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

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

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

Taiwan government to host mega Diwali celebration

China's military aggression has led to an unexpected outcome. It's benefitting one of Beijing's adversaries, the US and its defence industry. American defence companies are picking up major defence contracts from American allies. Countries like India and Taiwan are now turning to American defence equipment to boost their defences against the dragon.

China triggered its border standoff with India back in May. After multiple rounds of talks, China hasn't pulled back. Indian soldiers have now dug in for the long haul. They needed special gear for an extended winter deployment. The US was happy to step in.

Reports say, India has acquired 11 thousand sets of extended cold weather clothing from the US Army. These sets have come from the stock-holdings of the US Army. 
&nbsp; 
India is not the only country that reached out to the US for defence supplies. As China' aggression grows, American allies have been dialling Washington for arms and ammunition. The American defence industry has won multiple contracts. Taiwan tops the list of major purchases.. Two major deals were announced in one week.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-hard-line-immigration-policies-go-before-voters-339028">Trump's hard-line immigration policies go before voters</a>

The first one was worth 1.8 billion dollars. For cruise missiles, rocket launchers and surveillance equipment. Weapons, that can target the Chinese mainland.

China announced sanctions. But a second deal followed. A package worth 2.4 billion dollars. This includes 400 Harpoon anti-ship missiles, 1000 launcher transporters, Radar and support systems.

Taipei has said American weapons will enhance Taiwan's combat capabilities against the Chinese. The US government has steadily backed its defence industry. Lockdowns haven't affected major arms deals.&nbsp;

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In October, the US announced major arms sales to South Korea, Egypt, Finland, Romania and Taiwan. By May, the US state department approved weapons sales to India, Morocco and the Philippines. These deals were worth 2.2 billion dollars. In addition to this, the UAE was given 150 million dollars in blanket funds. This was to repair and support aircraft fleets.

The UAE has a big purchase order for America. A deal for F-35 fighter jets. A purchase that could be worth 10 billion dollars. It seems that China's aggression has come as a boon to the American defence industry. As Beijing continues to make territorial claims, US arms manufacturers are raking in the Moolah.

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

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

Chinese aggression comes as boon to the US

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

Taiwan: Drag queens win legal battle, face societal resistance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here's how Taiwan beat the pandemic

In a first, two same-sex couple will be getting married in&nbsp;Taiwanese army’s annual mass wedding ceremony that will be held this week. This is the first time such a ceremony will allow same-sex couples to legalise their marriage.

The decision has come 18 months after the Taiwanese government legalised and gave equal rights to same-sex couples.&nbsp;

The ceremony will have various soldiers getting married to their civilian/army partners. The two couples are&nbsp;Chen Ying-xuan and Lee Ying-ying, and Wang Yi and Meng Youmei.

“Our country … has become the first in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage and the ministry gives its blessings to same-sex servicemen who are getting married,” the Taiwanese military said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/australia-vs-india-full-schedule-dates-venues-and-all-you-need-to-know-338518" hreflang="en">Australia vs India: Full schedule, dates, venues and all you need to know</a>

Taiwan has emerged as one of the most forward-thinking Asian countries in the past few years with its&nbsp;self-governing democracy. The military posted several pictures of different couples and asked people to vote for their favourite couple.&nbsp;The photo of Wang and Meng has been liked more than 31,000 times on Facebook alone. The pictures of the same-sex couples gained lots of positive comments with people saying, "Love makes Taiwan stronger". Last year, three couples were scheduled to get married, but they later withdrew their names due to reasons unknown.&nbsp;

This is not the first time a same-sex couple will be registering their marriage in Taiwan. Thousands of couples have legalised their marriage after the law was passed 18 months ago.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wrong-dictionary-juventus-cheeky-response-to-barcelona-triggers-battle-of-goats-338783" hreflang="en">'Wrong dictionary'- Juventus cheeky response to Barcelona triggers battle of GOATs</a>

While all local couples and residents enjoy the freedom and all rights related to same-sex equality. But people from the LGBTQ community who want to marry someone from any other country can only register their marriage if it is permitted in the partner's home country. Activists have called attention on this technicality. The community has also now urged the government to simplify adoption and&nbsp;assisted reproduction rights for same-sex couples in the country.

