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Donald Trump's nomination of Fox News host Pete Hegseth as defense secretary has raised concerns due to Hegseth's lack of high-level military or government experience. Hegseth's views on China as the primary strategic concern for the US have been highlighted, with skepticism expressed about US military involvement in Europe. European officials are worried about potential threats from Russia and the implications of Trump's attitudes towards European security. The nomination will need approval from the Senate Armed Services Committee, with potential implications for US foreign policy and global security. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te is considering reaching out to Donald Trump following his US election victory, a move that could be viewed by Beijing as Taiwan asserting independence. However, a similar call between former President Tsai Ing-wen and Trump only occurred a month after his 2016 win. China strongly opposes such communication, as it sees Taiwan as part of its territory. The Taiwanese government plans to congratulate Trump on his victory in a diplomatic manner, despite potential tensions with China over the issue. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te is considering reaching out to Donald Trump following his US election victory, a move that could be viewed as Taiwan asserting its independence and potentially escalating tensions with Beijing. Chinese officials have historically opposed such communication, as they consider Taiwan a part of their territory. The potential call may not happen immediately, as a similar interaction between Trump and Taiwan's former President Tsai Ing-wen occurred a month after his 2016 election win. Trump's election victory could also have significant implications for US-China trade relations, with potential tariffs on Chinese goods reaching as high as 60%. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te is reportedly considering calling former US President Donald Trump after his election victory, a move that could provoke Beijing due to its stance on Taiwan's sovereignty. Taiwanese officials plan to congratulate Trump on his victory, following the usual practice of contacting and congratulating world leaders. The potential call would follow a similar one between former President Tsai Ing-wen and Trump in 2016, which took place a month after his election win. Trump's proposed technology restrictions on China are seen as potentially beneficial for Taiwan by some officials. [Extracted from the article]

In Taiwan, inflation rose by 1.69% in October 2024, the slowest pace since March 2021, according to the statistics bureau in Taipei. Despite this, the central bank is maintaining a hawkish stance due to concerns about high home prices. Efforts to cool the property market include increasing bank reserve requirements and keeping benchmark interest rates at a 16-year high. Governor Yang Chin-long has suggested that rates may remain elevated if inflation stays between 1.5% to 2%. The next interest rate decision will be announced on December 19, 2024. [Extracted from the article]

Top Taiwanese officials are considering the potential impact of a Trump victory in the US election, with concerns about the US commitment to defend Taiwan from Beijing. However, they see potential benefits in Trump's proposed technology restrictions on China, which could lead to Taiwanese companies shifting production back from China. While acknowledging possible challenges for Taiwan's semiconductor industry under Trump, officials believe they are prepared to respond. The article also highlights differing views on Taiwan between Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, with Trump expressing skepticism about defending Taiwan from China. [Extracted from the article]

Top Taiwanese officials are considering the potential impact of a Donald Trump presidency on Taiwan, with a focus on technology restrictions against China. While there are concerns about Trump's commitment to defending Taiwan from Beijing, some policies, such as technology curbs, could benefit Taiwan by encouraging companies to shift production back from China. Officials are preparing for various outcomes of the US election, acknowledging that a Trump victory could have a significant impact on Taiwan, particularly in the semiconductor industry. Vice President Kamala Harris is seen as likely to continue Democratic Party policies on Taiwan. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwan's economy exceeded expectations in the third quarter, with a 3.97% year-on-year GDP growth driven by high demand for semiconductor chips essential for AI technology. Consumer spending saw a modest increase of 1.92%, the lowest since March 2022. Despite concerns about slowing economic growth towards the end of 2024, Taiwan's tech industry, particularly in semiconductors, remains strong, with companies like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. experiencing record-high stock prices and revenue growth projections. The government's efforts to control inflation and property market speculation have also been noted. [Extracted from the article]

