Sitting on the front line between Taiwan and China, Kinmen is the last place where the two engaged in major fighting, in 1958 at the height of the Cold War, and where memories of war are burned into minds decades later. The island administration is now working hard to promote it as more than just a war monument.

Kinmen Island: The last place where China, Taiwan fought

Adding on to the already existing tension between the two governments, China has now claimed that Taiwan has no right to join the United Nations.<o:p></o:p>

China’s displeasure with the probability of Taiwan getting a seat in the United Nations General Assembly came after the US said that Taiwan should have more involvement in the United Nations.<o:p></o:p>

"As the international community faces an unprecedented number of complex and global issues, it is critical for all stakeholders to help address these problems. This includes the 24 million people who live in Taiwan," US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken said.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-cracks-down-on-skyscraper-vanity-projects-limits-construction-in-smaller-cities-424460">China cracks down on skyscraper 'vanity' projects</a></o:p>

"Taiwan's meaningful participation in the UN system is not a political issue, but a pragmatic one. That is why we encourage all UN member states to join us in supporting Taiwan's robust, meaningful participation throughout the UN system and in the international community," Blinken added.<o:p></o:p>

However, this angered China who do not consider Taiwan as an independent country. As per China, Taiwan is a province that needs reunification, even if it means by force.<o:p></o:p>

The US proposing more involvement of Taiwan in the United Nations does not make sense for Beijing as the Xi Jinping government considers Taiwan as a part of China. "Taiwan has no right to join the United Nations," Ma Xiaoguang, spokesman for the Taiwan Affairs Office in Beijing, told reporters. "The United Nations is an international governmental organisation composed of sovereign states... Taiwan is a part of China."

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-revokes-top-chinese-telecom-firms-licence-over-national-security-concerns-424403">US revokes Chinese telecom firm's licence over 'national security' concerns</a></o:p>

This statement by China has come at a time when Taiwan and China have been on a verbal war for some time now. Recently, it had also been revealed that China is trying to build psychological pressure on Taiwan by sending warplane flights in the air defense identification zone of Taiwan.<o:p></o:p>

The US, however, is sticking to its opinion. "Taiwan has become a democratic success story," Blinken said. "We are among the many UN member states who view Taiwan as a valued partner and trusted friend."&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen has also thanked the US officials for his support. "Grateful for #US support for expanding #Taiwan's international participation," she said on Twitter.<o:p></o:p>

Adding on to the already existing tension between the two governments, China has now claimed that Taiwan has no right to join the United Nations. China’s displeasure with the probability of Taiwan getting a seat in the United Nations General Assembly came after the US said that Taiwan should have more involvement in the United Nations.

Adding on to the already existing tension between the two governments, China has now claimed that Taiwan has no right to join the United Nations. China’s displeasure with the probability of Taiwan getting a seat in the United Nations General Assembly came after the US said that Taiwan should have more involvement in the United Nations. "As the international community faces an unprecedented number of complex and global issues, it is critical for all stakeholders to help address these problems. This includes the 24 million people who live in Taiwan," US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken said. Also read | China cracks down on skyscraper 'vanity' projects "Taiwan's meaningful participation in the UN system is not a political issue, but a pragmatic one. That is why we encourage all UN member states to join us in supporting Taiwan's robust, meaningful participation throughout the UN system and in the international community," Blinken added. However, this angered China who do not consider Taiwan as an independent country. As per China, Taiwan is a province that needs reunification, even if it means by force. The US proposing more involvement of Taiwan in the United Nations does not make sense for Beijing as the Xi Jinping government considers Taiwan as a part of China. "Taiwan has no right to join the United Nations," Ma Xiaoguang, spokesman for the Taiwan Affairs Office in Beijing, told reporters. "The United Nations is an international governmental organisation composed of sovereign states... Taiwan is a part of China." Also read | US revokes Chinese telecom firm's licence over 'national security' concerns This statement by China has come at a time when Taiwan and China have been on a verbal war for some time now. Recently, it had also been revealed that China is trying to build psychological pressure on Taiwan by sending warplane flights in the air defense identification zone of Taiwan. The US, however, is sticking to its opinion. "Taiwan has become a democratic success story," Blinken said. "We are among the many UN member states who view Taiwan as a valued partner and trusted friend." Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen has also thanked the US officials for his support. "Grateful for #US support for expanding #Taiwan's international participation," she said on Twitter.

'Taiwan has no right to join United Nations,' China lashes out at US

The United States backed Taiwan’s inclusion in the United Nations system amid China's continued efforts to limit the island's international participation.

US backs Taiwan's attempt to expand UN participation, seeks bigger role

Chinese President Xi Jinping called on all nations to defend the status quo of the United Nations-backed international order. Xi's comments came in a speech in Beijing at a meeting to mark the 50th anniversary of China's admission to the UN.

Xi slams US over support to Taiwan, calls for maintaining international order

Teachers have often taken novel, sometimes extreme, steps to ensure that their students find the study interesting and enjoyable. The onset of online education, which blossomed during the Covid pandemic, has only put an additional burden on teachers to fight for their students’ attention.

However, one Taiwanese teacher went beyond the conventional norms of pedagogy—in so far as hosting online math lectures on a porn website.

Changshu, who operates under the handle changshumath666, has a verified account on Pornhub. He has shared over 200 videos that are absolutely free of sexual content.

According to reports, Changhsu has a Master’s degree in mathematics and has been teaching both online and in Taiwanese schools for 15 years.

