Taiwan blamed China's "malicious suppression" Wednesday after being stripped of hosting figure skating's Asian Open this year, warning against the interference of politics in sport.

China has ramped up military and diplomatic pressure on Taiwan since the Beijing-sceptic President Tsai Ing-wen took office in 2016.&nbsp;

Taiwan's figure skating union said it was notified by the International Skating Union (ISU) on Monday that the second-tier Challenger level event, which had been due to take place in Taipei from October 30 to November 3, had been moved to the southern Chinese city of Dongguan.

Taiwan's foreign ministry said Wednesday it deeply regretted the ISU cancelling the event in Taiwan due to what it called "political factors" and issued a strong condemnation of China for "again interfering in international NGOs."

"China's malicious suppression of our civil groups' participation in international events will only re-spark the resentment of Taiwanese people on China," it said in a statement.

It is the second cancellation of an international sports event in Taiwan in the past year.&nbsp;

According to Taiwan sports officials, members of the East Asian Olympic Committee (EAOC) voted in a meeting in Beijing last year to revoke the island's right to host the 2019 East Asian Youth Games in Taichung.&nbsp;

Taiwan's government at that time accused China of bullying while the Taichung city government said it had invested around $21 million to build facilities for the games.

Taipei has also been blocked from attending a string of international events following pressure from Beijing since President Tsai came to power.

China sees self-ruled, democratic Taiwan as part of its territory to be reunified, by force if must.

The ISU said in a statement the change of location was suggested and agreed upon by several members, including Taiwan's skating union.

In May "ISU received indications from several ISU Asian member federations ... that it would be preferable to host this event in another Asian country."

However, Taiwan's skating union expressed regret in a statement issued earlier Wednesday, saying it was "trying to figure out ISU's decision-making process" in preparation for an appeal.

Taiwan blamed China's "malicious suppression" Wednesday after being stripped of hosting figure skating's Asian Open this year, warning against the interference of politics in sport.

Taiwan blamed China's "malicious suppression" Wednesday after being stripped of hosting figure skating's Asian Open this year, warning against the interference of politics in sport. China has ramped up military and diplomatic pressure on Taiwan since the Beijing-sceptic President Tsai Ing-wen took office in 2016. Taiwan's figure skating union said it was notified by the International Skating Union (ISU) on Monday that the second-tier Challenger level event, which had been due to take place in Taipei from October 30 to November 3, had been moved to the southern Chinese city of Dongguan. Taiwan's foreign ministry said Wednesday it deeply regretted the ISU cancelling the event in Taiwan due to what it called "political factors" and issued a strong condemnation of China for "again interfering in international NGOs." "China's malicious suppression of our civil groups' participation in international events will only re-spark the resentment of Taiwanese people on China," it said in a statement. It is the second cancellation of an international sports event in Taiwan in the past year. According to Taiwan sports officials, members of the East Asian Olympic Committee (EAOC) voted in a meeting in Beijing last year to revoke the island's right to host the 2019 East Asian Youth Games in Taichung. Taiwan's government at that time accused China of bullying while the Taichung city government said it had invested around $21 million to build facilities for the games. Taipei has also been blocked from attending a string of international events following pressure from Beijing since President Tsai came to power. China sees self-ruled, democratic Taiwan as part of its territory to be reunified, by force if must. The ISU said in a statement the change of location was suggested and agreed upon by several members, including Taiwan's skating union. In May "ISU received indications from several ISU Asian member federations ... that it would be preferable to host this event in another Asian country." However, Taiwan's skating union expressed regret in a statement issued earlier Wednesday, saying it was "trying to figure out ISU's decision-making process" in preparation for an appeal.

Taiwan blames China for being stripped of skating event

How China's PLA maintains internal equilibrium to control external threat

China's defence ministry warned on Wednesday that it was ready for war if there was a move toward Taiwan's independence, accusing the United States of undermining <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-eyes-high-tech-army-says-us-undermines-global-stability-238077">global stability and denouncing its arms sales</a> to the self-ruled island.

This month, the Pentagon said the US State Department had approved sales of weapons requested by Taiwan, including tanks and Stinger missiles estimated to be worth $2.2 billion.

China responded by saying it would impose sanctions on US firms involved in any deals.

Defence ministry spokesman Wu Qian told a news briefing on a defence white paper, the first in several years to outline the military's strategic concerns, that China would make its greatest effort for peaceful reunification with Taiwan.

"However, we must firmly point out that seeking Taiwan independence is a dead end," Wu said.

"If there are people who dare to try to split Taiwan from the country, China's military will be ready to go to war to firmly safeguard national sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity," he said.

The United States is the main arms supplier to Taiwan, which China deems a wayward province. Beijing has never renounced the use of force to bring the island under its control.

The United States has no formal ties with democratic Taiwan, but is bound by law to help provide it with the means to defend itself.

The Chinese ministry said the United States had "provoked intensified competition among major countries, significantly increased its defence expenditure ... and undermined global strategic stability."

China's defence spending would maintain moderate and steady growth, but it was relatively low, compared to other major countries, it added.

"There is still a wide gap between China's defence expenditure and the requirements for safeguarding national sovereignty, security, and development interests," it said.

Reports of a secret pact with Cambodia granting China's armed forces exclusive access to part of the southeast Asian nation's Ream Naval Base on the Gulf of Thailand were not in accordance with the facts, Wu added.

"China and Cambodia have in the past carried out positive exchanges and cooperation on military drills, personnel training and logistics," he said. "This kind of cooperation does not target any third party."

Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council said later in a statement that Beijing's "provocative behaviour ... seriously violated the peace principle in international laws and relations, challenging regional safety and order".

"We urge Beijing authorities to renounce irrational, malicious acts such as the use of force, and to improve cross-strait relations and handle issues including Hong Kong rationally, so that it can be a responsible regional member," it said.

China's defence ministry warned on Wednesday that it was ready for war if there was a move toward Taiwan's independence, accusing the United States of undermining global stability and denouncing its arms sales to the self-ruled island.

China's defence ministry warned on Wednesday that it was ready for war if there was a move toward Taiwan's independence, accusing the United States of undermining global stability and denouncing its arms sales to the self-ruled island. This month, the Pentagon said the US State Department had approved sales of weapons requested by Taiwan, including tanks and Stinger missiles estimated to be worth $2.2 billion. China responded by saying it would impose sanctions on US firms involved in any deals. Defence ministry spokesman Wu Qian told a news briefing on a defence white paper, the first in several years to outline the military's strategic concerns, that China would make its greatest effort for peaceful reunification with Taiwan. "However, we must firmly point out that seeking Taiwan independence is a dead end," Wu said. "If there are people who dare to try to split Taiwan from the country, China's military will be ready to go to war to firmly safeguard national sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity," he said. The United States is the main arms supplier to Taiwan, which China deems a wayward province. Beijing has never renounced the use of force to bring the island under its control. The United States has no formal ties with democratic Taiwan, but is bound by law to help provide it with the means to defend itself. The Chinese ministry said the United States had "provoked intensified competition among major countries, significantly increased its defence expenditure ... and undermined global strategic stability." China's defence spending would maintain moderate and steady growth, but it was relatively low, compared to other major countries, it added. "There is still a wide gap between China's defence expenditure and the requirements for safeguarding national sovereignty, security, and development interests," it said. Reports of a secret pact with Cambodia granting China's armed forces exclusive access to part of the southeast Asian nation's Ream Naval Base on the Gulf of Thailand were not in accordance with the facts, Wu added. "China and Cambodia have in the past carried out positive exchanges and cooperation on military drills, personnel training and logistics," he said. "This kind of cooperation does not target any third party." Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council said later in a statement that Beijing's "provocative behaviour ... seriously violated the peace principle in international laws and relations, challenging regional safety and order". "We urge Beijing authorities to renounce irrational, malicious acts such as the use of force, and to improve cross-strait relations and handle issues including Hong Kong rationally, so that it can be a responsible regional member," it said.