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

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

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

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

Gravitas: How the United States is building the Asian NATO

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

US approves $2.37 bn arms sales to Taiwan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hundreds of protesters&nbsp;rallied in Taiwan's capital on Sunday -- demanding China should release 12 Hong Kong people arrested at sea by mainland authorities.

The 12 were arrested on August 23 for alleged illegal entry into mainland China after setting off from Hong Kong in a boat bound for democratic Taiwan, amid a crackdown by Beijing on pro-democracy activists in the former British colony.

All 12 were reportedly suspected of committing crimes including manufacturing or possessing explosives, arson and rioting in Hong Kong.

Many demonstrators wore black shirts, with some holding signs demanding "immediate release" for the 12 and others waving yellow umbrellas, a symbol of Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement.

An online rally was scheduled in Hong Kong on Sunday evening.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam has said the 12 would have to face justice in the mainland and that her government will provide them with "needed and feasible" assistance.

Ten of them were on bail and not allowed to leave Hong Kong.

Taiwan shares with the Hong Kong protesters a deep antipathy for Beijing, which considers Taiwan its territory and has never renounced the use of force to bring the island under its control.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen in May became the first government leader globally to pledge measures to help Hong Kong people who leave due to what they see as tightening Chinese controls.

This, however, has further strained Taipei's already poor ties with Beijing, which has ramped up military activities near Taiwan.

Hundreds of protesters rallied in Taiwan's capital on Sunday -- demanding China should release 12 Hong Kong people arrested at sea by mainland authorities. The 12 were arrested on August 23 for alleged illegal entry into mainland China after setting off from Hong Kong in a boat bound for democratic Taiwan, amid a crackdown by Beijing on pro-democracy activists in the former British colony.

Hundreds of protesters rallied in Taiwan's capital on Sunday -- demanding China should release 12 Hong Kong people arrested at sea by mainland authorities. The 12 were arrested on August 23 for alleged illegal entry into mainland China after setting off from Hong Kong in a boat bound for democratic Taiwan, amid a crackdown by Beijing on pro-democracy activists in the former British colony. All 12 were reportedly suspected of committing crimes including manufacturing or possessing explosives, arson and rioting in Hong Kong. Many demonstrators wore black shirts, with some holding signs demanding "immediate release" for the 12 and others waving yellow umbrellas, a symbol of Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement. An online rally was scheduled in Hong Kong on Sunday evening. Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam has said the 12 would have to face justice in the mainland and that her government will provide them with "needed and feasible" assistance. Ten of them were on bail and not allowed to leave Hong Kong. Taiwan shares with the Hong Kong protesters a deep antipathy for Beijing, which considers Taiwan its territory and has never renounced the use of force to bring the island under its control. Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen in May became the first government leader globally to pledge measures to help Hong Kong people who leave due to what they see as tightening Chinese controls. This, however, has further strained Taipei's already poor ties with Beijing, which has ramped up military activities near Taiwan.

Protesters rally in Taiwan, call for release of 12 Hong Kong people arrested by China

October 25 in history: Japan hands over Taiwan to China, first Indian elections, & more

Rattled by an interview with Taiwan's Foreign Minister, China shot off a protest letter to WION. The Chinese Embassy accused WION of 'seriously violating' the One-China principle. WION's Palki Sharma brings you WION's response.

Gravitas: Why WION's interview with Taiwan's Foreign Minister has rattled China

More than 150 days have passed. China hasn't withdrawn its troops from its border with India. The PLA has spoken of peace and provoked war. It is doing the same in the case of Taiwan. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why Taiwan doesn't rule out a possible Chinese invasion.