Though he initially used to upload clips of his teachings on YouTube, he didn’t get that much response as he had hoped for. Last year, he thought of doing something different. He created an account on the porn website and started uploading videos.

Changshu’s account features a message, “Play hard, Study hard”. He can be seen in a grey hoodie and glasses in all his videos. He also solves mathematical problems on the green board and explains differential methods, in his native Mandarin.

Giving reasons about his about the unusual decision, Changhsu to Mel Magazine, “Since very few people teach math on adult video platforms, and since there are so many people who watch videos on them, I thought that if I uploaded my videos there, a lot of people would see them.”

The teacher had attempted to branch out to other porn sites in the hopes of gaining a wider audience, but he said that the websites were able to differentiate between adult and non-adult content.

“They know which kinds of videos are for adults and which aren’t, and they forbid them,” he said.

“I didn’t want to teach math on Pornhub. I wanted to let the world know that I’m a teacher from Taiwan who can teach calculus well,” he told the magazine.

The success of his venture can be gauged from that he has been able to earn 7,500,000 New Taiwan dollars (over $250,000 US) per year, which he uses to pay his bills and provide a decent salary to his employees, who help him teach on his various platforms.

But Changdshu believes that over 60 per cent of his viewers come to his Pornhub channel for a laugh, rather than to learn calculus

“People may not be interested in my videos, but they’ll all know there’s a teacher who teaches calculus on an adult video platform.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Teachers have often taken novel, sometimes extreme, steps to ensure that their students find the study interesting and enjoyable. The onset of online education, which blossomed during the Covid pandemic, has only put an additional burden on teachers to fight for their students’ attention.

Teachers have often taken novel, sometimes extreme, steps to ensure that their students find the study interesting and enjoyable. The onset of online education, which blossomed during the Covid pandemic, has only put an additional burden on teachers to fight for their students’ attention. However, one Taiwanese teacher went beyond the conventional norms of pedagogy—in so far as hosting online math lectures on a porn website. Changshu, who operates under the handle changshumath666, has a verified account on Pornhub. He has shared over 200 videos that are absolutely free of sexual content. According to reports, Changhsu has a Master’s degree in mathematics and has been teaching both online and in Taiwanese schools for 15 years. Though he initially used to upload clips of his teachings on YouTube, he didn’t get that much response as he had hoped for. Last year, he thought of doing something different. He created an account on the porn website and started uploading videos. Changshu’s account features a message, “Play hard, Study hard”. He can be seen in a grey hoodie and glasses in all his videos. He also solves mathematical problems on the green board and explains differential methods, in his native Mandarin. Giving reasons about his about the unusual decision, Changhsu to Mel Magazine, “Since very few people teach math on adult video platforms, and since there are so many people who watch videos on them, I thought that if I uploaded my videos there, a lot of people would see them.” The teacher had attempted to branch out to other porn sites in the hopes of gaining a wider audience, but he said that the websites were able to differentiate between adult and non-adult content. “They know which kinds of videos are for adults and which aren’t, and they forbid them,” he said. “I didn’t want to teach math on Pornhub. I wanted to let the world know that I’m a teacher from Taiwan who can teach calculus well,” he told the magazine. The success of his venture can be gauged from that he has been able to earn 7,500,000 New Taiwan dollars (over $250,000 US) per year, which he uses to pay his bills and provide a decent salary to his employees, who help him teach on his various platforms. But Changdshu believes that over 60 per cent of his viewers come to his Pornhub channel for a laugh, rather than to learn calculus “People may not be interested in my videos, but they’ll all know there’s a teacher who teaches calculus on an adult video platform.” (With inputs from agencies)

This Taiwanese teacher uses porn site to teach calculus, earns $250,000 per year

In a bid to thwart Washington's attempt to expand Taiwan's participation at the United Nations, the Chinese president Xi Jinping called on all countries to maintain international order.

US backs Taiwan's attempt to expand UN participation, Chinese president Xi Jinping slams support

A 6.5-magnitude earthquake hit Taiwan on Sunday in the northeastern region with the epicentre reportedly in Yilan county.

Although there were no reports of any casualties, however, chipmaker Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) informed that it had evacuated its employees.&nbsp;

The authorities closed the country's metro service but it was restarted later even as the railway authorities carried out track inspections.

As the quake struck, people took to Twitter to record their experiences.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
What the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taiwan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taiwan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> did to my local 7-Eleven in Taipei. 
Let's hope that's the worst that happened and everyone is okay. <a href="https://t.co/YD8gJB33h0">pic.twitter.com/YD8gJB33h0</a>
— Klaus Bardenhagen (@taiwanreporter) <a href="https://twitter.com/taiwanreporter/status/1452147912859795460?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Huge quake just now in Taiwan! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taiwan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taiwan</a> <a href="https://t.co/7vacL3MAdk">pic.twitter.com/7vacL3MAdk</a>
— Bill Murphy (@onionsack) <a href="https://twitter.com/onionsack/status/1452144080645881859?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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I think this was the strongest earthquake that I have experienced here in Taiwan. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taiwan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taiwan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a>
— P Fomich (@PPFomich) <a href="https://twitter.com/PPFomich/status/1452141751670435842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Buildings shook as the quake hit the country. There were also reports of aftershocks as reports said a woman was injured.

(With inputs from Agencies)

A 6.5-magnitude earthquake hit Taiwan on Sunday in the northeastern region with the epicentre reportedly in Yilan county. Although there were no reports of any casualties, however, chipmaker Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) informed that it had evacuated its employees.

