Inspiration for high fashion can come from strange places. For one Taiwanese designer, it's upcycling old wires and bolts from the power industry. Wang Li-ling, 36, scours dumps, picking up old bits of metal and wires from Taiwan's main electricity supplier to add extra flair to her clothes.

Lights! Models! Garbage! Taiwan designer turns waste into fashion

The US on Wednesday added India along with Taiwan and Thailand to the "monitoring list" of currency manipulating countries that includes major trading partners like China and six others.

It also branded Vietnam and Switzerland as currency manipulators.

Other countries in the monitoring list are Japan, South Korea, Germany, Italy, Singapore and Malaysia.

Ireland has been removed from the Monitoring List, the US Department of Treasury said in its report Macroeconomic and Foreign Exchange Policies of Major Trading Partners of the United States' submitted to the Congress on Wednesday.

Over the four quarters through June 2020, four major US trading partners Vietnam, Switzerland, India, and Singapore&nbsp;intervened in the foreign exchange market in a sustained, asymmetric manner, it said.

Vietnam and Switzerland exceeded the two other objective criteria established by the Treasury to identify potentially unfair currency practices or excessive external imbalances, which could weigh on US growth or harm American workers and firms.

"The Treasury Department has taken a strong step today to safeguard economic growth and opportunity for American workers and businesses said US Treasury Secretary Steven T Mnuchin.

"Treasury will follow up on its findings with respect to Vietnam and Switzerland to work toward eliminating practices that create unfair advantages for foreign competitors,&nbsp;he said in a press release issued by the Treasury Department.

The Treasury found that 10 economies warrant placement on Treasury's "Monitoring List" of major trading partners that merit close attention to their currency practices: China, Japan, Korea, Germany, Italy, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand, and India, the last three being added in the report.

Based on Reserve Bank of India's regularly published intervention data, India's net purchases of foreign exchange accelerated notably in the second half of 2019, and following sales during the initial onset of the pandemic, India sustained net purchases for much of the first half of 2020, the report said.

This pushed net purchases of foreign exchange to USD 64 billion, or 2.4 per cent of GDP, over the four quarters through June 2020.

"Treasury continues to welcome India's long-standing transparency in publishing foreign exchange purchases and sales, the report said, adding that it encourages the authorities to limit foreign exchange intervention to periods of excessive volatility while allowing the rupee to adjust based on economic fundamentals.

"By further opening the economy to foreign investors, India can also support economic recovery and bolster long-term growth, said the report.

According to the Treasury, India's economy contracted sharply in the first half of 2020 due to the collapse in domestic demand brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The authorities responded with the modest direct financial support of around two per cent of GDP and substantial monetary easing.

India's deep domestic demand contraction and slower recovery relative to its key trading partners contributed to the economy's first four-quarter current account surplus since 2004 (0.4 per cent of GDP over the year to June 2020).

India for several years has maintained a significant bilateral goods trade surplus with the United States, which totalled USD 22 billion in the four quarters through June 2020, it said.

The Treasury said that India has been exemplary in publishing its foreign exchange market intervention, publishing monthly spot purchases and sales and net forward activity with a two-month lag.

The RBI states that the value of the rupee is broadly market-determined, with intervention used only to curb undue volatility in the exchange rate.

The RBI purchased foreign exchange on the net in 10 of the 12 months through June 2020, with the net intervention (both spot and forward intervention) reaching USD 64 billion, or 2.4 per cent of GDP.

While purchases slowed during the onset of the pandemic, and the RBI engaged in net sales in March 2020, the RBI's net purchases again accelerated in mid-2020 as portfolio inflows resumed and foreign direct investment remained strong.

"Rupee volatility did not appear to have been particularly elevated in the four quarters through June 2020, however.

These purchases have led to a rapid rise in total reserves that are now well in excess of standard reserve adequacy benchmarks.

As of June 2020, foreign currency reserves stood at USD 466 billion, equal to 4.4 times gross short-term external debt.

Reserves have continued to grow in recent months, reaching USD502 billion in September 2020 as purchases accelerated further in July and August, it said.

The Treasury said that Indian authorities should allow the exchange rate to move to reflect economic fundamentals and limit foreign exchange intervention to circumstances of disorderly market conditions.

It said India can also leverage the recovery period to pursue structural reforms that will open its market further to foreign investment and trade, including foreign portfolio investment in Indian sovereign and sub-sovereign bonds, thereby fostering stronger long-term growth.

The US on Wednesday added India along with Taiwan and Thailand to the "monitoring list" of currency manipulating countries that includes major trading partners like China and six others.

