ICRT

Posted on 2025-09-19 06:47:13

four years

A government led agricultural trade mission to the U-S has signed three
letters of intent with agricultural industry associations to purchase more
than 10-billion dollars worth of American farm products over the next four
years.

Speaking at the signing ceremony on Capitol Hill, Agriculture Minister Chen
Jun-ji said Taiwan's biennial agricultural trade goodwill mission has
historically pledged about 1.9-billion dollars in purchases annually ..

... but this year it's taking the partnership to the next level, but raising
that amount 2.5-billion dollars.

According to Chen, he was proud to sign letters of intent and announce our
commitment to purchase more soybeans, corn, wheat and beef over the next four
years.

The agriculture minister went on to describe it as true win-win relationship
- as Taiwanese consumers can enjoy the best of American products, while U-S
farmers and exporters will benefit from a stable market.

Taiwan's top representative to the U-S Alexander Yui also attended the
signing ceremony.

Posted on 2025-09-19 06:47:13

The Cabinet has approved amendments to strengthen protection of undersea
cables and pipelines following a series of incidents.

The revisions align penalties for damaging water and gas pipelines with those
for cutting submarine cables.

And intentional damage to cables or pipelines is now punishable by a prison
sentence of between one to seven years in prison and fines of up to
10-million N-T.

Unintentional damage due to negligence can result in a prison sentence of up
to six months or a fine of up to 2-million N-T.

The new rules also authorize confiscation of vessels and require ships to
keep their automatic identification systems witched on.

Ocean Affairs Council head Kuan Bi-ling says many offenders use old, low-cost
ships and often disable or falsify identification systems and the new rules
will reduce the number of "dark ships" and give the Coast Guard
Administration stronger legal grounds for enforcement.

The amendments will now bee sent to the Legislative Yuan for approval.

Posted on 2025-09-19 06:47:13

Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung has visited Italy to inaugurate Taiwan's
recently renovated representative office in Rome as part of his ongoing
European trip.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Lin said Taiwan and Italy share the values
of freedom, democracy and human rights, and enjoy close exchanges in many
fields ..

.. and the upgraded office symbolizes a new chapter in bilateral relations.

Guests at the opening ceremony included the head of the Italy-Taiwan
Parliamentary Friendship Group and other serveral Italian lawmakers.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not released any details of Lin's ongoing
European trip.

However, he was in the Czech Republic earlier this week to promote "Taiwan
Culture in Europe 2025" campaign.

While there, he attended the opening of the exhibition "100 Treasures, 100
Stories: Treasures from the National Palace Museum," which is on display at a
museum in in Prague.

The "Taiwan Culture in Europe 2025" campaign has been jointly organized by
the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Culture.

It features more than 70 cultural events across 26 countries.

Posted on 2025-09-19 06:47:13

The central bank has opted to leave its key interest rates unchanged
following Thursday's quarterly policy meeting.

It's the sixth consecutive quarter that the bank has held rates steady, as
expected.

And it means that local discount rate remains at 2-per cent -- the highest in
15 years.

The rate on accommodation with collateral stays at 2.375-per cent, while the
rate on accommodation without remains unchanged at 4.25-per-cent,

Economists says the central bank's decision is aimed at preserving
flexibility to cushion the economy from tariff-related shocks.

While U-S tariffs have pressured some traditional industries, Taiwan's
technology sector has remained resilient, continuing to expand investment to
meet global demand.

That strength has prompted the government to raise its G-D-P growth forecast
for this year to 4.45-per cent - up from a previous forecast of
3.1-per cent.

According to economists said the strong economic growth made a rate cut
unlikely for now.

Posted on 2025-09-19 06:47:13

The National Development Council has approved a plan to expand the Shalun
Smart Green Energy Science City in Tainan.

It comes as the government is seeking to reinforce Taiwan's semiconductor
industry and create tens of thousands of new jobs.

The 122-billion N-T funding in Shalun was proposed by the National Science
and Technology Council and will be financed through annual allocations from
the Southern Taiwan Science Park Administration's operating fund.

It will now be submitted to the Cabinet for approval.

According to the N-D-C, authorities expect to complete land-use and
environmental reviews for non-urban land by the end of 2027, after which land
acquisition, public works and factory construction will proceed
simultaneously.

Council minister Yeh Chun-hsien says when completed, the project will add 531
hectares of science park space in Tainan - generating an estimated 2-trillion
N-T in annual output and providing about 35,000 new jobs.

Posted on 2025-09-19 06:47:13

The New Taipei District Court has sentenced former Workforce Development
Agency branch head Hsieh Yi-rong to four years in prison for corruption.

Hsieh was found guilty of disclosing confidential information, corruption,
passing undue benefits to a company in two procurement cases, and embezzling
gift boxes worth 20,000 N-T purchased with the Ministry of Labor's Employment
Stabilization Fund.

Three staff members who worked the same Workforce Development Agency branch
office were has sentenced to prison terms ranging from one year and four
months to one year and eight months for disclosing confidential information
and providing undue benefits.

Two brothers who operated the company that received the benefits given prison
sentences of two years and one year and four months for violating Taiwan's
Government Procurement Act.

While a company head who lent out their bidder qualification was also found
guilty of violating the Government Procurement Act and given a prison
sentence of five months, convertible to a fine.

The rulings can all be appealed.

Posted on 2025-09-19 06:47:13

The National Day Preparatory Committee has unveiled its commemorative
souvenirs for this year's National Day celebration.

The souvenirs are handed out to guests invited by the government to attend
the celebrations outside the Presidential Office.

The committee says this year's commemorative gifts are all eco-friendly and
include a hat, a water bottle, and a tote bag.

All of which have - according to the National Day Preparatory Committee -
been designed to reflect environmental responsibility and national pride.

The committee earlier this month unveiled the official visual design for
Double Ten Day.

That design includes a blue and red color scheme to create a Double Ten
symbol and its emblazoned with the theme of this year's celebrations ... that
being - "A Beautiful Taiwan Today, A Better Taiwan Tomorrow."

The committee has said the design and theme have been crafted to convey
messages of national progress and unity.

Posted on 2025-09-19 06:47:13

And finally,

Taiwanese actress-director Sylvia Chang has received the Camellia Award for
contributions to women in cinema at the 30th Busan International Film
Festival.

Speaking after accepting the award at the festival's opening ceremony, Chang
said she begun as an actor in 1972 and has been captivated by cinema ever
since ... and over time become more active in writing scripts, directing and
producing ..

... the difficulty of which only boosted her motivation to succeed.

The 72-year-old also said she was excited to premiere her new film "Measure
in Love" at the festival.

Chang served as a co-writer and producer of the fantasy romance movie that
tells the story of two people following a massive earthquake that splits the
world in two and distorts time and gravity on both sides.

"Measure in Love" has been selected by the Busan International Film Festival
for the Open Cinema section - an outdoor screening venue showcasing new films
that blend artistic merit with popular appeal.

It will premiere in Taiwan on October 3.

Posted on 2025-09-19 06:47:13

Brazil's lower house of Congress has voted to fast-track an amnesty bill.

The bill has the backing of the opposition and could include amnesty for
former President Jair Bolsonaro and his supporters sentenced to prison for
their roles in 2023 riots after his electoral defeat.

Bolsonaro is under house arrest after being sentenced last week by a Supreme
Court panel to 27 years and three months in prison for plotting a coup to
overturn the 2022 election.

His sons and supporters have touted legislative amnesty as one of his
political avenues to freedom, although the legality of such a move remains
contentious.

Two Supreme Court justices have already argued that any attempt to pardon
those convicted of plotting a coup would be unconstitutional.

Posted on 2025-09-19 06:47:13

The World Health Organization says 31 people have died of Ebola in the
Democratic Republic of Congo.

According to the W-H-O, 48 confirmed and probable cases have been reported
since the government declared an Ebola outbreak in the country earlier this
month.

The Ebola outbreak is the country's first in three years.

Congo's dense tropical forests are a natural reservoir for the Ebola virus -
which can linger in the body of survivors only to resurface years later.

The W-H-O has begun vaccinating frontline health workers and contacts of
people infected with Ebola virus in Congo's Kasai Province, where an outbreak
has been declared.

Posted on 2025-09-18 20:09:13

Taiwan’s central bank has kept interest rates unchanged for the sixth
straight quarter, even after the U-S Federal Reserve lowered its benchmark
rate by 25 basis points.

The local discount rate remains at 2 percent, a 15-year high, as officials
weigh uncertainties from U-S tariffs — including a 20 percent levy already
in place and a potential new semiconductor tariff under review.

Economists say the decision helps preserve flexibility against trade shocks.

While tariffs have pressured some traditional industries, Taiwan’s tech
sector remains strong, prompting the government to raise its 2025 growth
forecast to 4.45 percent.

Strong growth also makes a rate cut unlikely in the near term.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2025-09-18 20:09:13

Taipei Metro says it is updating the signage for train "priority seats",
formerly known as "courtesy seats", across all 218 train carriages.

The rollout began on September 12th, and about 20 percent of trains have been
updated so far.

The project is expected to be completed by the end of the month.

The new graphics, issued by the Ministry of Transportation and
Communications, reflect the revised law prioritizing seats for the elderly,
pregnant passengers, those with mobility challenges, passengers with young
children, and others with special needs.

Each seat now also includes a reminder in both Chinese and English to give up
seats to those who need them, promoting a more accessible and friendly
transit environment.

(IG)

Posted on 2025-09-18 20:09:13

The Taipei Aerospace & Defense Exhibition opened today at Taipei Nangang
Exhibition Center Hall 1 .... featuring 51 new military systems and more
than 400 companies from 14 countries — the largest lineup yet.

Highlights include the M1A2T Abrams tank, HIMARS rocket launchers, the Brave
Eagle trainer jet, and advanced drone systems like the Mighty Hornet and
Switchblade 300, reflecting Taiwan’s focus on multi-domain deterrence and
lessons from the war in Ukraine.

The show also spotlights dual-use technologies, such as next-generation
communications and security systems, developed through
defense-industry-academic collaboration.

Running through Saturday, the event aims to boost public understanding of
Taiwan’s defense capabilities, with interactive exhibits, simulators, and a
recruitment section.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2025-09-18 16:08:13

Former Taipei Mayor Hao Lung Bin says, he will not run for president in 2028,
even if he is elected as KMT chair next month.

Candidates for the new KMT Chair only have until the end of the day tomorrow
to register.

KMT lawmaker Luo Zhi Qiang and former lawmaker Zheng Li Wen have both
officially registered.

Hao went to the party headquarters accompanied by media personality Zhao Shao
Kang to register today, although Zhao himself will not run.

Hao said that his only goal as party chair would be to win the 2026 and 2028
elections.

The former mayor also pledged to deepen cooperation with the TPP if elected.