A 6.5-magnitude earthquake hit Taiwan on Sunday in the northeastern region with the epicentre reportedly in Yilan county. Although there were no reports of any casualties, however, chipmaker Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) informed that it had evacuated its employees. The authorities closed the country's metro service but it was restarted later even as the railway authorities carried out track inspections. As the quake struck, people took to Twitter to record their experiences. What the #Taiwan #earthquake did to my local 7-Eleven in Taipei. Let's hope that's the worst that happened and everyone is okay. pic.twitter.com/YD8gJB33h0 — Klaus Bardenhagen (@taiwanreporter) October 24, 2021 × Huge quake just now in Taiwan! #earthquake #Taiwan pic.twitter.com/7vacL3MAdk — Bill Murphy (@onionsack) October 24, 2021 × I think this was the strongest earthquake that I have experienced here in Taiwan. #Taiwan #earthquake — P Fomich (@PPFomich) October 24, 2021 × Buildings shook as the quake hit the country. There were also reports of aftershocks as reports said a woman was injured. (With inputs from Agencies)

6.5-magnitude earthquake strikes Taiwan; no casualties

A strong earthquake struck northeastern Taiwan on Sunday, with residents reporting violent shaking in the capital Taipei but there were no immediate reports of widespread damage.

Taiwan's central weather bureau said the quake was of magnitude 6.5, the biggest on the island this year, while the US Geological Survey gave a lower figure of 6.2.

It hit northeastern Yilan county at 1:11 pm (0511 GMT) at a depth of 67 kilometres (42 miles).

An AFP reporter who lives in Yilan said the shaking seemed to last about 30 seconds.

"The walls of the house were shaking, both sideways and up and down, it felt quite strong," the reporter said.

There was no damage in his neighbourhood.

The main quake was followed by a 5.4-magnitude aftershock and Taipei's MRT metro system shut down as a precaution for a little under an hour before service resumed.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bali-earthquake-kills-three-injures-seven-421194">Bali earthquake kills three, injures seven</a>

Tom Parker, a British illustrator who lives in Taipei, said he was riding the subway when the quake hit.

"First time I've felt a quake on the MRT. Like a tame rollercoaster," he tweeted, adding he and other commuters were told to shelter in place in the station.

Many others reported the tremor on social media.

"I was scared to death, I screamed in my room," Facebook user Yu Ting wrote.

"This earthquake is really big, glass has shattered in my living room."

Some grocery stores reported food and other goods were thrown from shelves by the shaking.

Authorities said they did not expect widespread damage because the quake was not a shallow one.&nbsp;

"The public don't have to be too worried," said Chen Kuo-chang, head of the central weather bureau’s seismological centre.&nbsp;

"The quake is deep and its intensity is not as big&nbsp;it could have caused unpredictable damage if it were a shallow one," he added.&nbsp;

Taiwan’s emergency operations centre reported one injury, a woman hit by falling rocks. Her friends were carrying her down a mountain in eastern Hualien county.&nbsp;

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/61-magnitude-earthquake-shakes-tokyo-area-no-tsunami-danger-418955">&nbsp;6.1-magnitude earthquake shakes Tokyo area; no tsunami danger</a>

Taiwan is regularly hit by earthquakes as the island lies near the junction of two tectonic plates.

Some earthquakes of this magnitude can prove deadly, although much depends on where the quake strikes and at what depth.

Hualien, a scenic tourist hotspot, was struck by a 6.4-magnitude earthquake in 2018 that killed 17 people and injured nearly 300.

In September 1999, a 7.6-magnitude quake killed around 2,400 people in the deadliest natural disaster in the island's history.

However, a 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck in December 2020 in Yilan with no major damage or injuries reported.

A strong earthquake struck northeastern Taiwan on Sunday, with residents reporting violent shaking in the capital Taipei but there were no immediate reports of widespread damage.

A strong earthquake struck northeastern Taiwan on Sunday, with residents reporting violent shaking in the capital Taipei but there were no immediate reports of widespread damage. Taiwan's central weather bureau said the quake was of magnitude 6.5, the biggest on the island this year, while the US Geological Survey gave a lower figure of 6.2. It hit northeastern Yilan county at 1:11 pm (0511 GMT) at a depth of 67 kilometres (42 miles). An AFP reporter who lives in Yilan said the shaking seemed to last about 30 seconds. "The walls of the house were shaking, both sideways and up and down, it felt quite strong," the reporter said. There was no damage in his neighbourhood. The main quake was followed by a 5.4-magnitude aftershock and Taipei's MRT metro system shut down as a precaution for a little under an hour before service resumed. Also Read | Bali earthquake kills three, injures seven Tom Parker, a British illustrator who lives in Taipei, said he was riding the subway when the quake hit. "First time I've felt a quake on the MRT. Like a tame rollercoaster," he tweeted, adding he and other commuters were told to shelter in place in the station. Many others reported the tremor on social media. "I was scared to death, I screamed in my room," Facebook user Yu Ting wrote. "This earthquake is really big, glass has shattered in my living room." Some grocery stores reported food and other goods were thrown from shelves by the shaking. Authorities said they did not expect widespread damage because the quake was not a shallow one. "The public don't have to be too worried," said Chen Kuo-chang, head of the central weather bureau’s seismological centre. "The quake is deep and its intensity is not as big it could have caused unpredictable damage if it were a shallow one," he added. Taiwan’s emergency operations centre reported one injury, a woman hit by falling rocks. Her friends were carrying her down a mountain in eastern Hualien county. Also Read | 6.1-magnitude earthquake shakes Tokyo area; no tsunami danger Taiwan is regularly hit by earthquakes as the island lies near the junction of two tectonic plates. Some earthquakes of this magnitude can prove deadly, although much depends on where the quake strikes and at what depth. Hualien, a scenic tourist hotspot, was struck by a 6.4-magnitude earthquake in 2018 that killed 17 people and injured nearly 300. In September 1999, a 7.6-magnitude quake killed around 2,400 people in the deadliest natural disaster in the island's history. However, a 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck in December 2020 in Yilan with no major damage or injuries reported.

