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Hsiao Hsu-tsen: Cheng Li-wen's Path Established, Giving KMT Stronger Argumentative Foundation

After KMT Chairwoman Cheng Li-wen concluded her visit to China, KMT Vice Chairman Hsiao Hsu-tsen stated today that the KMT's "Cheng Li-wen path" has been established. Hsiao believes this path will provide KMT candidates with a stronger argumentative foundation, helping to counter the DPP's "resist China and protect Taiwan" narrative. He emphasized that all efforts are aimed at helping the KMT regain power in 2028.

UK Prime Minister Starmer: Britain Does Not Support US Blockade of Strait of Hormuz

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed that the UK does not support a US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and will not participate in such actions, prioritizing the reopening of the strait and restoration of international shipping. He emphasized that the UK's focus is on ensuring the strait is fully open to prevent rising energy prices. A study by the Resolution Foundation also indicated that Middle East conflicts could reduce average UK household disposable income by £480 this year due to increased energy costs.

Zheng-Xi Meeting: Chinese Scholar Says Talks Emphasized Common Ground on Chinese Nation

The "Zheng-Xi Meeting" between CCP General Secretary Xi Jinping and KMT's Zheng Li-wen took place in Beijing, emphasizing common ground on the Chinese nation, culture, and peaceful development. Xi stated that the trend of the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and the coming together of compatriots across the Taiwan Strait will not change. The high-level reception included other senior officials, indicating the importance placed on the KMT's visit.

Cheng Li-wen Discusses Japanese Militarism at Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum; MAC: Catering to CCP Propaganda

Cheng Li-wen visited Nanjing's Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and spoke about Sun Yat-sen founding the Republic of China. The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) criticized her remarks as a 'special protection zone' tactic by the CCP. MAC Deputy Minister Liang Wen-chieh stated that Cheng's portrayal of Sun Yat-sen as an anti-Japanese militarism leader and linking cross-strait issues to the First Sino-Japanese War distorts history and aligns with CCP propaganda. Liang warned that her repeated mentions of Japan incite anti-Japanese sentiment and endanger Taiwan.

Prosecutor General Appointment Hearing: Scholars Concerned About Non-Disclosure of Investigations

The Legislative Yuan's Judiciary and Organic Laws and Statutes Committee and Internal Administration Committee held a public hearing for the Prosecutor General's appointment, with President Lai Ching-te nominating Hsu Hsi-hsiang. Scholars and experts questioned Hsu's suitability, particularly regarding the non-disclosure of investigations, arguing that the close ties between the investigative system and the media could compromise judicial fairness. Deputy Minister of Justice Feng Cheng stated that the opinions would be provided to Hsu for the committee's review.

KMT Legislator Denies Agreeing to CEC Appointments; Premier Cho Jung-tai Says He Accepts Being Deceived

The Legislative Yuan did not fully approve the list of 7 nominees for the Central Election Commission (CEC) in March, and the Executive Yuan is awaiting the inauguration of the supplementary nominees. KMT Legislator Lo Chih-chiang refuted Premier Cho Jung-tai's claim that the KMT caucus had agreed to the CEC appointments, demanding written evidence. Cho stated that if the KMT caucus showed sincerity, the Executive Yuan would cooperate with the procedures, and expressed that he 'accepts being deceived.'

President Lai to Visit Eswatini, Foreign Affairs Officials Analyze Three Key Meanings

President Lai Ching-te is scheduled to lead a delegation to visit Eswatini from April 22nd to 27th, marking his first visit to Africa during his tenure. Foreign affairs officials highlight three significant meanings of this trip for bilateral relations: demonstrating solid friendship, contrasting Taiwan's substantive diplomacy with China's approach, and showcasing practical cooperation. Eswatini has consistently advocated for Taiwan on the international stage, while China's 'Belt and Road' initiative has led to significant debt for many African nations. Taiwan, in contrast, engages in practical cooperation with Eswatini through initiatives like public health improvements and women's empowerment.

Iran War Ignites MAGA Camp Infighting; Opinion Leaders Publicly Rebel Against Trump

Trump's MAGA camp is experiencing infighting over the Iran war issue, with several opinion leaders publicly rebelling against him, accusing him of abandoning the "America First" promise. Tucker Carlson criticized Trump's rhetoric on Iran as morally bankrupt. Alex Jones called Trump at risk of "dementia." Marjorie Taylor Greene labeled Trump's remarks "evil and insane," demanding his removal. Candace Owens also became disillusioned, calling Trump a "genocidal maniac."

Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Reaffirms Desire for Constitutional Amendment, Paving Way for Parliamentary Proposal

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who also serves as the president of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), reiterated her desire for constitutional amendment at the LDP's 93rd party convention on April 13th. She expressed hope that by next year's convention, the party would be in a position to propose a constitutional amendment motion to the Diet. Takaichi's statement signals her intention to advance the constitutional revision process, following the LDP's significant victory in the House of Representatives election in February.