Meanwhile, Zhao said he would not run because of conflicts of interest with
his Broadcasting Corporation of China.

Zhao encouraged his supporters to vote for Hao.

(AH)

Posted on 2025-09-18 16:08:16

Taiwan is moving to ease power supply concerns after a string of recent
generator failures.

Deputy Economics Minister Lai Chien-hsin (賴建信) says TaiPower has completed
its inspection report on Kaohsiung's Hsingta Power Plant fire ... and will
soon submit it to the city government.

Meanwhile, the Linkou Power Plant's No.1 generator — damaged last week by a
burst pipe — is expected to be restored to the grid next week.

Three major generators had gone offline in recent days, sparking fears of
tighter electricity reserves.

But officials say emergency repairs, backup units, and storage systems are
keeping supply stable.

TaiPower estimates that even during peak evening demand, reserve margins will
remain above six percent — thanks in part to 1.6 million kilowatts of
battery storage and virtual power plant capacity.

(IG)

Posted on 2025-09-18 16:08:16

The Central Weather Administration says three tropical depressions may
strengthen into tropical storms soon.

Forecasters say the storms, which would be named Mitag, Kalmaegi, and Neoguri
could form as early as later this afternoon through tonight.

The CWA says the depression that would become Mitag is not expected to affect
Taiwan directly, but its outer bands may bring showers to eastern and
southern regions today and tomorrow.

And the adminsitration says after becoming a tropical storm, Kalmaeg is
expected to approach the seas southeast of Taiwan and the Bashi Channel next
week, and could then strengthen into a typhoon.

It is expected to be closest to Taiwan on September 23rd, and may bring rough
weather the following two days.

(NS)

Posted on 2025-09-18 16:08:16

And in related news...

Taipei's Animal Protection Office is reminding pet owners to take extra care
during thunderstorms, as rough weather is in the forecast for the next few
days.

The office says loud noises like thunder and fireworks can cause dogs to
panic and escape their homes, citing recent cases involving two dog rescues
last month.

Officials say pets that are found wandering alone can result in a fine of up
to $15-thousand NT for their owner.

The office is urging pet owners to make sure their animals are secure, by
checking leashes or harnesses and all around the home.

(NS)

Posted on 2025-09-18 15:37:13

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company is pushing back against rumours it
has halted plans for a second advanced packaging plant in Chiayi.

Local media had suggested equipment originally meant for the Chiayi facility
would be diverted to the company's massive Arizona expansion in the United
States.

However, T-S-M-C stressed today that its investment plans in Taiwan remain
unchanged.

Earlier this year, the chipmaker announced it would invest an additional 100
billion U-S dollars in Arizona, bringing its total U-Ｓ investment to 165
billion dollars...

That raised concerns in Taiwan about whether U-S projects might come at the
expense of domestic investment.

Chiayi officials had said the first local packaging plant would begin
installing equipment this quarter, with a second plant targeted for
completion in 2026 and mass production in 2028.

(IG)

Posted on 2025-09-18 15:37:13

Authorities are warning the public to beware of online scams claiming to be
linked to Taiwan’s upcoming universal cash handouts.

The Finance Ministry says fake websites are circulating claims that citizens
can apply for the 10 thousand NT cash handout by entering credit card or bank
account details.

Officials stress this is a scam.

The ministry reminds the public that the program has not yet begun.

If the special budget passes in the legislature, the cash handouts could be
distributed as early as late October.

People are urged not to click or share suspicious links, and to only follow
information released through official government channels.

(IG)

Posted on 2025-09-18 15:37:13

Kaohsiung is starting work to improve drainage on several major roadways
around the light rail's "Kai-syuan Jhong-hua Station".

The city government says the area in "Cianjhen District" is prone to flooding
during heavy rains, which affects traffic and the light rail.

Officials say the project, funded by a $40-million NT grant from the central
government, includes building a new culvert to divert rainwater away from the
light rail.

And the construction will also include rebuilding existing gutters.

The city expects to complete the project by the end of next year, and will
try to keep affected roads open as much as possible.

But it also advises drivers to use nearby roads to get around the
construction.

(NS)

Posted on 2025-09-18 15:37:13

Australia has set a new target of reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by
between 62% and 70% below 2005 levels by 2035.

The new target announced adds to Australia’s ambition of a 43% cut by the
end of this decade and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will take his government’s 2035 target to
the United Nations General Assembly next week.

Under the Paris climate agreement signed a decade ago, nations must increase
their emissions reduction targets every five years.

However, opposition leader Sussan Ley says the 2035 target is not credible
because the government will fail to meet its 2030 target.

Posted on 2025-09-18 14:15:13

Taipei officials are responding to complaints over bus traffic near the
under-construction Gongguan roundabout...

as posters online said they were caught in bumper-to-bumper bus traffic
yesterday.

Posters on Threads showed the stop-and-go traffic on Roosevelt Road near the
roundabout, while commenters joked that it looked more like a bus stop than
moving traffic.

Additionally there were two bus accidents nearby today.

Officials say that the company handling the construction inappropriately
closed certain lanes at peak hours, and said the company would be fined.

They emphasize that the flow of traffic has now returned to pre-construction
levels without noticeable congestion, and they're working with relevant units
to resolve the acccident issue.

Meanwhile Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan An said simply "thank you" this morning
when reporters asked about the issue.

(AH)

Posted on 2025-09-18 14:15:15

Officials have unveiled commemorative gifts for this year's National Day
celebrations

The National Day Committee says the 10 items, including a thermos, a baseball
cap, and a tote bag, all feature this year's National Day visual theme and
colors.

And the committee says those unable to attend the National Day ceremony in
person still have a chance to draw for the special items, by sharing psots
from the National Day celebration Facebook page and tagging friends.

Officials say 100 winners will be announced on October 1st.

(NS)

Posted on 2025-09-18 14:15:15

Taiwan shares are up today, with the benchmmark Tai ex closing at 25769 after
gaining 331 points.

The turnover was 455.3 billion NT.

Posted on 2025-09-18 14:15:15

The Prime Minister of Canada is heading to Mexico today, in an effort to
diversify trade, as neighbors of the US prepare for a review of the free
trade deal with the country.

The US-Mexico-Canada trade pact is up for review next year.

Currently, more than 75% of Canadian exports go to the US while more than 80%
of Mexican ones do the same.

Canadian officials say prime minister Mark Carney and Mexican President
Claudia Sheinbaum are likely to commiserate about the US leadership...

but Carney is also looking to improve relations during his two day visit,
after some local Canadian leader previously floated cutting Mexico out of any
new free trade deal with the US.

Posted on 2025-09-18 14:15:15

The annual Fat Bear Week is back at Alaska's Katmai National Park and
Preserve.

The event features gluttonous brown bears at the park, with voting for the
fattest juvenile bear starting tomorrow.

The main event is early next week, when organizers are set to pit 12 of some
of earth's biggest brown bears against each other in a single-elimination,
bracket style tournament online.

People can vote at fatbearweek.org after watching livestreams featuring the
bears at explore.org.

The contest started in 2014, and drew only about 1,700 votes from dedicated
bear cam viewers.

But the event has exploded online, and more than 1 million votes were cast
last year.

Posted on 2025-09-18 13:06:14

Taiwan has signed an agreement with US agricultural associations to purchase
over $10 billion US dollars-worth of US farm products over the next four
years.

At the signing ceremony on Capitol Hill, Agriculture Minister Chen Junne-jih
says Taiwan's biennial agricultural trade goodwill mission has historically
pledged about $1.9 billion in purchases annually.

But this year the amount was raised to $2.5 billion, as part of moves to take
the partnerhsip "to the next level".

According to the minister, Taiwan imported more than $3.7 billion in US
agricultural products last year, including soybeans, corn, wheat and beef.

Chen says the delegation, made up of major Taiwanese food companies and
agricultural groups, will now split into teams to visit eight U-S states, to
meet with local politicians, farmers' associations and exporters to explore
further cooperation.

(NS)

Posted on 2025-09-18 13:06:15

Taiwanese actor-director Sylvia Chang yesterday was honored for contributions
to women in cinema at the 30th Busan Internationl Film Festival.

Accepting the Camellia Award at the opening ceremony, Chang said that she got
her start as an actor in 1972, and has been fascinated with cinema ever
since.

Chang added that she's been more active in writing scripts, directing, and
producing in recent years, the difficulty of which only boosted her
motivation to succeed.

Chang said she was excited to premiere a new film, called Measure in Love, at
the festival from Sunday to Monday.

Chand served as a co-writer and producer on the new fantasy romance.

The Camellia Award was established last year to honor the power of women in
film, and is presented to a prominent filmmaker or industry professional
whose work elevates the status of women in the field.

(AH_CNA)

Posted on 2025-09-18 11:35:13

Now turning to international news...

An anonymous US official says, when Israel struck Hamas leaders in Qatar last
week, it was Israeli fighter jets over the Red Sea that launched ballistic
missiles in the strike.

They added that the method was likely designed to overcome Qatar's robust air
defenses and avoid entering any Middle East country's airspace.

Israel killed six people in the attack in Doha, and disrupted diplomatic
efforts for a ceasefire in Israel's war on the Gaza Strip.

Another official described the strike as launched far from Qatari airspace.

The question of airspace is a significant one, as Israel strategically kept
its missiles out of the airspace of Saudi Arabia in particular, with which
Israel has long wanted to reach a diplomatic recognition deal.

By launching the missiles far from any country's airspace, Israel avoided
violating other countries' sovereignty, preserving hopes of normalizing
relations.

About one week after the missile launch, Israel began a renewed ground
offensive targeting Gaza City.

Israel's actions have ignited a renewed anger in the region, and the attack
on Doha has raised fears in other countries that they, too, could be at risk.

Posted on 2025-09-18 11:35:14

Posted on 2025-09-18 09:05:13

The Central Weather Administration will be issuing islandwide cellphone
messages tomorrow to mark National Disaster Prevention Day.

The administration says the drill is aimed at boosting the public's
preparedness, by simulating earthquake and tsunami alerts to test the
emergency warning system.

Messages will be sent to people's cellphones in three stages ...

.. those being a nationwide earthquake alert at 9:21AM, a tsunami warning for
coastal areas at 9:30AM, and a tsunami cancellation at 10AM.

Posted on 2025-09-18 09:05:13

U-S President Donald Trump is relishing the glow of a British royal spectacle
during his visit to Windsor Castle.

He was greeted on his state visit by King Charles, military honor guards and
mounted troops.

No U-S president, or any other world leader, has ever had the honor of a
second U-K state visit.

Trump and and his wife took part in a series of ceremonies, including a
carriage procession and a Red Arrows flypast - they also visited the late
Queen Elizabeth's tomb in St George's Chapel.