Strong earthquake strikes northern Taiwan

Taiwanese and US&nbsp;officials have discussed how Taiwan can "meaningfully" participate at the United Nations just days before Chinese President Xi Jinping will give a speech to mark his country's half decade since accession to the global body.

Taiwan, using its formal name the Republic of China, held the Chinese seat at the United Nations until October&nbsp;25, 1971, when it was voted out as representative of the country in favour of the People's Republic of China, which had won a civil war in 1949 and forced the republican government to flee to the island.

China says that Taiwan is one of its provinces, and so it has the sole right to represent Taiwan internationally. The democratically-elected government in Taipei says only it has that right.

In a statement late on Saturday, the US&nbsp;State Department said US&nbsp;and Taiwanese officials had met virtually on Friday for a "discussion focused on supporting Taiwan's ability to participate meaningfully at the UN".

"US&nbsp;participants reiterated the US&nbsp;commitment to Taiwan's meaningful participation at the World Health Organization and UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and discussed ways to highlight Taiwan's ability to contribute to efforts on a wide range of issues," it added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-seeks-to-contain-beijing-anger-after-biden-vows-taiwan-defense-423109">US seeks to contain Beijing anger after Biden vows Taiwan defense</a>

Participants included State Department Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Organizations Hugo Yon, Deputy Assistant Secretary for China, Taiwan, and Mongolia Rick Waters, and Taiwan's deputy de facto ambassador in Washington, Wang Liang-yu, the State Department said.

Taiwan's Foreign Ministry thanked the United States for its "firm support".

Xi is due to speak on the 50th anniversary on Monday of what China calls the restoration of its lawful seat at the United Nations

Taiwan has been particularly angered by its inability to fully access the WHO during the COVID-19 pandemic, though both China and the WHO say the island has been given the help it has needed.

China has ramped up political and military pressure to force Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty. Taiwan says it is an independent country and will defend itself if China attacks.

Taiwanese and US officials have discussed how Taiwan can "meaningfully" participate at the United Nations just days before Chinese President Xi Jinping will give a speech to mark his country's half decade since accession to the global body.

Taiwanese and US officials have discussed how Taiwan can "meaningfully" participate at the United Nations just days before Chinese President Xi Jinping will give a speech to mark his country's half decade since accession to the global body. Taiwan, using its formal name the Republic of China, held the Chinese seat at the United Nations until October 25, 1971, when it was voted out as representative of the country in favour of the People's Republic of China, which had won a civil war in 1949 and forced the republican government to flee to the island. China says that Taiwan is one of its provinces, and so it has the sole right to represent Taiwan internationally. The democratically-elected government in Taipei says only it has that right. In a statement late on Saturday, the US State Department said US and Taiwanese officials had met virtually on Friday for a "discussion focused on supporting Taiwan's ability to participate meaningfully at the UN". "US participants reiterated the US commitment to Taiwan's meaningful participation at the World Health Organization and UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and discussed ways to highlight Taiwan's ability to contribute to efforts on a wide range of issues," it added. Also Read | US seeks to contain Beijing anger after Biden vows Taiwan defense Participants included State Department Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Organizations Hugo Yon, Deputy Assistant Secretary for China, Taiwan, and Mongolia Rick Waters, and Taiwan's deputy de facto ambassador in Washington, Wang Liang-yu, the State Department said. Taiwan's Foreign Ministry thanked the United States for its "firm support". Xi is due to speak on the 50th anniversary on Monday of what China calls the restoration of its lawful seat at the United Nations Taiwan has been particularly angered by its inability to fully access the WHO during the COVID-19 pandemic, though both China and the WHO say the island has been given the help it has needed. China has ramped up political and military pressure to force Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty. Taiwan says it is an independent country and will defend itself if China attacks.

Taiwan, US discuss UN participation ahead of key anniversary in move likely to irk China

After China's alleged hypersonic missile test, the US has tested hypersonic missile components. US President Joe Biden has vowed to defend Taiwan from Chinese military action. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Did Joe Biden hint at military intervention in Taiwan?

US President Joe Biden said US would come to Taiwan's defense if attacked China, for the second time in three months. After which, China has urged the US to "avoid sending any false signals".

US President Biden hints at military intervention if China attacks Taiwan, The White House clarifies

China, on Friday, warned Slovakia and Czech Republic ahead of a visit to both countries by Taiwan's foreign minister next week. Beijing said that nobody should harbour any illusions about "necessary measures" China would take to defend its sovereignty.

China, which claims democratically-ruled Taiwan as its own territory, is always angered by visits of senior Taiwanese officials to other countries, viewing it as covert support for the island's claims to be a state.

Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu is due to visit Slovakia and Czech Republic next week. In Slovakia, He will first attend a forum organised by a local think tank. He will go to Prague and will meet Milos Vystrcil, speaker of Czech parliament's upper house.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said they would be watching Wu's "scuttling about" closely.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-compromise-on-sovereignty-act-with-caution-over-taiwan-china-warns-us-422916">'No compromise on sovereignty, act with caution over Taiwan': China warns US</a>

Asked if China will make steps against the Czechs and Slovaks, he said China "will take proper and necessary measures to firmly defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity. No one should have illusions about this".

Wang did not elaborate.

China is already in a dispute with Lithuania after it agreed with Taiwan to open de facto embassies in each other's capitals.

Both China and Lithuania have recalled their envoys to the respective countries.

Taiwan has diplomatic ties with no European countries apart from the Vatican City.

Due to Chinese pressure many countries are unwilling to host senior Taiwanese ministers, though Wu visited Denmark in 2019 to speak at the Copenhagen Democracy Summit.

China has ramped up its military and diplomatic pressure against Taiwan to force it to accept Chinese sovereignty.

Taiwan says it is an independent country with a right to be treated as such internationally, and that it will defend itself from China if attacked.

(With inputs from agencies)

China, on Friday, warned Slovakia and Czech Republic ahead of a visit to both countries by Taiwan's foreign minister next week. Beijing said that nobody should harbour any illusions about "necessary measures" China would take to defend its sovereignty.

China, on Friday, warned Slovakia and Czech Republic ahead of a visit to both countries by Taiwan's foreign minister next week. Beijing said that nobody should harbour any illusions about "necessary measures" China would take to defend its sovereignty. China, which claims democratically-ruled Taiwan as its own territory, is always angered by visits of senior Taiwanese officials to other countries, viewing it as covert support for the island's claims to be a state. Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu is due to visit Slovakia and Czech Republic next week. In Slovakia, He will first attend a forum organised by a local think tank. He will go to Prague and will meet Milos Vystrcil, speaker of Czech parliament's upper house. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said they would be watching Wu's "scuttling about" closely. Also Read | 'No compromise on sovereignty, act with caution over Taiwan': China warns US Asked if China will make steps against the Czechs and Slovaks, he said China "will take proper and necessary measures to firmly defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity. No one should have illusions about this". Wang did not elaborate. China is already in a dispute with Lithuania after it agreed with Taiwan to open de facto embassies in each other's capitals. Both China and Lithuania have recalled their envoys to the respective countries. Taiwan has diplomatic ties with no European countries apart from the Vatican City. Due to Chinese pressure many countries are unwilling to host senior Taiwanese ministers, though Wu visited Denmark in 2019 to speak at the Copenhagen Democracy Summit. China has ramped up its military and diplomatic pressure against Taiwan to force it to accept Chinese sovereignty. Taiwan says it is an independent country with a right to be treated as such internationally, and that it will defend itself from China if attacked. (With inputs from agencies)

China warns Slovakia, Czech Republic over Taiwan minister visit

In a CNN town hall discussion, US President Joe Biden stated that the US would defend Taiwan if it was attacked by China.

"Yes, we have a commitment to do that," Biden said on Thursday when asked if the US would protect Taiwan if China attacked it.&nbsp;

Biden said people should not worry about Washington`s military strength because "China, Russia and the rest of the world know we're the most powerful military in the history of the world," 
 
Watch | The tension between China and Taiwan at their highest

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-tension-between-china-and-taiwan-at-their-highest-421423/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"What you do have to worry about is whether or not they're going to engage in activities that would put them in a position where they may make a serious mistake," Biden said.

Taiwan's Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng warned last month that military tensions between Taiwan and China are at their highest in more than 40 years, adding that China will be capable of conducting a "full-scale" invasion by 2025. 
 
Watch | China boosting military presence around Taiwan

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Taiwan is claimed by China as its land, which should be seized by force if necessary.

Taiwan asserts its independence and vows to protect its liberties and democracy.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a CNN town hall discussion, US President Joe Biden stated that the US would defend Taiwan if it was attacked by China. "Yes, we have a commitment to do that," Biden said on Thursday when asked if the US would protect Taiwan if China attacked it.

In a CNN town hall discussion, US President Joe Biden stated that the US would defend Taiwan if it was attacked by China. "Yes, we have a commitment to do that," Biden said on Thursday when asked if the US would protect Taiwan if China attacked it. Biden said people should not worry about Washington`s military strength because "China, Russia and the rest of the world know we're the most powerful military in the history of the world," Watch | The tension between China and Taiwan at their highest "What you do have to worry about is whether or not they're going to engage in activities that would put them in a position where they may make a serious mistake," Biden said. Taiwan's Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng warned last month that military tensions between Taiwan and China are at their highest in more than 40 years, adding that China will be capable of conducting a "full-scale" invasion by 2025. Watch | China boosting military presence around Taiwan Taiwan is claimed by China as its land, which should be seized by force if necessary. Taiwan asserts its independence and vows to protect its liberties and democracy. (With inputs from agencies)

China, Russia aware of US’ military might, will defend Taiwan if Beijing attacks: Biden

The US has sent a strong message to China. If Xi Jinping decides to attack Taiwan, President Joe Biden has said that the US welcomed the island's defence.