China warns of war in case of move towards Taiwan independence

India, in its attempt to strike a rapport with China, should not renege on her time-honoured stand on Dalai Lama.&nbsp;

Earlier, the NDA government had issued a note to senior officials, asking them not to attend events organised by the Tibetan government-in-exile. India has also supported the ‘One China’ policy, which states that Taiwan and Tibet are part of China’s mainland. Beijing made the ‘One-China’ policy a prerequisite for countries to establish diplomatic ties with it.

Chinese authorities have warned that Dalai Lama’s successor has to be decided within China and any ‘interference’ by India will impact bilateral ties. The Tibetan spiritual leader has taken China to task for raking up the issue of his successor, asserting that the subject would be decided by the people of Tibet.&nbsp;

By tagging its sensitivities on Dalai Lama as a perquisite for settlement of the border dispute with India, China runs the risk of overusing its Tibet card, which India must not lose sight of.

Though Nehru’s unwillingness to condemn China’s invasion of Tibet and the expulsion of Dalai Lama in the 1950s was a mistake, his decision to give refuge to the spiritual guru and the ruler of Tibetan Buddhists, in India in March 1959, cannot be faulted. &nbsp;

In the aftermath of the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1950, Nehru and his military advisors thought the Chinese takeover of Tibet could neither be resisted by India nor any other external power. India signed an agreement with China on Tibet in 1954, renouncing its inherited prerogatives and recognising Tibet as a ‘region of China’. The forfeiture of India’s rights in Tibet happened without China being made to recognise the Indian-claimed boundary.&nbsp;

Again, it was Atal Bihari Vajpayee in June 2003, who ceded Tibet to be ‘part of Chinese territory’ while trying to bargain Chinese recognition of Sikkim in exchange for Tibet.

The Uighurs have been condemned to a fate similar to the Tibetans, fighting Chinese domination for centuries, enjoying brief periods of independence twice during the twentieth century, facing threats from Han Chinese migration alongside rigours of “centrally” planned development policies besides being subject to newly- strengthened anti-terror measures.&nbsp;

All of this cannot be, and is not Western propaganda. Nehru signed the agreement in 1954, knowing fully well that Tibetans would be disappointed. In 1959, following a crackdown on an uprising by the local population in Tibet, the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, fled to India. Therefore, 2019 is the 60th year of the great event — incidentally when the Modi government’s policy of standing up to China is touted to be a sharp departure from Nehru’s China policy.&nbsp;

India, overly careful in assuaging Chinese sensitivities, must not concede further. If the fear to offend Beijing becomes an obsession, or India is seen to be too much in awe of China as has been the case for decades, it might be unfairly treated at international fora like the Organisation for Islamic Countries (OIC) that remains critical of India, but is wary of offending China.&nbsp;

With the succession issue of the Dalai Lama assuming importance, India would have to take a firm decision. The US Congress has made it clear that it would not recognise a Dalai Lama chosen by the Chinese government, nor does the current Dalai Lama believe anyone to trust the Chinese government’s choice.&nbsp;

The point is this: has India, which has seen Tibet as part of China for over five decades, made more concessions than it has received? No Indian government has ever sought to extend political support to the Dalai Lama, despite the tortuous contours of Sino-Indian relationship.&nbsp;

If China links Tibet and Dalai Lama to a settlement of the long-standing border dispute, it amounts to distrust of India’s position.&nbsp;

The succession of Dalai Lama is distinctly different from China’s claims to Tibet. If India lends support to a future Dalai Lama chosen by China, it would not only fritter away its time-honoured policy on Tibet, but the mistake of 1954 would also turn a full circle. &nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

India, in its attempt to strike a rapport with China, should not renege on her time-honoured stand on Dalai Lama. Earlier, the NDA government had issued a note to senior officials, asking them not to attend events organised by the Tibetan government-in-exile.

India, in its attempt to strike a rapport with China, should not renege on her time-honoured stand on Dalai Lama. Earlier, the NDA government had issued a note to senior officials, asking them not to attend events organised by the Tibetan government-in-exile. India has also supported the ‘One China’ policy, which states that Taiwan and Tibet are part of China’s mainland. Beijing made the ‘One-China’ policy a prerequisite for countries to establish diplomatic ties with it. Chinese authorities have warned that Dalai Lama’s successor has to be decided within China and any ‘interference’ by India will impact bilateral ties. The Tibetan spiritual leader has taken China to task for raking up the issue of his successor, asserting that the subject would be decided by the people of Tibet. By tagging its sensitivities on Dalai Lama as a perquisite for settlement of the border dispute with India, China runs the risk of overusing its Tibet card, which India must not lose sight of. Though Nehru’s unwillingness to condemn China’s invasion of Tibet and the expulsion of Dalai Lama in the 1950s was a mistake, his decision to give refuge to the spiritual guru and the ruler of Tibetan Buddhists, in India in March 1959, cannot be faulted. In the aftermath of the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1950, Nehru and his military advisors thought the Chinese takeover of Tibet could neither be resisted by India nor any other external power. India signed an agreement with China on Tibet in 1954, renouncing its inherited prerogatives and recognising Tibet as a ‘region of China’. The forfeiture of India’s rights in Tibet happened without China being made to recognise the Indian-claimed boundary. Again, it was Atal Bihari Vajpayee in June 2003, who ceded Tibet to be ‘part of Chinese territory’ while trying to bargain Chinese recognition of Sikkim in exchange for Tibet. The Uighurs have been condemned to a fate similar to the Tibetans, fighting Chinese domination for centuries, enjoying brief periods of independence twice during the twentieth century, facing threats from Han Chinese migration alongside rigours of “centrally” planned development policies besides being subject to newly- strengthened anti-terror measures. All of this cannot be, and is not Western propaganda. Nehru signed the agreement in 1954, knowing fully well that Tibetans would be disappointed. In 1959, following a crackdown on an uprising by the local population in Tibet, the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, fled to India. Therefore, 2019 is the 60th year of the great event — incidentally when the Modi government’s policy of standing up to China is touted to be a sharp departure from Nehru’s China policy. India, overly careful in assuaging Chinese sensitivities, must not concede further. If the fear to offend Beijing becomes an obsession, or India is seen to be too much in awe of China as has been the case for decades, it might be unfairly treated at international fora like the Organisation for Islamic Countries (OIC) that remains critical of India, but is wary of offending China. With the succession issue of the Dalai Lama assuming importance, India would have to take a firm decision. The US Congress has made it clear that it would not recognise a Dalai Lama chosen by the Chinese government, nor does the current Dalai Lama believe anyone to trust the Chinese government’s choice. The point is this: has India, which has seen Tibet as part of China for over five decades, made more concessions than it has received? No Indian government has ever sought to extend political support to the Dalai Lama, despite the tortuous contours of Sino-Indian relationship. If China links Tibet and Dalai Lama to a settlement of the long-standing border dispute, it amounts to distrust of India’s position. The succession of Dalai Lama is distinctly different from China’s claims to Tibet. If India lends support to a future Dalai Lama chosen by China, it would not only fritter away its time-honoured policy on Tibet, but the mistake of 1954 would also turn a full circle. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

India has to stand up to China on Dalai Lama’s succession

The Complicated & Turbulent Relationship Between China & Taiwan

Gravitas:Taiwan: a U.S-China Flashpoint

Gravitas: A David versus Goliath Battle: How the world sees Taiwan

China Holds Drills In Taiwan Strait As Tensions Escalate

Gravitas: China-Taiwan tensions remain high

China is flexing its muscles in South East Asia. Tensions are high in Taiwan after China mobilized some of its elite military forces. China is conducting exercises off the coast of Taiwan, according to a statement from the People's Liberation Army, soldiers from the navy and the airforce are involved. Watch this video to know more.

China holds drills in Taiwan Strait

Taiwan moved thousands of people to safety on Wednesday as the island braced for its first typhoon this year, as airlines cancelled domestic flights and authorities issued warnings about floods and high seas.