King Charles praised Trump in state banquet speech at Windsor Castle for his
"personal commitment" to finding solutions to world conflicts.

Posted on 2025-09-18 08:16:13

In news from and about Taiwan this morning,

C-S-B-C says its first indigenous submarine will miss its September deadline
for completing sea acceptance tests.

Sea trials for the Narwhal began in June.

Navy Chief of Staff Chiu Chun-rong says the vessel is still moored in a port
and needs to clear a safety assessment before it can undergo surfaced and
submerged tests at sea.

According to C-S-B-C President Tsai Kun-zong, completing the sea acceptance
trials this month is now "impossible" due to the current progress.

The shipbuilder's chairman Chen Cheng-hong says the company will make every
effort to accelerate progress of ongoing trials without sacrificing safety.

The Navy has warned C-S-B-C that it will face a fine if it fails to deliver
the submarine by November as stipulated in the contract.

Posted on 2025-09-18 08:16:13

K-M-T lawmakers are proposing creating a two-round absolute majority system
for choosing Taiwan's president in time for the 2028 election.

According lawmaker Lo Chih-chiang, the proposal has two parts ..

... one being to amend the Constitution to change the presidential election
system to an absolute majority two-round system, and the other to revise
election laws to resolve the difficulties of minority presidents.

Lo says a two-round presidential vote would allow voters in the first round
to "support their favorite candidate without worrying" that strategic voting
could "let the most disliked candidate win."

Lo is criticizing the current relative majority system saying it results in
candidates working to split the opponent's camp and manipulating strategic
voting - making voters afraid to support their favorite candidate .

The K-M-T lawmakers says the changes could improve the election atmosphere
and strengthen the president's legitimacy.

Lo has told reporters that the proposal has the support of a majority of the
K-M-T lawmakers and he has privately exchanged views with Taiwan People's
Party lawmakers and will continue to work to build cross-party consensus on
the issue.

Posted on 2025-09-18 08:16:14

The Ministry of Agriculture says broader public support is needed to
implement humane euthanasia in animal shelters.

The statement comes after a citizen-led petition called for such action.

The public proposal was submitted via the National Development Council's
public policy participation website in early July.

It urged the government to "implement humane euthanasia in animal shelters,
strengthen management of owner responsibility, and require any animal feeder
or animal caretaker to bear legal responsibility under the Animal Protection
Act."

According to the agriculture ministry, it held a meeting with animal
protection agencies and groups in response to the petition.

Public animal shelters have not carried out euthanasia since June 2017, which
has led to overcrowding.

And some animal protection groups argue that animals dying of old age or
illness in cramped spaces is a greater neglect of animal welfare than humane
euthanasia.

The Animal Protection Act allows for the euthanasia of animals with
notifiable infectious diseases, incurable serious illnesses, or conditions
that seriously affect public sanitation.

Posted on 2025-09-18 08:16:14

The Central Weather Administration says a tropical depression that former
near Guam yesterday could strengthen into a typhoon as it nears Taiwan.

According to the administration's forecast center, the storm could have a
radius of some 200-kilometers by Sunday and a sea warning could be issued on
Monday at the earliest - potentially affecting southeastern and southern
parts of the region.

That weather pattern is currently expected to approach southeastern Taiwan on
Tuesday of next week before passing through the Bashi Channel.

However, the weather administration says it's exact path and strength remain
uncertain and it will be closely monitoring the storm's movements over the
coming days.

Meanwhile,

A tropical depression that formed east of the Philippines earlier this week
is located some 600-kilometers south of Oluanpi at Taiwan's southernmost tip
and is now heading into the South China Sea.

It's expected to move in a northwesterly direction and make landfall on the
coast of China's Guangdong Province on Saturday.

However, eastern and southern parts of Taiwan will be affected by it today
and tomorrow - and heavy rain is forecast for parts of the south and east.

The third tropical depression formed north of Wake Island overnight, but that
is not forecast to have any impact on Taiwan and instead move towards
southwestern Japan in the coming days.

Posted on 2025-09-18 08:16:14

And finally,

Former National Security Council Secretary-General Ding Mao-shi has died.

He was 99.

Ding died at the Cheng Hsin General Hospital in Taipei.

Born in 1925, in China's Yunnan Province, Ding was a senior diplomat who
served as the Taiwan's top diplomat from 1987 to 1988 and later as
representative to the United States.

Ding's previous overseas posts also included being a top envoy to South
Korea, Rwanda, and Zaire.

He played a crucial role during the Third Taiwan Strait Crisis in 1996 while
serving as National Security Council secretary-general under then President
Lee Teng-hui.

Ding traveled to New York to engage in a high-level talk with James
Steinberg, then deputy national security adviser under U-S President Bill
Clinton, during the crisis.

That meeting was the first between high-level U-S and Taiwan security
officials since the sides ended official relations in 1979.

Posted on 2025-09-18 06:39:13

Tai-Power says it has activated all five of standby units at its two power
plants in Kaohsiung.

The statement comes after its operating reserves fell to below 6-per cent due
to the hot weather and mechanical failures.

According to Tai-Power, four old coal-powered generators at the Hsinta Power
Plant and one gas-powered unit at the Talin Power Plant have been activated
to maintain an adequate reserve level during the nighttime peak hours.

Power reserves dropped to 9.06-per cent on Wednesday - triggering a "yellow
light" warning, due to increased electricity usage over several consecutive
hot days in the north.

While Tai-Power says solar power output fell in the south as a result of
overcast skies and rainy weather in the afternoon.

And that has resulted in Tai-Power''s reserves falling to 4-per cent.

The state-generator says the situation has been exacerbated by a power
deficit of 2,900 megawatts caused by problems at the Hsinta Power Plant in
Kaohsiung and the Linkou Power Plant in New Taipei.

Posted on 2025-09-18 06:39:16

Minister Without Portfolio and former health minister Chen Shih-chung says a
government birth subsidy program will likely take effect on January 1 of next
year.

According to Chen, the program is aimed at addressing payout discrepancies
for birth subsidies across government insurance programs and will provide
payments of up to 100,000 N-T.

Participants in any national insurance program will be eligible for the
payment for every new child they have ..

.,.... and the program is also expected to benefit some 7,100 people who are
not covered by government insurance programs.

Chen says the government subsidies will also increase payements for couples
undergoing artificial fertilization procedures.

Posted on 2025-09-18 06:39:16

President Lai Ching-te has welcomed the new chair of the Japan-Taiwan
Exchange Association.

Shuzo Sumi is making his first visit to Taiwan since assuming office earlier
this year.

Sumi is leading a delegation of association officials to Taipei this week.

Speaking during the meeting at the Presidential Office,Lai congratulated Sumi
on taking up the post and his expressed his hope that Sumi's leadership,
along with his decades of experience in Japan's business sector, will further
boost bilateral relations.

A press released from the Presidential Office is quoting Sumi as saying he
feels honored to contribute to bilateral cooperation in various fields, as
both sides share similar challenges, including military coercion from China,
declining birthrates and natural disasters.

Sumi began his tenure as the chair of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association
on June 20 - replacing Mitsuo Ohashi, who chaired the association for the
past 14 years.

Posted on 2025-09-18 06:39:16

The Disciplinary Court has fined former Atomic Energy Council Chairman Hsieh
Xiu-xing 600,000 N-T for workplace bullying and sexual harassment.

Hsieh headed the council from 2016 to 2023 and has persistently denied any
wrongdoing.

According to the court, Hsieh abused his power, created a hostile work
environment for women and his conduct included inappropriate physical
contact, invading personal space, ogling, and making remarks about their
figures and attire.

The court says Hsieh discriminated on the basis of gender, hired only young
women as his office secretaries.

Hsieh also repeatedly bullied staff by publicly reprimanding them, using foul
language and belittling them ..

.... and insisted on having lunch with his secretary in his office during the
level 3 COVID alert - violating epidemic prevention measures.

The Cabinet launched an investigation into Hsieh in October 2022 after he was
accused of sexual harassment and bullying.

He was removed from office in January 2023 and the Control Yuan unanimously
impeached him in July of 2023.

The Disciplinary Court ruling can be appealed.

Posted on 2025-09-18 06:39:16

The Taipei District Prosecutors' Office has indicted the owner and the
manager of a nightclub in Taipei on charges of negligent homicide after a man
died from acute alcohol intoxication during a drinking contest.

The prosecutors' office says the club owner and manager face charges in
connection with the death of a man who took part in the drinking event at the
nightclub inside the ATT 4 Fun building in Xinyi District in Sepember of last
year.

According to prosecutors, the man consumed a one-liter vodka and passion
fruit cocktail in just one minute and 10 seconds.

He felt unwell, left the event and entered a restroom in the building's
basement parking area, where a security guard found him dead several hours
later.

Prosecutors says the the club owner and manager violated the Tobacco and
Alcohol Administration Act, which bans alcohol advertising or promotions that
encourage drinking ...

.. and the Regulations Governing the Labeling of Alcohol Products, which
require warning statements such as "Large quantity intake of alcohol product
in a short period of time is lethal."

Posted on 2025-09-18 06:39:16

And finally,

Taiwan's first hospital-based therapy dog has been honored with a medal and a
retirement ceremony at the Taipei Veterans General Hospital.

More than 40 former patients and their family members along with over 50 of
the hospital's staff turned out to wish the 10-year-old black Labrador, Oba a
happy retirement.

Oba has served on the hospital's Hospice and Palliative Care Unit since 2019
comforting terminally ill patients and their families.

The hospital let Oba keep his ID card, awarded him a medal and gave him the
title of "lifelong volunteer."

It has passed on Oba's role to a three-year-old dog named Olga.

Hospital superintendent Chen Wei-ming says Oba was "always there for those
who needed comfort" and his calm temperament allowed him to go almost
anywhere in the hospital except operating rooms.

Posted on 2025-09-18 06:39:16

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy says the first weapons supplies under
a new program agreed by the U-S and Europe will include missiles for Patriot
air defence systems and High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launchers.

According to Zelenskiy, Ukraine has so far secured over 2-billion U-S dollars
in financing for US-produced weapons via the NATO-led mechanism called the
Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List.

He says he expects the total committed funds to reach 3.5-billion dollars in
October.

Ukraine is heavily dependent on Western long-range air defence systems to
shoot down Russian missiles and regularly renews calls for additional
supplies after Russian strikes.

Posted on 2025-09-18 06:39:16

pending

Iranian and European ministers have made little progress in talks aimed at
preventing international sanctions on Tehran over its nuclear program being
reimposed at the end of this month.

The talks, between the foreign ministers of Britain, France and Germany, the
European Union foreign policy chief and their Iranian counterparts ..

.... followed an agreement between Iran and the International Atomic Energy
Agency last week on resuming cooperation, including, in principle, the
inspection of nuclear sites.

