November 15, 2023 

 

Why a Second Trump Presidency Would Mean Turmoil for Taiwan

July 21, 2024

 

By: Shweta Sharma

 

In 2016, President-elect Trump broke protocol by speaking directly with Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen, hinting at a reconsideration of the One-China Policy. However, Trump later reassured Chinese President Xi Jinping of his commitment to the policy. This inconsistency in foreign policy has raised concerns, especially with Trump running for re-election.

 

His recent comments suggest Taiwan should pay for its defense, likening the U.S. to an insurance company. This has alarmed observers, raising doubts about America’s commitment to Taiwan amidst increasing Chinese threats.

 

“A Trump presidency would likely create turmoil not only in Taiwan but also for several allies and like-minded countries,” said Sana Hashmi, a postdoctoral fellow at the Taiwan-Asia Exchange Foundation.

 

With the Taiwan issue critical in the upcoming U.S. election, Trump's unpredictable stance could lead to significant uncertainty for Taiwan and its industries, particularly those relying on U.S. support. 

The article also notes China's efforts to portray India in a negative light through selective use of imagery on state media. Overall, the article suggests that India-China relations are likely to remain strained during Modi's third term, with China closely watching his foreign policy moves.

 

 

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Taiwan Officially Joins IPAC; DPP, TPP Lawmakers To Be Co-chairs

July 30, 2024

 

The Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) announced Taiwan's official membership at its annual summit in Taipei on July 30. IPAC's executive director, Luke de Pulford, revealed that Democratic Progressive Party Legislator Fan Yun and Taiwan People's Party Legislator Chen Gau-Tzu will serve as co-chairs for Taiwan within the alliance.

 

Each IPAC legislature is led by two senior politicians from diverse political parties. IPAC advocates for Taiwan's participation in international organizations, describing Taiwan's inclusion as a "historic result." The fourth annual IPAC meeting saw 49 politicians from 24 countries in attendance.

 

Founded in 2020, IPAC seeks to reform countries' policies towards China. With Taiwan's addition, IPAC now includes over 250 cross-party members from 40 countries, including Australia, Canada, Japan, and the UK.

 

 

 

 

President Lai Attends IPAC Annual Summit in Taipei

July 31, 2024

 

President Lai Ching-te emphasized Taiwan's commitment to collaborating with democratic partners to counter expanding authoritarianism and promote global peace and prosperity during his "Taiwan's Global Vision" speech at the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) annual meeting in Taipei. He highlighted the importance of peace in the Taiwan Strait for global stability and criticized China's military intimidation and economic coercion.

 

Lai thanked the U.S., European Parliament, and other allies for opposing China's misinterpretation of U.N. General Assembly Resolution 2758. He outlined the Four Pillars of Peace action plan: strengthening defense, improving economic security, aligning with democracies for deterrence, and maintaining stable cross-strait leadership.

 

Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim expressed gratitude for IPAC’s support of Taiwan’s international participation. IPAC's resolution supported Taiwan's engagement in U.N. agencies, clarifying that Resolution 2758 does not preclude Taiwan's involvement in international organizations. Taiwan has officially joined IPAC, with Fan Yun and Chen Gau-tzu serving as co-chairs.

 

 

 

Creating a Muslim-Friendly Environment: Taiwan’s Halal Products Sector 

July, 2024 

 

Taiwan ranks highly among non-OIC destinations in the Global Muslim Travel Index, reflecting its increasing number of halal-certified restaurants, hotels, and tourist attractions. In mid-April, Taipei celebrated Eid al-Fitr at Da’an Park, attracting many Muslims. The event featured food stalls, handicrafts, and performances, with FamilyMart offering halal snacks. Eid al-Fitr celebrations are held across Taiwan, demonstrating the country's religious i

 

nclusiveness. In 2023, Taiwan ranked third in the Global Muslim Travel Index, with Taipei named "Most Promising Muslim-Friendly City." Taiwan’s Muslim population has grown to 300,000, bolstered by foreign workers and immigrants. Taiwan’s halal certification is robust, enhancing its food export market.

 

The Taiwan Halal Center promotes halal industries, showcasing products internationally, including at events like Gulfood in Dubai and through promotions in Malaysia. Events like Eid al-Fitr carnivals and initiatives from FamilyMart and Evergreen Sky Catering highlight Taiwan’s commitment to Muslim-friendly services. Taiwan’s inclusive and safe environment continues to attract Muslim visitors.

 

 

 

Taiwan Sees Surge in Scholarship Applications from Vietnam, Laos

August 02, 2024

For the first time, over 200 students from Vietnam and Laos applied for scholarships to study in Taiwan, with 51 scholarships awarded by Taiwan’s representative office in Vietnam. Due to the high demand, officials plan to request more scholarships from the Ministry of Education. Scholarship recipients attended a seminar on visa regulations and student life.

 

Among the 400,000 Vietnamese in Taiwan, 27,000 are students, ensuring new students won’t feel isolated. Taiwan's education is seen as affordable, contributing to the doubling of scholarship applications.

 

Vietnam and Laos are part of Taiwan’s New Southbound Policy, promoting closer educational and other ties since 2016.