US sends strong message to China, defends Taiwan's stance

In a continuing trend, China is once again increasing pressure on Taiwan, which is worrying experts that this could quickly turn into a war, if the two sides are not careful.<o:p></o:p>

As per reports, there has been a sudden increase in the number of Chinese warplanes entering the air defence identification zone (ADIZ). This has brought attention to Taiwan and has raised concerns that this can become a global flashpoint.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-russia-aware-of-us-military-might-will-defend-taiwan-if-beijing-attacks-biden-422795">China, Russia aware of US’ military might, will defend Taiwan if Beijing attacks: Biden</a></o:p>

As per data compiled by news agency AFP, nearly 149 Chinese flights entered Taiwan’s Taiwan's southwestern air defence zone in four days. This incident took place when China was observing its annual national day celebrations.<o:p></o:p>

This was an increase of nearly 28 per cent in total. The increase was a huge jump from September, which held the record of most numbers of flights entering Taiwan’s air space, which was 117.<o:p></o:p>

The number has also raised concerns as the number of Chinese flights that have illegally entered the southwestern air defence zone of Taiwan has already doubled. As on October 22, nearly 692 flights have been recorded, wherein last year 380 incursions were reported by Taiwan in the whole year.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-tension-between-china-and-taiwan-at-their-highest-421423">WATCH |</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-tension-between-china-and-taiwan-at-their-highest-421423/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Inclusion of airplanes such as nuclear-capable H6 bomber has also started building pressure on Taiwan as it has stirred the fear that if an invasion were to take place, China will be a step ahead. September 2020 was the highest number of recorded sorties and Taiwan had reported incursions by 32 fighters and three bombers that month.<o:p></o:p><o:p></o:p>

In October 2021, Taiwan has reported 124 fighter jet incursions and 16 by bombers.

These sorties and incursions can help China train their pilots and test Taiwan’s denfences.

However, experts are also urging to not exaggerate the threat posed by these incursions as the air defence identification zone (ADIZ) is not the same as Taiwan’s territorial airspace. "These are part of what we call 'grey zone' tactics, it keeps psychological pressure on Taiwan," Lee Hsi-min, a retired admiral who stepped down as head of Taiwan's armed forces in 2019, told AFP.<o:p></o:p>

In a continuing trend, China is once again increasing pressure on Taiwan, which is worrying experts that this could quickly turn into a war, if the two sides are not careful.

In a continuing trend, China is once again increasing pressure on Taiwan, which is worrying experts that this could quickly turn into a war, if the two sides are not careful. As per reports, there has been a sudden increase in the number of Chinese warplanes entering the air defence identification zone (ADIZ). This has brought attention to Taiwan and has raised concerns that this can become a global flashpoint. Also read | China, Russia aware of US’ military might, will defend Taiwan if Beijing attacks: Biden As per data compiled by news agency AFP, nearly 149 Chinese flights entered Taiwan’s Taiwan's southwestern air defence zone in four days. This incident took place when China was observing its annual national day celebrations. This was an increase of nearly 28 per cent in total. The increase was a huge jump from September, which held the record of most numbers of flights entering Taiwan’s air space, which was 117. The number has also raised concerns as the number of Chinese flights that have illegally entered the southwestern air defence zone of Taiwan has already doubled. As on October 22, nearly 692 flights have been recorded, wherein last year 380 incursions were reported by Taiwan in the whole year. WATCH | Inclusion of airplanes such as nuclear-capable H6 bomber has also started building pressure on Taiwan as it has stirred the fear that if an invasion were to take place, China will be a step ahead. September 2020 was the highest number of recorded sorties and Taiwan had reported incursions by 32 fighters and three bombers that month. In October 2021, Taiwan has reported 124 fighter jet incursions and 16 by bombers. These sorties and incursions can help China train their pilots and test Taiwan’s denfences. However, experts are also urging to not exaggerate the threat posed by these incursions as the air defence identification zone (ADIZ) is not the same as Taiwan’s territorial airspace. "These are part of what we call 'grey zone' tactics, it keeps psychological pressure on Taiwan," Lee Hsi-min, a retired admiral who stepped down as head of Taiwan's armed forces in 2019, told AFP.

China trying to build psychological pressure on Taiwan through jet incursions: Reports

On Thursday (October 22), China's foreign ministry stated that it will not make concessions or compromises on matters concerning its vital interests and sovereignty.

China also advised the United States to exercise caution in Taiwan after President Joe Biden stated that the US would defend the self-ruled island against Chinese assault.&nbsp;

"China has no room for compromise on issues involving its core interests, " foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said, warning that Washington "should act and speak cautiously on the Taiwan issue." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-russia-aware-of-us-military-might-will-defend-taiwan-if-beijing-attacks-biden-422795">Also read | China, Russia aware of US’ military might, will defend Taiwan if Beijing attacks: Biden</a> 
 
Earlier, US President Joe Biden said in a CNN town hall meeting that the United States would come to Taiwan's defence if it came under attack by China.

"Yes, we have a commitment to do that," Biden said on Thursday when asked if the United States would defend Taiwan if China attacked the country.

He also said that China and Russia know the United States has the most powerful military in the history of the world. 
 
Watch | The tension between China and Taiwan at their highest

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-tension-between-china-and-taiwan-at-their-highest-421423/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Communist China considers self-ruled Taiwan to be its own territory and has promised to take the island one day, using force if necessary.

Beijing's bellicose rhetoric has increased in recent years, fueling worries that the island of 23 million people could become a major global flashpoint.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

On Thursday (October 22), China's foreign ministry stated that it will not make concessions or compromises on matters concerning its vital interests and sovereignty.

