As Taiwan celebrates its national day, President Tsai Ing-wen faces challenges from the New Power Party, co-founded by death metal band Chthonic's frontman Freddy Lim. The party, appealing to younger voters, advocates for a decisive break from China. Lim's band released a new album, 'Battlefields of Asura,' reflecting themes of resistance and freedom. Tsai's administration is under pressure from Beijing, which has increased military activities around Taiwan due to her refusal to acknowledge Taiwan as part of China.

The Taipei-based Mainland Affairs Council attributes the unrest in Hong Kong to the Chinese Communist Party's refusal to address democratic demands, rejecting accusations from mainland China that Taiwan is instigating the protests. Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen and her Democratic Progressive Party criticize Beijing's 'one country, two systems' model, while Chinese officials accuse Taiwan of exploiting the situation to undermine this framework. The article highlights the ongoing tension between Taiwan and China, with both sides exchanging blame over the Hong Kong protests.

Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je plans to establish a new political party, the Taiwan People’s Party, ahead of Taiwan's crucial presidential election in January. This move could disrupt the political landscape, potentially affecting President Tsai Ing-wen's chances of re-election. Ko's entry into the race is seen as more damaging to Tsai than to her main rival, Han Kuo-yu of the Kuomintang. The outcome of the election will influence Taiwan's future alignment with either liberal democracies like the U.S. and Japan or a China-friendly administration.

Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen has strongly opposed Hong Kong's proposed extradition law, gaining support from democracy advocates and recovering from a previous election defeat. Tsai secured the Democratic Progressive Party's nomination for re-election, emphasizing her firm stance against Beijing. Her criticism undermines Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam and highlights the unfeasibility of the 'one country, two systems' model for Taiwan. Even the China-friendly Kuomintang party dismisses this model. Tsai's victory strengthens her position to challenge China in the upcoming general election, with political issues likely to dominate voter concerns.

Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen defeated her former premier Lai Ching-te in the Democratic Progressive Party's primary, securing majority support in a telephone poll. This victory comes after significant losses in regional elections and concerns about her ability to win a second term. Tsai still needs approval from the party's executive committee to become the official nominee. She faces potential challenges from five Kuomintang candidates and possibly an independent bid from Taipei City Mayor Ko Wen-je. The primary relied on independent surveys rather than voting to determine the stronger candidate against the opposition.

The release of Chan Tong-kai, a murder suspect, has intensified tensions between Hong Kong and Taiwan. Chan, who admitted to killing his girlfriend in Taiwan, was released from a Hong Kong jail after serving time for a related money-laundering charge. His case sparked violent protests in Hong Kong and led to the introduction of controversial extradition legislation by Chief Executive Carrie Lam. Taiwan's authorities criticize Hong Kong's handling of the case, fearing it could turn the city into a 'criminal paradise.' The dispute highlights ongoing jurisdictional and sovereignty issues between Hong Kong, Taiwan, and China.

The U.S.-China trade war could extend for another five to ten years, according to Terry Gou, Chairman of Foxconn Technology Group, the largest assembler of Apple's iPhones. Speaking at a summit in Xiamen, China, Gou highlighted the shift from globalization to polarization due to economic and technological competition between the two nations. He emphasized that the U.S. views China as a strategic rival and will build barriers to prevent it from acquiring key technologies, necessitating a restructuring of the global supply chain to be more robust and flexible.

Army Astronaut Lt. Col. Anne C. McClain is set to launch into space for the first time on December 20 aboard the Soyuz MS-11 spacecraft, alongside crewmates David Saint-Jacques and Oleg Kononenko. The mission will involve a six-month rotation on the International Space Station, where they will conduct around 250 research investigations and technology demonstrations. McClain emphasizes the unifying nature of space exploration and the importance of international cooperation. Her extensive military background and training have prepared her for this mission, and she looks forward to the scientific and personal challenges ahead.

