Protests that have paralysed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-fire-tear-gas-to-disperse-anti-government-protesters-265558">Hong Kong for nearly six months</a> are pushing residents to seek new lives abroad, with many turning to nearby democratic Taiwan to escape the uncertainty at home.

Taiwan has long attracted Hong Kongers seeking an alternative to their city's frenetic pace and sky-high rents.

But the number granted short-term and permanent residency in Taiwan rose nearly 30 per cent to over 4,000 between January and September from a year earlier, with investment from Hong Kong almost doubling.

Leonardo Wong was in the southern Taiwanese city of Kaohsiung last month scouting locations for a restaurant he plans to open when he moves to the island in January.

"Hong Kong is no longer safe. You don't know what would happen tomorrow. There are too many external forces that could change the course of things," the 27-year-old told AFP.

"Now it feels rather like things could never go back to the way they were. We can't see what kind of future (Hong Kong) is heading towards."

Taiwan does not recognise the legal concept of asylum or accept refugee applications, fearful of a potential influx from the authoritarian mainland.

But Hong Kongers can apply to live on the island through a variety of means, including investment visas.

'A city with hope'

Former system analyst Chow Chung-ming recently obtained a residency permit through a scheme that requires a Tw$6 million ($197,000) investment,&nbsp;a fraction of the costs associated with other popular immigration destinations such as Australia, Canada and the United States.

The 41-year-old moved to Kaohsiung attracted partly by lower rents, which have helped him realise a childhood dream of opening a cat cafe this July, but also the island's relative freedoms.

"In Taiwan, freedom of speech is in the present tense. People can elect the president and lawmakers,&nbsp;rights that Hong Kongers don't have and I don't see any chance of ever having," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pensioners-and-students-gather-for-hong-kong-protest-265423">Protests in Hong Kong erupted in response to proposed legislation</a> that would have allowed extraditions to the mainland, but have snowballed into demands for greater freedoms in the city.

Beijing officially espouses a so-called "one country, two systems" policy on Hong Kong, allowing the city greater freedoms and rule of law, but protesters argue that has been gradually eroded.

A 50-year guarantee of that status will expire in 2047, with many Hong Kongers convinced their freedoms will keep shrinking until the city is fully absorbed into the mainland.

"I think the tightening on freedom will continue in Hong Kong until it's 'one country, one system'," Chow said.

The current departure of Hong Kongers abroad is described by some as a "third wave", after many residents went overseas ahead of the 1997 British handover and, in smaller numbers, after the 2014 failure of the pro-democracy "Umbrella Movement".

Businesswoman Suki Lui has regularly participated in pro-democracy protests, but she now plans to relocate to Taiwan, hoping to give her two-year-old daughter a better future.

"My emotions have gone through so many ups and downs and I feel I have endured more emotion than I can handle," the 37-year-old said.

"I hope she can get a better education, can enjoy freedom, can realise her dreams in the future... I hope she can choose and live in a city with hope."&nbsp;

'Safeguard Taiwan'

But even those who move to Taiwan will live under a cloud cast by China.

Beijing sees the self-ruled island as part of its territory and has vowed to seize it, by force if necessary, even though the two have been governed separately for the past seven decades.

President Tsai Ing-wen, who took office in 2016, refuses to acknowledge that the island is part of "one China" and has repeatedly voiced support for Hong Kong's pro-democracy protesters.

In response, Beijing has ramped up economic and military pressure on Taiwan and poached many of the island's few remaining diplomatic allies.

Tsai faces elections in January against an opponent who favours much warmer ties with Beijing and has called the upcoming vote a "fight for freedom and democracy".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-arrests-belizean-taiwanese-citizens-over-alleged-meddling-in-hong-kong-affairs-265421">Some displaced Hong Kongers</a> hope the island will heed the lessons of the unrest in their home city.

"I can't vote yet but I hope people will vote for someone who can safeguard Taiwan," said Chow.&nbsp;

Phoenix Law, 30, said she moved to Taiwan in September drawn by the island's greater freedoms.

"If people (in Taiwan) don't accept what the president does, they can resist," she said.

"I hope Taiwanese people are on alert after seeing the situation in Hong Kong. Don't trust the Chinese Communist Party, what they say may sound nice but that are all lies."

Protests that have paralysed Hong Kong for nearly six months are pushing residents to seek new lives abroad, with many turning to nearby democratic Taiwan to escape the uncertainty at home.

Protests that have paralysed Hong Kong for nearly six months are pushing residents to seek new lives abroad, with many turning to nearby democratic Taiwan to escape the uncertainty at home. Taiwan has long attracted Hong Kongers seeking an alternative to their city's frenetic pace and sky-high rents. But the number granted short-term and permanent residency in Taiwan rose nearly 30 per cent to over 4,000 between January and September from a year earlier, with investment from Hong Kong almost doubling. Leonardo Wong was in the southern Taiwanese city of Kaohsiung last month scouting locations for a restaurant he plans to open when he moves to the island in January. "Hong Kong is no longer safe. You don't know what would happen tomorrow. There are too many external forces that could change the course of things," the 27-year-old told AFP. "Now it feels rather like things could never go back to the way they were. We can't see what kind of future (Hong Kong) is heading towards." Taiwan does not recognise the legal concept of asylum or accept refugee applications, fearful of a potential influx from the authoritarian mainland. But Hong Kongers can apply to live on the island through a variety of means, including investment visas. 'A city with hope' Former system analyst Chow Chung-ming recently obtained a residency permit through a scheme that requires a Tw$6 million ($197,000) investment, a fraction of the costs associated with other popular immigration destinations such as Australia, Canada and the United States. The 41-year-old moved to Kaohsiung attracted partly by lower rents, which have helped him realise a childhood dream of opening a cat cafe this July, but also the island's relative freedoms. "In Taiwan, freedom of speech is in the present tense. People can elect the president and lawmakers, rights that Hong Kongers don't have and I don't see any chance of ever having," he said. Protests in Hong Kong erupted in response to proposed legislation that would have allowed extraditions to the mainland, but have snowballed into demands for greater freedoms in the city. Beijing officially espouses a so-called "one country, two systems" policy on Hong Kong, allowing the city greater freedoms and rule of law, but protesters argue that has been gradually eroded. A 50-year guarantee of that status will expire in 2047, with many Hong Kongers convinced their freedoms will keep shrinking until the city is fully absorbed into the mainland. "I think the tightening on freedom will continue in Hong Kong until it's 'one country, one system'," Chow said. The current departure of Hong Kongers abroad is described by some as a "third wave", after many residents went overseas ahead of the 1997 British handover and, in smaller numbers, after the 2014 failure of the pro-democracy "Umbrella Movement". Businesswoman Suki Lui has regularly participated in pro-democracy protests, but she now plans to relocate to Taiwan, hoping to give her two-year-old daughter a better future. "My emotions have gone through so many ups and downs and I feel I have endured more emotion than I can handle," the 37-year-old said. "I hope she can get a better education, can enjoy freedom, can realise her dreams in the future... I hope she can choose and live in a city with hope." 'Safeguard Taiwan' But even those who move to Taiwan will live under a cloud cast by China. Beijing sees the self-ruled island as part of its territory and has vowed to seize it, by force if necessary, even though the two have been governed separately for the past seven decades. President Tsai Ing-wen, who took office in 2016, refuses to acknowledge that the island is part of "one China" and has repeatedly voiced support for Hong Kong's pro-democracy protesters. In response, Beijing has ramped up economic and military pressure on Taiwan and poached many of the island's few remaining diplomatic allies. Tsai faces elections in January against an opponent who favours much warmer ties with Beijing and has called the upcoming vote a "fight for freedom and democracy". Some displaced Hong Kongers hope the island will heed the lessons of the unrest in their home city. "I can't vote yet but I hope people will vote for someone who can safeguard Taiwan," said Chow. Phoenix Law, 30, said she moved to Taiwan in September drawn by the island's greater freedoms. "If people (in Taiwan) don't accept what the president does, they can resist," she said. "I hope Taiwanese people are on alert after seeing the situation in Hong Kong. Don't trust the Chinese Communist Party, what they say may sound nice but that are all lies."

Hong Kong protesters turn to Taiwan in search of new lives

China is interfering in Taiwan's elections "every day" as it seeks to damage the island's democracy, Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said on Tuesday, after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-confirms-first-domestically-built-aircraft-carrier-sailed-through-taiwan-strait-262831">China sailed an aircraft carrier group</a> near the self-ruled island on the weekend.

The election campaign, which is also for Taiwan's legislature, has kicked into high gear, and is being closely watched by Taiwan's giant neighbour China, which claims Taiwan as sacred Chinese territory, to be brought under its control by force if needed.

China on Sunday sailed an aircraft carrier group through the sensitive Taiwan Strait, the same day Tsai announced her running mate, former premier William Lai, who has angered Beijing with his pro-independence comments. Taiwan denounced the carrier sailing as an attempt to intimidate voters.

China fears Tsai and her Democratic Progressive Party will push for Taiwan's formal independence, a red line for Beijing which in 2005 enacted an "anti-secession law" that allows it to use force on Taiwan in extreme cases.

Tsai, speaking after formally registering to run for re-election in the Jan. 11 vote, said the vote was happening at a crucial time, as China's pressure grows and against the backdrop of anti-government protests in Chinese-run Hong Kong.

"Our Republic of China, Taiwan, is a country, a sovereign, independent country. Our people have the right to choose their own president," she told reporters, referring to Taiwan by its official name.

Asked whether she supported Taiwan independence, Tsai said the island already had sovereignty.

"We have sovereignty, we have a government, we have a democratic free system, we defend ourself, we have diplomatic relations. This is the Republic of China, Taiwan, that I'm talking about," she said.

China's attempts to involve itself in Taiwan's election are "clear and easy to see" as they seek to damage the island's democracy, Tsai added, when asked about the Chinese carrier group in the Taiwan Strait.

"As a large country, internationally and regionally they have to have a responsibility to maintain regional peace and stability," she said.

Tsai declined direct comment on the Chinese carrier which she called an "individual case".

"China intervening in Taiwan's election is happening, and it's happening every day."

China described the carrier sailing as routine and not aimed at anyone in particular, dismissing Taiwan's complaints.

China's President Xi Jinping said in January that China reserved the right to use force to bring Taiwan under its control but will strive to achieve peaceful "reunification".

Tsai is leading in the polls over her main opponent Han Kuo-yu of the China-friendly Kuomintang party.

China is interfering in Taiwan's elections "every day" as it seeks to damage the island's democracy, Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said on Tuesday, after China sailed an aircraft carrier group near the self-ruled island on the weekend.

China is interfering in Taiwan's elections "every day" as it seeks to damage the island's democracy, Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said on Tuesday, after China sailed an aircraft carrier group near the self-ruled island on the weekend. The election campaign, which is also for Taiwan's legislature, has kicked into high gear, and is being closely watched by Taiwan's giant neighbour China, which claims Taiwan as sacred Chinese territory, to be brought under its control by force if needed. China on Sunday sailed an aircraft carrier group through the sensitive Taiwan Strait, the same day Tsai announced her running mate, former premier William Lai, who has angered Beijing with his pro-independence comments. Taiwan denounced the carrier sailing as an attempt to intimidate voters. China fears Tsai and her Democratic Progressive Party will push for Taiwan's formal independence, a red line for Beijing which in 2005 enacted an "anti-secession law" that allows it to use force on Taiwan in extreme cases. Tsai, speaking after formally registering to run for re-election in the Jan. 11 vote, said the vote was happening at a crucial time, as China's pressure grows and against the backdrop of anti-government protests in Chinese-run Hong Kong. "Our Republic of China, Taiwan, is a country, a sovereign, independent country. Our people have the right to choose their own president," she told reporters, referring to Taiwan by its official name. Asked whether she supported Taiwan independence, Tsai said the island already had sovereignty. "We have sovereignty, we have a government, we have a democratic free system, we defend ourself, we have diplomatic relations. This is the Republic of China, Taiwan, that I'm talking about," she said. China's attempts to involve itself in Taiwan's election are "clear and easy to see" as they seek to damage the island's democracy, Tsai added, when asked about the Chinese carrier group in the Taiwan Strait. "As a large country, internationally and regionally they have to have a responsibility to maintain regional peace and stability," she said. Tsai declined direct comment on the Chinese carrier which she called an "individual case". "China intervening in Taiwan's election is happening, and it's happening every day." China described the carrier sailing as routine and not aimed at anyone in particular, dismissing Taiwan's complaints. China's President Xi Jinping said in January that China reserved the right to use force to bring Taiwan under its control but will strive to achieve peaceful "reunification". Tsai is leading in the polls over her main opponent Han Kuo-yu of the China-friendly Kuomintang party.

China interfering in election 'every day': Taiwan president Tsai Ing-wen

Why China's first domestically-built aircraft carrier 'Type 001A' is a state secret

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-launches-new-company-logo-260130">Facebook</a> vowed Tuesday to step up monitoring for any attempt to use its platform to meddle in Taiwan's elections as the island's authorities say they face growing interference from China.

Taiwan will elect a new president and parliament on January 11, and relations with the mainland are dominating the campaign.&nbsp;

Beijing has ramped up Taiwan's isolation ever since President Tsai Ing-wen took office three years ago because her party refuses to acknowledge that Taiwan is part of "one China". &nbsp;

Tsai is seeking a second term against Han Kuo-yu, a challenger who favours much warmer ties with Beijing.&nbsp;

She and her party have accused Beijing of attempting to influence the elections by spreading disinformation via social media.