On Thursday (October 22), China's foreign ministry stated that it will not make concessions or compromises on matters concerning its vital interests and sovereignty. China also advised the United States to exercise caution in Taiwan after President Joe Biden stated that the US would defend the self-ruled island against Chinese assault. "China has no room for compromise on issues involving its core interests, " foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said, warning that Washington "should act and speak cautiously on the Taiwan issue." Also read | China, Russia aware of US’ military might, will defend Taiwan if Beijing attacks: Biden Earlier, US President Joe Biden said in a CNN town hall meeting that the United States would come to Taiwan's defence if it came under attack by China. "Yes, we have a commitment to do that," Biden said on Thursday when asked if the United States would defend Taiwan if China attacked the country. He also said that China and Russia know the United States has the most powerful military in the history of the world. Watch | The tension between China and Taiwan at their highest Communist China considers self-ruled Taiwan to be its own territory and has promised to take the island one day, using force if necessary. Beijing's bellicose rhetoric has increased in recent years, fueling worries that the island of 23 million people could become a major global flashpoint. (With inputs from agencies)

'No compromise on sovereignty, act with caution over Taiwan': China warns US

A Taiwanese security official has told the country's parliamentary committee that the "probability of war" with China over&nbsp;the next one year is "very low".

The comments were made by Taiwan's National Security Bureau Director-General Chen Ming. The top security official however added that "contingent events" needed to be looked at closely.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-canada-colluded-to-provoke-trouble-says-china-after-warships-sail-through-taiwan-strait-421574">Also Read:&nbsp;US, Canada colluded to provoke trouble, says China&nbsp;</a>

"In the next one year, two years, or three years, during President Tsai's term, I think there won't be a problem," Ming added.

President Tsai had declared that Taiwan won't bow to China amid repeated incursions by Chinese jets into Taiwan's airspace this month.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/satellite-images-show-china-has-upgraded-military-bases-facing-taiwan-420955">Also Read:&nbsp;Satellite images show China has upgraded military bases facing Taiwan</a>

Taiwan's defence minister Chiu Kuo-cheng had said earlier that China could invade the country in 2025 as the Chinese Air Force repeatedly entered the country's air defence identification zone (ADIZ).

China had sent a record number of 56 warplanes to Taiwan recently as tensions escalated between the two countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-military-conducts-beach-landing-drills-near-taiwan-419963">Also Read:&nbsp;Chinese military conducts beach landing drills near Taiwan</a>

The Chinese army has been conducting drills close to Taiwan amid tensions. China considers Taiwan a breakaway province which it has threatened to take by force if necessary.&nbsp;

The Chinese government described its military activity as "just" even as the US said it its commitment towards Taiwan was "rock solid".

(With inputs from Agencies)

A Taiwanese security official has told the country's parliamentary committee that the "probability of war" with China over the next one year is "very low". The comments were made by Taiwan's National Security Bureau Director-General Chen Ming.

A Taiwanese security official has told the country's parliamentary committee that the "probability of war" with China over the next one year is "very low". The comments were made by Taiwan's National Security Bureau Director-General Chen Ming. The top security official however added that "contingent events" needed to be looked at closely. Also Read: US, Canada colluded to provoke trouble, says China "In the next one year, two years, or three years, during President Tsai's term, I think there won't be a problem," Ming added. President Tsai had declared that Taiwan won't bow to China amid repeated incursions by Chinese jets into Taiwan's airspace this month. Also Read: Satellite images show China has upgraded military bases facing Taiwan Taiwan's defence minister Chiu Kuo-cheng had said earlier that China could invade the country in 2025 as the Chinese Air Force repeatedly entered the country's air defence identification zone (ADIZ). China had sent a record number of 56 warplanes to Taiwan recently as tensions escalated between the two countries. Also Read: Chinese military conducts beach landing drills near Taiwan The Chinese army has been conducting drills close to Taiwan amid tensions. China considers Taiwan a breakaway province which it has threatened to take by force if necessary. The Chinese government described its military activity as "just" even as the US said it its commitment towards Taiwan was "rock solid". (With inputs from Agencies)

Probability of war with China within one year very low: Taiwan security official

Satellite images have revealed China is upgrading and reinforcing its airbases facing towards Taiwan along its southeastern coast, indicating Beijing may be stepping up its plans to take the island by force.

The tension between China and Taiwan at their highest

Tensions continue to flare between Taiwan and China. The reports indicate that PLA troops are witnessing major upgrades to three of its airbases near Taiwan fueling fears of Beijing's possible invasion plan.

China boosting military presence around Taiwan

At least 46 people died and over 60 wounded after a fire engulfed a residential building in southern Taiwan. Fire that broke out at a 13 storey residential building in the southern Kaohsiung city was doused later. Rescue personnel were seen carrying away residents, many with oxygen masks. The cause of fire is not yet known.

At least 46 people die after fire engulfs residential building in southern Taiwan

Taiwan produces some of the most high quality tea that is available in international markets. But the changing weather pattern has spelt a disaster for the tea plantations this year. So how are the Taiwanese tea plantations dealing with this crisis? Our next report gets you all the details.

Taiwan: Changing weather pattern creates disaster for tea plantations

The mayor of a Taiwanese city launched a task force on Friday to look into whether negligence played a part in a fire at a residential building that killed 46 people.

The fire in the 40-year-old housing block in Kaohsiung on Thursday was the island's deadliest blaze in more than two decades and has reignited concerns about fire safety in older buildings across Taiwan.

"We will ask the task force to investigate whether there's negligence in administrative management (practices)," Mayor Chen Chi-mai told reporters. "I deeply reflect on myself, and I will not evade my responsibility."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fire-in-southern-taiwan-leaves-46-people-dead-dozens-injured-420615">Fire in southern Taiwan leaves 46 people dead, dozens injured</a>

The 13-storey building, which previously hosted restaurants, karaoke lounges, shops and a cinema, was called a "ghost town" by local residents as it was partly abandoned.