Weather, terrain, and human factors were identified as the causes of a UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter crash in January, which resulted in the deaths of eight defense ministry officers, including Taiwan’s top military officer. The Ministry of National Defense’s Air Force Command Headquarters reported that sudden weather changes led to thick cloud and mist, preventing the pilots from climbing high enough. Mechanical failure was deemed unlikely. The air force plans to enhance training and equipment in response.

A collision between a Taiwanese-registered freighter and an unidentified Chinese warship in the Taiwan Strait led to a standoff, resolved by the intervention of the Taiwanese coast guard. The incident highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region, with increased military activity from both China and the U.S. The identity of the Chinese vessel remains uncertain, though it is speculated to be the Longhushan, a large amphibious transport dock. The freighter captain emphasized the incident as a simple maritime accident, downplaying any intentional aggression.

American Navy vessels sailed through the Taiwan Strait, marking the U.S.'s first known show of force in the area since November. The transit, described as a routine passage through international waters, underscores the U.S. commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. The move comes amid rising tensions between Taiwan and China, with Beijing urging the U.S. to adhere to the 'one China' principle to avoid harming bilateral relations. The passage follows increased military exercises by China in the region since the election of Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga's decision to step down has opened the race for his successor. Vaccine tsar Taro Kono, former foreign minister Fumio Kishida, and former internal affairs minister Sanae Takaichi are among the prominent candidates. Kono is favored by business leaders and the public, while Kishida supports economic stimulus and Takaichi has backing from former prime minister Shinzo Abe. Other potential candidates include Shigeru Ishiba, Seiko Noda, and Hakubun Shimomura. The election for the ruling Liberal Democratic Party's leadership is set for September 29.

Surangel Whipps Jr., President of the Republic of Palau, visited Taiwan alongside the U.S. Ambassador to Palau, signifying the commencement of a 'Travel Bubble' between Palau and Taiwan amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic. The visit, which took place from March 28 to April 1, aimed to promote Palau's tourism and underscore the importance of diplomatic relations. Taiwan and Palau had previously announced the establishment of a 'sterile travel corridor' on March 17, marking their first tourism travel bubble. Taiwan has been internationally recognized for its COVID-19 prevention efforts, while Palau maintains a record of zero confirmed cases. The travel arrangements are limited to group tours, with individual travel not permitted. Upon returning to Taiwan, travelers must undergo a 5-day quarantine and a COVID-19 test at their own expense on the fifth day. The visit also highlighted the shared values of freedom and democracy and the vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Meanwhile, China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian reiterated the 'One China' principle and opposed any official contact between the U.S. and Taiwan. The Taiwan Ministry of National Defense reported activities of Chinese military aircraft in Taiwan's air defense identification zone on March 29, to which Taiwan responded by scrambling fighters and activating air defense missiles.

Taiwan plans to increase its national defense budget by 5.2% in 2020 to NT$358 billion ($11.4 billion) to enhance its military capabilities amid growing threats from China. President Tsai Ing-wen has been boosting military spending since 2018, countering previous under-investment. Despite these efforts, Taiwan's defense budget remains significantly lower than China's, which spent $250 billion on its military in 2018. The U.S., Taiwan's main arms supplier, has approved $2 billion in arms sales and shown other support for Taiwan, contributing to tensions with China.

Despite Beijing's travel ban on individual Chinese tourists, Taiwan recorded a 7.2% increase in arrivals in 2019, reaching an all-time high of 11.9 million. The surge was driven by a 21.9% increase in visitors from Korea and a 10.1% rise from Japan. The number of mainland Chinese visitors dropped significantly in the second half of the year following the travel ban imposed in August.

A U.S. warship, the USS Shiloh, sailed through the Taiwan Strait, demonstrating the U.S. commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. This event followed the signing of a trade deal between President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping, and the re-election of Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen, who advocates for increased U.S. military support against China. China's Foreign Ministry responded by urging the U.S. to adhere to the 'one China' principle and handle the Taiwan issue with caution.