The article from Bloomberg.com describes a military drill in Taiwan aimed at deterring potential conflict with China. Both Washington and Taipei emphasize that conflict is not imminent, while Beijing has expressed a preference for peaceful resolution. Tensions have escalated recently, with both Chinese and American forces conducting maneuvers near Taiwan. The Taiwanese military conducted live-fire exercises at night on the island of Penghu, showcasing their deterrence capabilities. The drills were designed to simulate a potential attack and familiarize soldiers with night-vision devices and combat environments. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwan's top court has declared key legal changes expanding legislative powers unconstitutional, making it easier for President Lai Ching-te to govern amidst China-US tensions. The court ruled that the legislature cannot summon the president for a State of the Nation address or question officials beyond certain limits. This decision prevents the opposition-controlled Legislature from launching probes into the government's activities, which supporters feared would hinder Taiwan's defense efforts. The ruling follows protests against the changes sought by the Kuomintang party, with the Democratic Progressive Party arguing that the amendments would disrupt governance and undermine the constitution. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwan has rejected South Africa's demand to move its representative office from Pretoria, accusing Beijing of pressuring South Africa to request the relocation. South Africa claims that relocating Taiwan's office to Johannesburg is standard diplomatic practice and reflects the non-political nature of their relationship. There are concerns that South African police may expel Taiwanese personnel from the office, potentially leading to its closure. China has supported South Africa's decision, emphasizing the one-China principle and its stance on Taiwan's status as part of its territory. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwan's Premier Cho Jung-tai has expressed openness to utilizing new nuclear technology to meet the increasing electricity demands of chipmakers in the AI industry. This marks a potential shift in the government's stance on nuclear power, which has been opposed due to safety concerns since the Fukushima disaster in 2011. The surge in AI investment has put Taiwan's chipmakers, particularly TSMC, in the spotlight, prompting discussions on nuclear power as a means to ensure sufficient energy supply. Additionally, Taiwan is also focusing on bolstering its defense capabilities, with plans to increase defense spending to a record level in 2025. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses Taiwan's decision to phase out nuclear power, citing public opposition following the Fukushima disaster in Japan as a key factor. This move has drawn criticism from various groups, including defense analysts and business leaders, who warn of potential energy and security crises. Taiwan's reliance on energy imports, particularly from China, raises concerns about potential blockades and economic impacts. The government is exploring alternative energy sources like geothermal while facing challenges in meeting renewable energy targets and increasing electricity demand driven by the AI sector. [Extracted from the article]

South Africa has instructed Taiwan to relocate its de facto embassy from Pretoria to Johannesburg at the request of China, a move that showcases Beijing's increasing influence over developing nations. This decision, made after a BRICS summit attended by Chinese leader Xi Jinping, is seen as a victory for China in isolating Taiwan diplomatically. China's efforts to pressure Taiwan include tactics such as convincing countries to move Taiwan's representative offices outside of political capitals. Taiwan, in response, may ask South Africa to relocate its representative office and take other measures to counter Beijing's isolation campaign. [Extracted from the article]

South Africa has instructed Taiwan to relocate its Taipei Liaison Office from Pretoria to Johannesburg at the request of China, a move that underscores Beijing's growing influence among developing nations. This decision, made after a BRICS summit attended by Chinese leader Xi Jinping, is seen as a diplomatic victory for China in isolating Taiwan and expanding its global influence. Taiwan, in response, may ask South Africa to move its representative office out of Taipei, reflecting the ongoing tensions between the two nations. [Extracted from the article]

China conducted military drills around Taiwan, testing missiles on inland targets, according to a Taiwanese national security official. The People's Liberation Army fired ballistic missiles at targets inside China and over Taiwan's main island during previous drills. The drills were seen as a warning against "separatism," with China pledging to bring Taiwan under its control someday. The US and Japan expressed concern over the exercises, while Taiwan condemned them for undermining regional peace and stability. Despite the tensions, financial markets remained largely unaffected by the military exercises. [Extracted from the article]