Gravitas: Taiwan extends a hand of friendship to India

In an exclusive interview with Palki Sharma, Taiwan's Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said that Taiwan faces the threat of a military invasion by China. Here is an excerpt from that conversation.

Gravitas Exclusive: Taiwan fears a Chinese military invasion

The US Department of State has approved the potential sale of three weapons systems to Taiwan, including sensors, missiles, and artillery that could have a total value of $1.8 BN. Watch report.

US helps Taiwan build defences against China: US to sell missiles, artillery to Taiwan

It has been nearly ten months since the pandemic took over the world. The novel coronavirus, numerous reports claim, was originated in China's Wuhan, and some even claim that the virus is Wuhan lab-made.&nbsp;

Some reports also accuse China and the&nbsp;World Health Organization (WHO) of covering up the pandemic. However, these accusations&nbsp;have not been proved yet.

Taiwan, however, believes that the virus did originate from China. In an exclusive interview with WION, the&nbsp;Minister of Foreign Affairs, Taiwan, Joseph Wu, said: "To us, there's no doubt".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-puts-pressure-on-nations-to-not-recognise-taiwan-as-a-country-foreign-minister-joseph-wu-tells-wion-336966">Also read|&nbsp;China puts pressure on nations to not recognise Taiwan as a country: Foreign Minister Joseph Wu tells WION</a>

Dr Wu said that Taiwan reached out to&nbsp;the Chinese health authorities and the WHO&nbsp;in December 2019&nbsp;when Taiwan's health experts saw some internet reports and videos of patients being treated in isolation which reflected that there was&nbsp;human transmission.

"When we saw some internet discussions in China back in December last year, our health experts in our CDC had got nervous and therefore they sent an email to the World Health Organization and they also sent an email to the Chinese health authorities asking them what is going on."

Taiwan claims that they are sure the virus originated from Wuhan and therefore they started taking precautions against the people coming from China.&nbsp;"We don't have any hesitation. We started checking the&nbsp;passengers coming back from Wuhan onboard. So, to us, there is no doubt that Wuhan is the origin of this pandemic throughout the world."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-trying-to-export-its-authoritarianism-to-distract-from-domestic-issues-joseph-wu-taiwans-foreign-minister-tells-wion-336969">Also read|&nbsp;China trying to export its authoritarianism to distract from domestic issues: Joseph Wu, Taiwan's Foreign Minister tells WION</a>

He also added that an investigation&nbsp;of where the pandemic is originated from should be conducted, and there should be&nbsp;"international cooperation to see how we can stop the pandemic from spreading."

Is WHO guilty of a cover-up?

When asked if he believes WHO helped China cover up the pandemic, he said, "At the beginning, the WHO did not seem to be identifying the coronavirus as a very serious threat to the international community and the consensus is that when the WHO started to get serious when it was too late."

He also added that he hopes the WHO and all other international communities treat this as a learning lesson. "I think we need to pay attention to any transmittable diseases among human beings in a very serious way to prevent the next wave of pandemic from happening again," he said.

Taiwan has been one of the few countries that has been successful in containing the spread of the novel coronavirus.&nbsp;"Taiwan is one of those countries that seems to be quite successful in dealing with the pandemic, and we want to share our experiences and our know-how in our way of dealing with the other countries," Dr. Wu said.

He also shed light on how Taiwan and India have joined hands and shared experiences with each other in this pandemic.&nbsp;"Our health sectors and our hospitals have some exchanges with some Indian institutions as well, and that proved to be very useful for those Indian institutions in learning our experience."

It has been nearly ten months since the pandemic took over the world. The novel coronavirus, numerous reports claim, was originated in China's Wuhan, and some even claim that the virus is Wuhan lab-made.