Chief of General Staff Shen Yi-ming and other officials died in a helicopter crash in New Taipei City while en route to meet military personnel. The crash, which resulted in eight fatalities, occurred just before Taiwan's presidential election. President Tsai Ing-wen suspended her campaign to focus on her duties, while her rival Han Kuo-yu also canceled public activities. Tsai ordered flags at military units to be flown at half-staff and called for an investigation into the incident.

Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je swiftly addressed an issue excluding expatriates from the city's popular YouBike rental scheme after an uproar. The incident underscores Taipei's challenges in attracting multinational companies and expatriates compared to cities like Singapore and Hong Kong. Despite efforts, including a task force to attract businesses from Hong Kong, success has been limited. Ko's decisive leadership style has earned him popularity, and he has streamlined processes for foreign investments, significantly increasing approvals. The article also highlights Taipei's growing reputation for quality of life among expats, with the city being ranked the best for expatriates by InterNations for two consecutive years.

Taiwanese authorities are investigating a security lapse that may have allowed over 5,000 Chinese citizens, including government officials, to illegally enter Taiwan from 2017 to 2019. The Taipei District Prosecutors Office is probing 20 travel agencies and 10 civic associations for allegedly facilitating these entries under false pretenses. This comes as Taiwan prepares for a national election where President Tsai Ing-wen, who supports independence, is running against the pro-Beijing Kuomintang candidate Han Kuo-yu.

Taiwan’s opposition party presidential candidate Han Kuo-yu called for free elections in Hong Kong amid severe protests. He suggested that granting universal suffrage could solve many issues, contrasting with the independence some protesters seek. The ongoing unrest in Hong Kong has influenced Taiwan's presidential race, with pro-independence President Tsai Ing-wen leading in polls. Tsai advocates for Taiwan's democracy and deeper relations with nations like the U.S., while Han supports maintaining the status quo with China. The article also touches on the impact of the U.S.-China trade war on Taiwanese companies and Han's proposals for Taiwan's economic development, including creating free-trade zones and possibly legalizing gambling.

The release of murder suspect Chan Tong-kai, who admitted to killing his girlfriend in Taiwan, has sparked a political dispute between Hong Kong and Taiwan. Hong Kong's proposed extradition bill, which led to months of protests, was scrapped, but the lack of an extradition pact leaves Chan's case unresolved. Taiwan demands evidence before accepting Chan's surrender, while Hong Kong accuses Taiwan of political maneuvering. The situation highlights the complex geopolitical tensions between Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Beijing.

Sandra Oudkirk, a senior U.S. State Department official, is set to visit Taiwan to discuss strengthening ties in the Pacific following China's success in swaying the Solomon Islands and Kiribati to establish diplomatic relations with Beijing. This move by the U.S. aims to counter China's growing influence in the region, which includes a $1.6 billion investment in aid and loans. China's potential establishment of a naval base in the Pacific is a strategic concern for the U.S. and Australia. Chinese President Xi Jinping has declared the unification with Taiwan as an 'inevitable trend,' despite Taiwan's separate governance.

The suspect in the murder case that sparked Hong Kong's protests, Chan Tong-kai, may soon be released. The extradition bill proposed by Chief Executive Carrie Lam, which was intended to address Chan's case, led to widespread protests and demands for democratic reforms. Despite the bill's withdrawal, protests have continued, and Chan's potential release has raised further concerns. Various stakeholders, including lawmakers and the victim's family, have criticized the administration's handling of the case and the extradition bill.

The article discusses the potential release of Chan Tong-kai, whose murder case led to significant social unrest in Hong Kong. Chief Executive Carrie Lam's proposed extradition law, citing Chan's case, sparked widespread protests. Despite the bill's withdrawal, protests have continued with broader demands. Chan, who confessed to killing his girlfriend in Taiwan, may be released soon. The article highlights the legal and political challenges, including Taiwan's refusal to accept the extradition bill and the ongoing civil unrest in Hong Kong.

