President Tsai receives Sen. Duckworth, pledges to expand Taiwan-US economic ties
Foreign Minister Wu gives exclusive interview to The Jerusalem Post
The government is fully determined to strengthen Taiwan’s defensive capabilities while deepening cooperation with other members of the free world, according to Foreign Minister Jaushieh Joseph Wu (吳釗燮). Taiwan is on the front lines of China’s authoritarian expansionism, Wu said. This is evidenced by Beijing’s repeated incursions into the country’s air defense identification zone, he added. Wu made the remarks during an exclusive video interview with Yaakov Katz for The Jerusalem Post published May 30 by the Israel-based daily. According to the minister, China’s military threat toward Taiwan has been increasing tremendously. Beijing’s aggression in the East and South China Seas and the Pacific, as well as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, shows that global politics have boiled down to a battle between democracy and authoritarianism, Wu added. The free world has shown great unity by standing with Ukraine and imposing sanctions on Russia, Wu said. It is hoped that the global community will also continue its support for Taiwan to help counter Beijing’s expansionism.
Last batch of donations for Ukraine delivered May 27
The last batch of supplies donated to help Ukraine refugees forced to flee following Russia’s invasion in late February was delivered last Friday, underscoring support from the government and people of Taiwan for the East European country in its time of need, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said May 30. A total of 582 tons of goods were collected during a donation drive launched by the MOFA from March 7-18, the ministry said, adding that 8,474 people and institutions responded to the government’s call. According to the MOFA, the donations were checked, sorted and packed into 37,620 boxes with the help of over 2,000 volunteers, ministry staffers and freight company workers. The supplies were shipped in separate batches to neighboring countries such as Slovakia and Poland starting March 17.MOFA grateful for WHO backing from Taiwan’s allies, partners
Staunch support from allies and like-minded partners for Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Assembly (WHA), the decision-making body of the World Health Organization (WHO), is sincerely appreciated by the government and people, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said May 29. Over 3,800 lawmakers, political figures and friends from 88 countries’ governments, law-making bodies and international organizations voiced support for Taiwan’s WHA bid, the ministry said. Thirteen of the country’s allies called on the WHO to invite Taiwan to attend the WHA as an observer during the 75th edition of the annual meeting, the MOFA said. Similar sentiments were expressed by representatives from like-minded partners including Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Lithuania, Luxemburg, New Zealand, the Czech Republic, the U.K., the U.S. and observer group the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, the ministry added.Taiwan welcomes US, Japan, South Korea statements on cross-strait peace, stability
Staunch U.S.-Japan-South Korea support for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait is sincerely appreciated by the government and people, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). The backing came in joint statements issued by U.S. President Joe Biden, Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and South Korea President Yoon Suk-yeol following summits staged by the U.S. with the two Asian allies May 23 in Tokyo and May 21 in Seoul. According to the MOFA, the statements emphasize the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait to maintaining Indo-Pacific and global security and prosperity. This sentiment also reflects consensus throughout the democratic world on the need to safeguard the status quo, the ministry said.
WHA75 noninvitation protested by Taiwan
Exports to Central, Eastern Europe hit record high
Taiwan’s exports to Central and Eastern Europe totaled US$1.38 billion in the first four months of 2022, up 31.7 percent over the same period last year and the highest on record, the Ministry of Economic Affairs said May 31. Further analysis of the data shows that the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland accounted for 66.8 percent of Taiwan’s total outgoing shipments to the region, with the major export items being computer components and parts, telecommunication products and bicycle components and parts. In particular, the ministry said booming demand for routers, smart wearable devices and switches due to the COVID-19 pandemic are driving telecom exports to Poland, while the increasing popularity of low-carbon transport is expected to boost orders for bicycle components and parts.
Taiwan, US launch 21st-century trade initiative
MOU on innovative startup cooperation inked by Taiwan, Lithuania
A memorandum of understanding (MOU) on innovative startup cooperation was concluded May 27 in Vilnius between Taiwan and Lithuania, reflecting commitment by the two countries to further cementing their bilateral ties, according to the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA). The pact was inked by representatives from Taiwan’s Startup Terrace and Lithuania’s Public Institution Innovation Agency. Under the MOU, the two government-backed organizations will pool resources to exchange and expand collaboration between the two countries’ groundbreaking ventures. Given its advanced transportation infrastructure, rich pool of information technology personnel and advanced fintech, Lithuania is the perfect gateway for Taiwan’s creative firms seeking to expand their reach into the EU, the MOEA said. As the EU member state expressed strong interest in working with Taiwan to tap into the Asian market, the ministry expects the tie-up to lead to substantial mutual business potential.
