World leaders on Wednesday criticised the sentencing of&nbsp;Hong Kong activists&nbsp;Agnes Chow, Ivan Lam and Joshua Wong.

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Germany's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Adebahr said the sentences,&nbsp;imposed on Joshua Wong, Agnes Chow, and Ivan Lam,&nbsp;were a "building block in a series of worrisome developments".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joshua-wong-two-fellow-hong-kong-dissidents-jailed-for-protests-346862" hreflang="en">Joshua Wong, two fellow Hong Kong dissidents jailed for protests</a>

The activists were jailed for a protest outside police headquarters in Hong Kong as authorities stepped up a crackdown on opposition to tighten control by Beijing over the territory.

Meanwhile, Taiwan's President Tsai ing-Wen took to Twitter and said ''she hopes her friends in Hong Kong will not give up''.

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I'm saddened by the news that <a href="https://twitter.com/joshuawongcf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@joshuawongcf</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/chowtingagnes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@chowtingagnes</a> &amp; Ivan Lam have been jailed for their activism. These brave young people are symbols of freedom &amp; democracy in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HongKong?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HongKong</a>, values that we will never stop fighting for. <a href="https://t.co/DLFf024cJU">pic.twitter.com/DLFf024cJU</a>
— 蔡英文 Tsai Ing-wen (@iingwen) <a href="https://twitter.com/iingwen/status/1334091915822698502?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) expressed grave concerns over the sentencing.

"The DPP emphasises that what the Chinese Communists and the Hong Kong government have done today is equivalent of declaring that Hong Kong’s freedom is dead," it said in a statement.

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In picture: The taming of Hong Kong/AFP graphic

Britain urged the Hong Kong and Beijing authorities to stop their campaigns to stifle opposition, issuing a <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/news/foreign-secretary-statement-following-the-sentencing-of-three-hong-kong-activists">statement</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday as three Hong Kong activists including Joshua Wong began their prison sentences.

"Prosecution decisions must be fair and impartial, and the rights and freedoms of people in Hong Kong must be upheld," said Britain's foreign minister Dominic Raab.

China has moved to crush Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement after huge and violent protests rocked the finance hub last year, hammering the flickering freedoms and autonomy it promised the finance hub could keep after British colonial rule ended in 1997.

Earlier this summer, Beijing imposed a broad security law that ramps up its direct control over the city and outlaws certain political views.

More than 10,000 people have been arrested over the last 18 months and most of Hong Kong's leading activists and opposition figures face prosecution.

In recent months, the Hong Kong government has expelled opposition lawmakers from the legislature, disqualified pro-democracy candidates from running in a now-postponed election and arrested more than 30 people under the security legislation.

The expulsion of opposition lawmakers prompted democrats to resign en masse, leaving the legislature devoid of any opposition democrats for the first time since Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule.

Hundreds of Hong Kong activists have fled through legal or illegal channels to the democratic island of Taiwan, which Beijing regards as a renegade province that should be brought back under its sovereignty, by force if necessary.

World leaders on Wednesday criticised the sentencing of Hong Kong activists Agnes Chow, Ivan Lam and Joshua Wong. Germany's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Adebahr said the sentences, imposed on Joshua Wong, Agnes Chow, and Ivan Lam, were a "building block in a series of worrisome developments".

World leaders on Wednesday criticised the sentencing of Hong Kong activists Agnes Chow, Ivan Lam and Joshua Wong. Germany's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Adebahr said the sentences, imposed on Joshua Wong, Agnes Chow, and Ivan Lam, were a "building block in a series of worrisome developments". Also read: Joshua Wong, two fellow Hong Kong dissidents jailed for protests The activists were jailed for a protest outside police headquarters in Hong Kong as authorities stepped up a crackdown on opposition to tighten control by Beijing over the territory. Meanwhile, Taiwan's President Tsai ing-Wen took to Twitter and said ''she hopes her friends in Hong Kong will not give up''. I'm saddened by the news that @joshuawongcf, @chowtingagnes & Ivan Lam have been jailed for their activism. These brave young people are symbols of freedom & democracy in #HongKong, values that we will never stop fighting for. pic.twitter.com/DLFf024cJU — 蔡英文 Tsai Ing-wen (@iingwen) December 2, 2020 × Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) expressed grave concerns over the sentencing. "The DPP emphasises that what the Chinese Communists and the Hong Kong government have done today is equivalent of declaring that Hong Kong’s freedom is dead," it said in a statement. In picture: The taming of Hong Kong/AFP graphic Britain urged the Hong Kong and Beijing authorities to stop their campaigns to stifle opposition, issuing a statement on Wednesday as three Hong Kong activists including Joshua Wong began their prison sentences. "Prosecution decisions must be fair and impartial, and the rights and freedoms of people in Hong Kong must be upheld," said Britain's foreign minister Dominic Raab. China has moved to crush Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement after huge and violent protests rocked the finance hub last year, hammering the flickering freedoms and autonomy it promised the finance hub could keep after British colonial rule ended in 1997. Earlier this summer, Beijing imposed a broad security law that ramps up its direct control over the city and outlaws certain political views. More than 10,000 people have been arrested over the last 18 months and most of Hong Kong's leading activists and opposition figures face prosecution. In recent months, the Hong Kong government has expelled opposition lawmakers from the legislature, disqualified pro-democracy candidates from running in a now-postponed election and arrested more than 30 people under the security legislation. The expulsion of opposition lawmakers prompted democrats to resign en masse, leaving the legislature devoid of any opposition democrats for the first time since Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule. Hundreds of Hong Kong activists have fled through legal or illegal channels to the democratic island of Taiwan, which Beijing regards as a renegade province that should be brought back under its sovereignty, by force if necessary.

World leaders condemn sentencing of Hong Kong activists

After making headlines for throwing water balloons at each other, Taiwan's legislators are now throwing pig intestines in the house. What started the fight?

Gravitas: Taiwan's legislators fight over pork import

China has sentenced a Taiwanese professor to four years in jail for espionage even as tensions between Beijing and Taipei deteriorate further.&nbsp;

A month ago, Shih Cheng-ping had made a televised "confession" on state media.

Shih, who is also a former chief economist for Chinese conglomerate Huaxia Group, was found guilty by a Chinese court on Tuesday, Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office said at a press briefing.

Shih -- who disappeared after travelling to the mainland in August 2018 -- was one of several Taiwanese residents who appeared on a television programme by state broadcaster CCTV in October confessing to spying on the mainland.

CCTV often broadcasts interviews with suspects admitting to crimes, even before they have appeared in court -- a practice that has long been condemned by lawyers and rights organisations as forcing confessions under duress.

Shih said in the interview that he had passed information from a mainland think tank to Taiwan authorities in exchange for money, and that he hoped his experience would serve as a "warning" to others in Taiwan.

On Wednesday, China's Taiwan Affairs Office spokeswoman Zhu Fenglian said a court in Anhui province had sentenced Shih to four years' imprisonment, a year after China first said it was investigating Shih on national security grounds.

China had "fully safeguarded" Shih's rights&nbsp;during the hearing, she said.

Taiwan has been run as a de facto independent nation for the last seven decades but China sees it as part of its territory, to be reclaimed by force if necessary.

Tensions between Beijing and the democratically ruled island have ramped up in recent months.

Chinese fighter jets and bombers have entered Taiwan's air defence zone with increasing frequency in recent months, and high-profile arms sales by the US to Taipei have angered Beijing.

At least two other Taiwanese individuals are currently being held on national security grounds in China, including the scholar Tsai Chin-shu and democracy activist Lee Meng-chu.

China has sentenced a Taiwanese professor to four years in jail for espionage even as tensions between Beijing and Taipei deteriorate further. A month ago, Shih Cheng-ping had made a televised "confession" on state media.