The three European countries launched a 30-day process at the end of August
to reimpose United Nations sanctions.

They set conditions for Tehran to meet during September to convince them to
delay the "snapback mechanism."

The status of Tehran's enriched uranium stocks has been unknown since Israel
and the U-S bombed Iranian nuclear sites in June.

Posted on 2025-09-18 06:39:16

Doctors for Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro say they have detected
early-stage cancer in skin lesions.

The lesions weree removed over the weekend from the 70-year-old politician
following his conviction last week on attempted coup charges.

Bolsonaro is under house arrest in Brasilia until his sentence is finalized.

But he has been to hospital twice since last Thursday's court verdict to have
the skin lesions removed for testing and because of vomiting and low blood
pressure.

A Supreme Court panel last week found Bolsonaro guilty of attempting a coup
after his 2022 electoral defeat.

He was sentenced to 27 years in prison, but the sentence is not yet been
enforced.

Posted on 2025-09-18 06:39:16

A proposed Caesars Palace casino in New York's Times Square that's backed by
Jay-Z has lost its bid for a lucrative gambling license amid fierce
opposition from the Broadway theater industry.

A state-commissioned community advisory committee rejected the 5.4-billion
dollars plan to redevelop an office tower into a Caesars-branded hotel,
gambling and entertainment complex.

Local board approval was required for the proposal to be considered by the
state Gaming Commission.

Developers envisioned the Caesars gambling hall becoming one of the world's
preeminent resort casinos.

However, Broadway theater owners and producers said it would destroy their
industry.

Posted on 2025-09-17 19:35:13

A new survey in Taiwan is sounding the alarm on youth mental health.

The Child Welfare League Foundation says nearly 40 percent of teenagers are
struggling with emotional distress — problems that spill over into poor
sleep and even refusing to go to school.

More than 22 percent admitted having suicidal thoughts.

Among girls, nearly one in four showed moderate to severe suicidal ideation,
more than three times the rate of boys.

The survey of over seven thousand students found the top stress sources are
academics, peer pressure, family conflicts, and past trauma.

Almost half reported sleep problems, and one in five said they often feel
like skipping school.

Interestingly, many teens are turning to artificial intelligence for comfort
— 47 percent said they've confided in AI tools, a higher rate than turning
to school counselors or mental health professionals.

The Foundation is urging government agencies to expand access to remote
counseling for minors and to improve awareness and effectiveness of student
mental health leave policies.

(IG)

Posted on 2025-09-17 19:35:14

A new consumer survey shows that people in Taiwan are nine percent more
likely to upgrade to the iPhone 17 series compared to the iPhone 16.

The survey, by Apple product retailer Data Express, also shows that the Pro
and Pro Max models are expected to dominate sales, with nearly eight in ten
buyers eyeing those two versions.

The Pro alone drew interest from 39 percent of respondents, while 37 percent
favored the larger Pro Max.

General manager Huang Li-jung (黃麗容) says initial shipment volumes are
about the same as last year, but demand for certain models could outpace
supply.

As for style, the deep blue iPhone 17 Pro and lavender standard model top the
color charts, with most users opting for the base 256-gigabyte storage
option.

(IG)

Posted on 2025-09-17 19:35:14

President Lai Ching-te and Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim on Tuesday welcomed
Shuzo Sumi, the new chair of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association (JTEA)
..... who made his first visit to Taiwan since assuming office earlier this
year.

Sumi led a J-T-E-A delegation to separate meetings with Lai and Hsiao at the
Presidential Office.

The JTEA functions as Japan's de facto embassy in Taiwan in the absence of
official ties.

According to a Presidential Office press release, Lai expressed hope that
Sumi's leadership, along with his decades of experience in Japan's business
sector, will further boost bilateral relations, and also urged Japan to
support Taiwan's push for an economic partnership agreement.

Sumi was quoted in the release as saying that both sides share similar
challenges, and he feels honored to contribute to bilateral cooperation in
various fields.

(CNA - NS)

Posted on 2025-09-17 19:29:13

The Ministry of Agriculture says more public support is needed before humane
euthanasia can be introduced in animal shelters.

The statement follows a citizen petition calling for euthanasia, stricter
owner responsibility, and clearer legal obligations for caretakers under the
Animal Protection Act.

Public shelters have avoided culling since 2017, leading to overcrowding.

Some animal groups argue that keeping sick or aging animals in cramped
conditions is more harmful than humane euthanasia.

While the law permits euthanasia for severe illness or sanitation risks,
it’s rarely used, with the current rate under one percent.

Officials stress that "zero culling is not zero euthanasia", but note
veterinarians and the public remain hesitant.

The ministry will gather feedback and respond to the petition by the end of
September.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2025-09-17 19:29:19

Taipei prosecutors have indicted a nightclub owner and manager on charges of
negligent homicide after a man died in a drinking contest last year.

The victim, an engineer surnamed Chang, downed a one-liter vodka cocktail in
just over a minute during a promotion at the A-T-T 4 Fun complex in September
2024.

Hours later, he was found dead from acute alcohol intoxication.

Investigators say the event, which refunded deposits if participants finished
the drink within eight minutes, violated rules banning promotions that
encourage excessive drinking.

Prosecutors allege the club's owner and manager failed to warn contestants of
the risks or prepare safety measures, despite knowing the dangers.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2025-09-17 17:14:13

The Health Promotion Administration says heated tobacco products will be
subject to strict regulations, as the newly-legalized items head for store
shelves.

The administration says the first batch of legal products could be available
as early as October 11th.

The agency says these products are not sold in other countries, so it remains
illegal to bring any heated tobacco products into Taiwan from overseas, with
violators facing fines of up to $5-million NT.

The HPA also says vendors are not allowed to display photos or physical
models of the heating devices.

And officials emphasize that all heated tobacco products may NOT be sold
online, and the administration will continue conducting checks to ensure
regulations are being followed.

(NS)

Posted on 2025-09-17 17:14:13

The Disciplinary Court has fined former Atomic Energy Council Chair 600
thousand for workplace bullying and sexual harassment.

Hsieh Shou-shing, who served from 2016 to 2023, was found to have abused his
authority by targeting female employees with inappropriate contact, intrusive
questions, and discriminatory practices.

He also bullied staff with public scolding and foul language.

He was removed from office in January 2023 after an Executive Yuan probe and
impeached by the Control Yuan later that year.

Hsieh denies any wrongdoing and can appeal the ruling.

The AEC was restructured as the Nuclear Safety Commission in September 2023.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2025-09-17 17:14:13

Genocide in Gaza

In international news,

A coalition of leading aid groups is urging the international community to
take stronger measures to stop Israel's offensive on Gaza City after a
commission of UN experts found Israel was committing genocide in Gaza.

That's as Israel is pressing forward with the operation in the territory's
already-devastated north and the Palestinian death toll in Gaza nears 65
thousand.

The message was signed by leaders of over 20 aid organizations operating in
Gaza, including the Norwegian Refugee Council, Anera and Save the Children.

It came a day after Israel launched its ground offensive in Gaza City.

Gaza hospital officials say overnight Israeli strikes across the territory
killed at least 16 Palestinians, including women and children.

Posted on 2025-09-17 17:14:18

Meanwhile,

A British judge has temporarily blocked the deportation of an asylum-seeker
back to France.

The decision delays the first deportation under a new agreement between
London and Paris.

The 25-year-old Eritrean man was set to leave Britain on Wednesday, but his
lawyers appealed.

High Court judge Clive Sheldon granted a short period of interim relief so
the man can present evidence supporting his claim of being a human
trafficking victim.

This ruling is a setback for U-K Prime Minister Keir Starmer's efforts to
stop people crossing the English Channel in small boats.

More than 30 thousand people have made the crossing this year.

Posted on 2025-09-17 16:08:13

Former National Security Council (NSC) Secretary-General Ting Mao-shih, who
played a crucial role during the Third Taiwan Strait Crisis in 1996, has
reportedly passed away at the age of 99.

According to the Central News Agency, an unnamed diplomat says Ting died at
the Cheng Hsin General Hospital in Taipei.

Ting was a senior diplomat who served as the Republic of China's top diplomat
from 1987 to 1988 and later as representative to the United States.

His previous overseas posts also included being a top envoy to South Korea,
Rwanda, and Zaire.

(CNA - NS)

Posted on 2025-09-17 16:08:18

The Taiwan Indigenous Tourism Festival is set to open at Taipei Main Station
later this month.

Organizers say this year's theme "The Indigenous Art Wave" refers to the
cultural wisdom and skills of Taiwan's Indigenous peoples, and the "wave"
symbolizes the growing power of Indigenous culture.

They say the three-day event will feature crafts, food, souvenirs and tours
from different tribes.

There will also be an art corridor with traditional musical instruments and
woven crafts, as well as several song and dance performances and hands-on
workshops.

(NS)

Posted on 2025-09-17 16:08:18

A coalition of leading aid groups is urging the international community to
take stronger measures to stop Israel's offensive on Gaza City after a
commission of UN experts found Israel was committing genocide in Gaza.

The message was signed by leaders of over 20 aid organizations operating in
Gaza, including the Norwegian Refugee Council, Anera and Save the Children.

That as Israel is pressing forward with the operation in the territory's
north and the Palestinian death toll in Gaza nears 65-thousand.

Gaza hospital officials say overnight Israeli strikes across the territory
killed at least 13 Palestinians, including women and children.

The Israeli military did not immediately respond to requests for comment on
the deadly strikes, but in the past it has accused Hamas of building military
infrastructure inside civilian areas.

An Israeli military official, speaking on condition of anonymity in line with
military guidelines, said Tuesday they believe there are 2-to-3-thousand
Hamas militants left in Gaza City, as well as tunnels used by the group.

Posted on 2025-09-17 16:08:18

Japan’s exports to the United States plummeted 13.8% in August compared to
the same month the previous year, marking the fifth straight month of
declines, as auto exports were hit by President Donald Trump’s tariffs.

The Finance Ministry data released today showed the rate of the drop in
exports to the U.S. compared to the previous year worsened from a 10.1% slip
in July.

U.S. tariffs on Japanese automobiles and auto parts decreased from 27.5%, the
amount Trump initially levied, to 15% this week.

Japan's exports overall slipped just 0.1%, as exports grew to Europe and the
Middle East.

Posted on 2025-09-17 14:13:13

The DPP says, they will aim to put forward most nominees for the 2026 local
elections before the Lunar New Year...

That's according to DPP election committee member Qiu Yi Ren邱義仁 ahead of
today's second committee meeting.

Qiu last week said that the committee had decided that the party would
"divide and conquer" in next year's local elections.

Specifically, all municipalities would be divided into three categories,
including, first, DPP strongholds in which a DPP mayor is completing their
second term in office.

In those cases, there will be a primary to choose the party's new nominee for
the mayoral position.