Typhoon Danas, categorised at the weakest typhoon level, was expected to hit the eastern county of Yilan late on Thursday. It was moving across the ocean in a northwesterly direction at 18 kph (11 mph), weather officials said.

More than 2,000 people were moved to safety, most of them tourists on islands off its east coast, authorities said.

Nearly two dozen domestic flights and ferry services were cancelled, while troops were put on standby in some areas amid fears of heavy rain, which can trigger landslides and flooding.

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 Taiwan in 2009, killing nearly 700 people, most of them in landslides.

Taiwan moved thousands of people to safety on Wednesday as the island braced for its first typhoon this year, as airlines cancelled domestic flights and authorities issued warnings about floods and high seas.

Taiwan moved thousands of people to safety on Wednesday as the island braced for its first typhoon this year, as airlines cancelled domestic flights and authorities issued warnings about floods and high seas. Typhoon Danas, categorised at the weakest typhoon level, was expected to hit the eastern county of Yilan late on Thursday. It was moving across the ocean in a northwesterly direction at 18 kph (11 mph), weather officials said. More than 2,000 people were moved to safety, most of them tourists on islands off its east coast, authorities said. Nearly two dozen domestic flights and ferry services were cancelled, while troops were put on standby in some areas amid fears of heavy rain, which can trigger landslides and flooding. 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 Taiwan in 2009, killing nearly 700 people, most of them in landslides.

Taiwan issues warnings for year's first typhoon as thousands evacuated

Will Taiwan Be Able To Stand Up To China?

Wion Edit: Is Taiwan a pawn in the U.S.-China power game?

No matter which way and from where – Washington, Beijing or Taipei – one looks at it, the 70-year-old off-now, on-again mating rites across the Taiwan Strait have decisively been militarised.&nbsp;

For decades, mainland China and its renegade province of Taiwan alternated between overtures towards unification and vowing eternal separation. The dubious romancing and distancing depended on whether the party ruling in Taiwan was inclined towards becoming a part of the mainland or asserting its independent identity. &nbsp;

Beijing for its part never made any secret of courting the political party that favoured unification, although all the noises have proved to be futile. Equally, it is futile for Taiwan to hold out the threat of fire and brimstone against Beijing. Not all the weapons it buys from the US can help Taiwan stand up to China’s military might.

Yet every now and then, invariably it is US sale of military equipment to Taiwan that triggers war-mongering across the Strait. &nbsp;Thus, less than a week after the US agreed to sell weapons worth $2.2 billion on the occasion of Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen’s visit to New York, China began breathing fire.

It talked of sanctions against US firms that sell military equipment to China and staged military exercises close to the Strait. Somewhat taken aback at the US, and Taiwan, resolutely standing their ground, China climbed down to say that its exercises were a “routine drill”.

That helps the US, which has already unleashed a trade war against China, to drive it deeper into a corner and step up the pressure. But, it is of little use to Taiwan which is a pawn in US military play when the pro-independence party rules; and, a potential mating object, when the pro-unification party holds the reins.

Any delusions of actual independence have no basis because it would be unsustainable in political, economic and military terms. Its assertions of independence, even when militarised, are useful as precisely that – assertions.

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

No matter which way and from where – Washington, Beijing or Taipei – one looks at it, the 70-year-old off-now, on-again mating rites across the Taiwan Strait have decisively been militarised.

No matter which way and from where – Washington, Beijing or Taipei – one looks at it, the 70-year-old off-now, on-again mating rites across the Taiwan Strait have decisively been militarised. For decades, mainland China and its renegade province of Taiwan alternated between overtures towards unification and vowing eternal separation. The dubious romancing and distancing depended on whether the party ruling in Taiwan was inclined towards becoming a part of the mainland or asserting its independent identity. Beijing for its part never made any secret of courting the political party that favoured unification, although all the noises have proved to be futile. Equally, it is futile for Taiwan to hold out the threat of fire and brimstone against Beijing. Not all the weapons it buys from the US can help Taiwan stand up to China’s military might. Yet every now and then, invariably it is US sale of military equipment to Taiwan that triggers war-mongering across the Strait. Thus, less than a week after the US agreed to sell weapons worth $2.2 billion on the occasion of Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen’s visit to New York, China began breathing fire. It talked of sanctions against US firms that sell military equipment to China and staged military exercises close to the Strait. Somewhat taken aback at the US, and Taiwan, resolutely standing their ground, China climbed down to say that its exercises were a “routine drill”. That helps the US, which has already unleashed a trade war against China, to drive it deeper into a corner and step up the pressure. But, it is of little use to Taiwan which is a pawn in US military play when the pro-independence party rules; and, a potential mating object, when the pro-unification party holds the reins. Any delusions of actual independence have no basis because it would be unsustainable in political, economic and military terms. Its assertions of independence, even when militarised, are useful as precisely that – assertions. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Mating rites across Taiwan Strait get weaponised

A populist mayor who favours closer ties with Beijing was announced as the presidential candidate for Taiwan's opposition on Monday as it looks to unseat <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fights-break-out-as-taiwans-president-tsai-visits-new-york-235282">President Tsai Ing-wen in upcoming elections</a>.

Han Kuo-yu won the primary for the opposition Kuomintang party, comfortably seeing off a challenge from Taiwan's richest man, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/populist-china-friendly-mayor-to-run-for-taiwan-president-226009">billionaire Foxconn founder Terry Gou</a>.

His victory sets up an unpredictable clash as Taiwan goes to the polls in January in a contest that will be dominated by relations with China.

Han, 62, has had a meteoric rise in the last two years, journeying from relative obscurity to becoming his party's presidential candidate in a phenomenon that has been dubbed the "Han tide".

Some have likened him to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-possible-22-billion-arms-sale-to-taiwan-amid-tension-with-china-234130">US President Donald Trump</a> and other populist leaders who hail from outside establishment circles and command a fervent voter base buoyed by lofty promises of resurrecting their fortunes.

Han won 45 percent of votes cast in the KMT's primary which polls members of the public by telephone compared with Gou's 28 percent, a major setback for a man who made his fortune assembling iPhones and other key electronic devices in huge factories on the Chinese mainland.

Han was a relative unknown until he seized the Kaohsiung mayoralty in local elections last year in a contest few thought he would win given the southern city had long been a heartland for Tsai's ruling Democratic Progressive Party.

He has been able to muster huge, enthusiastic crowds during his presidential bid, where he has vowed to restore warm ties with Beijing and kickstart the economy.

Relations with Beijing have soured since Tsai came to power three years ago because she and her party refuse to recognise the idea that Taiwan is part of "one China".&nbsp;

Since her election, Beijing has cut official communications, ramped up military exercises, poached diplomatic allies and ratcheted up economic pressure on the island.&nbsp;

Taiwan has been a de facto sovereign nation since the end of a civil war in 1949 but China still views it as its territory and has vowed to seize it, by force if necessary.

Tsai has described the 2020 presidential election as a "fight for freedom and democracy", setting herself up as someone who can defend Taiwan from an increasingly assertive Beijing.&nbsp;

Supporters see Han as a plain-talking maverick and political outsider who has shaken up the staid politics of the KMT but detractors are unnerved by his efforts promoting warmer China ties.

A populist mayor who favours closer ties with Beijing was announced as the presidential candidate for Taiwan's opposition on Monday as it looks to unseat President Tsai Ing-wen in upcoming elections.