Taiwan has lost two diplomatic allies, the Solomon Islands and Kiribati, to China in one week, reducing its number of global diplomatic partners to 15. This shift highlights China's growing influence in the Pacific region, driven by significant financial aid and infrastructure investments. The U.S. and Australia are concerned about China's strategic intentions, including the potential establishment of a naval base. Diplomatic competition between China and Taiwan has intensified since Tsai Ing-wen's election in 2016, with China successfully luring away a third of Taiwan's allies. The U.S. and Australia are now taking steps to counter China's influence, but it remains uncertain if these efforts will be sufficient.

Taiwan and the Solomon Islands reaffirmed their commitment to deepen ties amidst speculations that the Solomon Islands may establish diplomatic relations with China. Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen emphasized shared values and mutual support between the two nations. A Solomon Islands task force suggested considering recognition of Beijing, following the trend of countries like El Salvador which shifted recognition to Beijing last year. Taiwan's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Joanne Ou stated that the general opinion in the Solomon Islands favors maintaining diplomatic relations with Taiwan.

A Taiwanese traveler from China was fined NT$200,000 ($6,400) for bringing in moon cakes containing pork without declaring them, amidst an outbreak of African swine fever in China. Taiwan has intensified border checks ahead of the Mid-Autumn Festival on September 13, banning pork products from China to prevent the spread of the disease. The checks have been extended to passengers from 16 countries, with Taoyuan International Airport screening carry-on baggage from Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Brunei. Since August 1, there have been over a dozen moon cake-related violations, and more than 850 travelers have been fined since September last year, with penalties increasing to NT$200,000 in December to safeguard the island.

Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council has denied accusations from Beijing of interfering in Hong Kong's protests, attributing the unrest to the Communist Party's refusal to meet democratic demands. The Council criticized the 'one country, two systems' model and stated Taiwan would not accept it nor bow to threats. Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen has been accused by Chinese officials of using the protests to oppose Hong Kong-style autonomy for Taiwan. Tsai has rejected the 'one China' framework and her party, the Democratic Progressive Party, supports independence. China's Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait has also accused Tsai of exploiting the unrest.

A Chinese warship collided with a Taiwanese freighter near Kinmen island, causing damage but no injuries. The incident, which occurred on a well-traveled shipping lane, is under investigation. This collision happens amid rising tensions as China increases pressure on Taiwan ahead of its presidential elections, including a ban on individual tourists from 47 Chinese cities traveling to Taiwan. The U.S. has also increased its naval presence in the Taiwan Strait, signaling support for Taiwan.

Approximately 30 Hong Kong protesters have sought asylum in Taiwan, with more planning to follow. These activists were involved in the July 1 storming of the legislature. Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council has not received formal asylum applications but will handle any appropriately. The situation poses geopolitical risks, potentially straining relations between Taiwan and China. Taiwan Association for Human Rights refrained from commenting on individual cases. Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam condemned the protesters' actions, while the Hong Kong police declined to comment.

Dozens of Hong Kong protesters involved in the ransacking of the Legislative Council have sought asylum in Taiwan, with around 30 already arriving and more planning to follow. The activists, who stormed the legislature on July 1, are seeking help from Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council. Taiwan's National Immigration Agency has not yet received formal asylum applications. The situation poses geopolitical risks, potentially increasing tensions between Taiwan and China. Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-Wen, a critic of China, faces re-election in January. The Taiwan Association for Human Rights is involved in assisting the protesters.

Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party successfully passed a same-sex marriage law, making it the first in Asia to do so. President Tsai Ing-wen, who has shown support for LGBT rights, praised the decision. The law faced opposition from religious groups and older voters, revealing societal divisions. Despite a referendum favoring heterosexual marriage, the law was enacted, with activists believing it will positively influence other Asian countries. The constitutional court had previously ruled restrictions on marriage unconstitutional, setting a deadline for legislative action.

Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party passed a historic marriage-equality law, making Taiwan the first place in Asia to legalize same-sex unions. Despite significant local opposition, lawmakers supported the bill drafted by Taiwan's cabinet over two rival proposals that would have restricted rights for same-sex couples. President Tsai Ing-wen's party's decision comes ahead of the 2020 election, with more than 70% of the public having voted against gay marriage in a previous referendum.