On Tuesday Facebook said it would establish a regional election centre in Singapore in the final weeks before Taiwan's elections, following similar moves in the United States, India, Indonesia and the European Union.&nbsp;

"Protecting elections at the company is a major priority for us,"&nbsp;Kate Harbath, Facebook's public policy director and global&nbsp;elections lead, told reporters via a videoconference in Taipei.

"Now we are heavily focused on these upcoming elections in Taiwan," she added, as well as upcoming polls in countries including Sri Lanka and Singapore.&nbsp;

"Each election has different risks," she said, adding that the company starts a year before an election to assess what is involved.

Facebook said it currently has 40 teams that focus on elections, to increase transparency, reduce misinformation and harmful content, as well as removing inaccurate voting information or any content that violates community standards such as hate messages.

"Our product teams are building tooling to better monitor... in order for us to be able to take quicker action and we can respond to those things in realtime," Harbath said. &nbsp;

Faced with criticism that the site has been used to manipulate polls, Facebook has been under mounting pressure to improve how its spots meddling and misinformation, as well as scrutinising political adverts.&nbsp;

It will introduce strict criteria for political ads in Taiwan, requiring those who want to advertise about elections and politics to confirm their identity and location, and disclose who is responsible for the ad.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lawsuit-accuses-facebook-ad-targeting-of-abetting-bias-259200">Facebook</a> said it has also been working with third-party checkers, including an independent fact-checking organisation in Taiwan.

In a global initiative set to start mid-November, the social network will also step up a system that makes clear when information comes from state-controlled media outlets.&nbsp;

Facebook in August removed hundreds of fake accounts it said was involved in "coordinated inauthentic behaviour" focused on Hong Kong's ongoing protests.

Since the protests began Beijing's well-oiled state media machinery has launched a global propaganda campaign both online and on social media.

Facebook said it has not detected such moves targeting Taiwan election so far.

Facebook vowed Tuesday to step up monitoring for any attempt to use its platform to meddle in Taiwan's elections as the island's authorities say they face growing interference from China.

Facebook vowed Tuesday to step up monitoring for any attempt to use its platform to meddle in Taiwan's elections as the island's authorities say they face growing interference from China. Taiwan will elect a new president and parliament on January 11, and relations with the mainland are dominating the campaign. Beijing has ramped up Taiwan's isolation ever since President Tsai Ing-wen took office three years ago because her party refuses to acknowledge that Taiwan is part of "one China". Tsai is seeking a second term against Han Kuo-yu, a challenger who favours much warmer ties with Beijing. She and her party have accused Beijing of attempting to influence the elections by spreading disinformation via social media. On Tuesday Facebook said it would establish a regional election centre in Singapore in the final weeks before Taiwan's elections, following similar moves in the United States, India, Indonesia and the European Union. "Protecting elections at the company is a major priority for us," Kate Harbath, Facebook's public policy director and global elections lead, told reporters via a videoconference in Taipei. "Now we are heavily focused on these upcoming elections in Taiwan," she added, as well as upcoming polls in countries including Sri Lanka and Singapore. "Each election has different risks," she said, adding that the company starts a year before an election to assess what is involved. Facebook said it currently has 40 teams that focus on elections, to increase transparency, reduce misinformation and harmful content, as well as removing inaccurate voting information or any content that violates community standards such as hate messages. "Our product teams are building tooling to better monitor... in order for us to be able to take quicker action and we can respond to those things in realtime," Harbath said. Faced with criticism that the site has been used to manipulate polls, Facebook has been under mounting pressure to improve how its spots meddling and misinformation, as well as scrutinising political adverts. It will introduce strict criteria for political ads in Taiwan, requiring those who want to advertise about elections and politics to confirm their identity and location, and disclose who is responsible for the ad. Facebook said it has also been working with third-party checkers, including an independent fact-checking organisation in Taiwan. In a global initiative set to start mid-November, the social network will also step up a system that makes clear when information comes from state-controlled media outlets. Facebook in August removed hundreds of fake accounts it said was involved in "coordinated inauthentic behaviour" focused on Hong Kong's ongoing protests. Since the protests began Beijing's well-oiled state media machinery has launched a global propaganda campaign both online and on social media. Facebook said it has not detected such moves targeting Taiwan election so far.

Amid controversies, Facebook steps up monitoring content for Taiwan elections

Chinese-ruled Hong Kong and Taiwan engaged in a rare squabble on Wednesday over a Hong Kong man accused of murder in Taiwan whose case was used by Hong Kong to promote a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-legislature-officially-kills-controversial-extradition-bill-257668"> now-withdrawn extradition bill</a>.

Self-ruled Taiwan, which China considers its own, wants an extradition, not a voluntary surrender, of the suspected murderer from a Chinese-ruled territory, reinforcing its status as self-ruled and separate to China.

Chan Tong-kai was accused of murdering his ex-girlfriend in Taiwan last year before fleeing back to Hong Kong where he was sentenced to 29 months in jail on money-laundering charges.

He was given an early release on Wednesday, coincidentally the same day that Hong Kong's legislature formally killed the extradition bill, the original trigger for months of often violent unrest in the former British colony.

The Hong Kong government had seized on the case to justify the need for an extradition law that would have allowed criminal suspects to be sent from Hong Kong to greater China, comprising the mainland, Taiwan and Macau.

Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council said in a statement it was "unbelievable" that Chan could be expected to take a flight to Taiwan by himself, "completely ignoring the safety of passengers on the same flights in order to serve the political arrangement of a 'surrender'".

It said Taiwan had repeatedly asked for legal cooperation.

"We are solemnly telling the Hong Kong government that you have to take full responsibility for all bitter consequences," the council statement said.

Taiwan has also said it wanted to send officers to Hong Kong to escort Chan back, a move the Hong Kong government has described as a disrespectful and unacceptable attempt to cross legal jurisdictions.

President Tsai Ing-wen said Taiwan would "take care of the matter" adding there was no "such thing as surrender, only arrest".

Hong Kong Secretary for Security John Lee said that Taiwan was obstructing the case for "political reasons" and Chan should be free to go to Taiwan and surrender himself, as he has offered.

Chan, wearing a navy blue shirt and red backpack, bowed and apologised to the family of his ex-girlfriend and the public as he left prison.

He was arrested by Hong Kong police in March 2018, but authorities there were only able to find evidence against him for money laundering.

Chan said he had made an "unforgivable mistake" and was willing to plead guilty and turn himself in to Taiwan for trial. It was not immediately clear to what charge he planned to plead guilty.

"I hope her family can be relieved a bit and let her rest in peace," he said, declining to say when he would turn himself in.

"For the society, for Hong Kongers, I can only be sorry. I hope you can all forgive me ... let me be a new person and give me the opportunity to return to society." 
&nbsp;

Chinese-ruled Hong Kong and Taiwan engaged in a rare squabble on Wednesday over a Hong Kong man accused of murder in Taiwan whose case was used by Hong Kong to promote a now-withdrawn extradition bill.

Chinese-ruled Hong Kong and Taiwan engaged in a rare squabble on Wednesday over a Hong Kong man accused of murder in Taiwan whose case was used by Hong Kong to promote a now-withdrawn extradition bill. Self-ruled Taiwan, which China considers its own, wants an extradition, not a voluntary surrender, of the suspected murderer from a Chinese-ruled territory, reinforcing its status as self-ruled and separate to China. Chan Tong-kai was accused of murdering his ex-girlfriend in Taiwan last year before fleeing back to Hong Kong where he was sentenced to 29 months in jail on money-laundering charges. He was given an early release on Wednesday, coincidentally the same day that Hong Kong's legislature formally killed the extradition bill, the original trigger for months of often violent unrest in the former British colony. The Hong Kong government had seized on the case to justify the need for an extradition law that would have allowed criminal suspects to be sent from Hong Kong to greater China, comprising the mainland, Taiwan and Macau. Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council said in a statement it was "unbelievable" that Chan could be expected to take a flight to Taiwan by himself, "completely ignoring the safety of passengers on the same flights in order to serve the political arrangement of a 'surrender'". It said Taiwan had repeatedly asked for legal cooperation. "We are solemnly telling the Hong Kong government that you have to take full responsibility for all bitter consequences," the council statement said. Taiwan has also said it wanted to send officers to Hong Kong to escort Chan back, a move the Hong Kong government has described as a disrespectful and unacceptable attempt to cross legal jurisdictions. President Tsai Ing-wen said Taiwan would "take care of the matter" adding there was no "such thing as surrender, only arrest". Hong Kong Secretary for Security John Lee said that Taiwan was obstructing the case for "political reasons" and Chan should be free to go to Taiwan and surrender himself, as he has offered. Chan, wearing a navy blue shirt and red backpack, bowed and apologised to the family of his ex-girlfriend and the public as he left prison. He was arrested by Hong Kong police in March 2018, but authorities there were only able to find evidence against him for money laundering. Chan said he had made an "unforgivable mistake" and was willing to plead guilty and turn himself in to Taiwan for trial. It was not immediately clear to what charge he planned to plead guilty. "I hope her family can be relieved a bit and let her rest in peace," he said, declining to say when he would turn himself in. "For the society, for Hong Kongers, I can only be sorry. I hope you can all forgive me ... let me be a new person and give me the opportunity to return to society."

Hong Kong, Taiwan authorities clash as murder suspect walks free

A murder case that led to mass street protests in Hong Kong should be handled independently by Taiwan, where the suspect allegedly committed the crime, authorities in the Chinese-ruled city said.

Chan Tong-kai, a Hong Kong citizen, was accused of murdering his girlfriend in Taiwan last year before fleeing back to the financial hub. Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam held up Chan's case as an example of why an extradition bill, that would have allowed suspects to be sent from Hong Kong to greater China - including the mainland, Taiwan and Macau - was needed.

Hong Kong has been reeling from five months of unrest originally triggered by the extradition bill but which has now evolved into a pro-democracy movement. The government has announced it will withdraw the bill, but the protests have not stopped.

Chan has offered to voluntarily surrender himself to Taiwan on release from prison in the former British colony where he has been serving a 29-month sentence for money laundering, the chief executive's office said.

Taiwan has said Chan's offer to give himself up was not sufficient and formal talks were needed with Hong Kong authorities.

Taiwan authorities argue that his extradition without a legal assistance framework would damage the self-ruled island's sovereignty and put Taiwan under the "one China" framework.

Taiwan's Premier Su Tseng-chang said on Tuesday the government had requested legal assistance and warned Hong Kong not to "politically manipulate" the case.

Beijing considers Taiwan to be a wayward province of "one China", ineligible for state-to-state relations and has never renounced the use of force to bring the island under its control.

Hong Kong has said the case can be handled without any further discussions as all relevant evidence was in Taiwan, giving it absolute jurisdiction over the case.

"The surrender does not present any obstacle in terms of legal principles and procedures...The case can totally be handled independently," the Hong Kong government said in a statement late on Monday.

Chan was arrested by police in Hong Kong in March 2018 and local authorities were only able to find evidence against him for money laundering.

A murder case that led to mass street protests in Hong Kong should be handled independently by Taiwan, where the suspect allegedly committed the crime, authorities in the Chinese-ruled city said.

A murder case that led to mass street protests in Hong Kong should be handled independently by Taiwan, where the suspect allegedly committed the crime, authorities in the Chinese-ruled city said. Chan Tong-kai, a Hong Kong citizen, was accused of murdering his girlfriend in Taiwan last year before fleeing back to the financial hub. Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam held up Chan's case as an example of why an extradition bill, that would have allowed suspects to be sent from Hong Kong to greater China - including the mainland, Taiwan and Macau - was needed. Hong Kong has been reeling from five months of unrest originally triggered by the extradition bill but which has now evolved into a pro-democracy movement. The government has announced it will withdraw the bill, but the protests have not stopped. Chan has offered to voluntarily surrender himself to Taiwan on release from prison in the former British colony where he has been serving a 29-month sentence for money laundering, the chief executive's office said. Taiwan has said Chan's offer to give himself up was not sufficient and formal talks were needed with Hong Kong authorities. Taiwan authorities argue that his extradition without a legal assistance framework would damage the self-ruled island's sovereignty and put Taiwan under the "one China" framework. Taiwan's Premier Su Tseng-chang said on Tuesday the government had requested legal assistance and warned Hong Kong not to "politically manipulate" the case. Beijing considers Taiwan to be a wayward province of "one China", ineligible for state-to-state relations and has never renounced the use of force to bring the island under its control. Hong Kong has said the case can be handled without any further discussions as all relevant evidence was in Taiwan, giving it absolute jurisdiction over the case. "The surrender does not present any obstacle in terms of legal principles and procedures...The case can totally be handled independently," the Hong Kong government said in a statement late on Monday. Chan was arrested by police in Hong Kong in March 2018 and local authorities were only able to find evidence against him for money laundering.

Hong Kong, Taiwan authorities tussle as fate of murder suspect in limbo

China's defence minister said on Monday that resolving the "Taiwan question" is his country's "greatest national interest," and that no force could prevent China's "reunification."

Separatist activities are doomed to failure, Defence Minister Wei Fenghe said at the opening in Beijing of the Xiangshan Forum, which China styles as its answer to the annual Shangri-La Dialogue security forum in Singapore.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-condemns-chinas-dictatorship-on-70th-anniversary-of-communist-rule-252977">Tensions between China and Taiwan have ratcheted up</a> ahead of the self-ruled island's presidential election in January. Taiwan is China's most sensitive territorial issue.