A populist mayor who favours closer ties with Beijing was announced as the presidential candidate for Taiwan's opposition on Monday as it looks to unseat President Tsai Ing-wen in upcoming elections. Han Kuo-yu won the primary for the opposition Kuomintang party, comfortably seeing off a challenge from Taiwan's richest man, billionaire Foxconn founder Terry Gou. His victory sets up an unpredictable clash as Taiwan goes to the polls in January in a contest that will be dominated by relations with China. Han, 62, has had a meteoric rise in the last two years, journeying from relative obscurity to becoming his party's presidential candidate in a phenomenon that has been dubbed the "Han tide". Some have likened him to US President Donald Trump and other populist leaders who hail from outside establishment circles and command a fervent voter base buoyed by lofty promises of resurrecting their fortunes. Han won 45 percent of votes cast in the KMT's primary which polls members of the public by telephone compared with Gou's 28 percent, a major setback for a man who made his fortune assembling iPhones and other key electronic devices in huge factories on the Chinese mainland. Han was a relative unknown until he seized the Kaohsiung mayoralty in local elections last year in a contest few thought he would win given the southern city had long been a heartland for Tsai's ruling Democratic Progressive Party. He has been able to muster huge, enthusiastic crowds during his presidential bid, where he has vowed to restore warm ties with Beijing and kickstart the economy. Relations with Beijing have soured since Tsai came to power three years ago because she and her party refuse to recognise the idea that Taiwan is part of "one China". Since her election, Beijing has cut official communications, ramped up military exercises, poached diplomatic allies and ratcheted up economic pressure on the island. Taiwan has been a de facto sovereign nation since the end of a civil war in 1949 but China still views it as its territory and has vowed to seize it, by force if necessary. Tsai has described the 2020 presidential election as a "fight for freedom and democracy", setting herself up as someone who can defend Taiwan from an increasingly assertive Beijing. Supporters see Han as a plain-talking maverick and political outsider who has shaken up the staid politics of the KMT but detractors are unnerved by his efforts promoting warmer China ties.

Populist pro-China mayor to face Tsai Ing-wen in Taiwan presidential clash

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday urged the United States to correctly handle the Taiwan-related issues, and not "play with fire." Watch this video to know more.

China's stern warning to US over Taiwan

China on Friday said it would impose sanctions on US companies involved in a potential arms sale worth $2.2 billion to self-ruled Taiwan - a move that has infuriated Beijing.&nbsp;

"The US arms sale to Taiwan has severely violated the basic norms of international law and international relations," said Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang in an online statement.

"In order to safeguard national interests, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-the-us-should-not-play-with-fire-on-taiwan-235313&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjZuOOQuq_jAhVFQd4KHc2RApsQFjADegQICxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2sOn1souC3kVjZYjjWTGWm">China</a> will impose sanctions on US enterprises participating in this sale of weapons to Taiwan," he said.

The planned weapons sale, the first transfer of big-ticket United States military gear to democratically-governed Taiwan in decades, comes as ties between Washington and Beijing are already strained by their trade war.

China views Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to one day seize it, by force if necessary.

It bristles at any country that might lend Taiwan diplomatic support or legitimacy.

Earlier this week, the Chinese foreign ministry said Beijing had lodged formal complaints through diplomatic channels expressing "strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition" at the potential weapons sale, which includes battle tanks and anti-aircraft missiles.

China on Tuesday had also demanded that the US "immediately cancel" the $2.2 billion potential arms sale.

The US later shrugged off China's complaints, responding that the equipment would contribute to "peace and stability" in Asia.

'Playing with fire'&nbsp;

With the US currently engaged in a trade war with China, relations between Taipei and Washington have warmed considerably.&nbsp;

Unlike the last three American presidents, who were wary of angering Beijing, Donald Trump has ramped up relations with Taiwan.&nbsp;

And although Washington switched diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing in 1979, it has remained Taiwan's most powerful unofficial ally and biggest arms supplier.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday warned Washington "not to play with fire with the Taiwan question" during a visit to Hungary.

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen is spending two days in the US this week ahead of a trip to visit diplomatic allies in the Caribbean.

The decision to let Tsai pass through the US has drawn ire from Beijing, which voiced "firm" opposition to official exchanges between Washington and Taipei.

Separately, foreign ministry spokesman Geng told a press briefing Friday that the US should not provide a platform for "Taiwan independence separatist forces".&nbsp;

"We urge the US... to not let Tsai Ing-wen pass through its territory," said Geng.

After her US trip, Tsai will visit Haiti, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Lucia, and St Christopher and Nevis, in an attempt to shore up support for Taiwan.

China has poached five of Taipei's dwindling number of allies since Tsai became president in 2016.

China on Friday said it would impose sanctions on US companies involved in a potential arms sale worth $2.2 billion to self-ruled Taiwan - a move that has infuriated Beijing.

China on Friday said it would impose sanctions on US companies involved in a potential arms sale worth $2.2 billion to self-ruled Taiwan - a move that has infuriated Beijing. "The US arms sale to Taiwan has severely violated the basic norms of international law and international relations," said Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang in an online statement. "In order to safeguard national interests, China will impose sanctions on US enterprises participating in this sale of weapons to Taiwan," he said. The planned weapons sale, the first transfer of big-ticket United States military gear to democratically-governed Taiwan in decades, comes as ties between Washington and Beijing are already strained by their trade war. China views Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to one day seize it, by force if necessary. It bristles at any country that might lend Taiwan diplomatic support or legitimacy. Earlier this week, the Chinese foreign ministry said Beijing had lodged formal complaints through diplomatic channels expressing "strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition" at the potential weapons sale, which includes battle tanks and anti-aircraft missiles. China on Tuesday had also demanded that the US "immediately cancel" the $2.2 billion potential arms sale. The US later shrugged off China's complaints, responding that the equipment would contribute to "peace and stability" in Asia. 'Playing with fire' With the US currently engaged in a trade war with China, relations between Taipei and Washington have warmed considerably. Unlike the last three American presidents, who were wary of angering Beijing, Donald Trump has ramped up relations with Taiwan. And although Washington switched diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing in 1979, it has remained Taiwan's most powerful unofficial ally and biggest arms supplier. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday warned Washington "not to play with fire with the Taiwan question" during a visit to Hungary. Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen is spending two days in the US this week ahead of a trip to visit diplomatic allies in the Caribbean. The decision to let Tsai pass through the US has drawn ire from Beijing, which voiced "firm" opposition to official exchanges between Washington and Taipei. Separately, foreign ministry spokesman Geng told a press briefing Friday that the US should not provide a platform for "Taiwan independence separatist forces". "We urge the US... to not let Tsai Ing-wen pass through its territory," said Geng. After her US trip, Tsai will visit Haiti, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Lucia, and St Christopher and Nevis, in an attempt to shore up support for Taiwan. China has poached five of Taipei's dwindling number of allies since Tsai became president in 2016.

China to impose sanctions on US firms in Taiwan arms sale

China's top diplomat Wang Yi warned the United States on Friday that it should "not play with fire" on the question of Taiwan, expressing anger about a planned US arms sale.

During a visit to Hungary, Wang said that no foreign force could stop the reunification of China and no foreign force should try to intervene.

The US State Department has approved the possible sale to Taiwan of M1A2T Abrams tanks, Stinger missiles and related equipment at an estimated value of $2.2 billion, the Pentagon said on Monday, despite Chinese criticism of the deal.

China claims self-ruled and democratic Taiwan as its own and views it as a wayward province.

"We urge the US to fully recognise the gravity of the Taiwan question ... (and) not to play with fire on the question of Taiwan," Wang told a news conference via an interpreter.

China's top diplomat Wang Yi warned the United States on Friday that it should "not play with fire" on the question of Taiwan, expressing anger about a planned US arms sale.

China's top diplomat Wang Yi warned the United States on Friday that it should "not play with fire" on the question of Taiwan, expressing anger about a planned US arms sale. During a visit to Hungary, Wang said that no foreign force could stop the reunification of China and no foreign force should try to intervene. The US State Department has approved the possible sale to Taiwan of M1A2T Abrams tanks, Stinger missiles and related equipment at an estimated value of $2.2 billion, the Pentagon said on Monday, despite Chinese criticism of the deal. China claims self-ruled and democratic Taiwan as its own and views it as a wayward province. "We urge the US to fully recognise the gravity of the Taiwan question ... (and) not to play with fire on the question of Taiwan," Wang told a news conference via an interpreter.