The US on Wednesday added India along with Taiwan and Thailand to the "monitoring list" of currency manipulating countries that includes major trading partners like China and six others. It also branded Vietnam and Switzerland as currency manipulators. Other countries in the monitoring list are Japan, South Korea, Germany, Italy, Singapore and Malaysia. Ireland has been removed from the Monitoring List, the US Department of Treasury said in its report Macroeconomic and Foreign Exchange Policies of Major Trading Partners of the United States' submitted to the Congress on Wednesday. Over the four quarters through June 2020, four major US trading partners Vietnam, Switzerland, India, and Singapore intervened in the foreign exchange market in a sustained, asymmetric manner, it said. Vietnam and Switzerland exceeded the two other objective criteria established by the Treasury to identify potentially unfair currency practices or excessive external imbalances, which could weigh on US growth or harm American workers and firms. "The Treasury Department has taken a strong step today to safeguard economic growth and opportunity for American workers and businesses said US Treasury Secretary Steven T Mnuchin. "Treasury will follow up on its findings with respect to Vietnam and Switzerland to work toward eliminating practices that create unfair advantages for foreign competitors, he said in a press release issued by the Treasury Department. The Treasury found that 10 economies warrant placement on Treasury's "Monitoring List" of major trading partners that merit close attention to their currency practices: China, Japan, Korea, Germany, Italy, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand, and India, the last three being added in the report. Based on Reserve Bank of India's regularly published intervention data, India's net purchases of foreign exchange accelerated notably in the second half of 2019, and following sales during the initial onset of the pandemic, India sustained net purchases for much of the first half of 2020, the report said. This pushed net purchases of foreign exchange to USD 64 billion, or 2.4 per cent of GDP, over the four quarters through June 2020. "Treasury continues to welcome India's long-standing transparency in publishing foreign exchange purchases and sales, the report said, adding that it encourages the authorities to limit foreign exchange intervention to periods of excessive volatility while allowing the rupee to adjust based on economic fundamentals. "By further opening the economy to foreign investors, India can also support economic recovery and bolster long-term growth, said the report. According to the Treasury, India's economy contracted sharply in the first half of 2020 due to the collapse in domestic demand brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. The authorities responded with the modest direct financial support of around two per cent of GDP and substantial monetary easing. India's deep domestic demand contraction and slower recovery relative to its key trading partners contributed to the economy's first four-quarter current account surplus since 2004 (0.4 per cent of GDP over the year to June 2020). India for several years has maintained a significant bilateral goods trade surplus with the United States, which totalled USD 22 billion in the four quarters through June 2020, it said. The Treasury said that India has been exemplary in publishing its foreign exchange market intervention, publishing monthly spot purchases and sales and net forward activity with a two-month lag. The RBI states that the value of the rupee is broadly market-determined, with intervention used only to curb undue volatility in the exchange rate. The RBI purchased foreign exchange on the net in 10 of the 12 months through June 2020, with the net intervention (both spot and forward intervention) reaching USD 64 billion, or 2.4 per cent of GDP. While purchases slowed during the onset of the pandemic, and the RBI engaged in net sales in March 2020, the RBI's net purchases again accelerated in mid-2020 as portfolio inflows resumed and foreign direct investment remained strong. "Rupee volatility did not appear to have been particularly elevated in the four quarters through June 2020, however. These purchases have led to a rapid rise in total reserves that are now well in excess of standard reserve adequacy benchmarks. As of June 2020, foreign currency reserves stood at USD 466 billion, equal to 4.4 times gross short-term external debt. Reserves have continued to grow in recent months, reaching USD502 billion in September 2020 as purchases accelerated further in July and August, it said. The Treasury said that Indian authorities should allow the exchange rate to move to reflect economic fundamentals and limit foreign exchange intervention to circumstances of disorderly market conditions. It said India can also leverage the recovery period to pursue structural reforms that will open its market further to foreign investment and trade, including foreign portfolio investment in Indian sovereign and sub-sovereign bonds, thereby fostering stronger long-term growth.

US adds India, Thailand and Taiwan to currency manipulation watchlist

A 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck the Yilan City in Taiwan on Thursday, the US Geological Survey said.

There were no immediate reports of any injuries or damage.

The depth of the earthquake, which hit the island's east coast, was 74 kilometres at 9:19 pm local time (1319 GMT), according to the USGS as reported by news agency AFP.

