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TAEF BRIEF
June 28, 2024
No. 135 |
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CONTENT
-TAEF Updates
-TAEF Media Gallery
-TAEF Commentaries
-New Southbound Policy News
-Regional Headlines |
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The Taiwan-Asia Exchange Foundation successfully launched it's first podcast episode! |
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June 25, 2024
The Taiwan-Asia Exchange Foundation (TAEF) is happy to share the first podcast, "
Connections Between Youth - Cross Border Dialogue and Collaboration in the New Global Age."
The podcast episode is in collaboration with Konrad Adanauer-Stiftung (KAS) Japan. In this episode, Boon Yee Lim, the Director of the TAEF Young Leaders Engagement Program, and Miss Cristita Marie Perez, the Senior Program Manager of KAS, joined as the guest speaker of KAS for the first episode of TAEF's Podcast. Furthermore, the podcast was hosted by Cherri from the TAEF Team.
This episode tackles how the youth can leverage cross-border communications and collaboration to respond to new work forms that emerged in the Digital Transformation of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) era and Industry 4.0. Furthermore, both speakers also discussed this perspective on the potential impacts of this transformation on the future of the work for Asian Youths, how the youth feel, and their insights. The podcast was wrapped with exciting insights and advice for the youths exclusively given by the two guest speakers of TAEF.
Listen to the whole episode of TAEF's Podcast through this Spotify Link.
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2023🏔️ Yushan Forum | Session V - Prospect Asia Roundtable: Start a New Blueprint for Asian Development |
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The Taiwan-Asia Exchange Foundation successfully launched its annual program entitled the
"Yushan Forum: Asian Dialogue for Innovation and Progress" from October 11 to 12, 2023. The platform served as the Asian regional dialogue and featured the achievements of collaboration between the governmental and non-governmental cooperation between Taiwan and its neighboring countries and its like-minded partners.
In the video, one session during the Yushan Forum is the Prospect Asia Roundtable for a New Blueprint for Asian Development. On the second day of the Yushan Forum, H.E Lai Ching-te and Deputy Minister Tien Chung-Kwang spearheaded the dynamic Prospect Asia Roundtable (PAR). The session focused on the geopolitical significance of the collaborative effort between Taiwan and the world. H.E Lai Ching-te emphasized Taiwan's commitment to promoting democracy, peace, and prosperity through initiatives, including the New Southbound Policy, aiming for inclusive and resilient growth in Asia.
During the program, Former Philippines Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana, together with Tim Groser, Chair of Groser & Associates in New Zealand, Ivan Kanapathy, former Deputy Senior Director for Asian Affairs at the U.S. National Security Council, and Sujeet Kumar, Indian Member of Parliament discussed the need for constructive dialogues in resolving disputes and the policies that can significantly enhance the bilateral relations of Taiwan with other like-minded countries. Furthermore, during the forum, Ivan Kanapthy also emphasized the consistency of U.S. Policy direction and the significance of Taiwan in creating deterrence through investment and strong ties. The session focused on synergies between Taiwan's New Southbound Policy and Indo-Pacific strategies, bringing together leaders from the Philippines, New Zealand, India, and the United States to explore collaborative opportunities.
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The Print
Xi Jinping didn’t wish Modi. Chinese people say he isn’t invincible, chatter about Rahul
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June 12, 2024
By: Sana Hashimi
Taiwan's congratulations to Modi signal a growing closeness that the Chinese are not too happy about.
The article discusses the implications of Chinese President Xi Jinping's lack of a congratulatory message to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi following his recent election victory, which is seen as a sign that India-China relations may not improve significantly during Modi's third term. Chinese social media platforms have been discussing Modi's reduced electoral performance, with some commentators suggesting he is no longer "invincible" politically. There is concern in China that Modi may take a more pro-West, anti-China stance, potentially leading to increased tensions. China has responded by targeting Modi's engagement with Taiwan, with some suggesting retaliatory support for Khalistani separatism in India. However, a minority view advocates for improving India-China relations, seeing Modi's desire for stability as an opportunity.
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.
Read more
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NEW SOUTHBOUND POLICY NEWS |
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The Diplomat
Energy at the Crux of Australia-Taiwan Relations
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June 24, 2024
Australia effectively powers Taiwan's semiconductor industry, and, in return, powers its Silicon Shield.
The article discusses the growing importance of energy cooperation between Australia and Taiwan. As Taiwan seeks to enhance its energy security, particularly in the face of potential threats from China, it is turning to Australia as a reliable supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG). Australia, in turn, sees this as an opportunity to increase its LNG exports while also playing a role in ensuring Taiwan's energy security. Furthermore, Australia views Taiwan's freedom and its maintaining the status quo as a vital national concern as any disruption to the cross-strait relations would be devastating to the economy of its country
The article notes that Taiwan is building a fourth LNG receiving terminal on its east coast and suggests that Australia should guarantee the supply of LNG to fill these reserve tanks. The article also mentions that Taiwan views an FTA with Australia as a top priority, as it would further strengthen economic ties between the two countries. Overall, the article highlights how energy cooperation has become a key driver in the Australia-Taiwan relationship.
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Focus Taiwan
Thousands of Filipinos attend Independence Day events in New Taipei
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June 16, 2024
Thousands of Filipino expats in Taiwan gathered in Banqiao Stadium in New Taipei on Sunday to celebrate the Philippines' 126th Independence Day.