China says the US should 'not play with fire' on Taiwan amid Tsai Ing-wen's New York visit

Police in New York had to break up fights between supporters and opponents of Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen on Thursday during a visit to the United States which infuriated Beijing.

Taiwanese media broadcast footage of the clashes outside the Grand Hyatt, where Tsai is staying during her two-day US trip.

Opponents of Tsai -- many waving Chinese flags -- chanted slogans and fought with supporters, while one man was seen being detained and handcuffed by police.

Tsai is spending two days in New York ahead of a visit to diplomatic allies in the Caribbean.

Normally the head of a state passing through American soil would not spark controversy but Taiwan has long found itself in a precarious and unusual diplomatic situation.

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The democratic island has ruled itself for seven decades but most countries do not recognize it -- including the United States, which switched diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing in 1979.&nbsp;

Yet Washington remains its most powerful unofficial ally and biggest arms supplier.&nbsp;

China sees Taiwan as part of its own territory and has vowed to one day seize it, by force if necessary.

It bristles at any countries that might lend Taiwan diplomatic support or legitimacy.

"China is firmly opposed to official exchanges between the US and Taiwan," said Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang at a press briefing on Friday.

"We urge the US... to not let Tsai Ing-wen pass through its territory," he said, adding that the US should not provide a platform for "Taiwan independence separatist forces."&nbsp;

With the US currently engaged in a trade war with China, relations between Taipei and Washington have warmed considerably.&nbsp;

Unlike the last three American presidents, who were wary of angering Beijing, Donald Trump has <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/military-ties-with-taiwan-meant-to-promote-peace-across-the-strait-us-234484">ramped up relations</a> with Taiwan.&nbsp;

Last week the State Department approved $2.2 billion arms sale to Taiwan, including battle tanks and anti-aircraft missiles, the first big-ticket military deal for the island in years.

Tsai transited through the US during a trip to the Pacific earlier this year, as well as last year's visit to Paraguay and Belize, both prompting official Chinese protests.

"Taiwan will not succumb to intimidation," her office said in a statement released as the US visit kicked off, without specifically mentioning China.&nbsp;

"All difficulties will only strengthen our determination to go out to the international community."

On Thursday evening Tsai met with envoys from the 17 remaining countries that still recognize Taiwan.

She will attend a business forum on Friday and meet students on Saturday morning before heading to the Caribbean.&nbsp;

Tsai will visit Haiti, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Lucia, and St Kitts and Nevis, which all recognize Taiwan.

China has poached five of Taipei's dwindling number of allies since Tsai became president in 2016.

Haiti has vowed to maintain ties with Taipei despite neighbouring Dominican Republic establishing relations with China last year.

Taiwan pledged a $150 million development loan to Haiti, while Beijing reportedly offered the Dominican Republic investments and loans to the tune of $3 billion.

Police in New York had to break up fights between supporters and opponents of Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen on Thursday during a visit to the United States which infuriated Beijing.

Police in New York had to break up fights between supporters and opponents of Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen on Thursday during a visit to the United States which infuriated Beijing. Taiwanese media broadcast footage of the clashes outside the Grand Hyatt, where Tsai is staying during her two-day US trip. Opponents of Tsai -- many waving Chinese flags -- chanted slogans and fought with supporters, while one man was seen being detained and handcuffed by police. Tsai is spending two days in New York ahead of a visit to diplomatic allies in the Caribbean. Normally the head of a state passing through American soil would not spark controversy but Taiwan has long found itself in a precarious and unusual diplomatic situation. × The democratic island has ruled itself for seven decades but most countries do not recognize it -- including the United States, which switched diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing in 1979. Yet Washington remains its most powerful unofficial ally and biggest arms supplier. China sees Taiwan as part of its own territory and has vowed to one day seize it, by force if necessary. It bristles at any countries that might lend Taiwan diplomatic support or legitimacy. "China is firmly opposed to official exchanges between the US and Taiwan," said Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang at a press briefing on Friday. "We urge the US... to not let Tsai Ing-wen pass through its territory," he said, adding that the US should not provide a platform for "Taiwan independence separatist forces." With the US currently engaged in a trade war with China, relations between Taipei and Washington have warmed considerably. Unlike the last three American presidents, who were wary of angering Beijing, Donald Trump has ramped up relations with Taiwan. Last week the State Department approved $2.2 billion arms sale to Taiwan, including battle tanks and anti-aircraft missiles, the first big-ticket military deal for the island in years. Tsai transited through the US during a trip to the Pacific earlier this year, as well as last year's visit to Paraguay and Belize, both prompting official Chinese protests. "Taiwan will not succumb to intimidation," her office said in a statement released as the US visit kicked off, without specifically mentioning China. "All difficulties will only strengthen our determination to go out to the international community." On Thursday evening Tsai met with envoys from the 17 remaining countries that still recognize Taiwan. She will attend a business forum on Friday and meet students on Saturday morning before heading to the Caribbean. Tsai will visit Haiti, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Lucia, and St Kitts and Nevis, which all recognize Taiwan. China has poached five of Taipei's dwindling number of allies since Tsai became president in 2016. Haiti has vowed to maintain ties with Taipei despite neighbouring Dominican Republic establishing relations with China last year. Taiwan pledged a $150 million development loan to Haiti, while Beijing reportedly offered the Dominican Republic investments and loans to the tune of $3 billion.

Fights break out as Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen visits New York

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen left for the United States on Thursday on a trip that has angered Beijing, warning democracy must be defended and the island faced threats from “overseas forces”, in a veiled reference to China.

Taiwan president leaves for US, warns of threat from 'overseas forces'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dawoods-safe-haven-declines-to-even-acknowledge-his-existence-which-is-a-real-and-present-danger-to-us-india-at-un-234487">Dawood's 'safe haven' declines to even acknowledge his existence which is a real and present danger to us: India at UN</a> 
 
He said that the success achieved in denuding ISIL shows that the Council's focussed attention yield results and the same approach must be applied to address threats posed by the D company, Dawood Ibrahim and other proscribed entities.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/military-ties-with-taiwan-meant-to-promote-peace-across-the-strait-us-234484">Military ties with Taiwan meant to promote peace across the strait: US</a> 
 
The deal includes 108 M1A2T Abrams tanks, 250 Stinger portable anti-aircraft missiles, related equipment and support at an estimated cost of just over $2.2 billion.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-watchdog-proposes-to-fine-marriott-124-million-over-data-breach-234489">UK watchdog proposes to fine Marriott $124 million over data breach</a> 
 
The hack began in 2014, a year before Marriott offered to buy Starwood to create the world's largest hotel operator. The $13.6 billion deal closed in September 2016.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/nicki-minaj-cancels-saudi-arabia-concert-over-womens-rights-concerns-234488">Nicki Minaj cancels Saudi Arabia concert over women's rights concerns</a> 
 
'After careful reflection I have decided to no longer move forward with my scheduled concert at Jeddah World Fest,' Minaj said in a statement.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-news-anchor-shot-dead-outside-karachi-cafe-234491">Pakistan news anchor shot dead outside Karachi cafe</a> 
 
Police said that an assailant identified as Atif Zaman opened fire at the journalist from a white-coloured car, according to Pak media.

Dawood's 'safe haven' declines to even acknowledge his existence which is a real and present danger to us: India at UN He said that the success achieved in denuding ISIL shows that the Council's focussed attention yield results and the same approach must be applied to address threats posed by the D company, Dawood Ibrahim and other proscribed entities.