China flew a record 111 warplanes across the US-drawn boundary in the strait separating Taiwan and China, according to Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense. The warplanes entered sensitive zones around Taiwan's main island, prompting the Taiwanese military to respond. China's military has been increasing pressure on Taiwan, conducting large-scale military exercises and cyberattacks. The US expressed concern about China's maneuvers, and Japan scrambled fighters in response. China has stated its intention to bring Taiwan under its control, by force if necessary. [Extracted from the article]

China's military has warned that it will increase pressure on Taiwan as necessary, indicating that the US-backed democracy can expect more intense exercises. The spokesman for China's Defense Ministry, Wu Qian, stated that the actions of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) will be escalated until the Taiwan issue is resolved. This comes after major drills were held by China's armed forces twice since President Lai Ching-te took office in May. The US has expressed serious concern about the drills, with President Joe Biden pledging to defend Taiwan from any attack by China. [Extracted from the article]

China's armed forces conducted military drills near Taiwan as a warning against "separatist acts" following Taiwan President Lai Ching-te's vow to stand up to challenges from Beijing. The exercises involved various branches of the Chinese military and were described as a stern warning to those pursuing independence. Taiwan's Defense Ministry condemned the actions and responded with its own forces. The United States expressed serious concern about the drills and called on China to act with restraint. China's pressure tactics on Taiwan have included increased Coast Guard activity, ending tariff exemptions, and peeling off diplomatic allies. [Extracted from the article]

China's armed forces conducted military drills around Taiwan as a warning against "separatist acts" following Taiwan's president's vow to stand up to challenges from Beijing. The exercises involved various branches of the Chinese military and included practicing a blockade on key ports and areas. Taiwan's Defense Ministry condemned China's actions and responded by dispatching forces. These drills are part of China's ongoing efforts to pressure Taiwan's government and wear down its military. The United States expressed concern about the drills and called on China to act with restraint. [Extracted from the article]