It has been nearly ten months since the pandemic took over the world. The novel coronavirus, numerous reports claim, was originated in China's Wuhan, and some even claim that the virus is Wuhan lab-made. Some reports also accuse China and the World Health Organization (WHO) of covering up the pandemic. However, these accusations have not been proved yet. Taiwan, however, believes that the virus did originate from China. In an exclusive interview with WION, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Taiwan, Joseph Wu, said: "To us, there's no doubt". Also read| China puts pressure on nations to not recognise Taiwan as a country: Foreign Minister Joseph Wu tells WION Dr Wu said that Taiwan reached out to the Chinese health authorities and the WHO in December 2019 when Taiwan's health experts saw some internet reports and videos of patients being treated in isolation which reflected that there was human transmission. "When we saw some internet discussions in China back in December last year, our health experts in our CDC had got nervous and therefore they sent an email to the World Health Organization and they also sent an email to the Chinese health authorities asking them what is going on." Taiwan claims that they are sure the virus originated from Wuhan and therefore they started taking precautions against the people coming from China. "We don't have any hesitation. We started checking the passengers coming back from Wuhan onboard. So, to us, there is no doubt that Wuhan is the origin of this pandemic throughout the world." Also read| China trying to export its authoritarianism to distract from domestic issues: Joseph Wu, Taiwan's Foreign Minister tells WION He also added that an investigation of where the pandemic is originated from should be conducted, and there should be "international cooperation to see how we can stop the pandemic from spreading." Is WHO guilty of a cover-up? When asked if he believes WHO helped China cover up the pandemic, he said, "At the beginning, the WHO did not seem to be identifying the coronavirus as a very serious threat to the international community and the consensus is that when the WHO started to get serious when it was too late." He also added that he hopes the WHO and all other international communities treat this as a learning lesson. "I think we need to pay attention to any transmittable diseases among human beings in a very serious way to prevent the next wave of pandemic from happening again," he said. Taiwan has been one of the few countries that has been successful in containing the spread of the novel coronavirus. "Taiwan is one of those countries that seems to be quite successful in dealing with the pandemic, and we want to share our experiences and our know-how in our way of dealing with the other countries," Dr. Wu said. He also shed light on how Taiwan and India have joined hands and shared experiences with each other in this pandemic. "Our health sectors and our hospitals have some exchanges with some Indian institutions as well, and that proved to be very useful for those Indian institutions in learning our experience."

EXCLUSIVE| We have no doubt COVID-19 originated in China: Taiwan's Foreign Minister Joseph Wu

After assaulting Taiwanese officials, China is reportedly planning an all-out military attack against Taiwan. Reports say the PLA is gearing up to 'invade' the island. WION's Palki Sharma tells you what China's is up to.

Gravitas: Is China planning to invade Taiwan?

A new low for China's 'wolf-warrior' diplomacy. Chinese diplomats stationed in Fiji 'physically assaulted' Taiwanese officials. Chinese foreign ministry says they were only carrying out their 'official duties'. Taiwan wants the bullying to stop. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Chinese diplomats attack Taiwanese officials

The Chinese armed forces are increasing its presence in the southeast coast of the country for a possible military invasion of Taiwan, according to the defense observers cited by the South China Morning Post.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prepare-for-war-be-absolutely-loyal-xi-jinping-tells-chinese-troops-335294">Also read | Prepare for war, be absolutely loyal: Xi Jinping tells Chinese troops</a>

The development comes after last week's comments of the Chinese President Xi Jinping, stating that China’s armed forces should strengthen training of troops and to be ready for war.

According to state news agency Xinhua, during an inspection of the People's Liberation Army Marine Corps in Chaozhou City, Xi told the soldiers to "maintain a state of high alert" and called on them to be "absolutely loyal, absolutely pure, and absolutely reliable."

According to the sources of the South China Morning Post, "The DF-17 hypersonic missile will gradually replace the old DF-11s and DF-15s that were deployed in the southeast region for decades,".