"China is the only major country in the world that is yet to be completely reunified," Wei said.

"Resolving the Taiwan question so as to realise China's full reunification is the irresistible trend of the times, China's greatest national interest, the righteous path to follow and the longing of all Chinese people."

Proudly democratic Taiwan has lambasted China for its authoritarian rule and for being a threat to regional peace, while China has heaped pressure on Taiwan, whittling away at its few remaining diplomatic allies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-says-china-is-an-authoritarian-threat-in-the-pacific-254245">China regards Taiwan as its sacred territory</a>, to be brought under Beijing's rule, by force if needed, a message President Xi Jinping reiterated at the start of this year.

China translates the word "tong yi" as "reunification," but it can also be translated as "unification," a term in English preferred by supporters of Taiwan independence who point out that Beijing's Communist government has never ruled Taiwan and so it cannot be "reunified."

Defeated Nationalist forces fled to Taiwan in 1949 at the end of a civil war with the Communists. The People's Republic of China has never governed Taiwan, whose people have shown little interest in being ruled by autocratic Beijing.

China has also been angered by US&nbsp;support for Taiwan, including arms sales. Washington has no formal ties with Taipei but is bound by law to provide the island with the means to defend itself.

The US&nbsp;and China are also locked in a bitter trade war, though they have been holding talks to end it.

"No one and no force can ever stop China's full reunification. We are committed to promoting the peaceful development of cross-Taiwan strait relations and the peaceful reunification of the country," Wei said.

"However we will never allow separatists for Taiwan independence to have their way, nor allow interference by any external forces. Advancing china's reunification is a just cause, while separatist activities are doomed to failure."

The United States has also angered China by repeatedly conducting what it calls "freedom of navigation" operations by naval ships close to islands China occupies in the South China Sea.

China claims almost all the energy-rich waters of the South China Sea, but neighbours Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam also have claims.

"The South China Sea islands and Diaoyu islands are inalienable parts of China's territory. We will not allow even an inch of territory that our ancestors have left to us to be taken away," Wei said.

China's defence minister said on Monday that resolving the "Taiwan question" is his country's "greatest national interest," and that no force could prevent China's "reunification.

China's defence minister said on Monday that resolving the "Taiwan question" is his country's "greatest national interest," and that no force could prevent China's "reunification." Separatist activities are doomed to failure, Defence Minister Wei Fenghe said at the opening in Beijing of the Xiangshan Forum, which China styles as its answer to the annual Shangri-La Dialogue security forum in Singapore. Tensions between China and Taiwan have ratcheted up ahead of the self-ruled island's presidential election in January. Taiwan is China's most sensitive territorial issue. "China is the only major country in the world that is yet to be completely reunified," Wei said. "Resolving the Taiwan question so as to realise China's full reunification is the irresistible trend of the times, China's greatest national interest, the righteous path to follow and the longing of all Chinese people." Proudly democratic Taiwan has lambasted China for its authoritarian rule and for being a threat to regional peace, while China has heaped pressure on Taiwan, whittling away at its few remaining diplomatic allies. China regards Taiwan as its sacred territory, to be brought under Beijing's rule, by force if needed, a message President Xi Jinping reiterated at the start of this year. China translates the word "tong yi" as "reunification," but it can also be translated as "unification," a term in English preferred by supporters of Taiwan independence who point out that Beijing's Communist government has never ruled Taiwan and so it cannot be "reunified." Defeated Nationalist forces fled to Taiwan in 1949 at the end of a civil war with the Communists. The People's Republic of China has never governed Taiwan, whose people have shown little interest in being ruled by autocratic Beijing. China has also been angered by US support for Taiwan, including arms sales. Washington has no formal ties with Taipei but is bound by law to provide the island with the means to defend itself. The US and China are also locked in a bitter trade war, though they have been holding talks to end it. "No one and no force can ever stop China's full reunification. We are committed to promoting the peaceful development of cross-Taiwan strait relations and the peaceful reunification of the country," Wei said. "However we will never allow separatists for Taiwan independence to have their way, nor allow interference by any external forces. Advancing china's reunification is a just cause, while separatist activities are doomed to failure." The United States has also angered China by repeatedly conducting what it calls "freedom of navigation" operations by naval ships close to islands China occupies in the South China Sea. China claims almost all the energy-rich waters of the South China Sea, but neighbours Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam also have claims. "The South China Sea islands and Diaoyu islands are inalienable parts of China's territory. We will not allow even an inch of territory that our ancestors have left to us to be taken away," Wei said.

China's defence minister says resolving 'Taiwan question' is national priority

A Chinese company signed an agreement to lease an entire island in the Solomon Islands a day after Beijing recruited the Pacific nation as its latest ally in the strategically important region, according to documents obtained by AFP Thursday.

The leaked papers reveal that the Solomons' Central Province made a "strategic cooperation agreement" on Tulagi Island, which has the type of deep-water harbour coveted by the military, with the state-owned China Sam Group on September 22.

A day previously, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-solomon-islands-sign-deals-under-new-diplomatic-ties-254666">China and the Solomons</a> officially established diplomatic relations after Beijing persuaded the impoverished Pacific nation to sever ties with arch-rival Taiwan and become its ally.

Tulagi, an island about two square kilometres with a population of 1,200, is the site of a former Japanese naval base and was the scene of fierce fighting in World War II.

The agreement with China Sam mentions developing a refinery on the island, but its potential for dual use as a Chinese military base is certain to raise concerns with the United States and Australia.

"Party A (Central Province) is willing to first lease the whole Tulagi island and the surrounding islands to Party B (China Sam) for the development of the special economic zone," the agreement says.

It goes on to say the deal covers "any other industry that is suitable for development, including oil and gas development".

China Sam said in a statement issued Thursday that it was committed to cooperating with the Solomons in a number of areas, including trade, infrastructure, fisheries and tourism.

Jonathan Pryke, director of Sydney-based foreign policy think tank the Lowy Institute's Pacific programme, said it was not unusual for China to promise such special economic zones to developing nations that were desperate for investment.

"The fear is that these zones can in turn create enclaves of Chinese operations that could then grow over time into some kind of permanent strategic facility," he told AFP.

"The island in question in Solomon Islands has deep water anchorage so could have such strategic uses down the road."

Taiwan was previously the Solomons' largest ally in the Pacific region and the decision to ditch it for China after months of speculation was seen as a major diplomatic coup for Beijing.

Days later another Taipei loyalist in the region, Kiribati, did likewise.

The manoeuvring left Taiwan with just four nations that officially recognise it in the Pacific and 15 worldwide, while also alarming traditional western democratic powers.

The Pacific has long been a proxy battleground for Taiwan and China, with local leaders adept at playing one against the other for financial gain.

China has become more assertive in the Pacific as its economic might has grown and sees Taiwan as a renegade state which will eventually be unified with the mainland, by force if necessary.

Other regional heavyweights, particularly Australia, fear Beijing's ultimate aim is to set up a naval base in the Pacific which would dramatically increase its military footprint in the area.

Such a move would potentially negate the geographic remoteness that provides Australia and New Zealand with a valuable defence buffer.

However, China Sam's arrangement with Central Province may count for little as it has not been approved by the central government in Honiara.

Central's Premier Stanley Manetiva played down its impacts in an interview with Radio New Zealand.

"To be honest here, leasing Tulagi will not be possible," he said. "Nothing will eventuate on the agreement."

Whether or not the deal goes ahead, the Lowy Institute's Pryke said the diplomatic upheavals between China and Taiwan were affecting good governance in the region.

"Corruption by its very nature is hard to quantify and systems of patronage were alive and well in the Pacific long before this new wave of Chinese engagement," he said.

"But this new Chinese engagement is certainly happening in a hurry, and it is most definitely making corruption in the Pacific worse."

A Chinese company signed an agreement to lease an entire island in the Solomon Islands a day after Beijing recruited the Pacific nation as its latest ally in the strategically important region, according to documents obtained by AFP Thursday.

A Chinese company signed an agreement to lease an entire island in the Solomon Islands a day after Beijing recruited the Pacific nation as its latest ally in the strategically important region, according to documents obtained by AFP Thursday. The leaked papers reveal that the Solomons' Central Province made a "strategic cooperation agreement" on Tulagi Island, which has the type of deep-water harbour coveted by the military, with the state-owned China Sam Group on September 22. A day previously, China and the Solomons officially established diplomatic relations after Beijing persuaded the impoverished Pacific nation to sever ties with arch-rival Taiwan and become its ally. Tulagi, an island about two square kilometres with a population of 1,200, is the site of a former Japanese naval base and was the scene of fierce fighting in World War II. The agreement with China Sam mentions developing a refinery on the island, but its potential for dual use as a Chinese military base is certain to raise concerns with the United States and Australia. "Party A (Central Province) is willing to first lease the whole Tulagi island and the surrounding islands to Party B (China Sam) for the development of the special economic zone," the agreement says. It goes on to say the deal covers "any other industry that is suitable for development, including oil and gas development". China Sam said in a statement issued Thursday that it was committed to cooperating with the Solomons in a number of areas, including trade, infrastructure, fisheries and tourism. Jonathan Pryke, director of Sydney-based foreign policy think tank the Lowy Institute's Pacific programme, said it was not unusual for China to promise such special economic zones to developing nations that were desperate for investment. "The fear is that these zones can in turn create enclaves of Chinese operations that could then grow over time into some kind of permanent strategic facility," he told AFP. "The island in question in Solomon Islands has deep water anchorage so could have such strategic uses down the road." Taiwan was previously the Solomons' largest ally in the Pacific region and the decision to ditch it for China after months of speculation was seen as a major diplomatic coup for Beijing. Days later another Taipei loyalist in the region, Kiribati, did likewise. The manoeuvring left Taiwan with just four nations that officially recognise it in the Pacific and 15 worldwide, while also alarming traditional western democratic powers. The Pacific has long been a proxy battleground for Taiwan and China, with local leaders adept at playing one against the other for financial gain. China has become more assertive in the Pacific as its economic might has grown and sees Taiwan as a renegade state which will eventually be unified with the mainland, by force if necessary. Other regional heavyweights, particularly Australia, fear Beijing's ultimate aim is to set up a naval base in the Pacific which would dramatically increase its military footprint in the area. Such a move would potentially negate the geographic remoteness that provides Australia and New Zealand with a valuable defence buffer. However, China Sam's arrangement with Central Province may count for little as it has not been approved by the central government in Honiara. Central's Premier Stanley Manetiva played down its impacts in an interview with Radio New Zealand. "To be honest here, leasing Tulagi will not be possible," he said. "Nothing will eventuate on the agreement." Whether or not the deal goes ahead, the Lowy Institute's Pryke said the diplomatic upheavals between China and Taiwan were affecting good governance in the region. "Corruption by its very nature is hard to quantify and systems of patronage were alive and well in the Pacific long before this new wave of Chinese engagement," he said. "But this new Chinese engagement is certainly happening in a hurry, and it is most definitely making corruption in the Pacific worse."

China signs deal to 'lease' Pacific island in Solomons

Most&nbsp;Asian&nbsp;currencies&nbsp;firmed on Thursday, as a volatile&nbsp;dollar&nbsp;weakened broadly on&nbsp;mixed&nbsp;signals&nbsp;over the state of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-trade-talks-to-resume-thursday-white-house-254346">&nbsp;trade&nbsp;talks between Washington and Beijing.</a>

Dampened sentiment following suggestions that the Chinese delegation might cut the ministerial-level talks short and leave Washington on Thursday were offset by a Bloomberg report that the United States is weighing a currency pact with China as part of a partial deal.

Traders also took note of a New York Times report that Washington will issue licenses allowing some US&nbsp;companies to supply non-sensitive goods to China's Huawei, as the&nbsp;dollar&nbsp;eased against a basket of major&nbsp;currencies.

"News of Huawei and the currency pact released together with the strong (yuan) fix, underscores the fact that PBoC (People's Bank Of China) is (ready) ...to give a strong guidance for the CNY as a potential pact with the US&nbsp;could be at hand," a Maybank note said.

US&nbsp;Federal Reserve meeting minutes released on Wednesday were largely in line with expectations and had little market impact.

The yuan&nbsp;strengthened 0.3 per cent&nbsp;and the Singapore&nbsp;dollar&nbsp;firmed 0.2per cent.

The Philippine peso&nbsp;firmed marginally. Data showed that August exports rose 0.6 per cent, while imports slumped 11.8 per cent, narrowing the country's August deficit.

Taiwan's financial markets were closed for a holiday.

The Korean won&nbsp;bucked the trend to slip 0.3 per cent&nbsp;ahead of talks with Japan on Friday over tighter export controls from Tokyo. The talks are part of a dispute settlement process through the World&nbsp;Trade&nbsp;Organisation.

The won is the worst performer among&nbsp;Asian&nbsp;currencies&nbsp;this year.

The prolonged Sino-US&nbsp;trade&nbsp;conflict and the dispute with Japan has dealt a huge blow to South Korea's&nbsp;trade-reliant economy. In September, exports slumped 11.7 per cent, shrinking for the 10th consecutive month.

Most Asian currencies firmed on Thursday, as a volatile dollar weakened broadly on mixed signals over the state of trade talks between Washington and Beijing. Dampened sentiment following suggestions that the Chinese delegation might cut the ministerial-level talks short and leave Washington on Thursday were offset by a Bloomberg report that the United States is weighing a currency pact with China as part of a partial deal.

