qatar correct its "unfriendly" and "improper" measures against Taiwanese fans, said spokeswoman Joanne Ou in a statement.&nbsp;

"We again urge the World Cup organisers not to allow improper political factors to interfere in a pure sports event ... to let sports be sports and return a clean World Cup to global fans," she said.&nbsp;

The issue of&nbsp;Taiwan's name has cropped up in nearly every major global sporting event, as authoritarian China baulks against even the merest signal of the island's sovereignty.&nbsp;

The sporting world's use of the name "Chinese Taipei" is based on a 1981 compromise made with the International Olympic Committee to allow&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;to compete on the international stage.&nbsp;

Hayya programme chief Saeed al-Kuwari told reporters he "believed" the card system would list China for the nationality of Taiwanese passport holders.&nbsp;

He said fans should follow the country designation provided when the application reads the fan's passport, rather than try to select a nationality.&nbsp;

Organisers have insisted that all nationalities will be welcomed to the tournament.

Qatar is expecting more than one million fans to visit during the World Cup, which runs from November 21 to December 18, and all must register for the ID card.&nbsp;

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Taiwan on Wednesday demanded organisers of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar correct an official fan identification card which labels its citizens as Chinese, and urged that politics be kept out of sports.

Taiwan on Wednesday demanded organisers of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar correct an official fan identification card which labels its citizens as Chinese, and urged that politics be kept out of sports. The "Hayya" fan ID card acts as a visa to enter the country and a pass to access stadiums. But neither Taiwan or "Chinese Taipei" -- the name used for the island in international sports events -- are listed on the online portal as options. China claims self-ruled, democratic Taiwan as part of its territory, a stance Taipei firmly rejects. The island lives under the constant threat of invasion by China, which Beijing has vowed to retake one day, by force if necessary. Taiwan's foreign ministry said it has demanded that organisers in Qatar correct its "unfriendly" and "improper" measures against Taiwanese fans, said spokeswoman Joanne Ou in a statement. "We again urge the World Cup organisers not to allow improper political factors to interfere in a pure sports event ... to let sports be sports and return a clean World Cup to global fans," she said. The issue of Taiwan's name has cropped up in nearly every major global sporting event, as authoritarian China baulks against even the merest signal of the island's sovereignty. The sporting world's use of the name "Chinese Taipei" is based on a 1981 compromise made with the International Olympic Committee to allow Taiwan to compete on the international stage. Hayya programme chief Saeed al-Kuwari told reporters he "believed" the card system would list China for the nationality of Taiwanese passport holders. He said fans should follow the country designation provided when the application reads the fan's passport, rather than try to select a nationality. Organisers have insisted that all nationalities will be welcomed to the tournament. Qatar is expecting more than one million fans to visit during the World Cup, which runs from November 21 to December 18, and all must register for the ID card. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taiwan slams Qatar World Cup over 'unfriendly' fan labelling

Taiwan has rejected China's sovereign claims and Taiwan's Chief Trade negotiator said that, any Chinese military attack on Taiwan would have a greater impact on global trade. There would be a worldwide shortage of supply.

'China's attack on Taiwan would hit Global trade,' says Taiwan

China threatened to wage war if Taiwan officially declared independence from Beijing. Why have Taiwanese leaders preferred the status quo over independence? What is China's strategy to keep Taiwan on edge? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: China threatens war if Taiwan declares independence

The American and Chinese defense ministers have held their first face-to-face talks in Singapore. Beijing has said that it will not hesitate to start a war if Taiwan declares independence. Now, US said, we do not support Taiwan independence. For more perspective on this, we're joined by Edward P. Joseph, faculty of Johns Hopkins School.

War of words over Taiwan: 'We do not support Taiwan independence,' says US

The final day of the 19th edition of the Shangri-la dialogue is currently underway in Singapore and as was anticipated, the simmering tensions between China and the US and their war of words over Taiwan's autonomy continue to occupy the centre stage of the security summit.

The final day of the security summit is underway: China remains firm on the Taiwan

The relationship between Taiwan and China is deteriorating. Taiwan has threatened to take China to the World Trade organization after China announced that they will be suspending the import of grouper fish.

Taiwan threatens China to take to WTO after China stops grouper fish imports

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