China has sentenced a Taiwanese professor to four years in jail for espionage even as tensions between Beijing and Taipei deteriorate further. A month ago, Shih Cheng-ping had made a televised "confession" on state media. Shih, who is also a former chief economist for Chinese conglomerate Huaxia Group, was found guilty by a Chinese court on Tuesday, Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office said at a press briefing. Shih -- who disappeared after travelling to the mainland in August 2018 -- was one of several Taiwanese residents who appeared on a television programme by state broadcaster CCTV in October confessing to spying on the mainland. CCTV often broadcasts interviews with suspects admitting to crimes, even before they have appeared in court -- a practice that has long been condemned by lawyers and rights organisations as forcing confessions under duress. Shih said in the interview that he had passed information from a mainland think tank to Taiwan authorities in exchange for money, and that he hoped his experience would serve as a "warning" to others in Taiwan. On Wednesday, China's Taiwan Affairs Office spokeswoman Zhu Fenglian said a court in Anhui province had sentenced Shih to four years' imprisonment, a year after China first said it was investigating Shih on national security grounds. China had "fully safeguarded" Shih's rights during the hearing, she said. Taiwan has been run as a de facto independent nation for the last seven decades but China sees it as part of its territory, to be reclaimed by force if necessary. Tensions between Beijing and the democratically ruled island have ramped up in recent months. Chinese fighter jets and bombers have entered Taiwan's air defence zone with increasing frequency in recent months, and high-profile arms sales by the US to Taipei have angered Beijing. At least two other Taiwanese individuals are currently being held on national security grounds in China, including the scholar Tsai Chin-shu and democracy activist Lee Meng-chu.

China sentences Taiwanese professor to four years in jail

Taiwan began construction on a fleet of indigenous submarines on Tuesday, the latest move by the out-gunned island to bolster its defences against increasingly bellicose threats from Beijing.

Video: Taiwan begins building new submarines

China is weighing drawing up a blacklist of supporters of Taiwan's independence, the government said on Wednesday.

This exercise may see Beijing try to take legal steps against democratically-elected President Tsai Ing-wen.

China's widely-read Global Times tabloid has said the list could include senior Taiwanese government officials.

Pro-Beijing Hong Kong-based newspaper Ta Kung Pao first reported on it this month, after which Taiwan condemned the plan.

China claims self-governing Taiwan as its own territory. Taiwan's government says the island is already an independent country called the Republic of China, its formal name, although China rejects this position.

Zhu Fenglian, a spokeswoman for China's Taiwan Affairs Office, said the "list of diehard Taiwan secessionists" now under consideration was only aimed at a very small number of independence supporters and those who fund them.

"It is absolutely not aimed at the vast majority of Taiwan compatriots," she told a regular news briefing in Beijing.

Zhu added Beijing would take "targeted steps to severely punish in accordance with the law" those it viewed as hard-core backers of independence.

Chinese media have said the 2005 Anti-Secession Law, which mandates the use of force if China judges Taiwan to have declared independence, as well as national security legislation, could be used to charge those on the list.

It is unclear how that would play out, as Chinese courts have no jurisdiction in Taiwan, and Taiwan's government leaders do not visit China.

The moves follows Beijing's July unveiling of new national security laws for Chinese-run Hong Kong that prescribe sentences ranging up to life terms for crimes of secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces.

China is weighing drawing up a blacklist of supporters of Taiwan's independence, the government said on Wednesday. This exercise may see Beijing try to take legal steps against democratically-elected President Tsai Ing-wen.

China is weighing drawing up a blacklist of supporters of Taiwan's independence, the government said on Wednesday. This exercise may see Beijing try to take legal steps against democratically-elected President Tsai Ing-wen. China's widely-read Global Times tabloid has said the list could include senior Taiwanese government officials. Pro-Beijing Hong Kong-based newspaper Ta Kung Pao first reported on it this month, after which Taiwan condemned the plan. China claims self-governing Taiwan as its own territory. Taiwan's government says the island is already an independent country called the Republic of China, its formal name, although China rejects this position. Zhu Fenglian, a spokeswoman for China's Taiwan Affairs Office, said the "list of diehard Taiwan secessionists" now under consideration was only aimed at a very small number of independence supporters and those who fund them. "It is absolutely not aimed at the vast majority of Taiwan compatriots," she told a regular news briefing in Beijing. Zhu added Beijing would take "targeted steps to severely punish in accordance with the law" those it viewed as hard-core backers of independence. Chinese media have said the 2005 Anti-Secession Law, which mandates the use of force if China judges Taiwan to have declared independence, as well as national security legislation, could be used to charge those on the list. It is unclear how that would play out, as Chinese courts have no jurisdiction in Taiwan, and Taiwan's government leaders do not visit China. The moves follows Beijing's July unveiling of new national security laws for Chinese-run Hong Kong that prescribe sentences ranging up to life terms for crimes of secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces.

China considers legal steps against supporters of Taiwan independence

China is considering drawing up a blacklist of “diehard” supporters of Taiwan’s independence. The blacklist includes Taiwanese premier Su Tseng Chang.

Your Story: China weighs action against 'diehard' Taiwan supporters

A two-star Navy admiral overseeing U.S. military intelligence in the Asia-Pacific region has made an unannounced visit to Taiwan, two sources told Reuters on Sunday, in a high-level trip that could vex China.

US Navy admiral makes unannounced visit to Taiwan

Taiwan began construction on a fleet of indigenous submarines on Tuesday, the latest move by the out-gunned island to bolster its defences against increasingly bellicose threats from Beijing.

Democratic Taiwan lives under the constant threat of invasion by communist China, which views the self-ruled island as part of its territory and has vowed to one day seize it, by force if necessary.&nbsp;

Beijing has piled on military, economic and diplomatic pressure since the election of President Tsai Ing-wen in 2016, in part due to her refusal to acknowledge its stance that the island is part of "one China".

"We are letting the world see Taiwan's strong will to defend its sovereignty," Tsai said at a ceremony marking the start of construction in a shipyard in southern Kaohsiung city.

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The long-mooted project aims to deliver eight new submarines, with the first expected by 2025 according to officials.

Taiwan's navy currently has four submarines, including two built by the United States in the 1940s.

In recent decades Taiwan has had to ramp up its own defence industry as China pressures other countries against selling it major weapon platforms.

It has made significant progress on missiles and built its own fighter jet, but its military might is dwarfed by China's People's Liberation Army.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-join-annual-taiwan-protest-anger-focussed-on-us-pork-344692">Thousands join annual Taiwan protest, anger focussed on US pork</a>

Washington initially approved an offer back in 2001 to supply eight conventional submarines, but the sale never came to fruition.

Over the same period, China has built itself one of the world's largest navies, with nuclear-powered submarines, aircraft carriers and latest-generation hypersonic missiles within its arsenal.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has adopted the most openly hostile stance towards Taiwan since Mao Zedong.&nbsp;

Chinese jets have neared Taiwan's air defence zones at an unprecedented rate this year, forcing Taipei to repeatedly scramble its own ageing fleet.