Taiwan, Belize, IDB sign pact to boost jobs and economic recovery
President Tsai eyes closer Taiwan-EU economic cooperation
President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) said May 26 that Taiwan is committed to working with the EU to boost economic recovery and prevent democratic backsliding in the international community while fast-tracking negotiations on a bilateral investment agreement. Last year saw a robust partnership between Taiwan and the EU, Tsai said, citing the country’s inclusion in the EU’s joint communication on its Strategy for Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, the passage of a recommendation on EU-Taiwan Political Relations and Cooperation, and the European Parliament’s common defense, foreign and security policies regarding peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. Tsai made the remarks while attending the Europe Day Dinner in Taipei City. According to Tsai, the two sides’ close engagement is built on the foundation of the Taiwan-EU Supply Chains Forum and EU Investment Forum over the years. It is expected that Taiwan and the EU will continue expanding collaboration in areas spanning digital economy, green energy and restructuring secure and resilient global supply chains, she said.APEC ministerial meeting sees Taiwan, US representatives talk trade
Minister without Portfolio John C. C. Deng (鄧振中) and U.S. Trade Rep. Katherine Tai held a bilateral meeting May 20 in Bangkok, underscoring the commitment of both sides to further strengthening the already robust economic relations, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). During the meeting, Deng and Tai discussed opportunities to advance mutual trade priorities and expand economic ties while promoting innovation and inclusive growth, among other key issues, the MOFA said. The ministry praised the positive development as extremely encouraging. The two officials are scheduled to meet again in the coming weeks to explore concrete ways to deepen the partnership, it added. According to the Executive Yuan, the meeting took place on the sideline of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation’s (APEC) Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting May 21-22 in the Thai capital.
Taiwan takes 3rd place in BERI’s latest global investment report
Taiwan ranked the third best investment destination among 50 major countries and territories surveyed in the latest Profit Opportunity Recommendation report by U.S.-based Business Environment Risk Intelligence S.A. (BERI). Scoring 62 out of 100 in the triannual report, Taiwan finished behind Switzerland, 70, and Norway, 67. The country tied with South Korea and led regional neighbors Singapore, 58; China, 58; and Japan, 55. Taiwan’s 1C ranking—also awarded to 10 other economies including Finland, Germany, the Netherlands and South Korea—was assessed on the basis of its performance in three indexes: Operations Risk, Political Risk, and Remittance and Repatriation Factor. Switzerland was the only country to earn the top 1A rating, with Norway receiving the second best 1B rating.
Taiwan records increase in foreign media representatives
This positive development reflects global recognition of Taiwan’s vibrant democracy and ongoing government efforts to cultivate a free and open press environment, the MOFA said. It also reflects declining media freedom in Hong Kong since implementation of the national security law and the consequent decision of outlets to relocate staff, the ministry added.
International review of Taiwan’s 3rd national report on UN human rights covenants underway in Taipei
Minister without Portfolio Tang flies flag for Taiwan at launch of Declaration for the Future of the Internet
Minister without Portfolio Audrey Tang (唐鳳) joined representatives from over 50 countries and territories at the signing of the Declaration for the Future of the Internet April 28, reaffirming the government’s commitment to promoting an open, free, global, interoperable, reliable and secure cyberspace. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the declaration was issued during an event hosted by U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in Washington. It was attended by senior officials from Australia, Canada, the European Commission, Japan and the U.K., among others, while Tang took part via video link. The signatories pledged to work toward an environment that reinforces democratic systems; promotes active participation for every citizen in democratic processes; secures and protects individuals’ privacy; and promotes a free and competitive global economy.Our Ocean Conference in Palau shares Taiwan’s marine conservation experience
Taiwan’s delegation continued its participation at the Our Ocean Conference in Palau April 14, sharing the country’s experience in advancing global marine conservation efforts. During the second day of the event, Environmental Protection Administration Minister Chang Tzi-chin (張子敬) delivered a speech at a panel discussion. Chang outlined the government’s progress in bringing Taiwan’s policies in line with global standards, as well as achievements in promoting environmental sustainability. The minister also detailed Taiwan’s policies in capturing waterway litter originating from land, controlling waste fishing gear and nets and managing marine debris. Another highlight was the pledge made by Tsai Ching-piao (蔡清標), deputy minister of the Ocean Affairs Council, to implement a smart navigation services development program in order to ensure nautical security, as well as enhance the country’s capabilities in conducting international search and rescue operations and combating cross-border crimes.Taiwan releases 2nd UNCAC implementation report
The second national report on implementation of the U.N. Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) was released by the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) April 20, underscoring Taiwan’s commitment to enhancing measures aimed at ensuring clean governance and corporate practices. The government’s efforts are paying dividends following the release of the first national report in 2018, the MOJ said. This is evidenced by the country’s outstanding performances in the Government Defence Anti-Corruption Index and Corruption Perceptions Index compiled by U.K.-based Transparency International, as well as relevant evaluations adopted by Australia-based Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering and Hong Kong-based Asian Corporate Governance Association, the ministry added. Such achievements are complemented by the launch of the Open Government National Action Plan in 2021, the ministry said, adding that the government has left no stone unturned in promoting anti-corruption and integrity in areas spanning education, government procurement and talent cultivation while implementing measures on confiscation of corrupt and illegal gains and expanding mutual judicial assistance with countries from around the world.
2022 Taipei International Book Exhibition gets underway, highlights France, Ukraine
Taiwan shines on the silver screen at Cannes’ Marche du Film
Top artists honored with National Cultural Award
Taiwan, Poland to hold charity concert for Ukrain
Photo exhibitions from Taiwan, Lithuania kick off in Taichung
Photos: Chin Hung-Hao, Central News Agency, Executive Yuan, Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts, Presidential Office and Taiwan Creative Content Agency