However, the GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences said the depth of the quake was 67 kms, as reported by news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

Taipei residents said that buildings were shaking as the shock was felt across the island region.&nbsp;

"My building shook violently and I took my son and fled our home. It's deathly terrifying," said one person from Taipei on social media.&nbsp;

"It's shaking so powerfully for so long in New Taipei City," wrote one Facebook user.&nbsp;

"I thought my house was going to collapse and I was wrecked. Thankfully there's no damage."&nbsp;

Chen Kuo-chang, head of the Central Weather Bureau's Seismological Center, said the quake was the biggest in 2020.&nbsp;

"The earthquake was felt all over Taiwan," Chen said, as quoted by news agency AFP as saying.&nbsp;

Vice President William Lai urged people to maintain calm and said that the government was monitoring the situation in a post on Facebook. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

A 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck the Yilan City in Taiwan on Thursday, the US Geological Survey said. There were no immediate reports of any injuries or damage.

A 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck the Yilan City in Taiwan on Thursday, the US Geological Survey said. There were no immediate reports of any injuries or damage. The depth of the earthquake, which hit the island's east coast, was 74 kilometres at 9:19 pm local time (1319 GMT), according to the USGS as reported by news agency AFP. However, the GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences said the depth of the quake was 67 kms, as reported by news agency Reuters. Taipei residents said that buildings were shaking as the shock was felt across the island region. "My building shook violently and I took my son and fled our home. It's deathly terrifying," said one person from Taipei on social media. "It's shaking so powerfully for so long in New Taipei City," wrote one Facebook user. "I thought my house was going to collapse and I was wrecked. Thankfully there's no damage." Chen Kuo-chang, head of the Central Weather Bureau's Seismological Center, said the quake was the biggest in 2020. "The earthquake was felt all over Taiwan," Chen said, as quoted by news agency AFP as saying. Vice President William Lai urged people to maintain calm and said that the government was monitoring the situation in a post on Facebook.

6.2 magnitude earthquake strikes Taiwan's east coast

The world has been under lockdowns and quarantines for almost a year now. Some have been arrested for staging anti-lockdown protests, but the most unlucky incident has happened to a Philippine man who has been fined for breaking a quarantine for merely eight seconds.

Taiwan has one fo the strictest&nbsp;quarantine rules in the world with a heavy fine amount for those who breach the quarantine restrictions. This Philippine man has been fined with&nbsp;around $3,600 (100,000 Taiwanese dollars) after he was caught coming out of his isolation room.

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He was staying in a room at a quarantine hotel in&nbsp;Taiwan's Kaohsiung as a part of the mandatory isolation period. When he stepped out for a brief period of time, he was caught on a surveillance camera. The man can be spotted leaving his room without permission and is then joined by another friend of his who was also in isolation.

The two can be seen trying to maintain social distancing. The man fined can also be seen stepping out only to keep something on the table which the other person was supposed to pick up.&nbsp;

However, this mere breach of eight seconds has cost too much for this offender. It is not clear, yet, if the second offender has also faced a fine.

The video footage has ben circulated to the local media channels by the&nbsp;Kaohsiung Department of Health.

The world has been under lockdowns and quarantines for almost a year now. Some have been arrested for staging anti-lockdown protests, but the most unlucky incident has happened to a Philippine man who has been fined for breaking a quarantine for merely eight seconds.

The world has been under lockdowns and quarantines for almost a year now. Some have been arrested for staging anti-lockdown protests, but the most unlucky incident has happened to a Philippine man who has been fined for breaking a quarantine for merely eight seconds. Taiwan has one fo the strictest quarantine rules in the world with a heavy fine amount for those who breach the quarantine restrictions. This Philippine man has been fined with around $3,600 (100,000 Taiwanese dollars) after he was caught coming out of his isolation room. × He was staying in a room at a quarantine hotel in Taiwan's Kaohsiung as a part of the mandatory isolation period. When he stepped out for a brief period of time, he was caught on a surveillance camera. The man can be spotted leaving his room without permission and is then joined by another friend of his who was also in isolation. The two can be seen trying to maintain social distancing. The man fined can also be seen stepping out only to keep something on the table which the other person was supposed to pick up. However, this mere breach of eight seconds has cost too much for this offender. It is not clear, yet, if the second offender has also faced a fine. The video footage has ben circulated to the local media channels by the Kaohsiung Department of Health.

WATCH| Philippine man fined $3,600 for 8-second quarantine breach in Taiwan

Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen said they face daily military threats from China, as United States announced a new $280m arms sale package to the Chinese-claimed island.