Taiwan Northern Society Criticizes Cheng Li-wen's China Visit: More Political Statement Than Substantive Exchange

Taiwan Northern Society criticized KMT Chairwoman Cheng Li-wen's visit to China, stating her remarks on a 'cross-strait peace framework' were vague and lacked concrete policy foundations, yielding no economic or industrial exchange results. The society views her visit as primarily a political statement rather than a substantive exchange. They firmly oppose any political framework that packages 'unification' under the guise of 'peace,' asserting that Taiwan's future must be decided solely by its 23 million people.

Czech Senate President visits Taiwan again after nearly 6 years: Friendship transcends party lines

Czech Senate President Miloš Vystrčil has led a delegation to Taiwan for the first time in nearly six years. Legislative Yuan President Han Kuo-yu hosted a banquet, with both sides emphasizing that the friendship between Taiwan and the Czech Republic transcends party politics. Vystrčil is scheduled to meet with President Lai Ching-te and other officials to deepen cooperation.

Government Launches New Population Strategy: 18 Family Support Measures Unveiled

President Lai Ching-te announced the 'Taiwan Population Strategy—Family Support Edition,' featuring 18 measures to address low birth rates. Key initiatives include growth allowances for children aged 0-18, expanded subsidies for artificial reproduction, raising birth benefits to NT$100,000, increased childcare subsidies, and more flexible parental leave.

Weekly Digest: May 24-30

Key highlights: Heat dome in Europe, bridge collapse in Seoul, Blue Origin rocket explosion, Shangri-La Dialogue, new population strategies, crackdown on drug-impaired driving, GDP growth forecast raised to 9.64%, and airport service fee hikes.

Basic Design Approved for First Phase of Kaohsiung-Pingtung Second Expressway, Aiming for September Start

The Public Construction Commission has approved the basic design for the C1 section of the Kaohsiung-Pingtung Second Expressway. Construction is targeted to begin in September, with completion expected by 2029. The project, costing approximately NT$3.48 billion, aims to improve regional connectivity and support the development of southern tech industries.

Japan's Total Population Hits 123 Million, Decline Gap Widens Significantly

According to the preliminary results of the national census released by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, Japan's total population is 123,049,524, a decrease of approximately 3.1 million from 2020. Both the number and rate of decline are record highs, indicating an accelerating nationwide population contraction.

German MP visits Taiwan, calls for reducing China reliance and highlights Taiwan as key AI partner

Till Steffen, chair of the German-Taiwan parliamentary friendship group, stated that Germany must reduce its over-reliance on China to maintain competitiveness in AI and next-gen industries. He identified Taiwan as a key partner for AI development and supply chain diversification, warning of the global economic impact of a potential conflict in the Taiwan Strait.

May 17-23: Weekly News Digest

Key highlights: Kevin Warsh appointed as Fed Chair, Ebola risk in DR Congo rises, Samsung reaches labor agreement, India's 'Cockroach Janta Party' gains traction, Taiwan announces 5,000 TWD monthly subsidy for ages 0-18, 'Taiwan Travelogue' wins International Booker Prize, Hantavirus case in Keelung, and revocation of Core Pacific City's 20% floor area bonus.

Nakama Mayor Kenji Fukuda Promotes Local Charm on YouTube Program 'Trying Something with the Mayor'

Kenji Fukuda, Mayor of Nakama City, Fukuoka, appeared on the 43rd episode of the YouTube program 'Trying Something with the Mayor,' operated by Ichini Inc. Through 'footpath' walking, he highlights the city's nature, world heritage sites, and SDGs initiatives. The program aims to revitalize regions and encourage political participation by showcasing the personalities of local leaders.

Source: prtimes.jp

Previous Applications 29 to 60, More Than Double Year-on-Year! Up to 3 Million Yen for Youth Challenges: 'Z-Generation Hamidase Contest 2026' Call for Entries Begins

Kitakyushu City has begun accepting entries for the 'Z-Generation Hamidase Contest 2026,' a project supporting challenges by the Z-generation. Selected proposals will receive up to 3 million yen in subsidies and ongoing support from experts. This popular project, which saw more than double the applications last year, aims to utilize the free ideas of young people for urban development.

Source: prtimes.jp

Chiang Wan-an to Discuss Power Supply for Beitou Shilin Tech Park with Taipower; Eyes Meeting with NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an announced on the 26th that he will meet with Taiwan Power Company (Taipower) to discuss the installation of a temporary substation to ensure power supply for the Beitou Shilin Technology Park (Beishike). Regarding the visit of NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang, Chiang expressed his intention to discuss AI industry development and potential cooperation to establish Taipei as an 'AI capital.'

