The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Taiwan

  • Explosion at Taiwan department store kills four

    Explosion at Taiwan department store kills four

    Four people have been killed and 24 others injured after an explosion hit a department store in Taiwan’s second-largest city, authorities said.

    The blast hit the 12th floor of the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store in Taichung, about 160km (99 miles) southwest of the capital Taipei, the National Fire Agency said on Thursday.

    The local fire department dispatched 56 vehicles and 136 people to carry out search and rescue efforts, the agency said, adding that the area was believed to be closed for construction work at the time of the incident.

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    Video posted by the Taiwanese broadcaster TVBS Taiwan showed the moment of the explosion, with cladding and other debris flying off the building and dust billowing from inside. Photos from the scene showed scattered fragments strewn on the streets.

    “I was working in the city government building around 11:30am and because it’s right next to Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store, I felt a vibration,” Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen told reporters.

    “The explosion is very serious and the rescue is ongoing.”

    “It is not yet known what caused the blast.

    “The cause is subject to follow-up investigation and we call on the public to avoid going to the vicinity of the disaster site,” the National Fire Agency said.

    Lu said the explosion had affected a wide area and at least one passer-by was among the victims.

    “There are many office buildings and homes in this area and we ask everyone to cooperate with the restrictions for your safety,” he said.

    Newsnow

  • Taiwan canvasses expansion of bilateral trade ties with Nigeria

    Taiwan canvasses expansion of bilateral trade ties with Nigeria

    The Taiwanese government has made a case for the renegotiation and expansion of bilateral trade relations with Nigeria to explore mutually beneficial opportunities between both countries.

    Chief of Taiwan Mission at the Taipei Trade Office in Nigeria Andy Yih-Ping Liu made this known at a media parley at the weekend in Lagos .

    Liu, who recalled that he had sent a proposal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on how to strengthen the Nigerian-Taiwan relations, noted that the trading value between both countries was $400 million in 2023.

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    “This is not a big amount, compared with China’s $226 billion. It will only take about 2% of what the Chinese are trading. But Taiwan’s industrial capability is high quality. We don’t make cheap, inferior products. So, it’s not the trade value that means everything, but the quality.

    “The quality of our product has been deeply trusted and has been having good comments from the Nigerian traders and industrial companies. So the most important thing for the government is to attract more Taiwanese companies to come to Nigeria to do trading and investment. It’s very important that Nigeria and Taiwan renew the agreement of protection of investment,” he stressed.

    The diplomat whose first mission assignment to Nigeria was over 30 years ago during which time he maintained embassy offices in Lagos and Cross River states respectively, emphasised that the previous bilateral agreement was signed in 1994 now needs to be renewed with interest of both countries properly aligned.

    “The older version was signed in 1994. It was 30 years ago. So your federal government had already discussed with our mission about two and a half years ago how to renew that. Both sides have negotiated quite extensively, almost finished all the negotiations. Now it needs to be signed by both missions. I would sign on behalf of my government and your mission in Taiwan would sign on behalf of your government. Both sides sign and exchange. That’s it. That means Nigeria is serious enough to attract Taiwanese business people to come to Nigeria to do long-term investment and short-term trading. So we urge your federal government to finalise the signature of the agreement for mutual investment protection. Without that agreement, our people might not have the confidence of the Nigerian government for protecting the investment.”

    Pressed further, Liu reiterated that the bilateral relations between both countries can be enlarged and made more attractive.

    “The second substantive proposal that I mentioned is to resume the annual governmental negotiation between Nigeria and Taiwan on a permanent secretary level from the federal government because that annual consultation was stopped in 2015 or 2016. We don’t know the reason why it has stopped. So we call for the resume of that annual bilateral.

    “So, we look forward to having your federal government, the three ministries, to be able to finalise their consultation and give us much needed feedback on how to progress with the signing of the agreement. We look very much forward to receiving another positive and final decision from the federal government, but we don’t know now.”