Dawood's 'safe haven' declines to even acknowledge his existence which is a real and present danger to us: India at UN He said that the success achieved in denuding ISIL shows that the Council's focussed attention yield results and the same approach must be applied to address threats posed by the D company, Dawood Ibrahim and other proscribed entities. Military ties with Taiwan meant to promote peace across the strait: US The deal includes 108 M1A2T Abrams tanks, 250 Stinger portable anti-aircraft missiles, related equipment and support at an estimated cost of just over $2.2 billion. UK watchdog proposes to fine Marriott $124 million over data breach The hack began in 2014, a year before Marriott offered to buy Starwood to create the world's largest hotel operator. The $13.6 billion deal closed in September 2016. Nicki Minaj cancels Saudi Arabia concert over women's rights concerns 'After careful reflection I have decided to no longer move forward with my scheduled concert at Jeddah World Fest,' Minaj said in a statement. Pakistan news anchor shot dead outside Karachi cafe Police said that an assailant identified as Atif Zaman opened fire at the journalist from a white-coloured car, according to Pak media.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Beijing has demanded the United States reverse its approval of the biggest arms sale to Taiwan since Donald Trump took over as US president, while Taipei said it showed Washington’s support in the face of growing military threats from mainland China.

China irked by US-Taiwan arms deal

The US State Department has approved the possible sale to Taiwan of M1A2T Abrams tanks, Stinger missiles and related equipment at an estimated value of $2.2 billion, the Pentagon said on Monday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-jab-at-united-states-china-vice-president-wang-qishan-says-world-cannot-shut-china-out-233914">despite Chinese criticism of the deal</a>.

China's Foreign Ministry said last month when the possible sale was first reported that it was seriously concerned about US arms sales to self-ruled Taiwan, and it urged the United States to halt the sales to avoid harming bilateral ties.

The sale of the weapons requested by Taiwan, including 108 General Dynamics Corp Abrams tanks and 250 Stinger missiles, would not alter the basic military balance in the region, the Pentagon's Defence Security Cooperation Agency said in a statement.

DSCA notified Congress on Monday of the possible arms sale, which it said could also include mounted machine guns, ammunition, Hercules armoured vehicles for recovering inoperative tanks, heavy equipment transporters and related support.

Reuters reported last month that an informal notification of the proposed sale had been sent to the US Congress.

The United States is the main arms supplier to Taiwan, which China deems a renegade province. Beijing has never renounced the use of force to bring the island under its control.

G20 Summit Day 2: US-China Bilateral

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Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said in March that Washington was responding positively to Taipei's requests for new arms sales to bolster its defences in the face of pressure from China. The United States has no formal ties with Taiwan but is bound by law to help provide it with the means to defend itself.

Taiwan's Defence Ministry confirmed it had requested those weapons and that the request was proceeding normally.

The US commitment to providing Taiwan with the weapons to defend itself helps Taipei's military raise its combat abilities, consolidates the Taiwan-US security partnership and ensures Taiwan's security, the ministry said last month in a statement.

The US State Department has approved the possible sale to Taiwan of M1A2T Abrams tanks, Stinger missiles and related equipment at an estimated value of $2.2 billion, the Pentagon said on Monday, despite Chinese criticism of the deal.

The US State Department has approved the possible sale to Taiwan of M1A2T Abrams tanks, Stinger missiles and related equipment at an estimated value of $2.2 billion, the Pentagon said on Monday, despite Chinese criticism of the deal. China's Foreign Ministry said last month when the possible sale was first reported that it was seriously concerned about US arms sales to self-ruled Taiwan, and it urged the United States to halt the sales to avoid harming bilateral ties. The sale of the weapons requested by Taiwan, including 108 General Dynamics Corp Abrams tanks and 250 Stinger missiles, would not alter the basic military balance in the region, the Pentagon's Defence Security Cooperation Agency said in a statement. DSCA notified Congress on Monday of the possible arms sale, which it said could also include mounted machine guns, ammunition, Hercules armoured vehicles for recovering inoperative tanks, heavy equipment transporters and related support. Reuters reported last month that an informal notification of the proposed sale had been sent to the US Congress. The United States is the main arms supplier to Taiwan, which China deems a renegade province. Beijing has never renounced the use of force to bring the island under its control. G20 Summit Day 2: US-China Bilateral Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said in March that Washington was responding positively to Taipei's requests for new arms sales to bolster its defences in the face of pressure from China. The United States has no formal ties with Taiwan but is bound by law to help provide it with the means to defend itself. Taiwan's Defence Ministry confirmed it had requested those weapons and that the request was proceeding normally. The US commitment to providing Taiwan with the weapons to defend itself helps Taipei's military raise its combat abilities, consolidates the Taiwan-US security partnership and ensures Taiwan's security, the ministry said last month in a statement.

US approves possible $2.2 billion arms sale to Taiwan amid tension with China

Why China is afraid of US Abrams tanks to be delivered to Taiwan

China urged Washington on Tuesday to "immediately cancel" the potential sale of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-possible-22-billion-arms-sale-to-taiwan-amid-tension-with-china-234130"> $2.2 billion in weapons to Taiwan</a>, including battle tanks and anti-aircraft missiles.

"The sale of weapons by the United States to Taiwan... seriously violates the one-China principle... grossly interferes in China's internal affairs and undermines China's sovereignty and security interests," said foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang.

On Monday, the US State Department had approved the potential sale to Taiwan of $2.2 billion in arms, including battle tanks and anti-aircraft missiles.

The deal includes 108 M1A2T Abrams tanks, 250 Stinger portable anti-aircraft missiles, related equipment and support at an estimated cost of just over $2.2 billion, according to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).

The proposed sale "will contribute to the modernization of the recipient's main battle tank fleet", improve its air defence system and "support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security and defensive capability (of Taiwan)," DSCA said.

Beijing had earlier made clear its opposition to the possible sale earlier this month, stressing the "extremely sensitive and damaging nature" of arms sales to Taiwan.

China has significantly stepped up diplomatic and military pressure on Taipei since the election in 2016 of President Tsai Ing-wen, whose Democratic Progressive Party refuses to acknowledge that the island is part of "One China".

It has staged military exercises near the island, and steadily reduced the already small number of nations that recognize Taiwan.

The United States switched diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China in 1979, but has remained an important ally - and arms supplier - to Taipei. Laws passed that year by Congress required Washington to provide the island with means of self-defence. 
&nbsp;

China urged Washington on Tuesday to "immediately cancel" the potential sale of $2.2 billion in weapons to Taiwan, including battle tanks and anti-aircraft missiles.

China urged Washington on Tuesday to "immediately cancel" the potential sale of $2.2 billion in weapons to Taiwan, including battle tanks and anti-aircraft missiles. "The sale of weapons by the United States to Taiwan... seriously violates the one-China principle... grossly interferes in China's internal affairs and undermines China's sovereignty and security interests," said foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang. On Monday, the US State Department had approved the potential sale to Taiwan of $2.2 billion in arms, including battle tanks and anti-aircraft missiles. The deal includes 108 M1A2T Abrams tanks, 250 Stinger portable anti-aircraft missiles, related equipment and support at an estimated cost of just over $2.2 billion, according to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA). The proposed sale "will contribute to the modernization of the recipient's main battle tank fleet", improve its air defence system and "support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security and defensive capability (of Taiwan)," DSCA said. Beijing had earlier made clear its opposition to the possible sale earlier this month, stressing the "extremely sensitive and damaging nature" of arms sales to Taiwan. China has significantly stepped up diplomatic and military pressure on Taipei since the election in 2016 of President Tsai Ing-wen, whose Democratic Progressive Party refuses to acknowledge that the island is part of "One China". It has staged military exercises near the island, and steadily reduced the already small number of nations that recognize Taiwan. The United States switched diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China in 1979, but has remained an important ally - and arms supplier - to Taipei. Laws passed that year by Congress required Washington to provide the island with means of self-defence.

Sale of weapons to Taiwan violates one-China policy, cancel it immediately: China to US

Taiwan rejects China's one country-two systems formula. Watch our report to know more.