Most Asian currencies firmed on Thursday, as a volatile dollar weakened broadly on mixed signals over the state of trade talks between Washington and Beijing. Dampened sentiment following suggestions that the Chinese delegation might cut the ministerial-level talks short and leave Washington on Thursday were offset by a Bloomberg report that the United States is weighing a currency pact with China as part of a partial deal. Traders also took note of a New York Times report that Washington will issue licenses allowing some US companies to supply non-sensitive goods to China's Huawei, as the dollar eased against a basket of major currencies. "News of Huawei and the currency pact released together with the strong (yuan) fix, underscores the fact that PBoC (People's Bank Of China) is (ready) ...to give a strong guidance for the CNY as a potential pact with the US could be at hand," a Maybank note said. US Federal Reserve meeting minutes released on Wednesday were largely in line with expectations and had little market impact. The yuan strengthened 0.3 per cent and the Singapore dollar firmed 0.2per cent. The Philippine peso firmed marginally. Data showed that August exports rose 0.6 per cent, while imports slumped 11.8 per cent, narrowing the country's August deficit. Taiwan's financial markets were closed for a holiday. The Korean won bucked the trend to slip 0.3 per cent ahead of talks with Japan on Friday over tighter export controls from Tokyo. The talks are part of a dispute settlement process through the World Trade Organisation. The won is the worst performer among Asian currencies this year. The prolonged Sino-US trade conflict and the dispute with Japan has dealt a huge blow to South Korea's trade-reliant economy. In September, exports slumped 11.7 per cent, shrinking for the 10th consecutive month.

Most Asian currencies rise as dollar slips; trade signals mixed

Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare met Chinese Premier Li Keqiang in Beijing on Wednesday and&nbsp;signed several agreements in the first official visit since the two countries established&nbsp;diplomatic&nbsp;relations last month.

The&nbsp;new&nbsp;diplomatic&nbsp;relationship is a&nbsp;sign&nbsp;of&nbsp;China's growing influence in the Pacific and a setback for self-ruled, democratic Taiwan. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/solomon-islands-has-switched-relations-to-china-our-diplomatic-relations-terminated-taiwan-249995">The&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;severed&nbsp;ties&nbsp;with Taiwan when it established them with Beijing.</a>

"I am pleased to recognize the one-China&nbsp;policy ... We are pleased to be on the right side of history and normalise relations with the People's Republic of&nbsp;China," Sogavare said ahead of a meeting with Li and a Chinese delegation.

China&nbsp;has in recent years been expanding its influence in the Pacific to the alarm of the United States and its main regional ally, Australia.

China&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;signed an agreement to work together on President Xi Jinping's flagship foreign policy initiative, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), as well as others on economic and education strategies.

After the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;recognised Beijing, US&nbsp;Vice President Mike Pence declined a request from the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;leader to meet to discuss cooperation.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing Wen said last month the end of its&nbsp;diplomatic&nbsp;relations with the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;was further evidence of Chinese efforts to meddle in Taiwan's January elections.

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare met Chinese Premier Li Keqiang in Beijing on Wednesday and signed several agreements in the first official visit since the two countries established diplomatic relations last month.

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare met Chinese Premier Li Keqiang in Beijing on Wednesday and signed several agreements in the first official visit since the two countries established diplomatic relations last month. The new diplomatic relationship is a sign of China's growing influence in the Pacific and a setback for self-ruled, democratic Taiwan. The Solomon Islands severed ties with Taiwan when it established them with Beijing. "I am pleased to recognize the one-China policy ... We are pleased to be on the right side of history and normalise relations with the People's Republic of China," Sogavare said ahead of a meeting with Li and a Chinese delegation. China has in recent years been expanding its influence in the Pacific to the alarm of the United States and its main regional ally, Australia. China and the Solomon Islands signed an agreement to work together on President Xi Jinping's flagship foreign policy initiative, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), as well as others on economic and education strategies. After the Solomon Islands recognised Beijing, US Vice President Mike Pence declined a request from the Solomon Islands leader to meet to discuss cooperation. Taiwan President Tsai Ing Wen said last month the end of its diplomatic relations with the Solomon Islands was further evidence of Chinese efforts to meddle in Taiwan's January elections.

China, Solomon Islands sign deals under new diplomatic ties

Taiwan said on Monday China was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-condemns-chinas-dictatorship-on-70th-anniversary-of-communist-rule-252977">practicing "authoritarian expansionism"</a> in the Pacific, pointing to reports of plans for Chinese military presence in two Pacific countries that have recently switched diplomatic allegiance to Beijing from Taipei.

"We have seen reports that China is interested in reopening this radar station in Kiribati, and building a naval base in Western Province of Solomon Islands," Foreign Minister Joseph Wu told a forum on cooperation among countries in the Pacific.

"From the long-term strategic perspective, like-minded friends and partners should really be worried whether the Pacific will remain free and open, and whether the key actors follow the rules-based international order."

The Solomon Islands and Kiribati decided to recognise China last month, dropping self-ruled and democratic Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its own province with no rights to state-to-state relations.

That reduced the number of its diplomatic allies in the Pacific to just four - Palau, the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu and Nauru. It now has formal diplomatic ties with just 15 nations in all.

Wu urged countries including the United States to "push back strongly" against China's moves to diminish Taiwan's presence in the Pacific.

"I certainly don't want to see the Pacific turned into another South China Sea, with us one day all sighing that it is too late for us to do anything," Wu said, referring to Chinese moves to build military installations on artificial islands and reefs in the disputed water.

China's Foreign Ministry was not immediately available for comment.

Diplomats attending the forum in Taipei include Sandra Oudkirk, US&nbsp;State Department deputy assistant secretary for Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.

Oudkirk's visit has been seen by some analysts and diplomats in Taiwan as an effort to shore up support for Taipei.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/taiwan-conducts-military-exercise-amid-tensions-with-china-142795">Taiwan has come under pressure from Beijing</a>, which includes regular Chinese bomber patrols around the island, since President Tsai Ing-wen took office in 2016. China suspects Tsai of pushing for Taiwan's formal independence, a red line for Beijing.

Taiwan has accused China of trying to meddle in its upcoming presidential votes in January as Tsai is seeking re-election - an accusation which China denies.

The United States, which has a fraught relationship with China over trade, defence and technology issues, upholds what is known as the "one-China" policy - officially recognising Beijing and not Taipei - while assisting Taiwan.

Taiwan said on Monday China was practicing "authoritarian expansionism" in the Pacific, pointing to reports of plans for Chinese military presence in two Pacific countries that have recently switched diplomatic allegiance to Beijing from Taipei.

Taiwan said on Monday China was practicing "authoritarian expansionism" in the Pacific, pointing to reports of plans for Chinese military presence in two Pacific countries that have recently switched diplomatic allegiance to Beijing from Taipei. "We have seen reports that China is interested in reopening this radar station in Kiribati, and building a naval base in Western Province of Solomon Islands," Foreign Minister Joseph Wu told a forum on cooperation among countries in the Pacific. "From the long-term strategic perspective, like-minded friends and partners should really be worried whether the Pacific will remain free and open, and whether the key actors follow the rules-based international order." The Solomon Islands and Kiribati decided to recognise China last month, dropping self-ruled and democratic Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its own province with no rights to state-to-state relations. That reduced the number of its diplomatic allies in the Pacific to just four - Palau, the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu and Nauru. It now has formal diplomatic ties with just 15 nations in all. Wu urged countries including the United States to "push back strongly" against China's moves to diminish Taiwan's presence in the Pacific. "I certainly don't want to see the Pacific turned into another South China Sea, with us one day all sighing that it is too late for us to do anything," Wu said, referring to Chinese moves to build military installations on artificial islands and reefs in the disputed water. China's Foreign Ministry was not immediately available for comment. Diplomats attending the forum in Taipei include Sandra Oudkirk, US State Department deputy assistant secretary for Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands. Oudkirk's visit has been seen by some analysts and diplomats in Taiwan as an effort to shore up support for Taipei. Taiwan has come under pressure from Beijing, which includes regular Chinese bomber patrols around the island, since President Tsai Ing-wen took office in 2016. China suspects Tsai of pushing for Taiwan's formal independence, a red line for Beijing. Taiwan has accused China of trying to meddle in its upcoming presidential votes in January as Tsai is seeking re-election - an accusation which China denies. The United States, which has a fraught relationship with China over trade, defence and technology issues, upholds what is known as the "one-China" policy - officially recognising Beijing and not Taipei - while assisting Taiwan.

Taiwan says China is an 'authoritarian' threat in the Pacific

Four bodies have been recovered from under a collapsed bridge in Taiwan, rescuers said Wednesday, as searchers continued for two people still missing when the structure smashed onto fishing boats moored underneath.

The National Fire Agency said two bodies were retrieved in the waters near a boat stuck underneath the shattered bridge while the others were found near a badly damaged boat that was dragged out from under the structure on Tuesday.

"The search and rescue mission continues," transport minister Lin Chia-lung told reporters, adding evidence was being collected to ascertain any culpability.

Dramatic CCTV footage captured the moment the 140-metre&nbsp;long single-arch bridge came crashing down in Nanfangao, on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-shuts-its-schools-and-markets-as-typhoon-mitag-approaches-252761">Taiwan</a>'s east coast early on Tuesday morning.

In the video, a vertical cable at the centre of the bridge's steel arch suddenly snaps.

The road then collapses into the water, crashing down on three fishing boats as a petrol tanker which nearly made it across also plunged into the water.

Twelve people were injured, including six Filipino and three Indonesian fishing workers, the Taiwanese driver of the petrol tanker, and two coastguard personnel.

The petrol tanker burst into flames at some point after it hit the water, sending a thick plume of black smoke into the air.

Prosecutors have launched a probe into the cause of the collapse.

The local landmark was completed in 1998 and spanned a small fishing port. It was featured in a number of TV dramas and commercials.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-condemns-chinas-dictatorship-on-70th-anniversary-of-communist-rule-252977">Taiwan</a>&nbsp;was skirted by a typhoon on Monday night, which brought heavy rains and strong winds to parts of the east coast.

But at the time of the bridge collapse, the weather was fine.

Taiwan has a huge fishing industry and many of those who work on its boats are low-paid migrant workers from countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam.

Previous serious bridge incidents in Taiwan have mostly been related to typhoons.

In 2009, two bridges were badly damaged by Typhoon Morakot, which left more than 400 people dead.

Four bodies have been recovered from under a collapsed bridge in Taiwan, rescuers said Wednesday, as searchers continued for two people still missing when the structure smashed onto fishing boats moored underneath.

Four bodies have been recovered from under a collapsed bridge in Taiwan, rescuers said Wednesday, as searchers continued for two people still missing when the structure smashed onto fishing boats moored underneath. The National Fire Agency said two bodies were retrieved in the waters near a boat stuck underneath the shattered bridge while the others were found near a badly damaged boat that was dragged out from under the structure on Tuesday. "The search and rescue mission continues," transport minister Lin Chia-lung told reporters, adding evidence was being collected to ascertain any culpability. Dramatic CCTV footage captured the moment the 140-metre long single-arch bridge came crashing down in Nanfangao, on Taiwan's east coast early on Tuesday morning. In the video, a vertical cable at the centre of the bridge's steel arch suddenly snaps. The road then collapses into the water, crashing down on three fishing boats as a petrol tanker which nearly made it across also plunged into the water. Twelve people were injured, including six Filipino and three Indonesian fishing workers, the Taiwanese driver of the petrol tanker, and two coastguard personnel. The petrol tanker burst into flames at some point after it hit the water, sending a thick plume of black smoke into the air. Prosecutors have launched a probe into the cause of the collapse. The local landmark was completed in 1998 and spanned a small fishing port. It was featured in a number of TV dramas and commercials. Taiwan was skirted by a typhoon on Monday night, which brought heavy rains and strong winds to parts of the east coast. But at the time of the bridge collapse, the weather was fine. Taiwan has a huge fishing industry and many of those who work on its boats are low-paid migrant workers from countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam. Previous serious bridge incidents in Taiwan have mostly been related to typhoons. In 2009, two bridges were badly damaged by Typhoon Morakot, which left more than 400 people dead.

Four bodies found, two still missing after Taiwan bridge collapse

Rescuers in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-bodies-found-two-still-missing-after-taiwan-bridge-collapse-253187">Taiwan</a> searched on Wednesday for the last fisherman believed to have been crushed in his boat when a bridge collapsed into a harbour, killing at least five people, as questions were raised about construction standards.

Divers joined hundreds of rescuers in the search effort, using cranes and excavators to raise the wreckage of two fishing boats after Tuesday's accident injured ten&nbsp;people, most of them fishermen from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-arrested-after-fresh-indonesia-legal-reforms-protests-253022">Indonesia</a> and the Philippines.

"Rescuers found the body of a foreign fisherman, while the search for one missing foreign fisherman continues", the National Fire Agency said in a statement in the early afternoon.

Dramatic video images released by Taiwan's Coast Patrol Corps showed the arched bridge in the northeastern town of Suao collapsing just as an oil tanker was crossing. Plumes of black smoke went up when the cargo of fuel burst into flames.

It was not immediately known what caused the collapse, which crushed three boats and set the tanker ablaze.