China's armed forces conducted drills around Taiwan as a warning to the Taiwanese government to cease "separatist acts," according to a spokesperson for the Chinese military. The exercises involved various branches of the military and were named "Joint Sword-2024B." This comes after Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te vowed to confront challenges posed by China, which considers Taiwan its territory. Taiwan's Defense Ministry condemned China's actions and deployed military forces in response. The United States has stated its commitment to defending Taiwan from a Chinese attack. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te delivered his first National Day address, expressing his commitment to resisting China's challenges and protecting Taiwan's sovereignty. These comments received a strong response from Beijing, with China's Foreign Ministry criticizing Lai for seeking independence and heightening tensions in the Taiwan Strait. Lai's remarks indicate that tensions between Taiwan and China will likely continue, and the Taiwan issue will remain a point of contention between China and the US. Lai also addressed other issues such as the property market and expressed a desire to work with China on climate change and infectious diseases, although it is unlikely that Beijing will respond positively to these offers. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te is expected to address China's increasing pressure on Taiwan, including military tactics and disinformation campaigns, in his first National Day address. Lai will emphasize his responsibility for maintaining stability and the status quo in the Taiwan Strait while promoting balanced economic growth. China distrusts Lai due to concerns about Taiwan's independence, and has taken measures to show its displeasure. The US has expressed support for Taiwan's defense against China, and Lai's cabinet has proposed increased military spending. Lai will also call for unity among different parties in Taiwan and address economic challenges. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te is expected to address China's plans to increase pressure on the island through military drills coinciding with his National Day speech. Lai will discuss Beijing's use of tactics such as gray-zone activities and disinformation campaigns, referred to as "cognitive warfare." He will emphasize his responsibility for maintaining stability and the status quo in the Taiwan Strait while promoting balanced economic growth. China has expressed distrust towards Lai due to concerns about Taiwan's independence, leading to measures such as military drills and tariff removals. The US has pledged to defend Taiwan, and Lai's cabinet has proposed increased defense spending. Lai will also call for unity among different parties in Taiwan and address economic challenges. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwan's Constitutional Court has ruled to uphold the legality of the death penalty but has placed limitations on its use. The court affirmed that capital punishment is constitutional but restricted its application to only the most serious crimes and under strict legal procedures. The ruling aims to strike a balance between maintaining the deterrent effect of the death penalty and preventing its abuse. The court also called for amendments to be made to existing laws within two years to reflect the decision. While international pressure for abolition grows, a majority of Taiwanese residents still support harsh punishment as a deterrent. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwan's Constitutional Court is preparing to make a decision on whether or not to abolish the death penalty. The ruling follows a legal challenge by individuals on death row who argue that the penalty violates Taiwan's constitution. Taiwan, although not a member of the United Nations, voluntarily complies with international norms and ratified the UN's two covenants on human rights in 2009. The country has seen a shift in recent years, with a decision in 2017 leading to Taiwan becoming the first place in Asia to allow same-sex marriage. However, a poll conducted in May found that nearly 85% of respondents favor keeping capital punishment. The ruling Democratic Progressive Party has been relatively in favor of abolishing the death penalty, while the opposition Kuomintang strongly supports it. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwan has announced that it will recognize same-sex marriages involving Chinese nationals, a decision that could benefit hundreds of couples in Taiwan. These couples will be able to register their marriage in Taiwan after legally marrying in a third country, but they will need to go through an interview process. This move expands on Taiwan's landmark marriage-equality law passed in 2019, which made Taiwan the first place in Asia to legalize same-sex unions. This decision also highlights the contrast between democratic Taiwan and authoritarian China, where same-sex marriage is not allowed. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwan's central bank has raised the reserve requirement ratio (RRR) for banks in an effort to cool down the country's booming property market. This move comes after a similar increase in June and is aimed at reducing bank liquidity by NT$125 billion ($3.9 billion). The central bank also announced additional measures to address the rising cost of homes. Despite global trends of rate cuts, Taiwan's central bank has chosen to keep its benchmark interest rate at 2%, the highest level in 16 years. The central bank's concern about property prices is reflected in its decision to raise the RRR for the second consecutive meeting, as housing costs have been rising for a record-breaking 23 quarters. The central bank is also working with local banks to rein in mortgage loans and has implemented tighter home-buying rules. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwan's central bank is expected to maintain its benchmark interest rate at 2%, the highest level since 2008, despite a global trend of rate cuts. The bank may also introduce measures to control property prices, such as reducing the amount of money available for purchasing second homes. The central bank has expressed concerns about the real estate market and has met with local banks to discourage property-related lending. Inflation in Taiwan has exceeded the central bank's comfort level of 2%, driven by rising rents. Despite strong economic growth driven by demand for AI-related technologies, Taiwan expects growth to slow in the future. Rising prices and stagnant wages have also impacted household earnings. [Extracted from the article]

Germany has sent a warship through the Taiwan Strait for the first time in 22 years, despite warnings from China. The move comes as relations between the two countries are strained over trade and Russia's war in Ukraine. Germany's decision to sail the warship through the strait risks angering Beijing, which has increased pressure on Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te. China has not ruled out using force to take control of Taiwan. This action by Germany, along with other US partners, demonstrates a growing willingness to defy President Xi Jinping and assert freedom of navigation in the region. [Extracted from the article]

Germany has sent its first warship through the Taiwan Strait in 22 years, despite China's warnings. The move comes as relations between the two countries deteriorate over trade and Russia's war in Ukraine. Germany's Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated that international waters are international waters, and the strait is the shortest and safest route. China has criticized the move, calling it a "security risk" and sending "incorrect signals." Germany's decision risks angering Beijing, which has been increasing pressure on Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te. The move also highlights a growing willingness by US partners to defy President Xi Jinping and send vessels through the busy shipping lane. European Union countries have been increasing their presence in the Indo-Pacific region, showing their concerns without endorsing China's claim over Taiwan. Germany had considered sending a frigate through the Taiwan Strait before but canceled the plan to avoid irritating China. China's military has become more assertive toward Taiwan, and Beijing's support for Russia despite the war in Ukraine has strained bilateral ties with Germany. Germany's latest move is seen as a warning to China against military adventurism and potential invasion of Taiwan. [Extracted from the article]