The second category is that of cities and counties in which the DPP holds
power, but the mayor is only in their first term.

And third, areas not controlled by the DPP.

In those two latter categories, DPP leadership will recruit the proper
candidate.

The committee also agreed to put forward non-controversial candidates as
quickly as possible to give them more time to campaign.

(AH)

Posted on 2025-09-17 14:13:13

The Central Weather Administration says two tropical systems have formed in
nearby waters ....

As a result, Taiwan can expect two waves of rainfall — first between
Wednesday and Friday, and then again early next week.

The 21st tropical depression developed this morning around 8, southeast of
Taiwan.

Forecasters say it could strengthen into a typhoon by the weekend, and may
pass near the Bashi Channel early next week.

That system could bring heavy rain to Hualien, Taitung, and the Hengchun
Peninsula by midweek.

Meanwhile, the 20th tropical depression is currently south of Taiwan near the
Bashi Channel.

It is expected to track toward China’s Guangdong coast around Friday, but
its outer rainbands may bring showers to southeastern Taiwan and Hengchun
starting tomorrow.

(IG)

Posted on 2025-09-17 14:13:13

Iran says it executed a man accused of spying for Israel, but activists
dispute the claim, saying he was tortured into a false confession.

The judiciary identified the man as Babak Shahbazi, alleging he sold
sensitive information to Israeli handlers.

Activists argue Shahbazi was detained for writing a letter to Ukrainian
President Zelenskyy, offering help.

Iran has supplied Russia with drones used against Ukraine.

The group Iran Human Rights warned of Shahbazi's execution, stating his
message to Zelenskyy was used as an example of espionage for Israel.

Iran did not acknowledge that claim.

Posted on 2025-09-17 14:13:13

The leader of the Unification Church has been questioned by investigators
over allegations that the church bribed the wife of South Korea's jailed
former President Yoon Suk Yeol and a conservative lawmaker close to him in an
effort to secure business favors.

Hak Ja Han, the widow of church founder Sun Myung Moon, appeared before a
special prosecutor today, just hours after a Seoul court issued an arrest
warrant for the lawmaker, People Power Party’s Kweon Seong-dong, citing
concerns he might destroy evidence.

Han and her church have denied accusations that the church was directly
involved in the alleged bribery of Yoon’s now-arrested wife who is suspected
of receiving luxury gifts from a jailed former church official.

Posted on 2025-09-17 13:10:13

The Central Weather Administration is set to conduct a nationwide drill to
test the island's cellular broadcast system this week.

The CWA says the exercise will simulate a major earthquake and tsunami, with
an alert sent to mobile phones at 9:21am on Friday.

This will be followed by a tsunami warning to coastal areas at 9:30am, then
an "all clear" message at 10am.

The administration say the drill is being held in conjunction with National
Disaster Prevention Day, and is designed to help the public practice
emergency responses and strengthen the country's disaster prevention system.

The Ministry of Education says all schools and kindergartens will also
practice earthquake safety procedures that day.

(NS)

Posted on 2025-09-17 13:10:16

A statue of Chiang Kai-shek at a shipyard will remain in place for now.

Ship-building corporation CSBC says the 46-year-old statue of Chiang stands
in a plaza at the entrance of the company's shipyard in Keelung, and there
are currently no plans for change.

This comes after a Keelung city councilors argued over whether the statue
should be moved due to historical context.

According to the Ministry of the Interior, Keelung had 11 such statues in
2023, and all but the one at the shipyard has since been removed.

(NS)

Posted on 2025-09-17 13:10:21

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been unable to clinch an
ambitious defense treaty with Papua New Guinea.

This comes a week after he failed to land a security and economic pact with
another South Pacific island, Vanuatu, aimed at curbing China’s influence in
the region.

Albanese had said the treaty with Papua New Guinea would be signed during his
visit there that ended today.

Instead of signing the treaty, Albanese and his Papua New Guinea counterpart
today released a communique saying the document would be signed “following
Cabinet processes in both countries.”

Australia has stepped up efforts to bolster relations with island nations in
the region since 2022, when Beijing struck a security deal with the Solomon
Islands that has raised the prospect of a Chinese naval base being
established in the South Pacific.

(KK)

Posted on 2025-09-17 13:10:26

In Gaza, aid workers saved thousands of priceless archaeological artifacts
from destruction last week after Israel targeted the warehouse building in a
strike.

Israeli military said Hamas used the building for intelligence.

It contained items from over 25 years of excavations, including from a
4th-century Byzantine monastery designated as a World Heritage Site by
UNESCO, and some of the oldest known evidence of Christianity in Gaza. .

International aid groups negotiated with the Israeli military for a delay to
move the artifacts and scrambled to find trucks for the move.

Workers rushed to pack the items in trucks, but some were broken or left
behind.

The artifacts are now in a safer, undisclosed location but remain in danger,
housed outside, as the Israeli offensive widens.

Israel destroyed the building on Sunday.

(KK)

Posted on 2025-09-17 09:06:13

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum is the first female leader to preside
over the country's independence celebrations in 215 years.

In remarks, Sheinbaum emphasized that she would not accept foreign
intervention, as she balances pressure from the US.

Sheinbaum led a traditional ceremony from the balcony of the Palacio Nacional
in Mexico City.

She took part in the annual tradition in which the president rings a bell
marking the call to arms during the 19th century fight to win independence
from Spain.

A traditional military parade followed, with Sheinbaum reiterating that “No
foreign power makes decisions for us.”

Posted on 2025-09-17 09:06:13

Posted on 2025-09-17 08:14:13

In news from and about Taiwan this morning,

President Lai Ching-te has attended a ceremony marking the installation of
the final span of the Danjiang Bridge in New Taipei's Tamsui District.

Lai was accompanied at the ceremony by Transportat Minister Chen Shih-kai and
New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih.

All three observed the installation of the final prefabricated segment - when
the structure officially became the world's longest asymmetric, single-mast
bridge nearly seven years after construction began.

Speaking at the ceremony, Lai said the bridge connecting New Taipei's Tamsui
and Bali districts is a "major national construction" ..

.. and he praised it as a "piece of art," noting that CNN named it as one of
"11 architecture projects set to shape the world in 2025."

An official opening ceremony for the 920-meter long bridge has been scheduled
for May 9 next year.

And it is expected to open to traffic on May 12.

According to the transportat minister, the bridge will alleviate 30-per cent
of traffic from the Guandu Bridge and save about 25 minutes for travelers
heading to the Taoyuan International Airport or downtown Taipei.

The government has said the bridge will become a new landmark for Taiwan and
a major attraction for tourists.

Posted on 2025-09-17 08:14:18

The Centers for Disease Control is warning that this year's flu season is
likely to happen earlier than usual.

It comes as the health officials say the number of flu-like illnesses are on
the rise and a new epidemic period is expected to begin this week.

C-D-C spokeswoman Tseng Shu-hui says data shows 100,909 people sought
outpatient or emergency care for flu-like illness from September 7 to 13 -
marking a 10.4-per cent increase from the previous week.

According to Tseng, this year's influenza season is forecast to exceed the
epidemic threshold in the 38th week of the year - later than the 2022-2023
season, which crossed the threshold in week 35.

However, that was still earlier than most past years when the epidemic period
typically began after October.

The C-D-C says the current increase may be related to close contact among
students due to the start of the new school year.

The first phase of the year's free flu vaccines program begins as usual on
October 1, while the second phase will begin on November 1.

Posted on 2025-09-17 08:14:19

The number of workers in formal furlough programs surpassed 7,300 as of
Monday.

According to the Ministry of Labor, more than 6,000 employees have been
placed on unpaid leave due to the impact of U-S tariffs.

Data shows 7,334 workers were on furlough - and increase of 2,471 from the
end of August.

Of that total, 6,246 came from industries hit by the 20-per cent U-S levy
imposed on Taiwanese exports - and that was rise of 3,191 from two weeks
earlier.

The number of employers implementing furlough programs also rose by 88 during
the same period to stand 333.

Labor officials say the spike largely came from the export-oriented
manufacturing sector, which has been under heavy pressure since the tariffs
took effect on August 7.

Posted on 2025-09-17 08:14:24

Reports say the National Chung Shan Institute of Science and Technology will
be unveiling its new Sky Bow, or Tien Kung series of surface-to-air
anti-ballistic missiles and anti-aircraft defense systems at the biennial
Taipei defense show this week.

The system has been code-named "Strong Bow" and is based in the U-S' THAAD
system and its ceiling and range are reportedly both greater than those of
the Sky Bow and MIM-104 Patriot missile systems.

Meanwhile, the Army will reportedly be showcasing newly acquired US-made
M-1-A-2-T Abrams main battle tanks and High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems
for the first time at the Taipei Aerospace & Defense Technology Exhibition
2025.

Organizers says this year's show will feature a record 400 exhibitors from 14
countries, including the United States, France and Germany, across more than
1,400 booths.

The Ministry of National Defense's Armaments Bureau will also once again be
setting up a pavilion at the event.

The Taipei Aerospace & Defense Technology Exhibition 2025 will be taking
place from tomorrow through Saturday at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center.

Posted on 2025-09-17 08:14:24

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has raised its travel alert for Nepal to the
second-highest orange alert level.

The move advises people to avoid unnecessary travel to the country following
recent deadly anti-corruption protests.

According to the ministry, there were two Taiwanese tour groups in Nepal
during the unrest, and all 47 members of the two groups have now safely
returned to Taiwan.

The foreign ministry says about a dozen overseas Taiwanese and their
relatives are in Nepal and are also safe.

Taiwan's representative office in India in charge of Nepal affairs and is
reportedly in connact with those expats.

Posted on 2025-09-17 08:14:24

The National Immigration Agency says it has broken up an illegal cosmetic
surgery ring in Taichung led by a Vietnamese woman.

According to the agency's Changhua County Specialized Operation Brigade, the
woman had about three years of work experience in cosmetic medicine in
Vietnam before coming to Taiwan ..

.. where she purchased cosmetic injection products online and performed
double-eyelid and rhinoplasty procedures on fellow Vietnamese.

The woman and a Vietnamese man rented a small apartment in Taichung's Wuri
District to carry out the surgeries.

Authorities say the male suspect had about 80,000 followers on social media,
taught himself cosmetic techniques online, and joined the woman and her
cousin to form a three-person cosmetic surgery team.

The tems live-streamed operations and promoted services on social media.

All three are facing charges of violating of the Physicians Act.

Posted on 2025-09-17 08:14:24

And finally,

The Central Weather Administration says a tropical depression has formed in
waters just east of the Philippine island of Luzon and is currently forecast
to cross the island today before entering the Bashi Channel.

According to the administration's forecast center, the weather pattern could
develop into a tropical storm and trigger a sea warning.