Taiwan trains guns on Xi Jinping, rejects one country-two systems formula

The Pentagon said on Tuesday a recent Chinese missile launch in the disputed South China Sea was "disturbing" and contrary to Chinese pledges that it would not militarise the disputed waterway.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warship-sails-in-disputed-south-china-sea-amid-trade-tensions-220018">South China Sea</a> is one of a growing number of flashpoints in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/us-china-trade-war-points-to-the-real-crisis-that-global-leaders-must-confront-at-g20-summit-231112">US-China relationship</a>, which include a trade war, US sanctions and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/decoding-report-which-raises-concerns-over-china-attacking-taiwan-190996">Taiwan</a>.

China and the United States have repeatedly traded barbs in the past over what Washington says is Beijing's militarization of the South China Sea by building military installations on artificial islands and reefs.

A US official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said China tested multiple anti-ship ballistic missiles over the weekend.

"Of course the Pentagon was aware of the Chinese missile launch from the man-made structures in the South China Sea near the Spratly Islands," Pentagon spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Dave Eastburn said.

"I'm not going to speak on behalf of all the sovereign nations in the region, but I'm sure they agree that the PRC's behaviour is contrary to its claim to want to bring peace to the region and obviously actions like this are coercive acts meant to intimidate other (South China Sea) claimants," Eastburn added. PRC is an acronym for the People's Republic of China.

China has not confirmed the missile tests and on Tuesday the foreign ministry declined to comment, referring questions to the defence ministry, which did not respond to a request for comment.

The Chinese government has said that the military was carrying out drills between the Spratly and Paracel Islands starting last weekend and ending on Wednesday, warning other shipping not to enter a designated area.

China's claims in the South China Sea, through which about $5 trillion in ship-borne trade passes each year, are contested by Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam.

News of the China missile test was first reported by NBC News.

The Pentagon said on Tuesday a recent Chinese missile launch in the disputed South China Sea was "disturbing" and contrary to Chinese pledges that it would not militarise the disputed waterway.

The Pentagon said on Tuesday a recent Chinese missile launch in the disputed South China Sea was "disturbing" and contrary to Chinese pledges that it would not militarise the disputed waterway. The South China Sea is one of a growing number of flashpoints in the US-China relationship, which include a trade war, US sanctions and Taiwan. China and the United States have repeatedly traded barbs in the past over what Washington says is Beijing's militarization of the South China Sea by building military installations on artificial islands and reefs. A US official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said China tested multiple anti-ship ballistic missiles over the weekend. "Of course the Pentagon was aware of the Chinese missile launch from the man-made structures in the South China Sea near the Spratly Islands," Pentagon spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Dave Eastburn said. "I'm not going to speak on behalf of all the sovereign nations in the region, but I'm sure they agree that the PRC's behaviour is contrary to its claim to want to bring peace to the region and obviously actions like this are coercive acts meant to intimidate other (South China Sea) claimants," Eastburn added. PRC is an acronym for the People's Republic of China. China has not confirmed the missile tests and on Tuesday the foreign ministry declined to comment, referring questions to the defence ministry, which did not respond to a request for comment. The Chinese government has said that the military was carrying out drills between the Spratly and Paracel Islands starting last weekend and ending on Wednesday, warning other shipping not to enter a designated area. China's claims in the South China Sea, through which about $5 trillion in ship-borne trade passes each year, are contested by Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam. News of the China missile test was first reported by NBC News.

China's missile test in South China Sea 'disturbing': Pentagon

The largest and the most arduous election in India has accomplished with great success. On behalf of the government and people of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I wish to extend our hearty congratulations to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Hon. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the landslide victory in the recently concluded 17th Lok Sahba elect

Taiwan Envoy exclusively speaks to WION, urges India to support democracy

&nbsp;Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen on Thursday won the ruling party's hotly contested nomination for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foxconns-gou-throws-hat-in-ring-for-taiwan-presidency-with-blessing-of-sea-goddess-211180">2020 presidential election</a> in a boost to her administration, which suffered a poll defeat amid rising threats from China.

Tsai beat her former premier, William Lai, in a national tally for the party's primary race, Cho Jung-Tai, chairman of the independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party, told reporters.

"We have come up with the strongest candidate for the Taiwanese people," Cho said, urging the party to unite after the months-long race marked by heated exchanges between Tsai's administration and the former premier.

Tsai's administration suffered a defeat in local elections late last year amid mounting criticism over the party's reform agenda and rising pressure from China, prompting Lai's resignation as premier.

The self-ruled island is set to hold its presidential election in January, amid heightened tension with China, which considers it a wayward province and has never ruled out the use of force to return it to the fold.

The race for the presidency has grabbed headlines since Terry Gou, the billionaire chairman of Apple supplier Foxconn, said he will seek the nomination for the China-friendly opposition Kuomintang (KMT) party.

KMT is scheduled to choose its candidate in July.

China has been ramping up military and diplomatic pressure to assert its sovereignty over the island, conducting drills near Taiwan and snatching its few remaining diplomatic allies, moves Taipei denounced as intimidation.

Taiwan is one of a growing number of flashpoints in the relationship between Beijing and Washington, which is Taiwan's main source of arms

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen on Thursday won the ruling party's hotly contested nomination for the 2020 presidential election in a boost to her administration, which suffered a poll defeat amid rising threats from China.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen on Thursday won the ruling party's hotly contested nomination for the 2020 presidential election in a boost to her administration, which suffered a poll defeat amid rising threats from China. Tsai beat her former premier, William Lai, in a national tally for the party's primary race, Cho Jung-Tai, chairman of the independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party, told reporters. "We have come up with the strongest candidate for the Taiwanese people," Cho said, urging the party to unite after the months-long race marked by heated exchanges between Tsai's administration and the former premier. Tsai's administration suffered a defeat in local elections late last year amid mounting criticism over the party's reform agenda and rising pressure from China, prompting Lai's resignation as premier. The self-ruled island is set to hold its presidential election in January, amid heightened tension with China, which considers it a wayward province and has never ruled out the use of force to return it to the fold. The race for the presidency has grabbed headlines since Terry Gou, the billionaire chairman of Apple supplier Foxconn, said he will seek the nomination for the China-friendly opposition Kuomintang (KMT) party. KMT is scheduled to choose its candidate in July. China has been ramping up military and diplomatic pressure to assert its sovereignty over the island, conducting drills near Taiwan and snatching its few remaining diplomatic allies, moves Taipei denounced as intimidation. Taiwan is one of a growing number of flashpoints in the relationship between Beijing and Washington, which is Taiwan's main source of arms

Taiwan president wins ruling party's nomination for 2020 election

The United States` actions on Taiwan and the South China Sea are hardly conducive to maintaining stability in the region, a senior Chinese military official said on Saturday, responding to comments by acting US Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-raises-tariffs-on-us-goods-amid-esclating-tensions-223347">China raises tariffs on US goods amid esclating tensions</a>

"He (Shanahan) has been expressing inaccurate views and repeating old tunes about the issues of Taiwan and the South China Sea," Shao Yuanming, a senior official of the People`s Liberation Army, told reporters after Shanahan`s speech.

"This is harming regional peace and stability."

Shao added that China would defend its sovereignty at any cost should anyone try to separate Taiwan from its territory. It views the self-ruled island as a wayward province and has not ruled out the use of force to return it to the fold.

"China will have to be reunified," Shao said. "If anybody wants to separate Taiwan from China, the Chinese military will protect the country`s sovereignty at all costs."

China translates the Chinese word "tong yi" as "reunification", but it can also be translated as "unification", a term in English preferred by Taiwan independence supporters who say the Communist government has never ruled the island, so it cannot be "reunified".&nbsp;

Earlier, Shanahan told delegates at a defence forum in Singapore that the United States would no longer "tiptoe" around Chinese behaviour in Asia, with stability in the region at threat on issues ranging from the South China Sea to Taiwan.

Shanahan did not directly name China when he spoke of "actors" destabilising the region, but went on to say the United States would not ignore Chinese behaviour. 
However, Shao responded by saying it was the United States that was destabilising the region with its recent actions.