But the wariness of major arms manufacturing powers to sell to Taiwan may be fading.&nbsp;

Outgoing US President Donald Trump was far more willing to sign off on advanced weapon systems to Taiwan, approving some $18 billion worth of sales, including new-generation fighter jets.&nbsp;

Taiwan began construction on a fleet of indigenous submarines on Tuesday, the latest move by the out-gunned island to bolster its defences against increasingly bellicose threats from Beijing. Democratic Taiwan lives under the constant threat of invasion by communist China, which views the self-ruled island as part of its territory and has vowed to one day seize it, by force if necessary. Beijing has piled on military, economic and diplomatic pressure since the election of President Tsai Ing-wen in 2016, in part due to her refusal to acknowledge its stance that the island is part of "one China". "We are letting the world see Taiwan's strong will to defend its sovereignty," Tsai said at a ceremony marking the start of construction in a shipyard in southern Kaohsiung city. × The long-mooted project aims to deliver eight new submarines, with the first expected by 2025 according to officials. Taiwan's navy currently has four submarines, including two built by the United States in the 1940s. In recent decades Taiwan has had to ramp up its own defence industry as China pressures other countries against selling it major weapon platforms. It has made significant progress on missiles and built its own fighter jet, but its military might is dwarfed by China's People's Liberation Army. Also read| Thousands join annual Taiwan protest, anger focussed on US pork Washington initially approved an offer back in 2001 to supply eight conventional submarines, but the sale never came to fruition. Over the same period, China has built itself one of the world's largest navies, with nuclear-powered submarines, aircraft carriers and latest-generation hypersonic missiles within its arsenal. Chinese President Xi Jinping has adopted the most openly hostile stance towards Taiwan since Mao Zedong. Chinese jets have neared Taiwan's air defence zones at an unprecedented rate this year, forcing Taipei to repeatedly scramble its own ageing fleet. But the wariness of major arms manufacturing powers to sell to Taiwan may be fading. Outgoing US President Donald Trump was far more willing to sign off on advanced weapon systems to Taiwan, approving some $18 billion worth of sales, including new-generation fighter jets.

Taiwan expanding submarine fleet as China threat grows

A report claim a senior US admiral is on a surprise visit to Taiwan. If confirmed this could lead to further escalation of tensions between America and Beijing. According to Reuters the visiting admiral is Michael Studeman he is a two-star Navy admiral who oversees U.S. military intelligence in the Asia-Pacific region.

A senior US admiral visit to Taiwan likely to stir tensions with China

Thousands of people thronged Taipei`s streets on Sunday for the annual "Autumn Struggle" protest march organised by labour groups, with much of the anger focused on the government`s decision to ease restrictions on imports of U.S. pork.

Taiwan`s main opposition party the Kuomintang (KMT) rallied its supporters to join in the march for the first time, having mounted an increasingly strident campaign against the pork move, which it says threatens food safety.

President Tsai Ing-wen announced in August that the government would from Jan. 1 allow in U.S. pork containing ractopamine, an additive that enhances leanness but which is banned in the European Union and China, as well as U.S. beef more than 30 months old.

While welcomed in Washington, and removing a roadblock to a long sought after U.S. free trade deal for Taiwan, the

KMT has strongly opposed the decision, tapping into public concern about food safety after several high profile scandals in recent years.

KMT Chairman Johnny Chiang, elected in March to help turn around party fortunes following a trouncing in January`s presidential and parliament elections, called on Tsai to have a televised debate with him about the issue.

"Taiwanese pigs don`t eat ractopamine, and yet you are asking Taiwanese people to? Does this make sense?" he told supporters.

There was no immediate reaction from the presidential office.

Tsai`s government and her ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which has a large majority in parliament, says the decision brings the island into line with international norms, is not a safety threat and will boost Taiwan-U.S. ties.

The DPP, which had previously strongly objected to ractopamine, has accused the KMT of spreading fake news about the subject trying to sow public fear.

The KMT is also trying to organise a referendum on the U.S. pork imports for next year.

The pork is due to start arriving from Jan. 1.

Thousands of people thronged Taipei`s streets on Sunday for the annual "Autumn Struggle" protest march organised by labour groups, with much of the anger focused on the government`s decision to ease restrictions on imports of U.

Thousands of people thronged Taipei`s streets on Sunday for the annual "Autumn Struggle" protest march organised by labour groups, with much of the anger focused on the government`s decision to ease restrictions on imports of U.S. pork. Taiwan`s main opposition party the Kuomintang (KMT) rallied its supporters to join in the march for the first time, having mounted an increasingly strident campaign against the pork move, which it says threatens food safety. President Tsai Ing-wen announced in August that the government would from Jan. 1 allow in U.S. pork containing ractopamine, an additive that enhances leanness but which is banned in the European Union and China, as well as U.S. beef more than 30 months old. While welcomed in Washington, and removing a roadblock to a long sought after U.S. free trade deal for Taiwan, the KMT has strongly opposed the decision, tapping into public concern about food safety after several high profile scandals in recent years. KMT Chairman Johnny Chiang, elected in March to help turn around party fortunes following a trouncing in January`s presidential and parliament elections, called on Tsai to have a televised debate with him about the issue. "Taiwanese pigs don`t eat ractopamine, and yet you are asking Taiwanese people to? Does this make sense?" he told supporters. There was no immediate reaction from the presidential office. Tsai`s government and her ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which has a large majority in parliament, says the decision brings the island into line with international norms, is not a safety threat and will boost Taiwan-U.S. ties. The DPP, which had previously strongly objected to ractopamine, has accused the KMT of spreading fake news about the subject trying to sow public fear. The KMT is also trying to organise a referendum on the U.S. pork imports for next year. The pork is due to start arriving from Jan. 1.

Thousands join annual Taiwan protest, anger focussed on US pork

Taiwan has grounded all of its F16 fighter jets on an immediate basis after one of the fighter jets went missing during a training exercise.

Taiwan had nearly 150 F16 fighter jets in the sky, which have all been recalled back to the ground for a detailed safety check, while the rescue team is continuing its search for the missing jet.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-talks-up-trans-pacific-trade-pact-after-exclusion-from-new-deal-343518">Taiwan talks up trans-Pacific trade pact after exclusion from new deal</a>

This decision, which was announced by the local authorities on Wednesday, has now put more pressure on the limited fleet of the country to warn off the Chinese jets which have increased their activity in the recent few months.

The F16 fighter jet that went missing by being commanded by a 44-year-old pilot. It disappeared from the radar on Tuesday night at an altitude of nearly 6,000 feet (1,800 metres). The jet disappeared merely two minutes after taking off&nbsp;from Hualien air base in eastern Taiwan on the same day.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asian-nations-sign-rcep-a-china-backed-trade-pact-excluding-india-and-us-343226" hreflang="en">Asian nations sign RCEP, a China-backed trade pact, excluding India and US</a>

"The rescue mission is our top priority now. The air force has grounded all F16s for checks and I've instructed an investigation into the cause of the incident," President Tsai Ing-wen said.

This disappearance of the 44-year-old pilot has come a few weeks after a Taiwan pilot was killed after his F-5E fighter jet crashed into the sea during a similar training programme.

Without the F16 fighter jets in the skies, Taiwan will have the locally-built Indigenous Defence Fighter, French-built Mirages from the late 1990s and F5-E fighters that date back to the 1970s protecting the country from the constant interruption from the Chinese borders.

Taiwan has grounded all of its F16 fighter jets on an immediate basis after one of the fighter jets went missing during a training exercise. Taiwan had nearly 150 F16 fighter jets in the sky, which have all been recalled back to the ground for a detailed safety check, while the rescue team is continuing its search for the missing jet.

Taiwan has grounded all of its F16 fighter jets on an immediate basis after one of the fighter jets went missing during a training exercise. Taiwan had nearly 150 F16 fighter jets in the sky, which have all been recalled back to the ground for a detailed safety check, while the rescue team is continuing its search for the missing jet. Also read| Taiwan talks up trans-Pacific trade pact after exclusion from new deal This decision, which was announced by the local authorities on Wednesday, has now put more pressure on the limited fleet of the country to warn off the Chinese jets which have increased their activity in the recent few months. The F16 fighter jet that went missing by being commanded by a 44-year-old pilot. It disappeared from the radar on Tuesday night at an altitude of nearly 6,000 feet (1,800 metres). The jet disappeared merely two minutes after taking off from Hualien air base in eastern Taiwan on the same day. Also read: Asian nations sign RCEP, a China-backed trade pact, excluding India and US "The rescue mission is our top priority now. The air force has grounded all F16s for checks and I've instructed an investigation into the cause of the incident," President Tsai Ing-wen said. This disappearance of the 44-year-old pilot has come a few weeks after a Taiwan pilot was killed after his F-5E fighter jet crashed into the sea during a similar training programme. Without the F16 fighter jets in the skies, Taiwan will have the locally-built Indigenous Defence Fighter, French-built Mirages from the late 1990s and F5-E fighters that date back to the 1970s protecting the country from the constant interruption from the Chinese borders.