  • Taiwan, democracy, development are China’s ‘red lines’, Xi tells Biden

    Taiwan, democracy, development are China’s ‘red lines’, Xi tells Biden

    China’s President Xi Jinping told his U.S. counterpart Joe Biden that the issues of Taiwan, democracy, human rights and rights to development are “red lines” for China and not to be challenged, the official state media Xinhua said on Sunday.

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    Xi warned the United States not to get involved in bilateral disputes over islands and reefs in the South China Sea or “aid or abet the impulsion to make provocations” in that region, it said.

  • Allow Taiwan to participate in Interpol, climate activities, envoy tells UN

    Allow Taiwan to participate in Interpol, climate activities, envoy tells UN

    The Trade Representative and Chief of Mission in Nigeria, Mr. Andy Yih-Ping Liu, has described his country’s exclusion from Interpol and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) as depriving these organisations of a valuable partner in the fight against crime and climate change.

    Liu, in a statement yesterday, raised concerns about the effectiveness of the esteemed organisations in addressing pressing issues on a global scale.

    He argued that it is common knowledge that Taiwan’s unique geopolitical position in the Asia-Pacific region and its advanced capabilities of utilising high-technology in law enforcement and environmental protection make it an invaluable partner in combatting transnational crime and mitigating the effects of climate change.

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    The envoy said in the latest trend of calling for Taiwans participation in all kinds of international organisations and institutions, the U.S. plus EU, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and others have acknowledged Taiwan as an indispensable partner in providing specialty and know-how, to assist the world to fight-off or build-up a more effective collaboration in terms of no-one-left-behind and integrate Taiwan into the world team.

    The statement reads: “However, Taiwan has been excluded from INTERPOL for 35 years, making it difficult for Taiwan’s Criminal Investigation Bureau to track down gangsters and combat fraud on a timely manner. Because Taiwan is kept out of the worlds preeminent international crime-fighting alliance, Interpol, we posit that the world’s largest international police organisation, which relies on cooperation between its member countries to combat organised crime, terrorism, and cyber threats, needs to rethink its stand on excluding the Island nation from its network.

    “Similarly, UNFCCC aims to address the issue of global climate change through international cooperation and coordination.

  • Taiwan, others condemn Chinese military drill

    Taiwan, others condemn Chinese military drill

    Taiwan has joined the United States (U.S.), United Kingdom, European Union (EU) and other countries in denouncing China over its October 14 launch of “Joint Sword-2024B military drill” near Taipei’s territory, terming the action as provocative and destabilising.

    Taiwanese Representative/Chief of Mission Andy Yih-Ping Liu, who made his country’s position known in a statement yesterday, emphasised the need for regional peace.

    The statement indicated that as part of President Lai Ching-te’s October 10 address, he emphasized that “Taiwan was willing to work with China to address climate change, combat communicable diseases, and maintain regional security in the pursuit of peace and mutual prosperity for the well-being of both peoples”.

    The envoy noted that instead of embracing the goodwill expressed by Taiwan’s leader, China on October 14 launched its Joint Sword-2024B military drill around Taiwan.

    The statement reads: “Taiwan swiftly denounced these actions as provocative and destabilising, emphasising the need for regional peace. The Taiwanese government issued a statement expressing deep concern over the escalating tensions and urged China to prioritise stability in the region.

    “This latest military manoeuvre is just one instance of China’s persistent efforts to intimidate Taiwan and assert dominance in the area. China has previously deployed military aircraft and vessels near Taiwan as a means of demonstrating power and issuing warnings to Taiwan and its allies.

    “Despite Taiwan’s unwavering resilience in the face of such provocations, the situation remains fraught with tension.

    “Fortunately, the global community has taken note of China’s aggressive stance towards Taiwan.”

    Also, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken last week emphasised that Taiwan’s National Day address was a routine activity and that China should not use the event as a pretext for engaging in any provocative actions.

    Reacting too, the United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office expressed serious concern over China’s joint military drill, issuing a statement reaffirming the United Kingdom’s interest in peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, which it said was of critical importance to global prosperity.