Beijing is replacing its old DF-11s and DF-15s and deploying its most advanced hypersonic missile DF-17 in the region.

"The new missile has a longer range and is able to hit targets more accurately."

Even though Taiwan has never been controlled by China's ruling party, Chinese authorities insist that the self-governing island is an integral part of their territory, with president Xi Jinping refusing to rule out a military force to capture it if necessary.

According to the Canada-based Kanwa Defence Review, satellite images show that both the Marine Corps and Rocket Force bases in Fujian and Guangdong have expanded.

"Every rocket force brigade in Fujian and Guangdong is now fully equipped," the report said.

"The size of some of the missile bases in the Eastern and Southern theatre commands have even doubled in recent years, showing the PLA is stepping up preparations for a war targeting Taiwan," the further stated.

The information regarding the possible deployment of hypersonic missile comes amid heightened tensions between China and the US, with issues pertaining to disagreements over Taiwan and the COVID-19 pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Chinese armed forces are increasing its presence in the southeast coast of the country for a possible military invasion of Taiwan, according to the defense observers cited by the South China Morning Post.

The Chinese armed forces are increasing its presence in the southeast coast of the country for a possible military invasion of Taiwan, according to the defense observers cited by the South China Morning Post. Also read | Prepare for war, be absolutely loyal: Xi Jinping tells Chinese troops The development comes after last week's comments of the Chinese President Xi Jinping, stating that China’s armed forces should strengthen training of troops and to be ready for war. According to state news agency Xinhua, during an inspection of the People's Liberation Army Marine Corps in Chaozhou City, Xi told the soldiers to "maintain a state of high alert" and called on them to be "absolutely loyal, absolutely pure, and absolutely reliable." According to the sources of the South China Morning Post, "The DF-17 hypersonic missile will gradually replace the old DF-11s and DF-15s that were deployed in the southeast region for decades,". Beijing is replacing its old DF-11s and DF-15s and deploying its most advanced hypersonic missile DF-17 in the region. "The new missile has a longer range and is able to hit targets more accurately." Even though Taiwan has never been controlled by China's ruling party, Chinese authorities insist that the self-governing island is an integral part of their territory, with president Xi Jinping refusing to rule out a military force to capture it if necessary. According to the Canada-based Kanwa Defence Review, satellite images show that both the Marine Corps and Rocket Force bases in Fujian and Guangdong have expanded. "Every rocket force brigade in Fujian and Guangdong is now fully equipped," the report said. "The size of some of the missile bases in the Eastern and Southern theatre commands have even doubled in recent years, showing the PLA is stepping up preparations for a war targeting Taiwan," the further stated. The information regarding the possible deployment of hypersonic missile comes amid heightened tensions between China and the US, with issues pertaining to disagreements over Taiwan and the COVID-19 pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

China forces prepare for possible military invasion of Taiwan, deploy hypersonic missile

When China first opened to overseas investors, the country was desperate for foreign technology to revive its growth. Now, as China faces rising global barriers, its leader, Xi Jinping, is urging greater domestic innovation.

Xi delivered this message Wednesday while making an anniversary pilgrimage to the southern city of Shenzhen, which in 1980 was established as a “special economic zone” next to the global financial hub of Hong Kong. Shenzhen quickly became an incubator for “reform and opening up,” the strategy championed by Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping that paved the way for the country’s decadeslong economic takeoff.

Forty years later, Xi said China still welcomed foreign investors, but he also said it must prepare for a less welcoming world. The coronavirus pandemic has accelerated the rise of barriers to the free flow of goods and technology, Xi said, a theme that he has stressed recently.

“The world economy is at low ebb, and international trade and investment have drastically shrunk,” Xi said to a conference hall packed with officials and guests wearing protective masks, in a speech that was promoted heavily by the Chinese news media.

Xi did not refer directly to the Trump administration’s efforts to restrict Chinese companies’ access to U.S. technology amid escalating tensions between the two countries. Instead, Xi broadly warned that “the world has entered a period of turbulence and transformation.” Shenzhen’s experience, he said, showed that China must “gain the initiative in the global technological revolution.”