The bridge, dubbed the "lovers' bridge", was built in 1998 and was a tourist attraction.

The incident shocked many in Taiwan, which is regularly hit by earthquakes and typhoons and has high building standards, prompting authorities to launch a review of bridges.

The government has set up a task force to investigate, with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-leader-meets-solomons-envoy-to-shore-up-ties-over-china-248580">President Tsai Ing-wen </a>vowing not to "evade responsibilities".

Suao's mayor, Lee Ming-Che, told Reuters residents had raised a concern about the bridge's load limit, saying trucks carrying blocks of concrete for a construction project near the harbour had caused "shakings" when crossing the bridge.

Taiwan International Ports Corporation (TIPC), which managed the bridge's maintenance and oversees nearby the project, said it had completed a safety review before allowing the trucks to use the bridge.

"The project was evaluated and proven to be fine," said Wang Chin-Jung, associate general manager of TIPC, referring to the bridge's load limit.

"We will check if there's any problem with the bridge's design, construction and maintenance... We will not evade responsibilities if we have any," Wang said.

TIPC said the bridge was regularly checked and maintained, and that the company had observed safety regulations.

The bridge was last reinforced in 2018 and another security check was due next year, the company said. Problems such as rusty steel and cracks in concrete had been fixed during a check last October, it said.

Rescuers in Taiwan searched on Wednesday for the last fisherman believed to have been crushed in his boat when a bridge collapsed into a harbour, killing at least five people, as questions were raised about construction standards.

Rescuers in Taiwan searched on Wednesday for the last fisherman believed to have been crushed in his boat when a bridge collapsed into a harbour, killing at least five people, as questions were raised about construction standards. Divers joined hundreds of rescuers in the search effort, using cranes and excavators to raise the wreckage of two fishing boats after Tuesday's accident injured ten people, most of them fishermen from Indonesia and the Philippines. "Rescuers found the body of a foreign fisherman, while the search for one missing foreign fisherman continues", the National Fire Agency said in a statement in the early afternoon. Dramatic video images released by Taiwan's Coast Patrol Corps showed the arched bridge in the northeastern town of Suao collapsing just as an oil tanker was crossing. Plumes of black smoke went up when the cargo of fuel burst into flames. It was not immediately known what caused the collapse, which crushed three boats and set the tanker ablaze. The bridge, dubbed the "lovers' bridge", was built in 1998 and was a tourist attraction. The incident shocked many in Taiwan, which is regularly hit by earthquakes and typhoons and has high building standards, prompting authorities to launch a review of bridges. The government has set up a task force to investigate, with President Tsai Ing-wen vowing not to "evade responsibilities". Suao's mayor, Lee Ming-Che, told Reuters residents had raised a concern about the bridge's load limit, saying trucks carrying blocks of concrete for a construction project near the harbour had caused "shakings" when crossing the bridge. Taiwan International Ports Corporation (TIPC), which managed the bridge's maintenance and oversees nearby the project, said it had completed a safety review before allowing the trucks to use the bridge. "The project was evaluated and proven to be fine," said Wang Chin-Jung, associate general manager of TIPC, referring to the bridge's load limit. "We will check if there's any problem with the bridge's design, construction and maintenance... We will not evade responsibilities if we have any," Wang said. TIPC said the bridge was regularly checked and maintained, and that the company had observed safety regulations. The bridge was last reinforced in 2018 and another security check was due next year, the company said. Problems such as rusty steel and cracks in concrete had been fixed during a check last October, it said.

Taiwan divers search for trapped fisherman after bridge collapse kills five

A towering arch bridge collapsed into a harbor in northeastern Taiwan on Tuesday (October 1), crushing several fishing boats with some crew feared trapped, authorities said. Watch this video to know more.

Bridge collapses in Taiwan, kills four people

30 years in: Tracing the history of gay marriage

Taiwan's government on Tuesday condemned&nbsp;China's&nbsp;"dictatorship" on the&nbsp;70th&nbsp;anniversary&nbsp;of the founding of the People's Republic, saying the country was a threat to peace and trying to find excuses for its military expansion.

Defeated Nationalist forces fled to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-shuts-its-schools-and-markets-as-typhoon-mitag-approaches-252761">Taiwan</a>&nbsp;in 1949 after losing a civil war to the&nbsp;Communists. China claims now democratic&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;as its sacred territory and has never renounced the use of force to bring it under Beijing's control.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-anniversary-no-force-can-shake-the-chinese-nation-says-president-xi-jinping-252931">President Xi Jinping</a>, addressing a massive military parade in Beijing to mark seven decades of&nbsp;Communist&nbsp;Party&nbsp;rule, said China would promote the peaceful development of relations with&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;and "continue to strive for the motherland's complete reunification".

Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council, responding to the parade and Xi's comments, said&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;would never accept "one country, two systems", the model of supposedly high autonomy Hong Kong and Macau have, which Beijing sees as eventually being the best way to win&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;over.

"The Chinese&nbsp;Communist&nbsp;Party has persisted with its one-party dictatorship for 70 years, a concept of governance that violates the values ​​of democracy, freedom and human rights, causing risks and challenges for the development of mainland China," it said.

"It's shouting about the struggle for unity, great rejuvenation and unification is only an excuse for military expansion, seriously threatening regional peace and world democracy and civilisation."

Taiwan&nbsp;has been democratic for more than 30 years, and China should use this moment to reflect and push for democracy, it added.

"The lifeline of the survival and development of mainland China is not tied to one person and one party," the council said.

Taiwan&nbsp;will not be bullied into accepting&nbsp;China's&nbsp;position, it added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-marks-70-years-of-communism-with-massive-show-of-force-252955">China</a> has heaped pressure on&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;President Tsai Ing-wen, who faces re-election in January, believing she wishes to push for the island's formal independence, a red line for Beijing.

China has also been angered for expressions of support from&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;for anti-government protests in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-under-lockdown-on-chinas-70th-national-day-252958">Hong Kong</a>, which are expected again on Tuesday.

"We are a country of democracy and freedom and will show support for anyone in the world who pursues democracy and freedom," Tsai told reporters on Tuesday.

"Likewise, any&nbsp;ruler should carefully listen to the people's pursuit of freedom and democracy and respect the people's will", Tsai added.

Taiwan's government on Tuesday condemned China's "dictatorship" on the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic, saying the country was a threat to peace and trying to find excuses for its military expansion.

Taiwan's government on Tuesday condemned China's "dictatorship" on the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic, saying the country was a threat to peace and trying to find excuses for its military expansion. Defeated Nationalist forces fled to Taiwan in 1949 after losing a civil war to the Communists. China claims now democratic Taiwan as its sacred territory and has never renounced the use of force to bring it under Beijing's control. President Xi Jinping, addressing a massive military parade in Beijing to mark seven decades of Communist Party rule, said China would promote the peaceful development of relations with Taiwan and "continue to strive for the motherland's complete reunification". Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council, responding to the parade and Xi's comments, said Taiwan would never accept "one country, two systems", the model of supposedly high autonomy Hong Kong and Macau have, which Beijing sees as eventually being the best way to win Taiwan over. "The Chinese Communist Party has persisted with its one-party dictatorship for 70 years, a concept of governance that violates the values of democracy, freedom and human rights, causing risks and challenges for the development of mainland China," it said. "It's shouting about the struggle for unity, great rejuvenation and unification is only an excuse for military expansion, seriously threatening regional peace and world democracy and civilisation." Taiwan has been democratic for more than 30 years, and China should use this moment to reflect and push for democracy, it added. "The lifeline of the survival and development of mainland China is not tied to one person and one party," the council said. Taiwan will not be bullied into accepting China's position, it added. China has heaped pressure on Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen, who faces re-election in January, believing she wishes to push for the island's formal independence, a red line for Beijing. China has also been angered for expressions of support from Taiwan for anti-government protests in Hong Kong, which are expected again on Tuesday. "We are a country of democracy and freedom and will show support for anyone in the world who pursues democracy and freedom," Tsai told reporters on Tuesday. "Likewise, any ruler should carefully listen to the people's pursuit of freedom and democracy and respect the people's will", Tsai added.

Taiwan condemns China's 'dictatorship' on 70th anniversary of Communist rule

Rescuers were scrambling on Tuesday to reach six people they feared were trapped after a bridge collapsed in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-shuts-its-schools-and-markets-as-typhoon-mitag-approaches-252761">Taiwan</a>, smashing onto a group of fishing boats moored underneath.

Dramatic CCTV images captured the moment the 140-metre long single-arch bridge came crashing down in Nanfangao, on Taiwan's eastern coast.

In the images, the road gives way and tumbles down onto at least three fishing boats as a petrol tanker that was crossing also plunges into the water.

The National Fire Agency said they believed six people were unaccounted for and could be trapped in the boats underneath the collapsed structure.

"The rescue operation is ongoing," the agency said in a statement, adding at least twelve people were injured, including six Philippine and three Indonesian fishing workers as well as the Taiwanese driver of the petrol tanker.

"We hope to safely rescue all in the shortest time to minimize the damage," Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen told reporters.

The petrol tanker burst into flames at some point after it hit the water, sending a thick plume of black smoke into the air.

It is not clear what caused the bridge, which was built in 1998 and spanned a small fishing port, to collapse.

Taiwan was skirted by a typhoon on Monday night, which brought heavy rains and strong winds to parts of the east coast.

But at the time of the bridge collapse, the weather was fine.

Rescuers were scrambling on Tuesday to reach six people they feared were trapped after a bridge collapsed in Taiwan, smashing onto a group of fishing boats moored underneath.

Rescuers were scrambling on Tuesday to reach six people they feared were trapped after a bridge collapsed in Taiwan, smashing onto a group of fishing boats moored underneath. Dramatic CCTV images captured the moment the 140-metre long single-arch bridge came crashing down in Nanfangao, on Taiwan's eastern coast. In the images, the road gives way and tumbles down onto at least three fishing boats as a petrol tanker that was crossing also plunges into the water. The National Fire Agency said they believed six people were unaccounted for and could be trapped in the boats underneath the collapsed structure. "The rescue operation is ongoing," the agency said in a statement, adding at least twelve people were injured, including six Philippine and three Indonesian fishing workers as well as the Taiwanese driver of the petrol tanker. "We hope to safely rescue all in the shortest time to minimize the damage," Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen told reporters. The petrol tanker burst into flames at some point after it hit the water, sending a thick plume of black smoke into the air. It is not clear what caused the bridge, which was built in 1998 and spanned a small fishing port, to collapse. Taiwan was skirted by a typhoon on Monday night, which brought heavy rains and strong winds to parts of the east coast. But at the time of the bridge collapse, the weather was fine.

Rescuers fear six trapped after Taiwan bridge collapse

Taiwan shut down its financial markets and ordered schools closed on Monday as a typhoon approached its northeastern coast, while airlines cancelled more than 150 flights amid warnings of floods and high winds.

Typhoon Mitag, categorised by Taiwan's weather bureau as at the second-strongest typhoon level, was expected to approach the coast of Yilan county with maximum winds of 162 kmph&nbsp;on Monday night.

It was moving across the ocean in a north-northwesterly direction at 25 kmph, weather officials said, and could gain strength as it approaches the island.

The bureau issued wind and rain warnings for greater Taipei, the northern port city of Keelung, and other northern counties. It also put out a warning to seafarers around Taiwan.

About 12,000 soldiers were on standby amid fears of floods and storm surge.

"The national army and authorities are on all-out alert. Friends in the affected areas please make preparations for the typhoon and stay indoors as much as possible," President Tsai Ing-wen wrote on Facebook.

More than 150 flights and ferry services were cancelled, while several highways across the island were shut amid fears of landslides and floods. The storm cut power to about 2,700 houses on Monday morning.

After passing over Taiwan, the typhoon was expected to approach China's eastern city of Shanghai on Tuesday, forecasts showed.

Chinese state media said the storm was likely to make landfall in the eastern province of Zhejiang on Tuesday afternoon, or closely skirt its coastline, bringing heavy rain to both Zhejiang and neighbouring Fujian provinces.

The government has ordered provincial authorities to make preparations for the typhoon, especially in areas prone to landslides, the official China News Agency reported. Both provinces are very mountainous.

The timing is particularly bad for China as Tuesday marks the start of the week-long National Day holiday, one of China's two "golden week" vacations, when tourist spots around the country heave with visitors.

Taiwan shut down its financial markets and ordered schools closed on Monday as a typhoon approached its northeastern coast, while airlines cancelled more than 150 flights amid warnings of floods and high winds.

Taiwan shut down its financial markets and ordered schools closed on Monday as a typhoon approached its northeastern coast, while airlines cancelled more than 150 flights amid warnings of floods and high winds. Typhoon Mitag, categorised by Taiwan's weather bureau as at the second-strongest typhoon level, was expected to approach the coast of Yilan county with maximum winds of 162 kmph on Monday night. It was moving across the ocean in a north-northwesterly direction at 25 kmph, weather officials said, and could gain strength as it approaches the island. The bureau issued wind and rain warnings for greater Taipei, the northern port city of Keelung, and other northern counties. It also put out a warning to seafarers around Taiwan. About 12,000 soldiers were on standby amid fears of floods and storm surge. "The national army and authorities are on all-out alert. Friends in the affected areas please make preparations for the typhoon and stay indoors as much as possible," President Tsai Ing-wen wrote on Facebook. More than 150 flights and ferry services were cancelled, while several highways across the island were shut amid fears of landslides and floods. The storm cut power to about 2,700 houses on Monday morning. After passing over Taiwan, the typhoon was expected to approach China's eastern city of Shanghai on Tuesday, forecasts showed. Chinese state media said the storm was likely to make landfall in the eastern province of Zhejiang on Tuesday afternoon, or closely skirt its coastline, bringing heavy rain to both Zhejiang and neighbouring Fujian provinces. The government has ordered provincial authorities to make preparations for the typhoon, especially in areas prone to landslides, the official China News Agency reported. Both provinces are very mountainous. The timing is particularly bad for China as Tuesday marks the start of the week-long National Day holiday, one of China's two "golden week" vacations, when tourist spots around the country heave with visitors.