Taiwan recalls all F16 fighter jets after one goes missing during training session

Trade-dependent Taiwan has made "relatively" good progress towards joining the revamped version of the Trans-Pacific Partnership

Taiwan talks up trans-Pacific trade pact after exclusion from new deal

Trade-dependent&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;has made "relatively" good progress towards joining the revamped version of the Trans-Pacific Partnership, but it is awaiting clearer rules on membership, the island's chief trade negotiator said on Monday.

While a member of the World Trade Organization, many countries are wary of signing trade deals with&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;fearing objections from China, which claims the democratic island as its own territory, and&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;has sought greater access to multilateral deals.

Fifteen Asia-Pacific economies formed the world's largest free-trade bloc on Sunday, the China-backed Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which does not include the United States or&nbsp;Taiwan.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asian-nations-sign-rcep-a-china-backed-trade-pact-excluding-india-and-us-343226" hreflang="en">Asian nations sign RCEP, a China-backed trade pact, excluding India and US</a>

Tech-powerhouse&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;has instead been angling to join the 11-country Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), signed in 2018, again without the United States.

Taiwan&nbsp;minister without portfolio John Deng, who leads trade talks, told reporters they had expressed willingness to join the CPTPP.

"Countries that have made relatively good progress (in applying for membership) include Britain,&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;and Thailand, and&nbsp;Taiwan's hard work has been welcomed by many," Deng said.

"They hope for us to stay in touch," he said, adding that&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;is waiting for the CPTPP grouping to make "clearer rules" about membership application.

The original 12-member agreement, known as the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), was thrown into limbo in early 2017 when U.S. President Donald Trump withdrew.

It was renamed the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership and links Canada, Australia, Brunei, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam.

Taiwan&nbsp;has played down the impact of RCEP on its economy, saying that 70% of its exports to RCEP member countries, mostly electronic products, are already tariff free.

Taiwan&nbsp;hopes eventually to sign a free trade deal with the United States, its main arms seller and most important international backer, and the two will hold high-level economic talks at the end of this week.

Trade-dependent Taiwan has made "relatively" good progress towards joining the revamped version of the Trans-Pacific Partnership, but it is awaiting clearer rules on membership, the island's chief trade negotiator said on Monday.

Trade-dependent Taiwan has made "relatively" good progress towards joining the revamped version of the Trans-Pacific Partnership, but it is awaiting clearer rules on membership, the island's chief trade negotiator said on Monday. While a member of the World Trade Organization, many countries are wary of signing trade deals with Taiwan fearing objections from China, which claims the democratic island as its own territory, and Taiwan has sought greater access to multilateral deals. Fifteen Asia-Pacific economies formed the world's largest free-trade bloc on Sunday, the China-backed Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which does not include the United States or Taiwan. Also read: Asian nations sign RCEP, a China-backed trade pact, excluding India and US Tech-powerhouse Taiwan has instead been angling to join the 11-country Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), signed in 2018, again without the United States. Taiwan minister without portfolio John Deng, who leads trade talks, told reporters they had expressed willingness to join the CPTPP. "Countries that have made relatively good progress (in applying for membership) include Britain, Taiwan and Thailand, and Taiwan's hard work has been welcomed by many," Deng said. "They hope for us to stay in touch," he said, adding that Taiwan is waiting for the CPTPP grouping to make "clearer rules" about membership application. The original 12-member agreement, known as the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), was thrown into limbo in early 2017 when U.S. President Donald Trump withdrew. It was renamed the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership and links Canada, Australia, Brunei, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam. Taiwan has played down the impact of RCEP on its economy, saying that 70% of its exports to RCEP member countries, mostly electronic products, are already tariff free. Taiwan hopes eventually to sign a free trade deal with the United States, its main arms seller and most important international backer, and the two will hold high-level economic talks at the end of this week.

The Indian festival of Diwali is being celebrated all around the world. The Taiwan govt also celebrated Deepavali at an event attended by foreign minister along with Indian representatives.

Taiwan FM & Indian representatives share stage at an Diwali event

Taiwan's foreign minister Jaushieh Joseph Wu and the Director-General of India-Taipei Association (India's de facto envoy) Gourangalal Das shared the stage on a Taiwan government-sponsored mega Diwali event on Friday. &nbsp;

Around 200 people attended a COVID complaint event, with the participation of many Indians, MPs of Taiwan parliament Yuan, and members of the diplomatic corps.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/taiwan-government-to-host-mega-diwali-celebration-341385">Taiwan government to host mega Diwali celebration</a>

Taiwan Foreign minister speaking at the event said, "Diwali is a festival that represents many things, including the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. In these difficult times, we take inspiration from Diwali as we work to combat the pandemic and return life to normal."

The Diwali celebrations took place at the historical Taipei Guest House which is used as a state guest house to receive state guests. The more than the 100-year-old building is owned by the Taiwanese government and administered by its foreign ministry.

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Gourangalal Das, "Diwali has acquired a global following, and it is celebrated not only by millions of Indians abroad but by millions of their friends in the adopted home. I am happy to see such a vibrant and dynamic Indian community in Taiwan, proudly displaying this glorious inheritance of ours."

The director-general appreciated the event being held at Taipei Guest House saying, "by opening it..they have not only opened their doors but also hearts to India and Indians."

Present at the celebration was Deputy Taiwan Foreign Minister&nbsp;Tien Chung Kwang who used to be Amb. of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center in India and was stationed in India for 7 years. Another notable person at the celebration was Legislator Yu-Chin Wu who is the Chairperson of the Taiwan-India Parliamentary Friendship Association of the Legislative Yuan.

Foreign Minister&nbsp;Wu lauded the role of &nbsp;2 people Jeffery Wu, a Taiwanese national who has contributed to promoting Indian culture, and Priya Lalwani Purswaney who was the first Indian woman to start her own business in Taiwan. They played a key role in the Diwali celebration.

Recently engagement between India and Taiwan has increased in terms of societal interaction. On Taiwan National Day, strong support was seen in India angering the Chinese Embassy.

Taiwanese president Tsai ing-wen has been tweeted about Indian dishes saying her favorite food is Chana Masala and Naan. She has also been recalling her India visit, terming it as "memories of a vibrant, diverse &amp; colorful country."

The close engagement comes eve as China has been aggressive with both India and Taiwan. With India, the line of actual control row has been the worst Chinese build-up while with Taiwan, Chinese jets have been breaching the Taiwan strait median line that separates Taiwan from China.

Taiwan's foreign minister Jaushieh Joseph Wu and the Director-General of India-Taipei Association (India's de facto envoy) Gourangalal Das shared the stage on a Taiwan government-sponsored mega Diwali event on Friday.