    The European Union through the European External Action Service (EEAS), in a statement, reaffirmed staunch support for Cross Strait peace and stability, pointing out European Union’s interest in the preservation of the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and opposition to any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion.

    Read Also: Taiwan leader vows to resist China’s annexation plan

    Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba pointed out that peace and security in and around the Taiwan Strait were an extremely important issue to the region. The government of Australia has also stated that it is paying close attention to the Taiwan Strait situation, calling on China to show restraint, while underscoring the importance of cross-strait peace and stability.

    Despite China’s action, the Taiwanese envoy said its citizens take pride in their democratic way of life and are resolute in defending it.

    “We possess a strong identity and refuse to yield to Chinese coercion or intimidation. It is imperative for the international community to unite in solidarity with the 23 million peace and freedom-loving people of Taiwan in forging closer connections and interactions,” Liu stated.

  • Taiwan leader vows to resist China’s annexation plan

    Taiwan leader vows to resist China’s annexation plan

    Taiwanese President, Lai Ching-te, in his first National Day address yesterday, vowed to resist any move towards annexation or encroachment by Beijing.

    “The Republic of China (formal name of Taiwan) and the People’s Republic of China are not subordinate to each other,’’ Lai said.

    Lai said this to a crowd attending the ceremony held on a square outside the presidential office in Taipei.

    According to him, Taiwan has had an independent government since 1949, but China considered the self-ruled democracy to be part of its territory.

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    “On this land, democracy and freedom are growing and thriving. The People’s Republic of China has no right to represent Taiwan,’’ Lai said.

    He added that as president, his mission is to ensure that the nation endures and progresses, and to unite the 23 million people of Taiwan.

    “I will also uphold the commitment to resist annexation or encroachment upon our sovereignty.

    “We hope that China will live up to the expectations of the international community.

    “That it will apply its influence and work with other countries toward ending Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and conflicts in the Middle East,’’ Lai said.

    He said that Taiwan was open to work with China to jointly tackle climate change, combat pandemics, and safeguard regional security, aiming for peaceful coexistence.

    Lai vowed to further boost Taiwan’s resilience in four key areas to include national defence, economic livelihoods, disaster prevention, and democracy.

    “As our society becomes better prepared, our nation grows more secure, and there is also greater peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait,” Lai added.

    But, in a thinly-veiled reference to China’s claim over the island, Lai said he would “uphold the commitment to resist annexation or encroachment upon our sovereignty.”

    At the same time, Lai promised to maintain “the status quo of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait” and pledged to cooperate with Beijing on issues such as climate change, combating infectious diseases and maintaining regional security.

    Responding to Lai’s speech, a spokeswoman for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it “exposed his intransigent position” on Taiwan independence.

  • Envoy seeks Taiwan’s inclusion in UN’s framework

    Envoy seeks Taiwan’s inclusion in UN’s framework

    Trade Representative and Chief of Taiwan Mission in Nigeria Mr. Andy Yih-Ping Liu has argued the inclusion of his country in United Nations (UN) framework.

    The diplomat urged the UN to resist succumbing to pressure from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and refrain from further distorting UN General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 2758, which was adopted in 1971.

    In a statement yesterday ahead of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Liu said the ultimate goal of the UN is global peace, solidarity and sustainability for all peoples of the world.

    To create a more secure and prosperous world, the envoy noted that it is imperative that the UN system includes Taiwan in its framework.

    He said that excluding Taiwan’s 23 million citizens from participating in the world body undermines the stability of the Asian region and jeopardises global peace, stressing that Taiwan is key to global peace and success of UN system

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    According to him, Taiwan has consistently engaged as a crucial partner in global supply chains, being the producer of over 90 percent of the world’s high-end semiconductors and a significant portion of the advanced chips driving the AI revolution.

    The statement reads: “Additionally, the Taiwan Strait sees half of the world’s seaborne trade, making it a vital international waterway.