It's expected to be closest to Taiwan tomorrow or Friday and southern and
eastern parts of Taiwan are expected to see the biggest impact.

Meanwhile, the weather Administration is also monitoring a another tropical
disturbance near Guam.

The administration say that could intensify into a tropical depression as
early as today or tomorrow and then rapidly strengthen into a tropical storm
or typhoon.

Based on current data, the weather administration's forecast center says it
has highest chance of approaching Taiwan either next Monday or Tuesday of
next week.

However, it's still to early to say whether or not it will directly impact
the island.

Posted on 2025-09-17 06:55:13

The Lai administration's All-Out Defense Mobilization Agency has released an
updated civil defense handbook.

The updated version defines the types of potential military aggression by an
"enemy state" and self-protection tips in such a scenario.

It's the third editions of the handbook, which covers information from
preparation of go-bags to survival tips during natural disasters and war
since 2022.

Compared with the previous edition, released in 2023, the current version has
a clearer focus on wartime scenarios.

It includes a section outlining up-to-date threats related to potential
military aggression, such as sabotage of underwater communications cables and
live-fire drills, accompanied by unilateral establishment of no-flight zones.

The handbook states that if people come across apparent members of enemy
forces, they should quickly leave the area or take shelter and
cautions against wartime messages that the government has surrendered or that
the military has been defeated ...

... stating that such information is "false."

The updated guide also includes a section encouraging people to candidly
discuss the threat of war with children, involve them in preparing go-bags,
teaching them how to recognize disinformation, and helping ease their anxiety
about war.

Posted on 2025-09-17 06:55:13

The Ministry of Transport says data shows that 1,368 traffic deaths within 30
days of accidents were recording in the first half of this year - a decline
of 4.7-per cent from the same period of last year.

That figure is also a 12.8-per cent compared with the first half of 2023.

According to deputy transport minister Chen Yen-po, the figure for the first
half of this year is the third lowest on record.

Pedestrian fatalities fell to 173, the second-lowest level after 2021, while
deaths among motorcyclists, drivers, young people and seniors also all
declined.

Broken down by city, Tainan recorded the highest number of traffic accident
fatalities at 168 in the first six-months of this year.

That was followed by Kaohsiung with 152 and Taichung with 133.

Tainan also saw the largest increase from last year.

The transport ministry says the rises involved small vehicle accidents and
elderly victims, with 30 percent of self-collision cases linked to driver
fatigue or inattentiveness.

Posted on 2025-09-17 06:55:14

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says the government has pledged 3-million U-S
to the Pacific Resilience Facility regional climate and disaster fund.

The pledge comes despite Taiwan not being invited to last week's Pacific
Islands Forum

According to the foreign ministry's Department of East Asian and Pacific
Affairs, Tuvalu announced the donation on Taiwan's behalf during the
September 8 to 12 forum in the Solomon Islands.

Department head Michael Lin says the fund be paid over three years and
demonstrates Taiwan's determination to cooperate with the Pacific Resilience
Facility and like-minded countries in the region to promote prosperity and
sustainable development.

Taiwan has been a Pacific Resilience Facility partner country since 1993 and
has contributed to the bloc in the past.

The facility was launched at the 54th Pacific Islands Forum in Honiara.

It aims to help Pacific communities overcome barriers to global financing.

Posted on 2025-09-17 06:55:14

The New Taipei District Court says a man charged with the murder of his wife,
mother-in-law, and stepson last year has been sentenced to death by a court
panel that included six "citizen judges."

It's the first time that a death sentence has been imposed by citizen judges
since the the government implemented a lay judge system on January 1, 2023.

The 24-year-old man killed his 30-year-old wife on April 30 and then killed
his 69-year-old mother-in-law and his 3-year-old stepson on May 2.

He left all three bodies in the home in the city's Sanchong District.

He then stole his mother-in-law's bank cards and valuables, withdraw money
from her bank account, and used some of that money to upgrade his membership
on a dating website.

The man fled to Taichung six days later.

He was arrested there on May 12 and indicted on September 10.

According to the court, he showed no remorse for the killings and also
threatened to kill his sister-in-law and his wife's ex-boyfriend.

Posted on 2025-09-17 06:55:14

The Food and Drug Administration says it has seized a shipment of fresh
muskmelons from Japan after tests found excessive pesticide residue.

According to the F-D-A, the 240-kilogram batch of melons from Hokkaido was
imported by the Kaohsiung-based Yang Jhen Company and was found to contain
0.02-parts per million tetraniliprole.

The importer will now face 100-per cent inspection at the border instead of
random checks.

The F-D-A says it inspected 258 shipments of fresh melons from Japan between
March 8 and September 8 - eight of which failed pesticide residue tests.

The F-D-A began stepping up random inspections on Japanese melons in June -
when sampling rates were set at between 20 and 50-per cent.

Posted on 2025-09-17 06:55:15

Three men have been arrested by police in New Taipei on suspicion of stealing
from tourists.

According to the Ruifang Police Precinct, the suspects were caught following
a brief pursuit on Jiufen Old Street.

Police says one of the suspected pickpockets realized that police were onto
him, and he signaled to the other two men to flee, but officers
moved quickly and apprehended the three men.

All three are foreign nationals.

One of the suspects was later identified by a victim who had been assisting
the police in an investigation.

That suspect has been handed over to the Keelung District Prosecutors' Office
for further investigation.

While the two other suspects are still under police investigation.

New Taipei police have stepped up patrols in the area after the Japan-Taiwan
Exchange Association in Taipei published a notice on its website warned
visiting Japanese tourists to be on the alert for pickpockets.

Posted on 2025-09-17 06:55:16

And,

The Central Weather Administration says the mercury in New Taipei's Wugu
District recorded the highest temperature for a second consecutive day on
Tuesday - as the mercury there hit 39.2 degrees.

That temperature in Wugu was recorded at 11:20AM.

It was followed by New Taipei's Sanxia District - where the temperature hit
37.8-degrees at 12:50PM.

Taipei's Neihu District recorded a temperature of 37-degrees on Tuesday,
while parts of Taoyuan, Changhua and Taitung all saw highs of 36 degrees or
more.

New Taipei's Wugu District reported a high of 39-degrees on Monday.

Taiwan's highest-ever recorded temperature was 40.2-degrees on May 9 of 2004
in Taitung County.

Posted on 2025-09-17 06:55:16

Thousands are rallying in Slovakia in a massive protest against the economic
and pro-Russian policies of Prime Minister Robert Fico.

Demonstrators gathered in 16 major cities, with protests fueled by the prime
minister's recent trip to China, where he met with Russian President Vladimir
Putin for the third time since Russia launched its full scale invasion of
Ukraine...

as well as by austerity measures approved by the government.

Those measures aim to cut the budget deficit but have sparked anger amongst
citizens.

The government says the measures are necessary, including increases in health
and social insurance, income tax for higher earners, and taxes on some food
products, on top of a possible reduction in national holidays.

Labor unions and businesses criticize the policies for impacting ordinary
people without helping the economy.

Some leaders are suggesting organizing a general strike against the
government.

Posted on 2025-09-17 06:55:16

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has returned to a hospital in
Brazil's capital.

His son said that Bolsonaro felt unwell with severe hiccups and low blood
pressure.

Just days ago, Bolsonaro was at the same hospital because of skin lesions.

Doctors found iron-deficiency anemia and signs of recent pneumonia in the
former president, who is 70 years old and currently under house arrest.

Last week, a panel of Supreme Court justices found him guilty of attempted
coup and he was sentenced to over 27 years in prison.

But this isn't Bolsonaro first health issue; he's been hospitalized multiple
times since a 2018 stabbing.

Posted on 2025-09-16 18:51:13

TaiPower says recent incidents have cut 2.1 million kilowatts of electricity
from the grid—equal to about six percent of peak nighttime demand.

However, officials insist that supply remains stable.

TaiPower Chairman Tseng Wen-sheng (曾文生) says emergency reserve units have
now been activated, ensuring that nighttime reserve margins will stay above
six percent, or roughly two million kilowatts, through the end of the month.

This comes after a recent explosion at Kaohsiung’s Hsingda Power Plant
caused one of the units to suspend power generation.

And on top of that, the Linkou No. 2 coal-fired generator went offline
yesterday due to a malfunction, cutting another 800 thousand kilowatts.

Officials acknowledge the system is under pressure, but insist supply remains
stable, with repairs and inspections underway to bring capacity back to
normal by October.

(IG)

Posted on 2025-09-16 18:51:14

The Consumers' Foundation is urging the public not to panic over recent tests
that found heavy metals in dried goji berries.

The group says heavy metals like cadmium, lead, arsenic, and mercury are
naturally present in soil and water, making zero detection in Chinese
medicinal herbs or crops nearly impossible.

It stresses the key issue is whether levels exceed legal safety standards.

The Foundation explains that plants absorb trace elements from their
environment, meaning a background level of heavy metals is natural and not
necessarily harmful.

International bodies—such as the W-H-O—have set maximum allowable limits,
and as long as products test below these thresholds, health risks remain very
low.

The statement comes after Consumer Protection Association Taiwan recently
reported heavy metal residues in goji berries from 30 different suppliers.

(IG)

Posted on 2025-09-16 18:51:14

The Food and Drug Administration has seized shipments of Japanese muskmelons
and Philippine cakes after tests found excessive pesticide and preservative
levels.

A 240-kilogram batch of muskmelons from Hokkaido contained a regulated
insecticide above the legal limit and was returned or destroyed.

Future shipments from the same importer will undergo 100 percent border
inspection.

Meanwhile, 538 kilograms of butterscotch cakes from the Philippines exceeded
limits of the preservative sorbic acid.

In response, the importer's future shipments will now face enhanced random
checks at a rate of up to 50 percent.

Other noncompliant imports flagged in the TFDA's latest report include
mandarins from Australia, radishes from China, broccoli from South Korea, and
frozen sea urchin roe from Chile.

All non-compliant produce has either been returned or destroyed.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2025-09-16 18:51:14

Taiwan has raised its travel warning for Nepal to the orange alert level,
urging citizens to avoid unnecessary trips after deadly anti-corruption
protests earlier this month forced the government to step down.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the decision followed violent
demonstrations on September 8th and 9th, which led to injuries, deaths, and
curfews in several cities.

All 47 Taiwanese travelers in tour groups during the unrest have since
returned safely, and about a dozen Taiwanese residents remain safe.

Nepal has since appointed former chief justice Sushila Karki as interim prime
minister, with elections scheduled for March 2026.

Taiwan's government says it will continue monitoring the situation and
provided emergency hotline numbers for citizens in Nepal.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2025-09-16 18:51:14

Wugu District in New Taipei hit 39.2 degrees Celsius today, marking Taiwan’s
highest temperature for the second straight day.