Taiwan's foreign minister Jaushieh Joseph Wu and the Director-General of India-Taipei Association (India's de facto envoy) Gourangalal Das shared the stage on a Taiwan government-sponsored mega Diwali event on Friday. Around 200 people attended a COVID complaint event, with the participation of many Indians, MPs of Taiwan parliament Yuan, and members of the diplomatic corps. Also read: Taiwan government to host mega Diwali celebration Taiwan Foreign minister speaking at the event said, "Diwali is a festival that represents many things, including the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. In these difficult times, we take inspiration from Diwali as we work to combat the pandemic and return life to normal." The Diwali celebrations took place at the historical Taipei Guest House which is used as a state guest house to receive state guests. The more than the 100-year-old building is owned by the Taiwanese government and administered by its foreign ministry. Also read| Diwali gift to borrowers: Government waives off interest on interest for loans up to Rs 2 crore Gourangalal Das, "Diwali has acquired a global following, and it is celebrated not only by millions of Indians abroad but by millions of their friends in the adopted home. I am happy to see such a vibrant and dynamic Indian community in Taiwan, proudly displaying this glorious inheritance of ours." The director-general appreciated the event being held at Taipei Guest House saying, "by opening it..they have not only opened their doors but also hearts to India and Indians." Present at the celebration was Deputy Taiwan Foreign Minister Tien Chung Kwang who used to be Amb. of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center in India and was stationed in India for 7 years. Another notable person at the celebration was Legislator Yu-Chin Wu who is the Chairperson of the Taiwan-India Parliamentary Friendship Association of the Legislative Yuan. Foreign Minister Wu lauded the role of 2 people Jeffery Wu, a Taiwanese national who has contributed to promoting Indian culture, and Priya Lalwani Purswaney who was the first Indian woman to start her own business in Taiwan. They played a key role in the Diwali celebration. Recently engagement between India and Taiwan has increased in terms of societal interaction. On Taiwan National Day, strong support was seen in India angering the Chinese Embassy. Taiwanese president Tsai ing-wen has been tweeted about Indian dishes saying her favorite food is Chana Masala and Naan. She has also been recalling her India visit, terming it as "memories of a vibrant, diverse & colorful country." The close engagement comes eve as China has been aggressive with both India and Taiwan. With India, the line of actual control row has been the worst Chinese build-up while with Taiwan, Chinese jets have been breaching the Taiwan strait median line that separates Taiwan from China.

Taiwan government celebrates Diwali; foreign minister shares stage with Indian representative

President-elect <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden </a>is getting congratulatory messages from several world leaders for winning the presidency, but some democracy activists in Hong Kong and Taiwan are still hoping that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump </a>becomes the President of the United States.&nbsp;

Trump's refusal to accept America's mandate has caused divisions in the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong because of its connections with the Republican party.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-the-dream-of-hong-kong-democracy-was-dimmed-342665">How the dream of Hong Kong democracy was dimmed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

An op-ed with the headline: 'President Biden will stand with Hong Kong- more effectively than Trump ever did', published by The Hong Kong Free Press has been harshly criticised with comments such as Joe Biden was "in the CCP’s pocket" and the results are yet to be announced.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warns-china-of-additional-sanctions-for-flagrantly-violating-hong-kongs-autonomy-342516">US warns China of additional sanctions for 'flagrantly violating' Hong Kong's autonomy</a>

"I'm genuinely surprised at the level of right-wing disinformation that has influenced Hong Kong circles. The number of friends who have linked me to Breitbart articles or other easily-debunked misinformation is depressing," said Sasha Ramani, one of the co-authors of the article, as quoted by The Guardian.&nbsp;

Last month, a YouGov poll found that Trump was most popular in Hong Kong and Taiwan, two regions where China has increased its authoritarian measures to suppress any Beijing-related dissent and strengthen democracy.&nbsp;

In the last several months, Trump has taken several measures against China after the coronavirus crisis began, which includes slapping sanctions and providing billions of dollars of weapons to Taiwan.&nbsp;

Though Biden has claimed that he will act tough on Beijing, some people in Hong Kong fear whether the president-elect will walk the talk.&nbsp;

Journalist Johan Nylander, who has lived in Hong Kong for a decade, said a lot of anger and aggression has risen since the US election, that includes claims that Biden stole the election.

A local reporter, who did not want to be identified over concerns of facing online abuse, said colleagues and media organisations had been called "pro-Biden or favouring Biden in their coverage".

"One example is Apple Daily – its owner Jimmy Lai was very clear that he supported Trump, he predicted Trump would win … and their own coverage was generally pro-Trump. But the [Apple Daily] journalists did what every journalist does and factchecked stories. And they were accused of 'showing their true colours', siding with Biden. There's this kind of conspiracy that keeps going on," he added.&nbsp;

President-elect Joe Biden is getting congratulatory messages from several world leaders for winning the presidency, but some democracy activists in Hong Kong and Taiwan are still hoping that Donald Trump becomes the President of the United States.

President-elect Joe Biden is getting congratulatory messages from several world leaders for winning the presidency, but some democracy activists in Hong Kong and Taiwan are still hoping that Donald Trump becomes the President of the United States. Trump's refusal to accept America's mandate has caused divisions in the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong because of its connections with the Republican party. Also read | How the dream of Hong Kong democracy was dimmed An op-ed with the headline: 'President Biden will stand with Hong Kong- more effectively than Trump ever did', published by The Hong Kong Free Press has been harshly criticised with comments such as Joe Biden was "in the CCP’s pocket" and the results are yet to be announced. Also read | US warns China of additional sanctions for 'flagrantly violating' Hong Kong's autonomy "I'm genuinely surprised at the level of right-wing disinformation that has influenced Hong Kong circles. The number of friends who have linked me to Breitbart articles or other easily-debunked misinformation is depressing," said Sasha Ramani, one of the co-authors of the article, as quoted by The Guardian. Last month, a YouGov poll found that Trump was most popular in Hong Kong and Taiwan, two regions where China has increased its authoritarian measures to suppress any Beijing-related dissent and strengthen democracy. In the last several months, Trump has taken several measures against China after the coronavirus crisis began, which includes slapping sanctions and providing billions of dollars of weapons to Taiwan. Though Biden has claimed that he will act tough on Beijing, some people in Hong Kong fear whether the president-elect will walk the talk. Journalist Johan Nylander, who has lived in Hong Kong for a decade, said a lot of anger and aggression has risen since the US election, that includes claims that Biden stole the election. A local reporter, who did not want to be identified over concerns of facing online abuse, said colleagues and media organisations had been called "pro-Biden or favouring Biden in their coverage". "One example is Apple Daily – its owner Jimmy Lai was very clear that he supported Trump, he predicted Trump would win … and their own coverage was generally pro-Trump. But the [Apple Daily] journalists did what every journalist does and factchecked stories. And they were accused of 'showing their true colours', siding with Biden. There's this kind of conspiracy that keeps going on," he added.

Why are some pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong, Taiwan still hoping for Trump victory?

Words like 'Taiwan' and 'China virus' were blocked from the comments section during a livestream of the World Health Assembly meeting. Netizens quickly pointed out the similarities between this incident and China's vast censorship regime. WION's Palki Sharma has the story.

Gravitas: W.H.O censors Taiwan on Facebook

Apple on Monday claimed that it had put Taiwanese supplier Pegatron on probation after realising that the company has been overworking student employees.

The company reportedly violated Apple’s supplier code of conduct by making student employees extra, mostly overnight.&nbsp;

According to Reuters, Pegatron had falsely classified student workers and had also put forward false paperwork to hide the violations.

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In addition, the company also breached a code by allowing students to take up work which may not be in sync with their majors.

Pegatron is one of few Taiwanese manufcaturers, along with Foxconn, the dominating player in Apple’s manufacturing chain line.

"Several weeks ago, we discovered Pegatron - one of Apple's suppliers in China - violated Apple's Supplier Code of Conduct in its administration of a student work study programme," Apple said in a statement.

"Apple has placed Pegatron on probation and Pegatron will not receive any new business from Apple until they complete all of the corrective actions required”, the Apple statement added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/apple-google-and-a-deal-that-controls-the-internet-337885" hreflang="en">Apple, Google and a deal that controls the internet</a>

However, no proof of underage of forced labour was found. Pegatron had fired the executive who was in charge of the programme.&nbsp;

"The individuals at Pegatron responsible for the violations went to extraordinary lengths to evade our oversight mechanisms," Apple added in its statement.