    “Despite the peace and stability that have benefited billions of people worldwide, courtesy of efforts of Taiwan, China continues to escalate its aggressive actions against Taiwan. This persistent behaviour by China undermines the stability of the region and jeopardises global peace.

    “Interestingly, in recent years, world leaders have emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait during bilateral and multilateral gatherings such as the G7, EU, NATO, and ASEAN meetings.

    “However, the United Nations (UN) has yet to take action to address the challenges posed by China or to include Taiwan in its system. The 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) commences this month, while the General Debate follows subsequently. However, while the ultimate goal of the UN emphasizes global peace, solidarity and sustainability for all peoples of the world, you may wish to note that Taiwan’s 23 million citizens are still excluded from participating in the world body.”

  • Taiwan’s new President Lai urges China to cease intimidation

    Taiwan’s new President Lai urges China to cease intimidation

    Taiwan’s new President Lai Ching-te has called on Beijing to cease its political and military intimidation against his democratic island country.

    “Peace is the only option,” Lai told the crowd attending his inauguration ceremony in Taiwan.

    Lai also called on China to share with Taiwan the global responsibility of maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait as well as the greater region, and “ensure the world is free from the fear of war.”

    “The future of cross-strait relations will have a decisive impact on the world,” Lai said.

    Lai urged China to face the reality of the existence of Taiwan and “in good faith, choose dialogue over confrontation and exchange over containment.

    “This should be done under the principles of parity and dignity and engage in cooperation with the legal government chosen by Taiwan’s people.

    “It can start from the resumption of tourism on a reciprocal basis, and enrollment of degree students in Taiwanese institutions,” Lai said.

    A statement issued by Representative and Chief of Taiwan Mission in Nigeria Mr. Andy Yih-Ping Liu, said President Lai was born in 1959 in New Taipei City’s Wanli District, and hails from humble beginnings, as the son of a coal miner. His upbringing and medical training in empirical logic have equipped him with a unique ability to connect with the public and devise tailored solutions, forming the bedrock of his distinctive governing style that garners public trust.

    Throughout his career, President Lai has been hailed as one of the world’s most influential figures. Despite being branded by domestic opposition as a golden child of independence, Lai prefers to characterise himself as a “pragmatic worker” dedicated to promoting peace within the Asia-Pacific region.

    After earning a B.S. from National Taiwan University’s Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Dr. Lai pursued further education through the Post-Bachelor Program in Medical Science at National Cheng Kung University. He later obtained a Master of Public Health degree from Harvard University in the USA, distinguishing himself as one of the few physicians in Taiwan with expertise in rehabilitation, clinical care, and public health.

    In 1998, Dr. Lai was elected to the Legislative Yuan (Parliament), representing Tainan City. Leveraging his medical background, he actively contributed to the Social Welfare and Environmental Hygiene Committee, addressing a myriad of local issues. Dr. Lai’s commitment to professional governance and exemplary service resonated with Tainan citizens, leading to his re-election for four consecutive terms (1999-2010).

    Throughout his legislative tenure, Dr. Lai was recognised as the Best Legislator by Citizen Congress Watch, showcasing his leadership and coordination skills as the DPP caucus whip.

    During his tenure as Mayor of Tainan City from 2010 to 2017, Dr. Lai actively engaged in city diplomacy, forging strong partnerships with the Japanese government, National Diet, and private sector to facilitate exchanges and establish sister-city agreements. These efforts bolstered ties in various sectors including culture, tourism, sports, agriculture, and disaster relief.

    Assuming the role of Taiwan’s premier from 2017 to 2019 amidst challenging circumstances, Dr. Lai led a results-driven Cabinet that prioritized five key policy objectives. These goals centered on advancing

    Taiwanese culture, promoting the Green Silicon Island and smart digital nation initiatives, fostering a just society, and enhancing national well-being.