China is striving to revive its economy and repair its international standing amid the coronavirus pandemic, which began late last year in the central city of Wuhan. The pandemic has driven negative views of China to new heights in the United States and other wealthy democracies, according to a survey by the Pew Research Center that was published last week.

Xi is also trying to quell jitters about Hong Kong, the semi-autonomous Chinese territory where a sweeping security law was recently imposed in response to tumultuous anti-government protests last year.

Xi’s speech in Shenzhen gave a likely preview of a Communist Party leaders’ meeting late this month, when he will lay out China’s economic strategy for the next five years, including harnessing more domestic innovation and consumer spending.

Xi pledged to make Shenzhen a proving ground for upgrading China’s economy and strengthening innovation, citing plans to step up spending on technology research. He stressed Shenzhen’s importance in a regional economic initiative that also encompasses Hong Kong, a strategy that could enhance Chinese influence over the former British colony and underscore its reduced importance for Beijing.

Xi’s speech and other comments during his trip this week to Guangdong province, which includes Shenzhen, have also underscored his effort to redefine China’s decades-old strategy of “opening up.”

Past leaders stressed drawing in foreign capital and technology to help China catch up; Xi wants to shift the balance by taking Chinese technology, investment and power to the world.

“We’re experiencing a transformation the likes of which hasn’t happened for a century,” Xi said Monday while visiting a factory in Chaozhou, another coastal city in Guangdong. “We must take the road toward a higher level of self-reliance.”

Officials have already spent years trying to shift Shenzhen from low-end industry to high-tech design and manufacturing. Xi wants to wean China off foreign suppliers for crucial components, such as silicon chips, and the city is a part of those plans. Shenzhen is home to the headquarters of big Chinese tech firms such as Huawei, one of the world’s biggest smartphone sellers. The United States has imposed several restrictions against Huawei in the past year, deeming the company a security threat, a claim that the company denies.

“This is a new spin using Shenzhen to say, ‘We can be economically strong, we can be technologically innovative, we can be socially progressive — on Chinese terms,’” said Juan Du, an associate professor of architecture at the University of Hong Kong and author of a recent study, “The Shenzhen Experiment.”

“A lot is riding on this for Shenzhen to be able to set an example for other cities in China,” she said. “Shenzhen’s importance to the national psyche is far greater than just its economic importance.”

But China remains greatly dependent on imported technologies, especially semiconductors, the brains of all electronic devices. Despite billions of dollars in state support, Chinese chipmakers are still far behind rivals in Taiwan, South Korea and the United States.

The Trump administration is threatening to block Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation, China’s most advanced chip manufacturer, from using U.S. software and equipment out of fear that its products are used by the Chinese military, which the company denies. The technology involved in chip production is fiendishly complex to master, making it difficult for Chinese companies to easily catch up with foreign makers.

“The Chinese government is pretty much aware that technology, by and large, comes from the private sector,” said Jean-Pierre Cabestan, a professor of Chinese politics at Hong Kong Baptist University. Shenzhen and its tech companies, he said, are “very much part of this effort to leapfrog and catch up with Western countries in high-tech.”

Xi’s vision of Shenzhen as a base for China’s rising technological prowess carries extra resonance because his father, Xi Zhongxun, was an official who helped to establish the region as a scrappy boomtown.

After former Communist Chairman Mao Zedong’s Cultural Revolution, a surge of people fled to Hong Kong, and Xi Zhongxun, then the party secretary of Guangdong, hoped zones like Shenzhen would help revive the economy and stanch the departures, said Joseph Torigian, an assistant professor at American University in Washington who is writing a biography of the elder Xi. The younger Xi mentioned his father indirectly in his speech, citing him only as an unnamed provincial leader.