Apple on Monday claimed that it had put Taiwanese supplier Pegatron on probation after realising that the company has been overworking student employees. The company reportedly violated Apple’s supplier code of conduct by making student employees extra, mostly overnight.

Apple on Monday claimed that it had put Taiwanese supplier Pegatron on probation after realising that the company has been overworking student employees. The company reportedly violated Apple’s supplier code of conduct by making student employees extra, mostly overnight. According to Reuters, Pegatron had falsely classified student workers and had also put forward false paperwork to hide the violations. Also read: US court orders Apple to pay $503 million to VirnetX in patent case In addition, the company also breached a code by allowing students to take up work which may not be in sync with their majors. Pegatron is one of few Taiwanese manufcaturers, along with Foxconn, the dominating player in Apple’s manufacturing chain line. "Several weeks ago, we discovered Pegatron - one of Apple's suppliers in China - violated Apple's Supplier Code of Conduct in its administration of a student work study programme," Apple said in a statement. "Apple has placed Pegatron on probation and Pegatron will not receive any new business from Apple until they complete all of the corrective actions required”, the Apple statement added. Also read: Apple, Google and a deal that controls the internet However, no proof of underage of forced labour was found. Pegatron had fired the executive who was in charge of the programme. "The individuals at Pegatron responsible for the violations went to extraordinary lengths to evade our oversight mechanisms," Apple added in its statement.

Apple puts Taiwanese supplier Pegatron on probation for exploitation of students

Taiwan has not yet received an invite to a key World Health Organisation (WHO) meeting this week expected to focus on the COVID-19 pandemic due to "obstruction" from China.

The US mission in Geneva last week urged WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus to invite Chinese-claimed but democratically ruled Taiwan to the WHO's decision-making body, the World Health Assembly (WHA). But late on Sunday, Taiwan's Foreign Ministry said the island had yet to get an invite to the virtual meeting of 194 member states.

The WHO's refusal to invite Taiwan based on political considerations makes a mockery of the body's "health for all" claim, the ministry said.

Taiwan is locked out of most global organisations such as the WHO due to the objections of China, which considers the island one of its provinces with no right to the trappings of a sovereign state.

The WHO says it is up to member states whether to invite Taiwan, which has been praised internationally for quickly containing the coronavirus, to observe the WHA meeting.

Backed by the United States, Taiwan has stepped up lobbying this year to take part, angering China.

China's mission to the United Nations in Geneva had earlier denounced the "distorted" US remarks on Taiwan, saying the island can only take part if it admits to being part of China, something Taipei's government has refused to do.

The WHO says it cooperates with Taiwan on various health matters including on aspects of the pandemic and that the island has been provided with the help it needs.

Taiwan has not yet received an invite to a key World Health Organisation (WHO) meeting this week expected to focus on the COVID-19 pandemic due to "obstruction" from China.

Taiwan has not yet received an invite to a key World Health Organisation (WHO) meeting this week expected to focus on the COVID-19 pandemic due to "obstruction" from China. The US mission in Geneva last week urged WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus to invite Chinese-claimed but democratically ruled Taiwan to the WHO's decision-making body, the World Health Assembly (WHA). But late on Sunday, Taiwan's Foreign Ministry said the island had yet to get an invite to the virtual meeting of 194 member states. The WHO's refusal to invite Taiwan based on political considerations makes a mockery of the body's "health for all" claim, the ministry said. Taiwan is locked out of most global organisations such as the WHO due to the objections of China, which considers the island one of its provinces with no right to the trappings of a sovereign state. The WHO says it is up to member states whether to invite Taiwan, which has been praised internationally for quickly containing the coronavirus, to observe the WHA meeting. Backed by the United States, Taiwan has stepped up lobbying this year to take part, angering China. China's mission to the United Nations in Geneva had earlier denounced the "distorted" US remarks on Taiwan, saying the island can only take part if it admits to being part of China, something Taipei's government has refused to do. The WHO says it cooperates with Taiwan on various health matters including on aspects of the pandemic and that the island has been provided with the help it needs.

Taiwan is yet to receive invite to key WHO meeting

Taiwan is set to host mega Diwali celebration that is being sponsored by the Taiwanese government and will see the participation of representation by government. The Diwali celebration will take place in the Taiwanese capital Taipei and is being organised by Taipei India Music and culture centre and Indians in Taiwan group. Deputy Taiwan Foreign Minister Tien Chung Kwang will be present at the celebrations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-urges-who-chief-to-invite-taiwan-to-a-key-meeting-341119">Also read|&nbsp;US urges WHO chief to invite Taiwan to a key meeting</a>

Recently engagement between India and Taiwan have increased in terms of societal interaction. On Taiwan National Day, strong support was seen in India angering Chinese Embassy. Taiwanese president Tsai ing-wen had tweeted about Indian dishes and said her favourite food being Chana Masala and Naan. She also recalled her India visit, what she termed as "memories of a vibrant, diverse &amp; colorful country."

The increased societal interaction comes even as China has been aggressive with both India and Taiwan this year. With India, the line of actual control row has been the worst Chinese build-up while with Taiwan, Chinese jets have been breaching the Taiwan strait median line that separates Taiwan from China.

Taiwan is set to host mega Diwali celebration that is being sponsored by the Taiwanese government and will see the participation of representation by government.

Taiwan is set to host mega Diwali celebration that is being sponsored by the Taiwanese government and will see the participation of representation by government. The Diwali celebration will take place in the Taiwanese capital Taipei and is being organised by Taipei India Music and culture centre and Indians in Taiwan group. Deputy Taiwan Foreign Minister Tien Chung Kwang will be present at the celebrations. Also read| US urges WHO chief to invite Taiwan to a key meeting Recently engagement between India and Taiwan have increased in terms of societal interaction. On Taiwan National Day, strong support was seen in India angering Chinese Embassy. Taiwanese president Tsai ing-wen had tweeted about Indian dishes and said her favourite food being Chana Masala and Naan. She also recalled her India visit, what she termed as "memories of a vibrant, diverse & colorful country." The increased societal interaction comes even as China has been aggressive with both India and Taiwan this year. With India, the line of actual control row has been the worst Chinese build-up while with Taiwan, Chinese jets have been breaching the Taiwan strait median line that separates Taiwan from China.

Taiwan government to host mega Diwali celebration

China's military aggression has led to an unexpected outcome. It's benefitting one of Beijing's adversaries, the US and its defence industry. American defence companies are picking up major defence contracts from American allies. Countries like India and Taiwan are now turning to American defence equipment to boost their defences against the dragon.

China triggered its border standoff with India back in May. After multiple rounds of talks, China hasn't pulled back. Indian soldiers have now dug in for the long haul. They needed special gear for an extended winter deployment. The US was happy to step in.

Reports say, India has acquired 11 thousand sets of extended cold weather clothing from the US Army. These sets have come from the stock-holdings of the US Army. 
&nbsp; 
India is not the only country that reached out to the US for defence supplies. As China' aggression grows, American allies have been dialling Washington for arms and ammunition. The American defence industry has won multiple contracts. Taiwan tops the list of major purchases.. Two major deals were announced in one week.

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The first one was worth 1.8 billion dollars. For cruise missiles, rocket launchers and surveillance equipment. Weapons, that can target the Chinese mainland.

China announced sanctions. But a second deal followed. A package worth 2.4 billion dollars. This includes 400 Harpoon anti-ship missiles, 1000 launcher transporters, Radar and support systems.

Taipei has said American weapons will enhance Taiwan's combat capabilities against the Chinese. The US government has steadily backed its defence industry. Lockdowns haven't affected major arms deals.&nbsp;

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In October, the US announced major arms sales to South Korea, Egypt, Finland, Romania and Taiwan. By May, the US state department approved weapons sales to India, Morocco and the Philippines. These deals were worth 2.2 billion dollars. In addition to this, the UAE was given 150 million dollars in blanket funds. This was to repair and support aircraft fleets.