Taiwan shuts its schools and markets as Typhoon Mitag approaches

The last of Taiwan's four remaining allies in the Pacific reaffirmed diplomatic ties with Taipei on Thursday following last week's defection of two nations to China.

Nauru President Lionel Aingimea, who won office late last month, said his country "has enjoyed a close relationship with Taiwan for almost four decades and he looks forward to it continuing well into the future".

"Nauru considers its relationship with Taiwan as that of family and we stand with Taiwan in upholding democratic values and the rule of law," he said.

The pledge of loyalty will come as a relief to Taiwan, which<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/solomon-islands-has-switched-relations-to-china-our-diplomatic-relations-terminated-taiwan-249995"> lost its largest Pacific ally, the Solomon Islands</a>, on September 17 after months of speculation over Honiara's intentions.

That was followed four days later by Kiribati's shock move into the Chinese stable, leaving Taiwan with just four nations that officially recognise it in the Pacific and 15 worldwide.

Poaching two of Taipei's highly prized allies was seen as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-leader-meets-solomons-envoy-to-shore-up-ties-over-china-248580">a major diplomatic coup</a> for Beijing just weeks before it celebrates the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

But Nauru's statement means a flurry of high-level visits and diplomatic activity have paid off for Taiwan, with all four remaining Pacific partners vowing to remain steadfast.

The Marshall Islands parliament passed a resolution last week confirming ties and expressing "profound appreciation to the people and government of Taiwan".

Tuvalu's Foreign Minister Simon Kore told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on Wednesday "the government is quite happy to continue our relationship with Taiwan... I don't expect any changes".

Palau President Tommy Remengesau said last week that his country had no plans to switch.

"We are friends with Taiwan because our principles and values are similar, our aspirations for democracy and freedom," he told reporters.

Taiwan has been a de facto sovereign nation since the end of a civil war in 1949, but China still views the island as its territory and has vowed to seize it, by force if necessary.

Beijing stepped up its campaign to diplomatically <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pence-rebuffs-solomon-islands-pm-after-nation-cuts-ties-with-taiwan-250328">isolate Taiwan</a> after President Tsai Ing-wen's 2016 election because she hails from a party that refuses to recognise the idea that the island is part of "one China".

The last of Taiwan's four remaining allies in the Pacific reaffirmed diplomatic ties with Taipei on Thursday following last week's defection of two nations to China.

The last of Taiwan's four remaining allies in the Pacific reaffirmed diplomatic ties with Taipei on Thursday following last week's defection of two nations to China. Nauru President Lionel Aingimea, who won office late last month, said his country "has enjoyed a close relationship with Taiwan for almost four decades and he looks forward to it continuing well into the future". "Nauru considers its relationship with Taiwan as that of family and we stand with Taiwan in upholding democratic values and the rule of law," he said. The pledge of loyalty will come as a relief to Taiwan, which lost its largest Pacific ally, the Solomon Islands, on September 17 after months of speculation over Honiara's intentions. That was followed four days later by Kiribati's shock move into the Chinese stable, leaving Taiwan with just four nations that officially recognise it in the Pacific and 15 worldwide. Poaching two of Taipei's highly prized allies was seen as a major diplomatic coup for Beijing just weeks before it celebrates the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. But Nauru's statement means a flurry of high-level visits and diplomatic activity have paid off for Taiwan, with all four remaining Pacific partners vowing to remain steadfast. The Marshall Islands parliament passed a resolution last week confirming ties and expressing "profound appreciation to the people and government of Taiwan". Tuvalu's Foreign Minister Simon Kore told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on Wednesday "the government is quite happy to continue our relationship with Taiwan... I don't expect any changes". Palau President Tommy Remengesau said last week that his country had no plans to switch. "We are friends with Taiwan because our principles and values are similar, our aspirations for democracy and freedom," he told reporters. Taiwan has been a de facto sovereign nation since the end of a civil war in 1949, but China still views the island as its territory and has vowed to seize it, by force if necessary. Beijing stepped up its campaign to diplomatically isolate Taiwan after President Tsai Ing-wen's 2016 election because she hails from a party that refuses to recognise the idea that the island is part of "one China".

Taiwan's remaining Pacific allies reaffirm allegiance

US Vice President Mike Pence has cancelled plans to meet with the leader of the Solomon Islands to discuss development partnerships after the Pacific island cut ties with Taiwan in favour of China this week, a senior US official said on Tuesday.

The Solomon Islands was the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/solomon-islands-has-switched-relations-to-china-our-diplomatic-relations-terminated-taiwan-249995">sixth country to switch allegiance to China</a> since 2016.

Self-ruled Taiwan has accused China, which claims Taiwan as its territory, of trying to meddle in its upcoming elections.

Solomons Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare had asked Pence in July for a meeting, the senior administration official told Reuters, speaking on the condition of anonymity.

The meeting was to have taken place this month on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York, or afterwards in Washington.

"But the decision by the Solomon Islands to change its diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to the People's Republic of China has consequences. They're hurting a historically strong relationship by doing this," the official said.

"It's a setback, and it's prioritizing short-term gain with China over long-term commitment with the US," the official said.

The United States, which has a fraught relationship with China over trade, defence and technology issues, upholds what is known as the "one-China" policy, officially recognizing Beijing and not Taipei, while assisting Taiwan.

Washington and Beijing are embroiled in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-trade-war-to-knock-05-points-off-global-growth-french-finance-minister-247859">trade war</a>, slapping tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars of each other's goods.

The United States is also pushing to restrict Chinese state-owned telecom companies over concerns about espionage, allegations rejected by China.

President Donald Trump's administration is also considering confronting China over its detention of some 1 million Muslims in remote Xinjiang province at next week's UN meeting.

Pence has criticized China for what he calls "debt-trap" lending practices to small countries, pushing them into debt and compromising their sovereignty. China denies those charges.

"Countries that establish closer ties to China primarily out of the hope or expectation that such a step will stimulate economic growth and infrastructure development often find themselves worse off in the long run," the US official told Reuters.

After the Solomon Islands decision, Taiwan has formal relations with only 16 countries, many of them small, less-developed nations in Central America and the Pacific.

The Solomons, a former British protectorate that is home to about 600,000 people, had been the largest of the Taiwan-aligned Pacific countries, with access to airfields and deepwater ports dating back to World War Two.

After his July phone call with Pence, Sogavare sent him a letter, saying he was "favourably disposed of" to ask his Cabinet to defer a decision on its Taiwan ties until later in the year.

Sogavare emphasized that he needed help from the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and Taiwan to develop infrastructure, a critical domestic issue for his government - according to a copy of the letter reviewed by Reuters.

"It is the one agenda that has the potential to split the cabinet and could potentially cause the government to fall," Sogavare said in the letter.

Beijing said on Tuesday that the Solomon Islands would have unprecedented development opportunities after cutting ties with Taiwan.

China had offered $8.5 million in development funds to the Solomons ahead of its decision.

US Vice President Mike Pence has cancelled plans to meet with the leader of the Solomon Islands to discuss development partnerships after the Pacific island cut ties with Taiwan in favour of China this week, a senior US official said on Tuesday.

US Vice President Mike Pence has cancelled plans to meet with the leader of the Solomon Islands to discuss development partnerships after the Pacific island cut ties with Taiwan in favour of China this week, a senior US official said on Tuesday. The Solomon Islands was the sixth country to switch allegiance to China since 2016. Self-ruled Taiwan has accused China, which claims Taiwan as its territory, of trying to meddle in its upcoming elections. Solomons Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare had asked Pence in July for a meeting, the senior administration official told Reuters, speaking on the condition of anonymity. The meeting was to have taken place this month on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York, or afterwards in Washington. "But the decision by the Solomon Islands to change its diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to the People's Republic of China has consequences. They're hurting a historically strong relationship by doing this," the official said. "It's a setback, and it's prioritizing short-term gain with China over long-term commitment with the US," the official said. The United States, which has a fraught relationship with China over trade, defence and technology issues, upholds what is known as the "one-China" policy, officially recognizing Beijing and not Taipei, while assisting Taiwan. Washington and Beijing are embroiled in a trade war, slapping tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars of each other's goods. The United States is also pushing to restrict Chinese state-owned telecom companies over concerns about espionage, allegations rejected by China. President Donald Trump's administration is also considering confronting China over its detention of some 1 million Muslims in remote Xinjiang province at next week's UN meeting. Pence has criticized China for what he calls "debt-trap" lending practices to small countries, pushing them into debt and compromising their sovereignty. China denies those charges. "Countries that establish closer ties to China primarily out of the hope or expectation that such a step will stimulate economic growth and infrastructure development often find themselves worse off in the long run," the US official told Reuters. After the Solomon Islands decision, Taiwan has formal relations with only 16 countries, many of them small, less-developed nations in Central America and the Pacific. The Solomons, a former British protectorate that is home to about 600,000 people, had been the largest of the Taiwan-aligned Pacific countries, with access to airfields and deepwater ports dating back to World War Two. After his July phone call with Pence, Sogavare sent him a letter, saying he was "favourably disposed of" to ask his Cabinet to defer a decision on its Taiwan ties until later in the year. Sogavare emphasized that he needed help from the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and Taiwan to develop infrastructure, a critical domestic issue for his government - according to a copy of the letter reviewed by Reuters. "It is the one agenda that has the potential to split the cabinet and could potentially cause the government to fall," Sogavare said in the letter. Beijing said on Tuesday that the Solomon Islands would have unprecedented development opportunities after cutting ties with Taiwan. China had offered $8.5 million in development funds to the Solomons ahead of its decision.

Pence rebuffs Solomon Islands PM after nation cuts ties with Taiwan

Taiwan on Monday severed ties with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-leader-meets-solomons-envoy-to-shore-up-ties-over-china-248580">Solomon Islands</a> after learning the Pacific nation had decided to switch diplomatic recognition to China, a decision it described as "extremely regrettable".

"The cabinet of the Solomon Islands government decided to switch diplomatic relations to the People's Republic of China," foreign minister Joseph Wu announced at a press conference in Taipei on Monday.

"The government hereby declares the termination of diplomatic relations with the Solomon Islands with immediate effect," he added.

The move is yet another diplomatic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-department-approves-sale-of-66-f-16-fighters-to-taiwan-244591">blow for Taiwan</a> which has seen its few remaining allies steadily whittled down by Beijing.

Only 16 nations still diplomatically recognise the island over Beijing.&nbsp;

Taiwan has been a de facto sovereign nation since the end of a civil war in 1949, but China still views the island as its territory and has vowed to seize it -&nbsp;by force if necessary.

Over the decades, as China's economic and military power has grown, dozens of countries, including the United States and most Western nations, have switched recognition to Beijing.

In the last few years only a handful of countries have remained loyal to Taiwan, largely in Latin America and the Pacific.

But Beijing stepped up its campaign to diplomatically isolate Taiwan after the 2016 election of President Tsai Ing-wen, who hails from a party that refused to recognise the idea that the island is part of "one China".

Since her election, six of Taiwan's allies have now defected.

Taiwan on Monday severed ties with the Solomon Islands after learning the Pacific nation had decided to switch diplomatic recognition to China, a decision it described as "extremely regrettable".

Taiwan on Monday severed ties with the Solomon Islands after learning the Pacific nation had decided to switch diplomatic recognition to China, a decision it described as "extremely regrettable". "The cabinet of the Solomon Islands government decided to switch diplomatic relations to the People's Republic of China," foreign minister Joseph Wu announced at a press conference in Taipei on Monday. "The government hereby declares the termination of diplomatic relations with the Solomon Islands with immediate effect," he added. The move is yet another diplomatic blow for Taiwan which has seen its few remaining allies steadily whittled down by Beijing. Only 16 nations still diplomatically recognise the island over Beijing. Taiwan has been a de facto sovereign nation since the end of a civil war in 1949, but China still views the island as its territory and has vowed to seize it - by force if necessary. Over the decades, as China's economic and military power has grown, dozens of countries, including the United States and most Western nations, have switched recognition to Beijing. In the last few years only a handful of countries have remained loyal to Taiwan, largely in Latin America and the Pacific. But Beijing stepped up its campaign to diplomatically isolate Taiwan after the 2016 election of President Tsai Ing-wen, who hails from a party that refused to recognise the idea that the island is part of "one China". Since her election, six of Taiwan's allies have now defected.

Solomon Islands has switched relations to China, our diplomatic relations terminated: Taiwan

The Solomon Islands said Friday that no decision had yet been made on switching the Pacific island nation's diplomatic allegiance from Taiwan to China.

The Solomons are among only 17 nations to recognise Taiwan, but Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare vowed to review the relationship after he was elected in April.

A switch would reduce the number of nations backing Taiwan which Beijing regards as a renegade province as well as boosting China's influence among the strategically important Pacific isles.