Hong Kong investment and expertise were crucial to Shenzhen’s rise in the 1980s, but Xi’s speech Wednesday showed the financial hub’s reduced role in China’s ambitions.

The officials applauding Xi in Shenzhen included Hong Kong’s chief executive, Carrie Lam, who is charged with enforcing the draconian new national security law. Earlier this week, Lam abruptly postponed her annual policy speech to avoid it coinciding with Xi’s visit to Shenzhen.

“It shows again that Hong Kong is a kind of appendage to mainland China,” Cabestan said.

Xi also used his speech in Shenzhen to vow a bigger role for markets, but Chinese entrepreneurs and economists have expressed skepticism about his commitment. Since coming to power in 2012, he has stressed that the party must keep a tight grip on the economy and that state companies must dominate key sectors of industry. Last month, the Chinese party announced plans to extend its role in private businesses.

Xi’s visit to Shenzhen did not signal any shift from his established economic course, said Deng Yuwen, a former editor for a party newspaper who now lives in the United States.

“I think the propaganda pitch has been set this high this time to try to shift the outside world’s view saying that China is not reforming and is closing itself off,” Deng said by telephone. “Oftentimes, what action you take is not the same thing as in the propaganda.”

When China first opened to overseas investors, the country was desperate for foreign technology to revive its growth. Now, as China faces rising global barriers, its leader, Xi Jinping, is urging greater domestic innovation.