The UAE has a big purchase order for America. A deal for F-35 fighter jets. A purchase that could be worth 10 billion dollars. It seems that China's aggression has come as a boon to the American defence industry. As Beijing continues to make territorial claims, US arms manufacturers are raking in the Moolah.

China's military aggression has led to an unexpected outcome. It's benefitting one of Beijing's adversaries, the US and its defence industry. American defence companies are picking up major defence contracts from American allies.

China's military aggression has led to an unexpected outcome. It's benefitting one of Beijing's adversaries, the US and its defence industry. American defence companies are picking up major defence contracts from American allies. Countries like India and Taiwan are now turning to American defence equipment to boost their defences against the dragon. China triggered its border standoff with India back in May. After multiple rounds of talks, China hasn't pulled back. Indian soldiers have now dug in for the long haul. They needed special gear for an extended winter deployment. The US was happy to step in. Reports say, India has acquired 11 thousand sets of extended cold weather clothing from the US Army. These sets have come from the stock-holdings of the US Army. India is not the only country that reached out to the US for defence supplies. As China' aggression grows, American allies have been dialling Washington for arms and ammunition. The American defence industry has won multiple contracts. Taiwan tops the list of major purchases.. Two major deals were announced in one week. Also Read | Trump's hard-line immigration policies go before voters The first one was worth 1.8 billion dollars. For cruise missiles, rocket launchers and surveillance equipment. Weapons, that can target the Chinese mainland. China announced sanctions. But a second deal followed. A package worth 2.4 billion dollars. This includes 400 Harpoon anti-ship missiles, 1000 launcher transporters, Radar and support systems. Taipei has said American weapons will enhance Taiwan's combat capabilities against the Chinese. The US government has steadily backed its defence industry. Lockdowns haven't affected major arms deals. × In October, the US announced major arms sales to South Korea, Egypt, Finland, Romania and Taiwan. By May, the US state department approved weapons sales to India, Morocco and the Philippines. These deals were worth 2.2 billion dollars. In addition to this, the UAE was given 150 million dollars in blanket funds. This was to repair and support aircraft fleets. The UAE has a big purchase order for America. A deal for F-35 fighter jets. A purchase that could be worth 10 billion dollars. It seems that China's aggression has come as a boon to the American defence industry. As Beijing continues to make territorial claims, US arms manufacturers are raking in the Moolah.

Chinese aggression comes as boon to the US

Taiwan's drag queens are fighting a dual battle one with the society to accept them & another with their communities to take up traditional responsibilities. Watch the report to know more.

Taiwan: Drag queens win legal battle, face societal resistance

Two women became the first military officers to marry their same-sex civilian partners at a mass military wedding in Taiwan on Friday (October 30), marking another landmark for LGBTQ+ rights in Asia.

'Coming out bravely'- Taiwan same-sex couples join military wedding for first time

Taiwan is on a record-extending 200-day streak. Since April 12, the country has not reported a single case of locally transmitted COVID-19. While different countries are battling a second wave, how is Taiwan keeping the pandemic at bay? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Taiwan's 200-day streak without local transmission

2020 has been lost to the COVID-19 pandemic. Cities were locked down. Social life was disrupted. Economies still are in tailspin. But one country has made it work. It has emerged unscathed, despite being surrounded by hotspots. That country is Taiwan. Taiwan's last locally transmitted case came on April 12th. Two hundred days have passed, with zero cases of local transmission.&nbsp;

Taiwan's strategy has been simple. Trace, test and quarantine. No lockdown. It's the strategy that has made it the world leader, in pandemic response

Let's put Taiwan's COVID-19 stats in perspective. 550 confirmed cases, and only 7 deaths.&nbsp;

This is a country of 23 million people. Australia has a similar population but it registered almost 28,000 cases and 900 deaths.

Majority of Taiwan's cases were imported. Residents who got infected outside the country. So what did Taiwan do differently? How did it succeed where far wealthier nations failed? For starters, Taiwan had a headstart. By December, it knew about a SARS-like infection spreading in Wuhan.

The first thing authorities did was observe passengers from China. Once they were convinced of the threat, Taiwan sealed its borders. This was way back in January. Taiwan was also quick to stockpile masks and PPE kits. In 4 months, it went from making 2 million masks a day to 20 million. Many countries struggled with shortage in the early stages, Taiwan had no such issue. 
&nbsp; 
But the most crucial part of Taiwan's plan was contact-tracing. For each confirmed case, the government traced 20 to 30 contacts. These people would then go into home quarantine. It did not matter whether they tested positive or not. 34,000 people have undergone home quarantine in Taiwan, almost 1.5 per cent of the total population.

Fewer than 1000 people ended up violating it. That's a compliance rate of 99.7 per cent.

The public had a major role in Taiwan's success story

Past experience also helped. In 2003m the SARS epidemic dealt a huge blow to Taiwan. Hundreds of people became ill. At least 73 died.

Since then, Taiwan has been preparing for the next pandemic. When the Wuhan virus came, Taiwan had all the tools to combat it. It has also avoided an economic meltdown. The GDP is projected to expand by almost 2 per cent.

So does this mean absolute victory? Not quite. Taiwan is still reporting imported cases. Around 20 cases were reported in last 2 weeks alone. Taiwan's response has been the gold-standard of pandemic response. The 200-day streak is another example of why Taiwan needs a seat at World Health Organisation. Its knowledge could be crucial in preventing the next pandemic. 
&nbsp;

2020 has been lost to the COVID-19 pandemic. Cities were locked down. Social life was disrupted. Economies still are in tailspin. But one country has made it work.

2020 has been lost to the COVID-19 pandemic. Cities were locked down. Social life was disrupted. Economies still are in tailspin. But one country has made it work. It has emerged unscathed, despite being surrounded by hotspots. That country is Taiwan. Taiwan's last locally transmitted case came on April 12th. Two hundred days have passed, with zero cases of local transmission. Taiwan's strategy has been simple. Trace, test and quarantine. No lockdown. It's the strategy that has made it the world leader, in pandemic response Let's put Taiwan's COVID-19 stats in perspective. 550 confirmed cases, and only 7 deaths. This is a country of 23 million people. Australia has a similar population but it registered almost 28,000 cases and 900 deaths. Majority of Taiwan's cases were imported. Residents who got infected outside the country. So what did Taiwan do differently? How did it succeed where far wealthier nations failed? For starters, Taiwan had a headstart. By December, it knew about a SARS-like infection spreading in Wuhan. The first thing authorities did was observe passengers from China. Once they were convinced of the threat, Taiwan sealed its borders. This was way back in January. Taiwan was also quick to stockpile masks and PPE kits. In 4 months, it went from making 2 million masks a day to 20 million. Many countries struggled with shortage in the early stages, Taiwan had no such issue. But the most crucial part of Taiwan's plan was contact-tracing. For each confirmed case, the government traced 20 to 30 contacts. These people would then go into home quarantine. It did not matter whether they tested positive or not. 34,000 people have undergone home quarantine in Taiwan, almost 1.5 per cent of the total population. Fewer than 1000 people ended up violating it. That's a compliance rate of 99.7 per cent. The public had a major role in Taiwan's success story Past experience also helped. In 2003m the SARS epidemic dealt a huge blow to Taiwan. Hundreds of people became ill. At least 73 died. Since then, Taiwan has been preparing for the next pandemic. When the Wuhan virus came, Taiwan had all the tools to combat it. It has also avoided an economic meltdown. The GDP is projected to expand by almost 2 per cent. So does this mean absolute victory? Not quite. Taiwan is still reporting imported cases. Around 20 cases were reported in last 2 weeks alone. Taiwan's response has been the gold-standard of pandemic response. The 200-day streak is another example of why Taiwan needs a seat at World Health Organisation. Its knowledge could be crucial in preventing the next pandemic.