The Central Weather Administration data also showed that nearby Sanxia
reached 37.8 degrees, while Neihu in Taipei recorded 37 degrees.

Other areas, including Taoyuan, Changhua, and Taitung, saw highs above 36
degrees.

Meterologist Wu De-rong had said forecasting models indicate the hot weather
is expected to continue for at least two more weeks.

Taiwan’s record high temperature remains at 40.2 degrees, set in Taitung in
2004.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2025-09-16 16:06:13

TaiPower Chairman Tseng Wen-sheng (曾文生) says a general status report on
Taiwan's three nuclear power plants will be released by the end of this month
or early next.

Tseng explained that all plants are being evaluated, but the No. 3 facility
is in the best condition to begin a full self-inspection.

That review will cover issues such as aging management and seismic safety,
and TaiPower plans to work with the plant's original manufacturer to ensure
accuracy.

The Nuclear Safety Commission is also drafting new regulations on restarting
existing nuclear reactors, expected in October.

That framework would allow TaiPower to formally carry out self-assessments
under official guidelines.

As for the No. 2 plant, Tseng said safety checks can only move forward once
spent nuclear fuel rods are removed and placed in dry storage.

(IG)

Posted on 2025-09-16 16:06:13

Taitung city residents are protesting the removal of two Chiang Kai Shek
statues in the city, leading to the National Property Administration delaying
their planned removal.

The NPA says, it will collect public opinion before deciding on a path
forward, and the Taitung City Mayor says, he's willing to take on the task.

Local officials posted notices on the two statues, which reside on public
land, stating that they were considered symbols of authoritarianism and
therefore would be removed.

The first of these was scheduled to be removed yesterday, and the other is
scheduled for Saturday.

Those against the removal of the two statues say that they hold memories for
many residents, and says the decision to remove them is "shocking."

They state that history should be preserved rather than erased.

NPA officials say, they will consider public opinion before moving forward.

(AH)

Posted on 2025-09-16 16:06:13

Sports Minister Lee Yang is promoting a social media tagging game to get
people excited about exercising daily, calling on other government officials
to get involved.

Lee began by posting about himself exercising online, and tagging Deputy
Minister Zheng Shi Zhong to get him involved too.

Zheng today tagged Transport Minister Chen Shi Kai, encouraging him to take
part too.

Chen today emphasized the importance of making time for exercise in a busy
schedule.

Lee took office as Sports Minister one week ago, but he says he still makes
time to run 3 kilometers before work each day.

(AH)

Posted on 2025-09-16 16:06:13

Meanwhile

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he's not ruling out further
strikes on Hamas leaders following last week's attack in Qatar, saying they
will not have immunity "wherever they are" ....

The September 9th strike targeting leaders of the Palestinian militant group
in Doha was a significant escalation of Israeli military action in a region.

Hamas has said the Israeli strike killed five of its members, including a son
of its exiled Gaza chief, but its leadership survived.

The heads of Arab and Islamic states held a summit to back Qatar after
Israel's attack last week in the Gulf state.

Qatar urged the summit to take "practical and decisive steps" - saying the
strike occurred as Hamas leaders were studying a U-S ceasefire proposal for
Gaza.

Posted on 2025-09-16 15:06:14

The Ministry of Education is gathering feedback on anonymous complaints
against teachers.

Teachers' groups say a new law passed last year has led to an increase in
unnecessary investigations, and schools are being forced by public pressure
to investigate every complaint, no matter how small, which drains school
resources and makes teachers afraid to discipline students.

According to the Central News Agency, the National Federation of Teachers
Unions says, the government must find a balance between reducing what they
call "frivolous lawsuits" and protecting whistleblowers.

Now, the ministry says it is collecting data from local governments and
schools and is meeting with teachers to gather feedback on the law.

It says it will also consult with legal experts and other groups before
making a decision.

(NS)

Posted on 2025-09-16 15:06:14

Taichung Mayor Lu Xiu Yan is inviting Taichung residents to participate in
the first Taiwan International Children and Youth Book Fair...

which will be hosted in Taichung from Thursday through Sunday.

Lu noted that Taichung has ranked first in the country for reading scores for
4 years in a row, leading the Ministry of Culture to choose Taichung for the
inaugural exhibition.

She also pointed out that the city has doubled its spending on book
procurement in the last year, and is planning to open 5 new libraries.

Key elements from this year's International Book Exhibition in Taipei have
also been relocated to the children's version, including the Taiwan Comics
Pavilion and an Italy-themed National Pavilion.

Meanwhile, a Taichung-themed pavilion will showcase the natural beauty of the
city, as well as students' achievements in reading.

Check out the Taiwan International Children and Youth Book Fair website for
more information on the event, which runs from the 18th to 21st.

(AH)

Posted on 2025-09-16 15:06:14

Now turning to international news...

Australia is offering to give Papua New Guinea an extension of its Parliament
House, as the country celebrates its 50th indepence day.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese attended the celebration in Port
Moresby today, announcing his support for a new minsterial wing for Papua New
Guinea's National Parliament.

He called it an investment in the country's democracy and sovereignty.

Australia is taking a line of shared democratic values with its former
colony, as Chinese influence grows in the region...

but some lawmakers in Papua New Guinea worry that a defense treaty with
Australia might affect their foreign policy of being a friend to all.

The country's cabinet has yet to sign off on the treaty.

Papua New Guinea’s independence is widely regarded as an extraordinary
success given the diversity of its people.

With an estimated population of almost 12 million people, Papua New Guinea
has more than 800 Indigenous languages.

Posted on 2025-09-16 15:06:14

Voting is in progress in Malawi, where the country is set to choose a
president, as well as lawmakers and local representatives.

Current president Lazarus Chakwera is seeking a second term, but he faces 16
other candidates...

including former President Peter Mutharika, who's expected to give Chakwera
the biggest run for his money.

These elections are the first national polls in the African nation of 21
million since the 2019 presidential vote was nullified and ordered to be
redone the following year due to widespread irregularities.

In that election, Mutharika was the incumbent and declared the winner of the
first vote only for a court to throw out the result.

Chakwera won the redo, which followed months of street protests.

The elections come as an economic crisis grips Malawi, one of Africa’s
poorer and least-developed countries that is also struggling with steep
inflation and food and fuel shortages.

Posted on 2025-09-16 15:06:14

And Matcha lovers, be warned- the tea is set to be faced with steep price
increases soon, as consumer interest in the traditional tea's health benefits
has piqued.

In Japan, which produces most of the world's matcha, poor weather has reduced
this year's harvest.

Meanwhile, matcha supply is still sufficient in China, another major
producer, but labor shortages and high demand have also raised proces there.

So, experts say, hardcore matcha lovers should get ready to show their
commitment at the cash register.

Posted on 2025-09-16 14:18:13

A new Ministry of Finance report finds that Taiwan's business survival rate
is relatively high.

The report indicates that over 80-percent of new businesses remain operating
past their first year, similar to the survival rate in Australia, the UK, and
New Zealand.

And the five-year survival rate for Taiwan companies is at 60%, which is
higher than those countries.

The ministry also points out that in 2023, about 1% of all active businesses
in Taiwan were "high-growth" enterprises, and almost all of these are
companies with an annual revenue of over 10 million NT.

Overall, the report finds that online retail and dining sectors have the
highest number of new and failed businesses.

(NS)

Posted on 2025-09-16 14:18:14

And, in Tainan a new battery station for electric motorbikes outside a police
station is killing two birds with one stone.

Police have long raised the concern of distance limitations on their electric
motorbikes, so the Tainan Yongkang Police Station installed a battery
charging station for electric scooters.

They say, it reduces the stress of worrying about battery life of the
scooters, whereas officers previously may have had to visit a battery
charging station before going out on a call.

But local residents are also pleased with the new battery station, as they
can also swap out the electric batteries there.

Plans are underway to install battery swap stations at Yongkang's Dawan 大灣
and Daqiao大橋 Police Stations as well.

(AH)

Posted on 2025-09-16 14:18:14

Taiwan shares are up today, with the benchmark Tai Ex closing at 25629, after
gaining 272 points.

The turnover was 442 billion NT.

Posted on 2025-09-16 14:18:19

Now turning to international news...

Israel's defense minister says, "Gaza is burning" following heavy strikes on
Gaza City.

That comes amidst Israel's renewed offensive on the Gaza Strip, with US
Secretary of State Marco Rubio saying that the offensive has begun and Israel
has begun operation there.

Rubio says, there's a small opportunity for a deal to happen.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military has not responded to questons over whether
the offensive had begun or not.

Both Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Rubio claimed yesterday
that the only way to end what they called the "conflict" in Gaza was to
eliminate Hamas and the release of the remaining 48 hostages, around 20 of
whom are believed to be alive.

Hamas says, it will free the remaining hostages in return for the release of
Palestinian prisoners, a lasting ceasefire, and an Israeli withdrawal from
Gaza.

Israel's barrage on the Gaza Strip has killed at least 64,000 Palestinians
since 2023.

Posted on 2025-09-16 14:18:20

US Vice President JD Vance is calling for "consequences" for people who, in
his words, are "celebrating" the murder of Charlie Kirk.

Vance said that people should turn in those who say distasteful things about
the assassinated conservative content creator.

He also vowed to target liberal causes, in what critics say is a blow to free
expression in the country.

The conservative-led campaign has expanded to target not just those who
"celebrated" Kirk's assassination, but those who were critical of Kirk in
general.

Experts say that Vance's and other conservatives' pledge to crack down on
liberal movements is reminiscent of the Red Scare, a period in US history in
which people were encouraged to turn in others who supposedly held Communist
view points...

leading to false allegations and ruined careers.

Posted on 2025-09-16 12:34:13

President Lai Ching-te has attended a ceremony marking the installation of
the final prefabricated segment of the Danjiang Bridge in New Taipei's Tamsui
District.

Installation of final segment was completed at just after 11 o'clock - when
the structure officially became the world's longest asymmetric, single-mast
bridge.

Lai posed for a photograph with officials from the government agencies and
the engineering teams that made construction of the the bridge possible.

According to the Highway Bureau, the date and time for the installation was
chosen because the final piece extends over a shallow section of the Tamsui
River, requiring a high tide to allow a floating crane vessel to maneuver
into position.

Most of the other bridge segments were connected using the floating crane
installation method - in which heavy-lift vessels placed prefabricated pieces
into position.

An official opening ceremony for the 920-meter long bridge has been scheduled
for May 9 next year and it is expected to open to traffic on May 12.

The government has said the bridge will become a new landmark for Taiwan and
a major attraction for tourists.

Posted on 2025-09-16 12:34:13

The central bank is expected to keep its key interest rates unchanged for the
sixth consecutive quarter at its next policymaking meeting on Thursday.

The bank left its policy rate unchanged during it last meeting in June.