    In February 2020, Dr. Lai made history by attending the 68th National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, DC, marking the highest-ranking official from Taiwan to participate since the severance of official diplomatic relations 41 years ago. This event marked a pivotal moment in Taiwan-US relations. Subsequently, in May of the same year, Dr. Lai was sworn in as the 15th-term Vice President. In January 2023, he assumed the additional role of chairperson of the ruling party DPP.

    On January 13, 2024, Dr. Lai secured the presidency through election and is set to be inaugurated on May 20, 2024. His journey from Mayor to Vice President to President reflects his unwavering commitment to serving the people of Taiwan and advancing the nation’s interests on the global stage.

    Also, born in Kobe, Japan, Vice President Hsiao was raised in Tainan, a city located in southern Taiwan. She holds a Master’s degree in political science from Columbia University in New York and a Bachelor’s degree in East Asian studies from Oberlin College in Ohio.

    Assuming her role as Taiwan’s Representative to the United States in July 2020, Vice President Hsiao previously served as a senior advisor to President Dr. Ing-Wen TSAI at Taiwan’s National Security Council.

    With a distinguished career in public service, Vice President Hsiao has served four terms in the Taiwan

    Read Also: Taiwan president pledges shared values with Nigeria, allies, says envoy

    Legislature (Parliament), representing overseas citizens in her first term and later the constituents of Taipei City and Hualien County in subsequent terms. She has held key positions such as ranking member of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee and chair of the USA Caucus in the Legislative Yuan.

    Following Taiwan’s first democratic transition of government in 2000, Vice President Hsiao became an advisor in the Office of the President and served as the international spokesperson for all DPP presidential elections from 2000 to 2012.

    She has also held leadership roles in international organizations, including Chair of the Council of Asian

    Liberals and Democrats (CALD), which represents Asian democratic political parties.

    From 2005 to 2012, Vice President Hsiao was elected Vice President of the Bureau of Liberal International (LI), a global political party organization based in London. Additionally, she is a founding board member of the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy.

  • Taiwan president pledges shared values with Nigeria, allies, says envoy

    Taiwan president pledges shared values with Nigeria, allies, says envoy

    Representative and Head of Mission of Taiwan in Nigeria Andy Yih-Ping Liu has emphasised that with the inauguration of Dr. Lai Ching-te as the eighth president of Taiwan, the country has once again showcased its steadfast commitment to the core values of freedom and constitutional fulfilment

    According to him, Taiwan will continue to collaborate with Nigeria, one of the major friendly democratic nations and other allies to form a value-sharing community

    Lai took over from Dr. Tsai Ing-wen after serving as her vice president for the past four years. Lai and his running mate, Hsiao Bi-khim, won the 2024 presidential election with 5.58 million votes, breaking the tradition of two-term political party rotation with the Kuomintang (KMT).

    This marks the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) third consecutive term in office since the first direct presidential election in 1996.

    Liu, in a statement yesterday, said, with like-minded fellow democracies, like Nigeria, Taiwan has once again showcased its steadfast commitment to the core values of freedom and constitutional fulfilment.

    He noted that in his inauguration speech, Lai called on China to stop its military intimidation of Taiwan and engage in talks with his government on equal terms.

    Liu added that the new president also urged China to work together with Taiwan to maintain peace and stability in the region and ensure a world free from the fear of war.

    The envoy said: “He emphasised that democracy, peace, and prosperity are at the core of Taiwan’s national roadmap, and highlighted Taiwan’s role as an important link in the global chain of democracies, while expressing his commitment to enhancing human rights and promoting democratic values on a global scale.

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    “We see our Taiwan as a crucial link in the chain of democracies worldwide, and our leader has emphasized that a new era of democracy in Taiwan has dawned, showcasing the country’s commitment to human rights and its core values of democracy and freedom. Taiwan has consistently ranked highly among Asian nations in terms of democracy and freedom, making it a shining example on the global stage. The leader, therefore, highlighted Taiwan’s role as a beacon of democracy and stressed the importance of continuing to uphold these values.

    “In the realm of international affairs, Taiwan will continue to collaborate with Nigeria, one of the major friendly democratic nations to form a value-sharing community.