When China first opened to overseas investors, the country was desperate for foreign technology to revive its growth. Now, as China faces rising global barriers, its leader, Xi Jinping, is urging greater domestic innovation. Xi delivered this message Wednesday while making an anniversary pilgrimage to the southern city of Shenzhen, which in 1980 was established as a “special economic zone” next to the global financial hub of Hong Kong. Shenzhen quickly became an incubator for “reform and opening up,” the strategy championed by Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping that paved the way for the country’s decadeslong economic takeoff. Forty years later, Xi said China still welcomed foreign investors, but he also said it must prepare for a less welcoming world. The coronavirus pandemic has accelerated the rise of barriers to the free flow of goods and technology, Xi said, a theme that he has stressed recently. “The world economy is at low ebb, and international trade and investment have drastically shrunk,” Xi said to a conference hall packed with officials and guests wearing protective masks, in a speech that was promoted heavily by the Chinese news media. Xi did not refer directly to the Trump administration’s efforts to restrict Chinese companies’ access to U.S. technology amid escalating tensions between the two countries. Instead, Xi broadly warned that “the world has entered a period of turbulence and transformation.” Shenzhen’s experience, he said, showed that China must “gain the initiative in the global technological revolution.” China is striving to revive its economy and repair its international standing amid the coronavirus pandemic, which began late last year in the central city of Wuhan. The pandemic has driven negative views of China to new heights in the United States and other wealthy democracies, according to a survey by the Pew Research Center that was published last week. Xi is also trying to quell jitters about Hong Kong, the semi-autonomous Chinese territory where a sweeping security law was recently imposed in response to tumultuous anti-government protests last year. Xi’s speech in Shenzhen gave a likely preview of a Communist Party leaders’ meeting late this month, when he will lay out China’s economic strategy for the next five years, including harnessing more domestic innovation and consumer spending. Xi pledged to make Shenzhen a proving ground for upgrading China’s economy and strengthening innovation, citing plans to step up spending on technology research. He stressed Shenzhen’s importance in a regional economic initiative that also encompasses Hong Kong, a strategy that could enhance Chinese influence over the former British colony and underscore its reduced importance for Beijing. Xi’s speech and other comments during his trip this week to Guangdong province, which includes Shenzhen, have also underscored his effort to redefine China’s decades-old strategy of “opening up.” Past leaders stressed drawing in foreign capital and technology to help China catch up; Xi wants to shift the balance by taking Chinese technology, investment and power to the world. “We’re experiencing a transformation the likes of which hasn’t happened for a century,” Xi said Monday while visiting a factory in Chaozhou, another coastal city in Guangdong. “We must take the road toward a higher level of self-reliance.” Officials have already spent years trying to shift Shenzhen from low-end industry to high-tech design and manufacturing. Xi wants to wean China off foreign suppliers for crucial components, such as silicon chips, and the city is a part of those plans. Shenzhen is home to the headquarters of big Chinese tech firms such as Huawei, one of the world’s biggest smartphone sellers. The United States has imposed several restrictions against Huawei in the past year, deeming the company a security threat, a claim that the company denies. “This is a new spin using Shenzhen to say, ‘We can be economically strong, we can be technologically innovative, we can be socially progressive — on Chinese terms,’” said Juan Du, an associate professor of architecture at the University of Hong Kong and author of a recent study, “The Shenzhen Experiment.” “A lot is riding on this for Shenzhen to be able to set an example for other cities in China,” she said. “Shenzhen’s importance to the national psyche is far greater than just its economic importance.” But China remains greatly dependent on imported technologies, especially semiconductors, the brains of all electronic devices. Despite billions of dollars in state support, Chinese chipmakers are still far behind rivals in Taiwan, South Korea and the United States. The Trump administration is threatening to block Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation, China’s most advanced chip manufacturer, from using U.S. software and equipment out of fear that its products are used by the Chinese military, which the company denies. The technology involved in chip production is fiendishly complex to master, making it difficult for Chinese companies to easily catch up with foreign makers. “The Chinese government is pretty much aware that technology, by and large, comes from the private sector,” said Jean-Pierre Cabestan, a professor of Chinese politics at Hong Kong Baptist University. Shenzhen and its tech companies, he said, are “very much part of this effort to leapfrog and catch up with Western countries in high-tech.” Xi’s vision of Shenzhen as a base for China’s rising technological prowess carries extra resonance because his father, Xi Zhongxun, was an official who helped to establish the region as a scrappy boomtown. After former Communist Chairman Mao Zedong’s Cultural Revolution, a surge of people fled to Hong Kong, and Xi Zhongxun, then the party secretary of Guangdong, hoped zones like Shenzhen would help revive the economy and stanch the departures, said Joseph Torigian, an assistant professor at American University in Washington who is writing a biography of the elder Xi. The younger Xi mentioned his father indirectly in his speech, citing him only as an unnamed provincial leader. Hong Kong investment and expertise were crucial to Shenzhen’s rise in the 1980s, but Xi’s speech Wednesday showed the financial hub’s reduced role in China’s ambitions. The officials applauding Xi in Shenzhen included Hong Kong’s chief executive, Carrie Lam, who is charged with enforcing the draconian new national security law. Earlier this week, Lam abruptly postponed her annual policy speech to avoid it coinciding with Xi’s visit to Shenzhen. “It shows again that Hong Kong is a kind of appendage to mainland China,” Cabestan said. Xi also used his speech in Shenzhen to vow a bigger role for markets, but Chinese entrepreneurs and economists have expressed skepticism about his commitment. Since coming to power in 2012, he has stressed that the party must keep a tight grip on the economy and that state companies must dominate key sectors of industry. Last month, the Chinese party announced plans to extend its role in private businesses. Xi’s visit to Shenzhen did not signal any shift from his established economic course, said Deng Yuwen, a former editor for a party newspaper who now lives in the United States. “I think the propaganda pitch has been set this high this time to try to shift the outside world’s view saying that China is not reforming and is closing itself off,” Deng said by telephone. “Oftentimes, what action you take is not the same thing as in the propaganda.”

In city where China welcomed the world, Xi prepares for a colder one

How does Beijing expect the world to respect the One-China policy when the dragon is breaching every possible international code? In the last 2 days, China has threatened the U.S and intruded into Japanese waters. Palki Sharma Upadhyay has the details.

Gravitas: China's neighbourhood battle

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