In May, a US&nbsp;warship sailed near the disputed Scarborough Shoal claimed by China in the South China Sea, angering Beijing at a time of tension over trade between the world`s two biggest economies.

The United States` actions on Taiwan and the South China Sea are hardly conducive to maintaining stability in the region, a senior Chinese military official said on Saturday, responding to comments by acting US Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan.

The United States` actions on Taiwan and the South China Sea are hardly conducive to maintaining stability in the region, a senior Chinese military official said on Saturday, responding to comments by acting US Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan. Also read: China raises tariffs on US goods amid esclating tensions "He (Shanahan) has been expressing inaccurate views and repeating old tunes about the issues of Taiwan and the South China Sea," Shao Yuanming, a senior official of the People`s Liberation Army, told reporters after Shanahan`s speech. "This is harming regional peace and stability." Shao added that China would defend its sovereignty at any cost should anyone try to separate Taiwan from its territory. It views the self-ruled island as a wayward province and has not ruled out the use of force to return it to the fold. "China will have to be reunified," Shao said. "If anybody wants to separate Taiwan from China, the Chinese military will protect the country`s sovereignty at all costs." China translates the Chinese word "tong yi" as "reunification", but it can also be translated as "unification", a term in English preferred by Taiwan independence supporters who say the Communist government has never ruled the island, so it cannot be "reunified". Earlier, Shanahan told delegates at a defence forum in Singapore that the United States would no longer "tiptoe" around Chinese behaviour in Asia, with stability in the region at threat on issues ranging from the South China Sea to Taiwan. Shanahan did not directly name China when he spoke of "actors" destabilising the region, but went on to say the United States would not ignore Chinese behaviour. However, Shao responded by saying it was the United States that was destabilising the region with its recent actions. In May, a US warship sailed near the disputed Scarborough Shoal claimed by China in the South China Sea, angering Beijing at a time of tension over trade between the world`s two biggest economies.

China says US actions on Taiwan, South China Sea threaten stability

Shots of Taiwan exhibiting its military might will enthrall you

The United States is "playing with fire" with its support for self-ruled Taiwan, China said on Thursday, in angry comments ahead of a meeting between Defence Minister Wei Fenghe and acting US Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan.

The two countries, locked in an escalating trade war, are also at odds over a series of strategic issues, from the disputed South China Sea to democratic Taiwan, claimed by China as its sacred territory, to be taken by force if needed.

Wei and Shanahan - who on his first day as acting defence secretary in January said the US military would focus on "China, China, China" - are both attending the annual Shangri-La defence forum in Singapore which begins on Friday, where they are expected to meet.

China has been particularly incensed by recent U.S. Navy patrols in the Taiwan Strait, US&nbsp;legislation in support of Taiwan and a meeting between Taiwan`s national security chief David Lee and White House national security adviser John Bolton.

Speaking at a regular monthly news briefing, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Wu Qian described military ties between Beijing and Washington as generally good.&nbsp;

But he took a much darker tone when asked about US support for Taiwan, an issue China has long described as the most sensitive in relations between the two countries.

"Recently, the US sides has been continually playing the `Taiwan card`, trying in futile to `use Taiwan to control China`. This is deluded," Wu said.

"The series of actions the US side has taken is playing with fire, seriously harms the development of military relations between China and the United States, and seriously harms peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait area."

Taiwan`s air, sea and land forces conducted an exercise to repel an invading force on Thursday, as its defence minister pledged to defend the island against what it sees as China`s rising military threat.

Washington has no formal ties with Taipei, but is its most important international supporter and main supplier of arms.

A senior US&nbsp;defence official said the fact that Shanahan was going to the Shangri-la dialogue during a period of tension with Iran was a sign that the United States was committed to the region and its allies.&nbsp;

During a meeting with Wei, Shanahan is expected to bring up better communication between the two militaries to avoid the risk of miscalculation, the US official said.

While Wei will likely tackle the Sino-US trade dispute and the hardening Trump administration approaches to Taiwan and the South China Sea, Asian states will be looking for calming messages, according to security experts and regional diplomats.&nbsp;

"Regional countries will be expecting reassurances that China`s intentions are in fact peaceful given its growing military might," said Singapore-based regional security analyst Ian Storey. Storey, of Singapore`s ISEAS Yusof Ishak Institute, said Wei must also speak to his domestic constituents, given the fact his address and a rare question-and-answer session are expected to be shown prominently in China.

"In the current environment maybe they won`t want him to be too accommodating. He can be expected to blame the US&nbsp;for growing tensions in the South China Sea and there is no way he is going to admit that China is part of the problem."

The United States is "playing with fire" with its support for self-ruled Taiwan, China said on Thursday, in angry comments ahead of a meeting between Defence Minister Wei Fenghe and acting US Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan.

The United States is "playing with fire" with its support for self-ruled Taiwan, China said on Thursday, in angry comments ahead of a meeting between Defence Minister Wei Fenghe and acting US Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan. The two countries, locked in an escalating trade war, are also at odds over a series of strategic issues, from the disputed South China Sea to democratic Taiwan, claimed by China as its sacred territory, to be taken by force if needed. Wei and Shanahan - who on his first day as acting defence secretary in January said the US military would focus on "China, China, China" - are both attending the annual Shangri-La defence forum in Singapore which begins on Friday, where they are expected to meet. China has been particularly incensed by recent U.S. Navy patrols in the Taiwan Strait, US legislation in support of Taiwan and a meeting between Taiwan`s national security chief David Lee and White House national security adviser John Bolton. Speaking at a regular monthly news briefing, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Wu Qian described military ties between Beijing and Washington as generally good. But he took a much darker tone when asked about US support for Taiwan, an issue China has long described as the most sensitive in relations between the two countries. "Recently, the US sides has been continually playing the `Taiwan card`, trying in futile to `use Taiwan to control China`. This is deluded," Wu said. "The series of actions the US side has taken is playing with fire, seriously harms the development of military relations between China and the United States, and seriously harms peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait area." Taiwan`s air, sea and land forces conducted an exercise to repel an invading force on Thursday, as its defence minister pledged to defend the island against what it sees as China`s rising military threat. Washington has no formal ties with Taipei, but is its most important international supporter and main supplier of arms. A senior US defence official said the fact that Shanahan was going to the Shangri-la dialogue during a period of tension with Iran was a sign that the United States was committed to the region and its allies. During a meeting with Wei, Shanahan is expected to bring up better communication between the two militaries to avoid the risk of miscalculation, the US official said. While Wei will likely tackle the Sino-US trade dispute and the hardening Trump administration approaches to Taiwan and the South China Sea, Asian states will be looking for calming messages, according to security experts and regional diplomats. "Regional countries will be expecting reassurances that China`s intentions are in fact peaceful given its growing military might," said Singapore-based regional security analyst Ian Storey. Storey, of Singapore`s ISEAS Yusof Ishak Institute, said Wei must also speak to his domestic constituents, given the fact his address and a rare question-and-answer session are expected to be shown prominently in China. "In the current environment maybe they won`t want him to be too accommodating. He can be expected to blame the US for growing tensions in the South China Sea and there is no way he is going to admit that China is part of the problem."

US 'playing with fire' on Taiwan, China says ahead of defence meeting

Taiwan's airforce held exercises on Tuesday (May 28) as part of its week-long annual drills in the western coastal city of Changhua. The drills, which included fighter jet landings and helicopter patrol exercises, were attended by President Tsai Ing-wen.

Taiwan holds annual military exercises

Taiwan became the first place in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage on Friday, as thousands of demonstrators outside parliament cheered and waved rainbow flags, despite deep divisions over marriage equality. Lawmakers of the majority Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) backed the bill, which passed 66 to 27, although the measure could complicate President Tsai Ing-wen's bid to win a second term in presidential elections next year.

Taiwan's parliament becomes first in Asia to legalise gay marriage

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