    “President Lai said: “We will work together to combat disinformation, strengthen democratic resilience, address challenges, and allow Taiwan to become the MVP of the democratic world,” and he pledged his government’s desire to uphold four commitments: “neither yield nor provoke, and maintain the status quo”, but ensuring that the future of Taiwan will be decided by its 23 million people. By working together with like-minded nations, Taiwan aims to overcome challenges and solidify its position as a key player in the democratic world.”

  • Nigeria-Taiwan strengthens trade ties

    Nigeria-Taiwan strengthens trade ties

    NINE Taiwanese companies and Nigerian business men gathered at the Taiwan Business Forum recently hosted in Nigeria to collaborate on new opportunities

    It was the 2024 edition of the Taiwan Trade Business Forum, organized by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), concluded recently at the Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel in Lagos, Nigeria. The forum aimed to enhance bilateral trade ties between Taiwan and Nigeria and explore new business opportunities.

    The forum attracted a prominent audience, including His Excellency Andy Yih-Ping Liu, Taiwanese Ambassador to Nigeria; representatives from Taiwan Trade Centre Lagos, the overseas branch of TAITRA; Olusola Obadimu, Director-General of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA); Collins Nwosu, Trade Ambassador, International Trade Facilitation Association (ITFA); esteemed Nigerian dignitaries; and members of the press.

    This gathering facilitated a platform for Taiwanese companies to showcase their products and expertise. Informative presentations and discussions sparked valuable dialogue, while productive networking sessions fostered potential partnerships and collaborations.

    Taiwan is a powerhouse in the global manufacturing sector, recognized as the world’s 17th largest exporter and importer of merchandise, according to the World Trade Organization in 2022. This leading position is attributed to a strong focus on innovation and technological advancement, particularly in the fields of information and communication technology (ICT).

    The Taiwan Business Forum in Lagos exemplifies Taiwan’s dedication to expanding its global reach and ensuring continued visibility for its top-tier exporters.

    In his opening remarks, Cris Lin, a representative from TAITRA, spoke on the importance of building closer trade ties between Taiwan and Nigeria. “The main point of promoting trade between Nigeria and Taiwan is to bring awareness of Taiwanese products to Nigerian consumers. Our products are known for striking a perfect balance between a reasonable price and excellent quality, which Nigerian consumers prefer,” he stated.

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    His Excellency Andy Yih-Ping Liu, the Taiwanese Ambassador to Nigeria, further emphasized the significance of bilateral relations. “Taiwan’s population is roughly the size of Lagos State, but we lack the natural resources abundant in Nigeria. Conversely, Nigeria’s strength lies in its resources, while Taiwan’s advantage lies in its human capital. We believe a symbiotic relationship, combining our strengths, can lead to a powerful trade partnership,” he stated.

    Nine leading Taiwanese companies participated in the forum, including Well Electronics Co. Ltd, Lien Chiny Enterprise Co. Ltd, Easywell Water Systems Inc., Mobiletron Electronics Co. Ltd, Ou-Dean Foods Factory Co. Ltd, Yu Tong Steel Co. Ltd, Shuz Tung Machinery Industrial Co. Ltd, Globe Industries Corporation, and Voltronic Power Technology Corp. These companies are renowned for their high-quality products, cutting-edge technologies, and established reputations in the Taiwanese and international markets.

    Olusola Obadimu, Director-General of NACCIMA, commented on the benefits of working with Taiwanese companies. He said, “I have only good things to say about Taiwan, and I urge everyone here to see that working with Taiwanese companies will benefit us. We can’t lose, and you’re sure of the qualities you will get.”

    The forum showcased Taiwan’s excellence in technology and products, further demonstrating the strength and competitiveness of Taiwan’s manufacturing industry. The advanced technology and high-quality products offered by Taiwanese companies have the potential to support Nigeria’s industrial and manufacturing development significantly. Through this strategic collaboration, Nigeria can leverage these advancements to propel its economic growth and solidify its position as a leading African economy.