The event was attended by the city's mayor and the Philippines' de facto ambassador to Taiwan, MECO Chief Silvestre II Hernando Bello. The celebration featured cultural performances and activities showcasing Filipino heritage. Furthermore, the article noted that the gathering of thousands of Filipinos in Taiwan highlights the strong ties between the two countries, with the Filipino community in Taiwan actively participating in events to commemorate their national independence. The event was seen as an opportunity for the Filipino expats to come together, celebrate their culture, and strengthen the bonds between the Philippines and Taiwan. Overall, the article provides a snapshot of the vibrant Filipino community in Taiwan and their efforts to maintain their cultural identity while living abroad.
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New Southbound Policy Portal
Taiwan and India: Partners with Shared Democratic Values An Interview with ITA Director General Manharsinh Yadav
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June 10, 2024
Last March 2024, India also welcomed spring season with the celebration of Holi, one of the country's major festival. The India-Taipei Association marked the day by celebrating it in Green River Park in Yonghe, New Taipei City.
In an interview with Taiwan Panorama Magazine, Manharsinh Laxmanbhai Yadav, director general of the India–Taipei Association (ITA), discussed the shared democratic values and cultural similarities between Taiwan and India. Yadav highlighted that both countries are vibrant democracies with a strong commitment to freedom, human rights, and the rule of law.
Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between Taiwan and India, particularly in areas such as trade, investment, and cultural exchange. The interview was conducted shortly after an event where Yadav spoke from the stage, underscoring the growing partnership between the two nations
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Taipei Economic and Cultural Office, Sydney, Australia
Director General David Cheng-Wei Wu Met with Mr. Tim Ko, the CEO of SHARP Corporation of Australia Pty. Ltd.
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June 24, 2024
On June 24, 2024, Director General David Cheng-Wei Wu of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Sydney, Australia, welcomed wMr. Tim Ko, the CEO of SHARP Corporation of Australia Pty. Ltd.
During the meeting, Director General Wu and Mr. Ko discussed ways to strengthen Taiwan-Australia economic and trade cooperation, particularly in the electronics and technology sectors .The meeting highlighted the growing partnership between Taiwan and Australia, as the two sides explored new opportunities for collaboration
Director General Wu expressed Taiwan's commitment to deepening ties with Australia and working together on issues of mutual interest . The meeting was part of TECO's ongoing efforts to engage with Australian businesses and promote Taiwan's economic and commercial interests in the country
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CNN World
"Monumental step forward: Thailand to become first Southeast Asian nation to legalize same-sex marriage |
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June 18, 2024
In a historic move, Thailand's Senate has approved a marriage equality bill, making the country the first in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage. The bill received overwhelming support, with 130 senators voting in favor and only four opposing it.
Once the bill is endorsed by the king, which is expected to be a formality, the law will take effect 120 days after being published in the royal gazette. This milestone decision positions Thailand as just the third Asian location, after Taiwan in 2019 and Nepal, to legalize marriage equality.
Paphon Phatkhunon, the director of the Love Foundation, an organization advocating for LGBTQ+ equality in Thailand, emphasized the transformative impact of the bill. It not only grants LGBTQ+ couples equal legal rights in areas such as inheritance, adoption, and healthcare decision-making but also symbolizes a message of acceptance and inclusivity.
The bill's passage has been lauded by various parties, marking a crucial moment in solidifying Thailand's reputation as one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly countries in the region. Despite previous obstacles, the bill's success demonstrates a positive shift towards equality.
While Thailand's move towards marriage equality sets a progressive example, other Asian countries continue to grapple with LGBTQ+ rights issues. From legal hurdles to societal challenges, the journey towards equality varies across the region
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CNA
Real Wages in Singapore grew 0.4% in 2023, similar to 2022
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June 25, 2024
Wages in Singapore grew 0.4 percent in 2023 after accounting for the impact of inflation, the same rate of growth as in 2022, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) stated last June 25, 2024.
This figure, which takes inflation into account, indicates that wage growth has been on a downward trend since 2018, with the exception of a slight increase to 1.6% in 2021.
Nominal total wages, which do not factor in inflation, grew by 5.2% in 2023, a slower pace compared to the 6.5% recorded in 2022. However, this growth rate still remained higher than the range seen in non-recessionary years.
The wage growth varied across different industries and employee levels. Senior management employees experienced a 4.6% increase, while rank-and-file and junior management employees saw 4.8% and 6.3% growth, respectively. Most industries saw lower wage growth compared to the previous year, with the exception of administrative and support services, which benefited from the Progressive Wage Model.
Despite the majority of firms (82.1%) remaining profitable in 2023, the proportion of establishments that gave wage increases to their employees declined from 72.2% in 2022 to 65.6% in 2023. Among these firms, the average magnitude of wage increases also decreased from 7.9% to 7.2%.
Looking ahead, MOM expects nominal wage growth in 2024 to remain similar to 2023, with real wage growth expected to improve as inflation gradually moderates.
Read more
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Viet Nam News
Vietnam, Cambodia tighten friendship, solidarity
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June 24, 2024
The leaders of Vietnam and Cambodia have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the two countries' long-standing friendship and solidarity.
The article reports that Nguyá»…n Huy TÇŽng, met with the Cambodia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ung Rachana met during an official visit to Cambodia.
During the meeting, the leaders emphasized the importance of the Vietnam-Cambodia relationship, which they described as a
"rule and factor ensuring the sustainable development of each country." TÇŽng praised the progress made in bilateral cooperation across various fields, including politics, economy, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.
In response, Ung Rachana congratulated Vietnam to its domestic and foreign affairs achievements over the past years. Furthermore, he reiterated Cambodia's commitment to further strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership with Vietnam.
Additionally, he also highlighted the need to maintain high-level exchanges, deepen economic ties, and enhance cooperation in areas such as border management, security, and defense.The article notes that the meeting between the Vietnamese and Cambodian leaders underscores the strong bond between the two neighboring countries, which have a shared history and are working together to promote regional peace, stability, and prosperity.
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