Billionaire Terry Gou's potential entry into Taiwan's presidential race on the Kuomintang (KMT) line highlights the challenges facing current President Tsai Ing-wen as she seeks re-election. Tsai is contending with a resurgent KMT advocating closer ties with China and a nomination fight within her own Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Gou's significant resources and business background could pose a formidable challenge. Tsai's government has taken measures to curb Chinese influence, but she faces internal party challenges from William Lai Ching-te. The upcoming elections are set against a backdrop of increased pressure from Beijing, with various KMT candidates advocating for improved China ties.

Michelin awarded new stars to seven restaurants in Taipei, enhancing the city's status as a premier fine-dining destination in Asia. The 2019 guide features 24 restaurants with at least one star, up from 20 last year. Notable new entries include Sushi Amamoto with two stars, while Tairroir and Raw advanced to two stars from one. Le Palais retained its three-star rating, the only restaurant in Taipei to do so for the second consecutive year. The Michelin guide is credited with boosting Taiwan's image as a gourmet destination and attracting tourists to Taipei.

Michelin awarded new stars to seven restaurants in Taipei, enhancing the city's status as a top fine-dining destination in Asia. The 2019 guide features 24 restaurants with at least one star, up from 20 last year. Notable entries include Sushi Amamoto with two stars and Tairroir and Raw, which both advanced to two stars. Le Palais retained its three-star rating, significantly boosting its clientele. Michelin's anonymous reviewers base their awards on creativity, quality, and service, contributing to Taipei's growing reputation as a gourmet destination.

Taiwan's cabinet has proposed a bill to legalize same-sex marriage, challenging a recent referendum that opposed such a move. The draft law would grant same-sex couples adoption and inheritance rights. Premier Su Tseng-chang urged lawmakers to pass the bill by May 24. This proposal is part of President Tsai Ing-wen's efforts to garner public support ahead of her 2020 re-election campaign, following significant losses by her Democratic Progressive Party in local elections. The referendum, driven by Christian groups, was not binding but highlighted public opposition to same-sex marriage, complicating legislative efforts.

American Navy vessels conducted a transit through the Taiwan Strait, marking the first known U.S. show of force in the area since November. The passage, which occurred on January 24, was the fourth since July of the previous year. The U.S. Navy's actions come amid heightened tensions between Taiwan and China, with Beijing viewing Taiwan as a breakaway province and increasing military activities in the region. The Pentagon emphasized the U.S. commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific, asserting the right to operate in international waters.

More than 7.5 million people in Taiwan voted in favor of defining marriage as a union between a man and a woman, with fewer than 3 million opposed, according to the Central Election Commission. A proposal to ban education about LGBT issues in schools also won by a similar margin. Yu Hsin-yi of the Coalition of the Happiness of our Next Generation stated that the support for their referendums was higher than expected, indicating a majority opposition to legal changes in the marriage system. Additionally, voters narrowly rejected a bid to change the name athletes compete under in international competitions from 'Chinese Taipei' to 'Taiwan.' The government is now obliged to take steps to implement the referendum results.

The text outlines several referendum questions in Taiwan, including whether athletes should compete under the name 'Taiwan' in the 2020 Olympics, the rights of same-sex couples, reducing thermal power plant electricity, ending the nuclear-free goal by 2025, and continuing the ban on agricultural imports from Fukushima-affected areas. These issues have significant implications for Taiwan's domestic policies and international relations, particularly with China.

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo condemned China's treatment of Muslim Uyghurs in reeducation camps and criticized the government's crackdown on Christians. His comments followed a UN report on China's mass internment of Uyghurs in Xinjiang. Pompeo highlighted severe political indoctrination and abuses in the camps and expressed concerns about the fate of Christians facing government crackdowns, including church closures and forced renunciations of faith. Chinese officials denied the allegations, claiming measures in Xinjiang aim to promote stability and combat terrorism.