For the Solomons, where less than half the population has access to electricity, the debate offers a chance to weigh up promises of aid from Taipei and Beijing.

Government frontbencher Peter Shanel Agovaka, who led a recent ministerial delegation to Beijing to discuss the issue, told a parliamentary committee this week that his preference was to recognise China.

"We cannot sit for the next 40 years with our friends Taiwan, it is time that we make new friends," he said, arguing links with China would help boost the Pacific nation's economy.

The Solomon Islands' foreign affairs department said no decision had been made and the issue would not be finalised until the cabinet had reviewed a task force report.

"As far as can be determined, the Office of Prime Minister has not announced when it is likely to decide on whether or not the government agrees to switch diplomatic ties to China or remain with Taiwan," the department said in a statement issued to media in Taiwan on Friday.

The Solomons parliament's foreign relations committee is accepting submissions on the Taiwan-China issue until the end of this month and has an October 31 deadline to report to the legislature.

Nations such as Australia and the United States fear Beijing's interest is fuelled by a long-term goal to establish a military base in the islands, offering control of vast swathes of the Pacific Ocean.

US Defence Secretary Mark Esper last month accused China of destabilising the region using such tactics, citing "predatory economics and debt-for-sovereignty deals".

However, China's ambassador to Samoa Chao Xiaoliang has labelled critics "ignorant" and "prejudiced", saying Beijing's main interest is forming partnerships to help Pacific nations.

The Solomon Islands said Friday that no decision had yet been made on switching the Pacific island nation's diplomatic allegiance from Taiwan to China. The Solomons are among only 17 nations to recognise Taiwan, but Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare vowed to review the relationship after he was elected in April.

The Solomon Islands said Friday that no decision had yet been made on switching the Pacific island nation's diplomatic allegiance from Taiwan to China. The Solomons are among only 17 nations to recognise Taiwan, but Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare vowed to review the relationship after he was elected in April. A switch would reduce the number of nations backing Taiwan which Beijing regards as a renegade province as well as boosting China's influence among the strategically important Pacific isles. For the Solomons, where less than half the population has access to electricity, the debate offers a chance to weigh up promises of aid from Taipei and Beijing. Government frontbencher Peter Shanel Agovaka, who led a recent ministerial delegation to Beijing to discuss the issue, told a parliamentary committee this week that his preference was to recognise China. "We cannot sit for the next 40 years with our friends Taiwan, it is time that we make new friends," he said, arguing links with China would help boost the Pacific nation's economy. The Solomon Islands' foreign affairs department said no decision had been made and the issue would not be finalised until the cabinet had reviewed a task force report. "As far as can be determined, the Office of Prime Minister has not announced when it is likely to decide on whether or not the government agrees to switch diplomatic ties to China or remain with Taiwan," the department said in a statement issued to media in Taiwan on Friday. The Solomons parliament's foreign relations committee is accepting submissions on the Taiwan-China issue until the end of this month and has an October 31 deadline to report to the legislature. Nations such as Australia and the United States fear Beijing's interest is fuelled by a long-term goal to establish a military base in the islands, offering control of vast swathes of the Pacific Ocean. US Defence Secretary Mark Esper last month accused China of destabilising the region using such tactics, citing "predatory economics and debt-for-sovereignty deals". However, China's ambassador to Samoa Chao Xiaoliang has labelled critics "ignorant" and "prejudiced", saying Beijing's main interest is forming partnerships to help Pacific nations.

Solomons say no decision yet in Taiwan-China debate

Taiwan braced for Typhoon Bailu on Friday, prompting cancellations of domestic flights amid warnings of floods and high season the island.

Typhoon Bailu, categorised at the weakest typhoon level by Taiwan's weather bureau, was expected to approach off the island's southeastern coast early on Saturday.&nbsp;

It was moving across the ocean in a northwesterly direction at 24 km per hour (15 mph), weather officials said.

Bailu was carrying maximum winds of 126 km per hour (78 mph) as it approaches <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-department-approves-sale-of-66-f-16-fighters-to-taiwan-244591">Taiwan</a>, the weather bureau said, adding that the storm could gain in strength and become the first typhoon to make landfall on the island in more than two years.

Thousands of people were moved to safety, most of them tourists on islands off the east coast, while dozens of domestic flights and ferry services were cancelled.

Some 34,000 soldiers were deployed in the south amid fears of floods.

The bureau issued wind and rain warnings for southeastern Taiwan, and other southern counties were expected to be included in the warnings later in the day. It also put out a warning to seafarers.

After passing over Taiwan, the typhoon is expected to cross the Taiwan Strait and hit the Chinese province of Fujian, forecasters said.

Typhoons regularly hit Taiwan, China, the Philippines, and Japan in the second half of the year, gathering strength from the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean or the South China Sea.

Typhoon Morakot devastated the island in 2009, killing nearly 700 people, most of them in landslides.

Taiwan braced for Typhoon Bailu on Friday, prompting cancellations of domestic flights amid warnings of floods and high season the island. Typhoon Bailu, categorised at the weakest typhoon level by Taiwan's weather bureau, was expected to approach off the island's southeastern coast early on Saturday.

Taiwan braced for Typhoon Bailu on Friday, prompting cancellations of domestic flights amid warnings of floods and high season the island. Typhoon Bailu, categorised at the weakest typhoon level by Taiwan's weather bureau, was expected to approach off the island's southeastern coast early on Saturday. It was moving across the ocean in a northwesterly direction at 24 km per hour (15 mph), weather officials said. Bailu was carrying maximum winds of 126 km per hour (78 mph) as it approaches Taiwan, the weather bureau said, adding that the storm could gain in strength and become the first typhoon to make landfall on the island in more than two years. Thousands of people were moved to safety, most of them tourists on islands off the east coast, while dozens of domestic flights and ferry services were cancelled. Some 34,000 soldiers were deployed in the south amid fears of floods. The bureau issued wind and rain warnings for southeastern Taiwan, and other southern counties were expected to be included in the warnings later in the day. It also put out a warning to seafarers. After passing over Taiwan, the typhoon is expected to cross the Taiwan Strait and hit the Chinese province of Fujian, forecasters said. Typhoons regularly hit Taiwan, China, the Philippines, and Japan in the second half of the year, gathering strength from the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean or the South China Sea. Typhoon Morakot devastated the island in 2009, killing nearly 700 people, most of them in landslides.

Flights cancelled as Taiwan braces for typhoon

Limiting marriage to a relationship between a man and a woman will remain China's legal position, a parliament spokesman said on Wednesday, ruling out following neighbouring Taiwan in allowing same-sex marriage, despite pressure from activists.

Taiwan's parliament passed a bill in May that endorsed same-sex marriage, after years of heated debate over marriage equality that has divided the self-ruled and democratic island.

China, which claims Taiwan as its territory, has a thriving gay scene in major cities, but there has been little sign the ruling Communist Party will legalise same-sex marriage.

Asked at a news briefing whether China would legalise same-sex marriage, Zang Tiewei, spokesman for parliament's legal affairs commission, said Chinese law only allowed for marriage between one man and one woman.

"This rule suits our country's national condition and historical and cultural traditions," he said. "As far as I know, the vast majority of countries in the world do not recognise the legalisation of same-sex marriage."

Individual Chinese legislators have occasionally in the past few years proposed measures during the annual meeting of the largely rubber-stamp parliament every March to legalise same-sex marriage, without success.

There are no laws against same-sex relations in China and despite growing awareness of LGBT issues, the community has been the target of censors in recent months, fuelling fears of growing intolerance.

Activists have asked people in China to propose amendments to a draft civil code en masse, though they have admitted they see little chance of success. The parts of the code relating to marriage are expected to pass into law next year.

The code makes changes on issues such as sexual harassment, divorce and family planning, but does not further the rights of the LGBT community, drafts published by parliament show.

Zang said the marriage section of the draft civil code maintains the bond as being between a man and a woman.

Prominent gay rights activist Sun Wenlin said he was disappointed in the comments, but not surprised.

"I feel that my partner and I are sacrificing our happiness for the country's legal system," said Sun, who three years ago had his application to legally marry his partner rejected by a Chinese court.

"They are undermining our life plan of choosing to marry the person we love."

He added, "I feel I am being excluded, and am absolutely not a consideration for policymakers."

Another activist, who asked not to be named, told Reuters there were cases in China of same-sex partners who had lost their homes after one of them died, as they lacked the legal protection of marriage.

"We hope these tragedies don't keen happening," the activist said.

Limiting marriage to a relationship between a man and a woman will remain China's legal position, a parliament spokesman said on Wednesday, ruling out following neighbouring Taiwan in allowing same-sex marriage, despite pressure from activists.

Limiting marriage to a relationship between a man and a woman will remain China's legal position, a parliament spokesman said on Wednesday, ruling out following neighbouring Taiwan in allowing same-sex marriage, despite pressure from activists. Taiwan's parliament passed a bill in May that endorsed same-sex marriage, after years of heated debate over marriage equality that has divided the self-ruled and democratic island. China, which claims Taiwan as its territory, has a thriving gay scene in major cities, but there has been little sign the ruling Communist Party will legalise same-sex marriage. Asked at a news briefing whether China would legalise same-sex marriage, Zang Tiewei, spokesman for parliament's legal affairs commission, said Chinese law only allowed for marriage between one man and one woman. "This rule suits our country's national condition and historical and cultural traditions," he said. "As far as I know, the vast majority of countries in the world do not recognise the legalisation of same-sex marriage." Individual Chinese legislators have occasionally in the past few years proposed measures during the annual meeting of the largely rubber-stamp parliament every March to legalise same-sex marriage, without success. There are no laws against same-sex relations in China and despite growing awareness of LGBT issues, the community has been the target of censors in recent months, fuelling fears of growing intolerance. Activists have asked people in China to propose amendments to a draft civil code en masse, though they have admitted they see little chance of success. The parts of the code relating to marriage are expected to pass into law next year. The code makes changes on issues such as sexual harassment, divorce and family planning, but does not further the rights of the LGBT community, drafts published by parliament show. Zang said the marriage section of the draft civil code maintains the bond as being between a man and a woman. Prominent gay rights activist Sun Wenlin said he was disappointed in the comments, but not surprised. "I feel that my partner and I are sacrificing our happiness for the country's legal system," said Sun, who three years ago had his application to legally marry his partner rejected by a Chinese court. "They are undermining our life plan of choosing to marry the person we love." He added, "I feel I am being excluded, and am absolutely not a consideration for policymakers." Another activist, who asked not to be named, told Reuters there were cases in China of same-sex partners who had lost their homes after one of them died, as they lacked the legal protection of marriage. "We hope these tragedies don't keen happening," the activist said.

China's Parliament rules out allowing same-sex marriage

The US State Department on Tuesday approved the sale of 66 F-16 fighters to Taiwan, in a move expected to anger Beijing. Taiwan will get the latest version of the Lockheed Martin-built fighter, the F-16C/D Block 70, in the $8 billion deal, the State Department said.

The US State Department on Tuesday approved the sale of 66 F-16 fighters to Taiwan, in a move expected to anger Beijing. Taiwan will get the latest version of the Lockheed Martin-built fighter, the F-16C/D Block 70, in the $8 billion deal, the State Department said. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement that President Donald Trump had green-lighted the proposed sale after Congress was notified last week. The F-16s "are deeply consistent with the arrangements, the historical relationship between the United States and China," Pompeo said. "Our actions are consistent with past US policy. We are simply following through on the commitments we've made to all of the parties." Taiwan's plan to upgrade its air defenses comes amid increasing Chinese military incursions into its air space. A spokesman for the Taiwanese president released a statement saying the jets would "substantially enhance our air defence capabilities to help Taiwan's self-defence and maintain the people's freedom and welfare." The sale's approval will have a key role in "peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and region, especially in the wake of China's frequent military actions... in the region in recent years," the statement said. Beijing regards Taiwan as a part of China awaiting reunification, but the island is self-ruled and is a close ally of the United States. In a statement, the Defence Security Cooperation Agency, which oversees US foreign military sales, said Taiwan's purchase of the F-16s "will not alter the basic military balance in the region." "This proposed sale will contribute to the recipient's capability to provide for the defence of its airspace, regional security, and interoperability with the United States." On Monday, China's foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said US arms sales to Taiwan "severely violate" agreements between Washington and Beijing and "constitute severe interference in China's internal affairs." The United States should "immediately cancel the planned arms sales, and stop selling weapons and military contact with Taiwan," he said. "Otherwise, the US will have to bear all the consequences." Taiwan already has a fleet of old-model F-16s purchased in 1992, which have undergone several crucial upgrades. Manufacturer Lockheed Martin says the newest version, the F-16 Block 70/72, includes many avionics, weapons and radar technologies not in existence when earlier models were created. It is structurally stronger, the company says, so that it "can fly and fight to 2070 and beyond." The approval of the sale comes as Washington and Beijing face off in tough trade negotiations that economists say are hurting both of the superpowers, as well as dragging down the global economy.

US State Department approves sale of 66 F-16 fighters to Taiwan

Congress should move quickly with an $8&nbsp;billion&nbsp;sale&nbsp;of F-16&nbsp;fighter jets to&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;as the self-ruled island faces pressure from China's increased military presence in the region, leading US&nbsp;Democratic&nbsp;and&nbsp;Republican&nbsp;lawmakers&nbsp;said on Friday.