Taiwan says faces daily threats as US notifies of $280m arms sale

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

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

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

World leaders condemn sentencing of Hong Kong activists

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

Gravitas: Taiwan's legislators fight over pork import

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

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

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

China sentences Taiwanese professor to four years in jail

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

Video: Taiwan begins building new submarines

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

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

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

China considers legal steps against supporters of Taiwan independence

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

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

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

US Navy admiral makes unannounced visit to Taiwan

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

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

Taiwan expanding submarine fleet as China threat grows

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

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

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

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

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

Thousands join annual Taiwan protest, anger focussed on US pork

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taiwan FM & Indian representatives share stage at an Diwali event

Taiwan's foreign minister Jaushieh Joseph Wu and the Director-General of India-Taipei Association (India's de facto envoy) Gourangalal Das shared the stage on a Taiwan government-sponsored mega Diwali event on Friday. &nbsp;

Around 200 people attended a COVID complaint event, with the participation of many Indians, MPs of Taiwan parliament Yuan, and members of the diplomatic corps.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/taiwan-government-to-host-mega-diwali-celebration-341385">Taiwan government to host mega Diwali celebration</a>

Taiwan Foreign minister speaking at the event said, "Diwali is a festival that represents many things, including the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. In these difficult times, we take inspiration from Diwali as we work to combat the pandemic and return life to normal."

The Diwali celebrations took place at the historical Taipei Guest House which is used as a state guest house to receive state guests. The more than the 100-year-old building is owned by the Taiwanese government and administered by its foreign ministry.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/diwali-gift-to-borrowers-government-waives-off-interest-on-interest-for-loans-up-to-rs-2-crore-337753">Diwali gift to borrowers: Government waives off interest on interest for loans up to Rs 2 crore</a>

Gourangalal Das, "Diwali has acquired a global following, and it is celebrated not only by millions of Indians abroad but by millions of their friends in the adopted home. I am happy to see such a vibrant and dynamic Indian community in Taiwan, proudly displaying this glorious inheritance of ours."

The director-general appreciated the event being held at Taipei Guest House saying, "by opening it..they have not only opened their doors but also hearts to India and Indians."

Present at the celebration was Deputy Taiwan Foreign Minister&nbsp;Tien Chung Kwang who used to be Amb. of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center in India and was stationed in India for 7 years. Another notable person at the celebration was Legislator Yu-Chin Wu who is the Chairperson of the Taiwan-India Parliamentary Friendship Association of the Legislative Yuan.

Foreign Minister&nbsp;Wu lauded the role of &nbsp;2 people Jeffery Wu, a Taiwanese national who has contributed to promoting Indian culture, and Priya Lalwani Purswaney who was the first Indian woman to start her own business in Taiwan. They played a key role in the Diwali celebration.

Recently engagement between India and Taiwan has increased in terms of societal interaction. On Taiwan National Day, strong support was seen in India angering the Chinese Embassy.

Taiwanese president Tsai ing-wen has been tweeted about Indian dishes saying her favorite food is Chana Masala and Naan. She has also been recalling her India visit, terming it as "memories of a vibrant, diverse &amp; colorful country."

The close engagement comes eve as China has been aggressive with both India and Taiwan. With India, the line of actual control row has been the worst Chinese build-up while with Taiwan, Chinese jets have been breaching the Taiwan strait median line that separates Taiwan from China.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gravitas: W.H.O censors Taiwan on Facebook

Apple on Monday claimed that it had put Taiwanese supplier Pegatron on probation after realising that the company has been overworking student employees.

The company reportedly violated Apple’s supplier code of conduct by making student employees extra, mostly overnight.&nbsp;

According to Reuters, Pegatron had falsely classified student workers and had also put forward false paperwork to hide the violations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/us-court-orders-apple-to-pay-503-million-to-virnetx-in-patent-case-339258" hreflang="en">US court orders Apple to pay $503 million to VirnetX in patent case</a>

In addition, the company also breached a code by allowing students to take up work which may not be in sync with their majors.

Pegatron is one of few Taiwanese manufcaturers, along with Foxconn, the dominating player in Apple’s manufacturing chain line.

"Several weeks ago, we discovered Pegatron - one of Apple's suppliers in China - violated Apple's Supplier Code of Conduct in its administration of a student work study programme," Apple said in a statement.

"Apple has placed Pegatron on probation and Pegatron will not receive any new business from Apple until they complete all of the corrective actions required”, the Apple statement added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/apple-google-and-a-deal-that-controls-the-internet-337885" hreflang="en">Apple, Google and a deal that controls the internet</a>

However, no proof of underage of forced labour was found. Pegatron had fired the executive who was in charge of the programme.&nbsp;

"The individuals at Pegatron responsible for the violations went to extraordinary lengths to evade our oversight mechanisms," Apple added in its statement.

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

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

Apple puts Taiwanese supplier Pegatron on probation for exploitation of students

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

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

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

Taiwan is yet to receive invite to key WHO meeting

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