However, the high-density building was still home to scores of people, including older adults with mobility issues and low-income families. Some 41 people were injured in the blaze.

"The government should have already taken the building down. They kept saying they were going to demolish it, but in the end they didn't do it," 70-year-old Lin Chieh-ying, who lives opposite the building, told Reuters.

Authorities have been offering incentives for urban renewal projects across Taiwan, aiming to replace older buildings that have raised concerns about safety from fires and earthquakes.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rock-solid-white-house-says-us-committed-to-support-taiwan-420819">'Rock solid': White House says US committed to support Taiwan</a>

"It was unbelievable. The whole ground floor was burning, and upstairs as well," Lin said of Thursday's fire.

"However they tried, the water just couldn't reach upstairs."

The government is investigating the cause, including whether arson was to blame.

The blaze was the most deadly on the island since sixty-four people were killed in a restaurant fire in the central city of Taichung in 1995.

The mayor of a Taiwanese city launched a task force on Friday to look into whether negligence played a part in a fire at a residential building that killed 46 people.

The mayor of a Taiwanese city launched a task force on Friday to look into whether negligence played a part in a fire at a residential building that killed 46 people. The fire in the 40-year-old housing block in Kaohsiung on Thursday was the island's deadliest blaze in more than two decades and has reignited concerns about fire safety in older buildings across Taiwan. "We will ask the task force to investigate whether there's negligence in administrative management (practices)," Mayor Chen Chi-mai told reporters. "I deeply reflect on myself, and I will not evade my responsibility." Also Read | Fire in southern Taiwan leaves 46 people dead, dozens injured The 13-storey building, which previously hosted restaurants, karaoke lounges, shops and a cinema, was called a "ghost town" by local residents as it was partly abandoned. However, the high-density building was still home to scores of people, including older adults with mobility issues and low-income families. Some 41 people were injured in the blaze. "The government should have already taken the building down. They kept saying they were going to demolish it, but in the end they didn't do it," 70-year-old Lin Chieh-ying, who lives opposite the building, told Reuters. Authorities have been offering incentives for urban renewal projects across Taiwan, aiming to replace older buildings that have raised concerns about safety from fires and earthquakes. Also Read | 'Rock solid': White House says US committed to support Taiwan "It was unbelievable. The whole ground floor was burning, and upstairs as well," Lin said of Thursday's fire. "However they tried, the water just couldn't reach upstairs." The government is investigating the cause, including whether arson was to blame. The blaze was the most deadly on the island since sixty-four people were killed in a restaurant fire in the central city of Taichung in 1995.

Mayor sets up task force to probe Taiwan's deadliest fire for decades

Satellite pictures have surfaced showing China upgrading military air sites near Taiwan, in the latest indication of possible invasion plans.

According to the South China Morning Post, three sites in Fujian province have been renovated or fortified and will offer air combat assistance to China's air force.

Images were released after the People's Liberation Army air force flew 149 flights into Taiwan's air defence identification zone (ADIZ) from October 1 to 4, a record amount in the face of growing tensions between China and Taiwan.

The photos, taken from above the Longtian, Huian, and Zhangzhou bases, show the development of storage bunkers, enlarged aprons, and new administrative buildings.&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="Zhangzhou bases" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1f88c7e9-e345-469f-a34d-4eba092bf909" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Satellite-images-show-China-has-upgraded-military-bases-facing-Taiwan.jpg" />

The images, obtained by Planet Labs and initially released by the United States automobile and military website The Drive, reveal that building work at the sites, where the majority of the infrastructure dated back to the 1980s, began in early 2020 and lasted throughout the epidemic.

The Longtian airbase has been enlarged and modified to accommodate air defence installations.

At least five storage bunkers are being built, as well as additional administration facilities.&nbsp;

China has deployed a record number of aeroplanes to the island's air defence identification zone, 148 in only the last week, as part of its effort to increase military intimidation of the self-ruling democracy and test its air defences.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Satellite pictures have surfaced showing China upgrading military air sites near Taiwan, in the latest indication of possible invasion plans. According to the South China Morning Post, three sites in Fujian province have been renovated or fortified and will offer air combat assistance to China's air force.

Satellite pictures have surfaced showing China upgrading military air sites near Taiwan, in the latest indication of possible invasion plans. According to the South China Morning Post, three sites in Fujian province have been renovated or fortified and will offer air combat assistance to China's air force. Images were released after the People's Liberation Army air force flew 149 flights into Taiwan's air defence identification zone (ADIZ) from October 1 to 4, a record amount in the face of growing tensions between China and Taiwan. The photos, taken from above the Longtian, Huian, and Zhangzhou bases, show the development of storage bunkers, enlarged aprons, and new administrative buildings. The images, obtained by Planet Labs and initially released by the United States automobile and military website The Drive, reveal that building work at the sites, where the majority of the infrastructure dated back to the 1980s, began in early 2020 and lasted throughout the epidemic. The Longtian airbase has been enlarged and modified to accommodate air defence installations. At least five storage bunkers are being built, as well as additional administration facilities. China has deployed a record number of aeroplanes to the island's air defence identification zone, 148 in only the last week, as part of its effort to increase military intimidation of the self-ruling democracy and test its air defences. (With inputs from agencies)

Satellite images show China has upgraded military bases facing Taiwan

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