China denounced the planned&nbsp;sale, one of the biggest yet by the United States to&nbsp;Taiwan, which Beijing considers a renegade province. It warned of unspecified "countermeasures."

Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Jim Risch, a&nbsp;Republican, welcomed the proposed&nbsp;sale&nbsp;of the Lockheed Martin Corp F-16V jets.&nbsp;

"These fighters are critical to improving&nbsp;Taiwan's ability to defend its sovereign airspace, which is under increasing pressure from the People’s Republic of China," he said in a statement.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-irked-by-us-taiwan-arms-deal-243606/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

The chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Jim Inhofe, and fellow&nbsp;Republican&nbsp;Senator John Cornyn said&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;"remains an important pillar of security and stability" in the region.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;sale&nbsp;of the jets would "deter aggression given Beijing's increasing assertiveness and military buildup," they said in a joint statement.

Similarly, the&nbsp;Democratic&nbsp;chairman of the House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee, Eliot Engel, and the panel's ranking&nbsp;Republican, Michael McCaul, said in a joint statement that the deal "sends a strong message" about US commitment to security and democracy in the region.

Senators Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz, both&nbsp;Republicans, also issued statements&nbsp;backing the deal.

Washington has no formal ties with self-ruled and&nbsp;democratic&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;but is bound by law to help provide it with the means to defend itself.

It is the main arms supplier to&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;and there is broad support for this in Congress.

China has never renounced the use of force to bring&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;under its control and has repeatedly denounced US arms&nbsp;sales to the island.

Friday's New York Times quoted unnamed US officials as saying that the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-survive-trade-war-some-us-importers-embark-on-major-revamps-of-product-lines-238323"> Trump administration, which is engaged in a major trade war with China</a>, was moving forward with the&nbsp;sale and said the State Department gave informal notification of the plan to the House and Senate foreign affairs committees on Thursday.

The paper said once those committees gave the go-ahead, which would probably come within days or weeks, there would follow a formal notification to Congress, which would trigger 30 days for objections.

The State Department and the White House declined to comment. China's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said Beijing had made solemn representations to the United States over the planned&nbsp;sale.

China's state-run Xinhua news agency quoted Hua as saying that it was a serious violation of the "one-China principle," under which Washington recognise Beijing and not Taipei, and undermined China's sovereignty and security interests.

Hua urged the US to stop arms&nbsp;sales to and military contact with&nbsp;Taiwan, otherwise, the Chinese side would "certainly take countermeasures," Xinhua said.

After the United States approved&nbsp;sales of tanks and Raytheon Co's &nbsp;anti-aircraft Stinger missiles to&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;in July, China said it was "ready to go to war" if people "try to split Taiwan&nbsp;from the country."

Beijing said it would impose sanctions on US companies involved in any deals.

On Thursday,&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;unveiled its largest defence spending increase in more than a decade, to T$411.3&nbsp;billion&nbsp;($13.11&nbsp;billion.)

Congress should move quickly with an $8 billion sale of F-16 fighter jets to Taiwan as the self-ruled island faces pressure from China's increased military presence in the region, leading US Democratic and Republican lawmakers said on Friday.

Congress should move quickly with an $8 billion sale of F-16 fighter jets to Taiwan as the self-ruled island faces pressure from China's increased military presence in the region, leading US Democratic and Republican lawmakers said on Friday. China denounced the planned sale, one of the biggest yet by the United States to Taiwan, which Beijing considers a renegade province. It warned of unspecified "countermeasures." Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Jim Risch, a Republican, welcomed the proposed sale of the Lockheed Martin Corp F-16V jets. "These fighters are critical to improving Taiwan's ability to defend its sovereign airspace, which is under increasing pressure from the People’s Republic of China," he said in a statement. The chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Jim Inhofe, and fellow Republican Senator John Cornyn said Taiwan "remains an important pillar of security and stability" in the region. The sale of the jets would "deter aggression given Beijing's increasing assertiveness and military buildup," they said in a joint statement. Similarly, the Democratic chairman of the House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee, Eliot Engel, and the panel's ranking Republican, Michael McCaul, said in a joint statement that the deal "sends a strong message" about US commitment to security and democracy in the region. Senators Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz, both Republicans, also issued statements backing the deal. Washington has no formal ties with self-ruled and democratic Taiwan but is bound by law to help provide it with the means to defend itself. It is the main arms supplier to Taiwan and there is broad support for this in Congress. China has never renounced the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control and has repeatedly denounced US arms sales to the island. Friday's New York Times quoted unnamed US officials as saying that the Trump administration, which is engaged in a major trade war with China, was moving forward with the sale and said the State Department gave informal notification of the plan to the House and Senate foreign affairs committees on Thursday. The paper said once those committees gave the go-ahead, which would probably come within days or weeks, there would follow a formal notification to Congress, which would trigger 30 days for objections. The State Department and the White House declined to comment. China's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said Beijing had made solemn representations to the United States over the planned sale. China's state-run Xinhua news agency quoted Hua as saying that it was a serious violation of the "one-China principle," under which Washington recognise Beijing and not Taipei, and undermined China's sovereignty and security interests. Hua urged the US to stop arms sales to and military contact with Taiwan, otherwise, the Chinese side would "certainly take countermeasures," Xinhua said. After the United States approved sales of tanks and Raytheon Co's anti-aircraft Stinger missiles to Taiwan in July, China said it was "ready to go to war" if people "try to split Taiwan from the country." Beijing said it would impose sanctions on US companies involved in any deals. On Thursday, Taiwan unveiled its largest defence spending increase in more than a decade, to T$411.3 billion ($13.11 billion.)

Democratic, Republican lawmakers back F-16 sales to Taiwan

Dozens of activists joined a protest in front of Japan's de facto embassy in Taipei on Wednesday (August 14), demanding an official formal apology and monetary compensation for the Taiwanese 'comfort women' who were forced to work in Japanese wartime brothels.

Taiwan activists demand Japan apologise for forcing women to work in its wartime brothels

A 6.0-magnitude earthquake that rattled Taiwan on Thursday (Aug 8) killed one woman and caused temporary power outages that affected over 10,000 homes, the authorities said. Watch video to know more.

Magnitude 6.0 earthquake rocks northeastern Taiwan

China's film regulator on Wednesday said it was suspending mainland Chinese movies and their personnel from participating in Taiwan's annual Golden Horse Awards this year, without giving a reason.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suspended-individual-travel-permits-to-taiwan-due-to-current-cross-strait-relations-china-239659">China Film Administration </a>made the announcement in a statement on its official WeChat account.

The move comes after the event, the Chinese-speaking world’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-holds-military-drills-in-south-china-sea-near-taiwan-239171">version of the Oscars</a>, last year became a lightning rod for questions about Taiwanese independence, sparking a debate between Taiwanese and mainland stars as well as netizens.

The state of ties between Beijing and the self-ruled island has since become more tense, with China announcing that it would stop issuing individual travel permits for Taiwan to Chinese travellers last week.

"From an industry point of view, the Golden Horse was a good platform for exchanges on films among mainland, Taiwan and Hong Kong," said Dong Shu, a Shanghai-based film critic.

"But some people in Taiwan had to get politically sensitive content on it, things that crossed red lines for mainland China, thus the nature of this award has been changed."

Taiwan is self-governed and has a democratically elected leadership, but China claims the island as a breakaway province and has not ruled out the use of force to ensure unification. The question of Taiwanese independence is one of Beijing's most sensitive political concerns.

China's content regulator has also been taking an extra-cautious stance over its media industry in the run-up to the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic, on October&nbsp;1, pulling off a few blockbusters and banning "entertainment-driven" historical dramas and idol dramas.

Reports of the suspension soon became a trending topic on China's Weibo, a Twitter-like microblogging service, with one related hashtag receiving more than 68 million views Wednesday morning.

"Taiwan made this award political first, don't we have a right to punch back?" said a Weibo commentator.

Others expressed disappointment at the decision.

"Politics aside, this is a lose-lose situation. There isn't an impartial and matchable award in mainland China, what a pity!" said another commentator.

Reuters was not immediately able to reach the organisers of the Golden Horse Film Festival for comment. &nbsp;

China's film regulator on Wednesday said it was suspending mainland Chinese movies and their personnel from participating in Taiwan's annual Golden Horse Awards this year, without giving a reason.

China's film regulator on Wednesday said it was suspending mainland Chinese movies and their personnel from participating in Taiwan's annual Golden Horse Awards this year, without giving a reason. The China Film Administration made the announcement in a statement on its official WeChat account. The move comes after the event, the Chinese-speaking world’s version of the Oscars, last year became a lightning rod for questions about Taiwanese independence, sparking a debate between Taiwanese and mainland stars as well as netizens. The state of ties between Beijing and the self-ruled island has since become more tense, with China announcing that it would stop issuing individual travel permits for Taiwan to Chinese travellers last week. "From an industry point of view, the Golden Horse was a good platform for exchanges on films among mainland, Taiwan and Hong Kong," said Dong Shu, a Shanghai-based film critic. "But some people in Taiwan had to get politically sensitive content on it, things that crossed red lines for mainland China, thus the nature of this award has been changed." Taiwan is self-governed and has a democratically elected leadership, but China claims the island as a breakaway province and has not ruled out the use of force to ensure unification. The question of Taiwanese independence is one of Beijing's most sensitive political concerns. China's content regulator has also been taking an extra-cautious stance over its media industry in the run-up to the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic, on October 1, pulling off a few blockbusters and banning "entertainment-driven" historical dramas and idol dramas. Reports of the suspension soon became a trending topic on China's Weibo, a Twitter-like microblogging service, with one related hashtag receiving more than 68 million views Wednesday morning. "Taiwan made this award political first, don't we have a right to punch back?" said a Weibo commentator. Others expressed disappointment at the decision. "Politics aside, this is a lose-lose situation. There isn't an impartial and matchable award in mainland China, what a pity!" said another commentator. Reuters was not immediately able to reach the organisers of the Golden Horse Film Festival for comment.

China suspends movies, stars from participating in Taiwan's Golden Horse Awards

Taiwan's president rebuked China over its decision to ban individual travel permits for Chinese visitors to the self-ruled island, saying the move aimed to manipulate presidential elections in January. Watch this video to know more.

China bans solo tourists to Taiwan

The mayor of Taipei said on Thursday he will form a political party to run in Taiwan`s 2020 elections, a move that could complicate President Tsai Ing-wen`s re-election and shake up the political landscape amid heightened tension with China.&nbsp;

Taipei mayor Ko Wen-je said he will set up the Taiwanese People`s Party in early August in a bid to run in legislative elections in January.&nbsp;

The self-ruled island is also set to hold its presidential election in January at a time of precarious relations with China, which considers it a wayward province and has never ruled out the use of force to bring it under Beijing`s control.

Ko, who advocates closer cross-strait ties and is known for his colourful comments about Taiwan politics, said he will decide whether to run in the highly competitive presidential race by early September.&nbsp;

"It`s not important whether I run (for the president) or not. What matters is the well-being of the people," Ko told reporters in Taipei.&nbsp;

Another who could complicate Tsai`s bid for re-election is Foxconn founder Terry Gou.

Gou lost the presidential nomination for the China-friendly opposition Kuomintang (KMT) last month but has not announced whether he will run as an independent in 2020.

A mayor from the island`s south won the KMT`s nomination for the presidential election, issuing a direct challenge to Tsai.

The Taiwan president is facing criticism over her party`s reform agenda amid rising diplomatic and military pressure from Beijing.

China said on Wednesday it will stop issuing individual travel permits to Chinese citizens for travel to Taiwan, a blow to the island`s tourism industry.

China`s military is also holding exercises this week in waters near Taiwan, days after Beijing reiterated it was ready to fight if there was any move towards independence for Taiwan.

The mayor of Taipei said on Thursday he will form a political party to run in Taiwan`s 2020 elections, a move that could complicate President Tsai Ing-wen`s re-election and shake up the political landscape amid heightened tension with China.

The mayor of Taipei said on Thursday he will form a political party to run in Taiwan`s 2020 elections, a move that could complicate President Tsai Ing-wen`s re-election and shake up the political landscape amid heightened tension with China. Taipei mayor Ko Wen-je said he will set up the Taiwanese People`s Party in early August in a bid to run in legislative elections in January. The self-ruled island is also set to hold its presidential election in January at a time of precarious relations with China, which considers it a wayward province and has never ruled out the use of force to bring it under Beijing`s control. Ko, who advocates closer cross-strait ties and is known for his colourful comments about Taiwan politics, said he will decide whether to run in the highly competitive presidential race by early September. "It`s not important whether I run (for the president) or not. What matters is the well-being of the people," Ko told reporters in Taipei. Another who could complicate Tsai`s bid for re-election is Foxconn founder Terry Gou. Gou lost the presidential nomination for the China-friendly opposition Kuomintang (KMT) last month but has not announced whether he will run as an independent in 2020. A mayor from the island`s south won the KMT`s nomination for the presidential election, issuing a direct challenge to Tsai. The Taiwan president is facing criticism over her party`s reform agenda amid rising diplomatic and military pressure from Beijing. China said on Wednesday it will stop issuing individual travel permits to Chinese citizens for travel to Taiwan, a blow to the island`s tourism industry. China`s military is also holding exercises this week in waters near Taiwan, days after Beijing reiterated it was ready to fight if there was any move towards independence for Taiwan.

Taipei mayor to form political party in challenge to Taiwan president

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