Germany has sent its first warship through the Taiwan Strait in 22 years, despite warnings from China. The decision to sail the Baden-Württemberg frigate through the strait highlights a growing willingness among US partners to defy President Xi Jinping and assert their presence in the Indo-Pacific region. While Germany's move risks angering Beijing, it is seen as a warning against China's military ambitions and potential invasion of Taiwan. Other countries, including the US, France, the United Kingdom, and Canada, have also sent vessels through the strait in recent years. [Extracted from the article]

Russian hacker groups, known as "NoName057" and "RipperSec," briefly disrupted Taiwanese financial platforms, including the stock exchange and Mega Financial Holding Co.'s website, through a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack. The attack caused connection issues but did not result in the theft of valuable information. The incident highlights the vulnerability of computing platforms in Taiwan, which is the world's largest producer of advanced semiconductors and a potential flashpoint in a US-China conflict. Taiwan has experienced an increase in cyberattacks in recent years, with a hacking group linked to the Chinese government stealing passwords and documents from a Taiwanese research center. [Extracted from the article]

Hackers targeted Taiwanese financial platforms, including the stock exchange and Mega Financial Holding Co., in a recent cyberattack. The attack, believed to be carried out by foreign agents, involved a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack that caused connection issues for the platforms. The Taiwan Stock Exchange detected web queries from overseas IP addresses at unusually high volumes. While the government websites and trading returned to normal the following day, the incident highlights the vulnerability of computing platforms in Taiwan, a major producer of advanced semiconductors and a potential flashpoint in US-China tensions. Taiwan has experienced increasing cyberattacks in recent years, with a hacking group linked to the Chinese government stealing passwords and documents from a Taiwanese research center. [Extracted from the article]

Germany has sent its first warship through the Taiwan Strait in 22 years, despite warnings from China. The move comes as relations between the two countries are strained over trade and Russia's war in Ukraine. Germany's Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated that the decision to sail through the strait was based on the fact that international waters are international waters and that it is the shortest and safest route. This action by Germany, along with other European Union countries increasing their presence in the Indo-Pacific region, demonstrates a growing willingness by US partners to defy President Xi Jinping and assert their concerns. [Extracted from the article]

Ko Wen-je, founder of the Taiwan People's Party and former Taipei mayor, has been detained as part of a corruption investigation into a property redevelopment project. The Taipei District Court ordered his detention after prosecutors appealed his earlier release. Ko has not been charged and denies any wrongdoing, claiming he was not involved in the decisions related to the project. In addition to this case, Ko has apologized for scandals involving political donations and has temporarily stepped down as party leader. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwan has accused Chinese chip companies of illegally poaching talent and trade secrets, highlighting the intense global competition in the development of key technologies used in phones, cars, and artificial intelligence. A recent investigation revealed that eight Chinese companies, including Naura Technology Group Co., violated Taiwanese law by recruiting engineers who had worked on chip-related equipment. China is investing heavily in its chip industry to counter US efforts to restrict its growth, with concerns about potential military advantages. The US is also seeking support from allies like Japan and the Netherlands, which has caused tensions with Beijing. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwan's economy minister, Kuo Jyh-huei, has responded to criticism from Donald Trump, denying that Taiwan has taken the US chip industry. Trump's comments, published in Bloomberg Businessweek, raised concerns about his commitment to defending Taiwan if he becomes president. In response, Taiwan officials have emphasized their efforts to uphold their part of the relationship, including increasing defense spending and extending the conscription period. Additionally, Taiwan plans to set up a business park in Kyushu, Japan, to support Taiwanese companies operating there. [Extracted from the article]