Here's how Taiwan beat the pandemic

In a first, two same-sex couple will be getting married in&nbsp;Taiwanese army’s annual mass wedding ceremony that will be held this week. This is the first time such a ceremony will allow same-sex couples to legalise their marriage.

The decision has come 18 months after the Taiwanese government legalised and gave equal rights to same-sex couples.&nbsp;

The ceremony will have various soldiers getting married to their civilian/army partners. The two couples are&nbsp;Chen Ying-xuan and Lee Ying-ying, and Wang Yi and Meng Youmei.

“Our country … has become the first in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage and the ministry gives its blessings to same-sex servicemen who are getting married,” the Taiwanese military said.

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Taiwan has emerged as one of the most forward-thinking Asian countries in the past few years with its&nbsp;self-governing democracy. The military posted several pictures of different couples and asked people to vote for their favourite couple.&nbsp;The photo of Wang and Meng has been liked more than 31,000 times on Facebook alone. The pictures of the same-sex couples gained lots of positive comments with people saying, "Love makes Taiwan stronger". Last year, three couples were scheduled to get married, but they later withdrew their names due to reasons unknown.&nbsp;

This is not the first time a same-sex couple will be registering their marriage in Taiwan. Thousands of couples have legalised their marriage after the law was passed 18 months ago.&nbsp;

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While all local couples and residents enjoy the freedom and all rights related to same-sex equality. But people from the LGBTQ community who want to marry someone from any other country can only register their marriage if it is permitted in the partner's home country. Activists have called attention on this technicality. The community has also now urged the government to simplify adoption and&nbsp;assisted reproduction rights for same-sex couples in the country.

In a first, two same-sex couple will be getting married in Taiwanese army’s annual mass wedding ceremony that will be held this week. This is the first time such a ceremony will allow same-sex couples to legalise their marriage.

In a first, two same-sex couple will be getting married in Taiwanese army’s annual mass wedding ceremony that will be held this week. This is the first time such a ceremony will allow same-sex couples to legalise their marriage. The decision has come 18 months after the Taiwanese government legalised and gave equal rights to same-sex couples. The ceremony will have various soldiers getting married to their civilian/army partners. The two couples are Chen Ying-xuan and Lee Ying-ying, and Wang Yi and Meng Youmei. “Our country … has become the first in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage and the ministry gives its blessings to same-sex servicemen who are getting married,” the Taiwanese military said. ALSO READ: Australia vs India: Full schedule, dates, venues and all you need to know Taiwan has emerged as one of the most forward-thinking Asian countries in the past few years with its self-governing democracy. The military posted several pictures of different couples and asked people to vote for their favourite couple. The photo of Wang and Meng has been liked more than 31,000 times on Facebook alone. The pictures of the same-sex couples gained lots of positive comments with people saying, "Love makes Taiwan stronger". Last year, three couples were scheduled to get married, but they later withdrew their names due to reasons unknown. This is not the first time a same-sex couple will be registering their marriage in Taiwan. Thousands of couples have legalised their marriage after the law was passed 18 months ago. ALSO READ: 'Wrong dictionary'- Juventus cheeky response to Barcelona triggers battle of GOATs While all local couples and residents enjoy the freedom and all rights related to same-sex equality. But people from the LGBTQ community who want to marry someone from any other country can only register their marriage if it is permitted in the partner's home country. Activists have called attention on this technicality. The community has also now urged the government to simplify adoption and assisted reproduction rights for same-sex couples in the country.

Moment of pride: Two same-sex couples to get married in Taiwanese military mass wedding

Japan is holding a drill with American soldiers. The US is supplying Taiwan with advanced weapons. Australia will join India, Japan and the US for the Malabar Exercise next month. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how US & its allies are building an Asian NATO.

Gravitas: How the United States is building the Asian NATO

The US State Department has approved the potential sale of 100 Boeing-made Harpoon Coastal Defence Systems to Taiwan in a deal worth as much as $2.37 billion.

US approves $2.37 bn arms sales to Taiwan

China will impose sanctions on top US defence firms, including Boeing and Lockheed Martin, for supplying weapons to Taiwan.

Your Story: China to impose curbs on US entities over arms sales

Hundreds of people rallied in Taiwan's capital on Sunday (October 25) to call for China to release 12 Hongkongers arrested at sea by mainland authorities as part of a global campaign to support the pro-democracy movement in the financial hub.

Hundreds rally in Taiwan, call for release of 12 HK people arrested by China

In response to the latest round of US arms sales to Taiwan, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesman has said that China will impose sanctions on U.S. entities participating in Washington’s arms sales to Taiwan. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-escalates-border-crisis-to-divert-attention-from-chinas-economic-woes-337961">Also read: Xi Jinping escalates border crisis to divert attention from China's economic woes</a> 
 
According to the ministry, China will impose sanctions on Lockheed Martin, a Boeing division and other US firms involved in arms sales to Taiwan, the self-governed island that Beijing views as its territory.

The two US giants were involved in a recent sale of $1 billion worth of missiles to Taiwan, alongside Raytheon. Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian urged the US "to stop arms sales" to the island.

The status of Taiwan holds the potential for conflict between the United States and China, in a wider struggle for technology, security and trade supremacy.

The US State Department said last week it had approved the sale of 135 air-to-ground missiles in a move Taiwan's defence ministry said would build its combat capabilities.

Also approved was the sale of six MS-110 air reconnaissance pods and 11 M142 mobile light rocket launchers, taking the value of the three arms packages to $1.8 billion.

Beijing insists the self-ruled island is part of its territory and has vowed to respond with force if Taipei ever formally moves towards declaring independence.

The United States, like most countries, has no official diplomatic ties with Taiwan, but Washington is bound by law to provide the island with the means to defend itself.

Tensions across the Taiwan Strait escalated in recent months after the Trump administration stepped up its engagement with local authorities in Taiwan. Beijing has always called Taiwan "an inseparable part of its territory" and asked other countries to adhere to the "One China" policy.

(With inputs from agencies)

In response to the latest round of US arms sales to Taiwan, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesman has said that China will impose sanctions on U.S. entities participating in Washington’s arms sales to Taiwan.

In response to the latest round of US arms sales to Taiwan, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesman has said that China will impose sanctions on U.S. entities participating in Washington’s arms sales to Taiwan. Also read: Xi Jinping escalates border crisis to divert attention from China's economic woes According to the ministry, China will impose sanctions on Lockheed Martin, a Boeing division and other US firms involved in arms sales to Taiwan, the self-governed island that Beijing views as its territory. The two US giants were involved in a recent sale of $1 billion worth of missiles to Taiwan, alongside Raytheon. Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian urged the US "to stop arms sales" to the island. The status of Taiwan holds the potential for conflict between the United States and China, in a wider struggle for technology, security and trade supremacy. The US State Department said last week it had approved the sale of 135 air-to-ground missiles in a move Taiwan's defence ministry said would build its combat capabilities. Also approved was the sale of six MS-110 air reconnaissance pods and 11 M142 mobile light rocket launchers, taking the value of the three arms packages to $1.8 billion. Beijing insists the self-ruled island is part of its territory and has vowed to respond with force if Taipei ever formally moves towards declaring independence. The United States, like most countries, has no official diplomatic ties with Taiwan, but Washington is bound by law to provide the island with the means to defend itself. Tensions across the Taiwan Strait escalated in recent months after the Trump administration stepped up its engagement with local authorities in Taiwan. Beijing has always called Taiwan "an inseparable part of its territory" and asked other countries to adhere to the "One China" policy. (With inputs from agencies)

China to impose sanctions on US firms over Taiwan arms sales: Foreign ministry

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