Middle East War Day 86: Trump Says US Not in a Rush for Iran Deal

The US-Israel offensive against Iran has reached its 86th day. President Trump stated the US is not in a rush to reach a deal with Iran, emphasizing that time is on their side. Meanwhile, Israeli PM Netanyahu insisted that the complete elimination of nuclear threats is a prerequisite for any final agreement. Oil prices hit a two-week low amid optimism over peace talks.

Exiled Russian Director Wins Major Cannes Award, Urges Putin to End Ukraine War

Russian director Andrey Zvyagintsev won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival for his new film, which is set against the backdrop of the Ukraine war. During the ceremony, he urged President Putin to end the 'slaughter.' The director, currently in exile in France, stated he does not expect the film to be screened in his home country.

Philippine Defense Chief Proposes 'Archipelagic Sentinel' Concept to Counter Chinese Maritime Expansion

Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. introduced the concepts of 'Archipelagic Sentinel' and 'Guardian of the Freedom of the Seas' at the Shangri-La Dialogue. He emphasized that the Philippines will leverage its strategic geographic position to maintain maritime order and block China's maritime expansion. He criticized China's 'Talk and Take' strategy in the South China Sea and pledged to deepen defense cooperation with allies like the U.S. and Japan.

Hegseth Speaks at Shangri-La Dialogue: US Committed to Supporting Countries That Defend Themselves

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth spoke at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, warning that dominance of the Pacific by a single hegemon would disrupt regional balance. He emphasized that under President Trump's 'America First' policy, the US will support nations that make self-help efforts, noting that decisions on arms sales to Taiwan rest with the President.

DPP Finalizes 22 Local Party Chairs; Grassroots Campaign Structure Set for 2026

The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) announced the results of its local party chair elections on the 24th. While Tainan saw a competitive race with incumbent Kuo Kuo-wen losing to Lin Chih-chan, 17 regions saw uncontested victories, including the election of 'Sunflower Movement' generation figures Wu Pei-yi in Taipei and Huang Jie in Kaohsiung. This concludes the party's organizational restructuring for the 2026 local elections.

MOFA: US-China leaders seek strategic stability, but nature of strategic competition remains unchanged

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) analyzed that while the US and China are seeking strategic stability through summit diplomacy, the nature of their strategic competition remains unchanged. China attempted to manipulate public opinion on Taiwan by releasing a statement first, but the US consistently signaled that its Taiwan policy remains unchanged, highlighting its focus on the issue.

Nippon Foundation Survey: 18-Year-Olds' Views on Crime, Recidivism, and Imprisonment

The Nippon Foundation released a survey on 'Crime, Recidivism, and Imprisonment' targeting 18-year-olds. Over 70% of respondents feel crime is becoming more heinous, and nearly 80% support the new 'imprisonment' (kokin-kei) system aimed at rehabilitation. However, over 60% were unaware of the new system, highlighting the need for better public awareness.

Source: prtimes.jp

Sweden to donate 16 Gripen fighter jets to Ukraine to boost air defense

Sweden has decided to donate 16 Gripen C/D fighter jets to Ukraine. The two countries signed a defense cooperation agreement, and pilot training has already begun. President Zelenskyy expects the jets to significantly improve air defense and potentially change the course of the war. Ukraine also plans to purchase new Gripen E/F jets in the future.

Vietnamese President To Lam Visits Thailand; Nations to Deepen Ties to 'Comprehensive Strategic Partnership'

Vietnamese President To Lam visited Thailand and met with PM Anutin, agreeing to elevate bilateral relations to a 'Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.' The two nations aim to increase trade to $25 billion in the coming years and strengthen cooperation in green industries and high-tech sectors, shifting from competition to complementarity.

CSIS: Iran War Depletes US Munitions; Replenishment to Take Years, Raising Concerns for West Pacific

A CSIS report indicates that the US military has heavily consumed Tomahawk cruise missiles, Patriot missiles, and THAAD interceptors during the Iran war, with replenishment expected to take years. While the US maintains combat capability, the report warns that depleted stockpiles could create a defensive gap in the West Pacific. Defense contractors are accelerating production, though supply chain challenges remain.

Trump Administration Proposes NDAs for Federal Employees to Curb Leaks

The Trump administration has proposed that all current and future federal employees sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to prevent leaks to the media. While the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) claims it is to protect non-public information, critics and unions argue it is an attempt to silence civil servants.

Hong Kong Fair in Malmö: European Diaspora Voices Support for Freedom

The Hong Kong Fair in Malmö brought together activists from across Europe to discuss the Hong Kong National Security Law and EU-Hong Kong relations. Activists wanted by Hong Kong authorities, including Finn Lau and Chloe Cheung, participated to advocate for freedom and international solidarity.

Trump Demands Iran Hand Over and Destroy Enriched Uranium

US President Trump has demanded that Iran immediately hand over its enriched uranium to the US for destruction or destroy it on-site under international supervision. This comes as US-Iran peace talks progress, with an Iranian delegation in Doha discussing a potential ceasefire agreement.