And that meant the local discount rate was held at 2-per cent -- the highest
in 15 years.

It last raised the rate by 0.125 percentage points in March of 2024.

Reuters is reporting that economists are predicting the central bank will
maintain its stance until the first quarter of next year - when they're
forecast a rate cut to 1.875 percentage points.

The central bank will also announce its revised economic growth and inflation
forecasts for this year on Thursday.

The government has said it expects the island's economy to grow by 4.45-per
cent this year due to the A-I boom.

That would be slower than last year's growth of 4.59-per cent growth.

Posted on 2025-09-16 12:34:13

The Formosan Association for Public Affairs has held its annual advocacy
conference.

The conferance offered instructions to Taiwanese-Americans on how to convey
the critical importance of Taiwan's survival to their state legislators and
on how best to promote pro-Taiwan legislation.

FAPA says the event drew 112 participants this year - breaking the previous
record and some Taiwanese-Americans event flew in from Alaska flying to speak
at the conferance - which took place on Capitol Hill.

According to FAPA national conferance president Lin Su-mei, the visits by
members from across the U-S to country's capital is an important aspect of
its explaining to members of the U-S Congress why Taiwan is a significant
part of U-S national security.

FAPA was founded in Los Angeles in 1982 by a group of political activists,
scholars, entrepreneurs, and social activists.

It currently has over 40 chapters in the U-S and approximately 2,700 members.

Posted on 2025-09-16 12:34:13

Meteorologist Daniel Wu says two tropical disturbances are likely in the
coming week, with one of them having a high probability of developing into a
typhoon.

According to Wu, the first tropical disturbance pass through the Philippine
island of Luzon and enter the South China Sea from Thursday to Saturday as it
moves towards China's Guangdong Province.

That will have no direct impact on Taiwan.

However, the second tropical disturbance, which currently has a 70-per cent
probability of becoming a tropical storm or typhoon, is predicted to form on
Sunday at the earliest east of Taiwan.

It's currently forecast to either pass through the Bashi Channel or move in a
westerly direct towards Taiwan.

Wu says that weather pattern needs to be closely monitored.

Posted on 2025-09-16 12:34:13

And finally in this evening's Chinese Professional Baseball League.

The Rakuten Monkeys play the Wei Chuan Dragons at the Rakuten Taoyuan
Stadium.

The Fubon Guardians play the Uni-President Lions at the Xinzhuang Stadium in
New Taipei.

While the T-S-G Hawks play the C-T-B-C Brothers at the Cheng Ching Lake
Stadium in Kaohsiung.

All three games begin at 6:30.

Posted on 2025-09-16 12:34:13

Cooperate on Drug War

US President Trump's administration has added Colombia to a list of nations
failing to cooperate in the drug war for the first time in nearly three
decades.

But the U.S. also issued a waiver blocking any major aid cut to the staunch
ally.

The move reflects a decade-long boom in cocaine production in Colombia and a
slowdown in coca eradication under President Gustavo Petro’s leftist
administration.

The U.S. last added Colombia to the list in 1997 when the country’s cartels
had infiltrated the highest levels of power.

Last year, only three countries — Bolivia, Burma and Venezuela — were added
to the list among the 23 nations that were listed as major drug transit or
drug-production countries.

In all three cases, the Biden administration waived sanctions, saying that
programs supporting the countries are vital to U.S. national interests.

Posted on 2025-09-16 12:34:13

In other news from the US

Arnold Schwarzenegger, the action film star, ex-body builder and former
governer of the US state of California is weighing in on plans to redraw
district lines in the state.

The AP's Lisa Dwyer has more on the story:

Posted on 2025-09-16 12:34:13

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has condemned as dangerous comments by Elon
Musk at an anti-immigration rally in London

The event organized by far-right campaigner Tommy Robinson saw violence by a
minority of those attending with 26 police officers injured and 25 arrests.

Addressing the demonstration by video link, Musk called for the dissolution
of Parliament and an early election to remove Starmer's center-left
government. He told protesters “violence is coming to you” and “you either
fight back or you die.”

Starmer's spokesman said, “The U.K. is a fair, tolerant and decent country,
so the last thing the British people want is dangerous and inflammatory
language."

Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey urged Starmer to consider sanctions against
Musk. Starmer has emphasized the importance of peaceful protest and condemned
violence against police and intimidation based on background or skin color.

Posted on 2025-09-16 12:34:13

Japan’s government defended its stance on wartime sexual slavery and
described South Korean court rulings ordering Japanese compensation as
violations of international law

The statements came in responsed after U.N. investigators criticized Tokyo
for failing to ensure truth-findings and reparations for the victims.

Japan responded by reiterating its previous position that all compensation to
Korean sexual slavery victims were settled by past agreements.

In its own response, South Korea called on Japan to “squarely face up to our
painful history," underscoring the countries' differences on the issue even
as disputes on the issues between the nations have subsided in recent years.

Posted on 2025-09-16 12:34:13

And finally

Australia has offered to gift Papua New Guinea an extension to its Parliament
House as the South Pacific island nation celebrates its 50th independence
anniversary.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese attending the celebrations in Port
Moresby announced support for a new ministerial wing for Papua New Guinea’s
National Parliament.

Australia is emphasizing shared democratic values as China’s influence grows
in the region and have put forth a proposal for a bilateral defense agreement

Albanese had originally planned to sign the treaty with his counterpart James
Marape on ahead of independence festivities but the signing has now been
pushed back to Wednesday.

Posted on 2025-09-16 10:10:13

The Tai-Ex opened down 21 -points this morning from yesterday's close, at
25,335 on turnover of 3.5-billion N-T.

The market lost ground on Monday - as investors opted to lock in profits from
last week's session and await for the conclusion of the U-S Federal Reserve's
policymaking meeting later this week.

Analysts says investors turned cautious as the main board moved closer to its
historical intraday high of 25,541-points early in the trading day - and some
of them simply shifted to the sell side to take profits made last week.

Posted on 2025-09-16 10:10:13

from Venezuela

U-S President Donald Trump says the U-S military again targeted a boat
allegedly carrying drugs from Venezuela, killing three aboard the vessel.

The strike comes two weeks after another military strike on what the Trump
administration says was a drug-carrying speedboat from Venezuela that killed
11.

The administration justified the earlier strike as a necessary escalation to
stem the flow of drugs into the United States.

However several senators, Democrats and some Republicans, have indicated
their dissatisfaction with the administration's rationale and questioned the
legality of the action.

There has been no immediate comment from the Venezuelan government.

Posted on 2025-09-16 10:10:13

Pollock painting

And finally,

Scientists have identified the origins of the blue color in one of Jackson
Pollock's paintings with a little help from chemistry.

In the painting called "Number 1A, 1948," scientists had previously
characterized the reds and yellows splattered across the canvas, but the
source of the rich turquoise proved elusive.

In a new study, researchers took scrapings of the blue paint and used lasers
to measure how its molecules vibrated.

They pinpointed it as manganese blue.

It's the first confirmed evidence of Pollock using this specific shade.

Posted on 2025-09-16 08:14:13

In news from and about Taiwan this morning,

Ocean Affairs Council Minister Kuan Bi-ling is condemning Chinese fishers for
using cyanide and is urging them to respect the United Nations Convention on
the Law of the Sea.

The calls follows the recent seizure of a Chinese vessel by the Coast Guard
Administration for illegally operating near Dongsha Island in the South China
Sea carrying cyanide on board.

Cyanide fishing involves spraying a sodium cyanide mixture into a habitat to
stun fish for capture.

The practice harms not only the target species but also other marine
organisms, including coral reefs.

Speaking to reporters after the International Conference on Marine
Environmental Management in Taipei, Kuan said all countries must respect the
Convention on the Law of the Sea ...

.. and Taiwan will firmly defend its waters, while at the same time working
to enhance its maritime surveillance capabilities, starting with the
development of drones before progressively expanding to manned aircraft.

Kuan also said the Ocean Affairs Council's latest National Ocean Policy White
Paper will be released at the end of this month.

The white paper serves as the blueprint for the government's ocean policy,
outlining its plans for marine development and its policy objectives.

Posted on 2025-09-16 08:14:13

The Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation has partnered with US-based
defense technology firm Shield A-I to develop an advanced U-A-V ecosystem in
a bid to strengthen Taiwan's defense capabilities.

According to the fighter jet developer, the two companies have signed a
formal Teaming Agreement to enhance Taiwan's aerospace industrial base and
improve collaborative technological innovations.

A-I-D-C says under the agreement, both sides will focus on sustainment,
training, autonomy and integration among other technical initiatives to
ensure Shield AI's products can be deployed, supported and scaled in Taiwan.

The corporation also says Shield AI's state-of-the-art mission autonomy and
aircraft, combined with its decades of aerospace manufacturing experience,
will strengthen Taiwan's defense and deterrence capabilities and supercharge
Taiwan's local drone and aerospace industry.

Shield A-I will be demonstrating its innovations at the Taipei Aerospace &
Defense Technology Exhibition - which begins in Taipei on Thursday.

Posted on 2025-09-16 08:14:13

The U-S State Department is backing comments two former American Institute in
Taiwan officials concerning World War-II era documents not determining
Taiwan's political status.

Former A-I-T chair Richard Bush and former A-I-T deputy director Robert Wang
said on Saturday said that a Chinese official mischaracterized World War
II-era documents as stating that Taiwan was ceded to the China.

Both also stated that the U-S does not consider the political status of
Taiwan to have been determined by any post-World War II documents, and that
Washington expects the issue to be resolved peacefully.

The U-S State Department is insisting that the comments accurately conveyed
Washington's stance on the matter.

An unnamed A-I-T spokesperson says China "intentionally mischaracterizes
World War II-era documents in an effort to support its "coercive campaign to
subjugate Taiwan" ...

.. but "Beijing's narratives are simply false, and none of these documents
determined Taiwan's ultimate political status."

Speaking in mid-August China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi said the Cairo
Declaration and Potsdam Proclamation "clearly defined Japan's responsibility
for the war and required that Japan return all the territories it had stolen
from China, including Taiwan."

Posted on 2025-09-16 08:14:13

Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung is touting the government's "Taiwan Culture in
Europe 2025" campaign ...

.. saying it shows Taiwan's ability to engage the world through culture and
highlights its role in preserving key elements of Chinese heritage.

The campaign has been jointly organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
and the Ministry of Culture.

It features more than 70 cultural events across 26 countries, including an
exhibition of the National Palace Museum's treasures.

Lin says the treasures at the National Palace Museum are not relics of the
past - and instead belong to the present and to all humankind as part of
civilization."

The foreign minister noted that while Beijing destroyed many artifacts during
the Cultural Revolution, the National Palace Museum has safeguarded some of
the most significant pieces of Chinese cultural heritage.

The statement follows accusations from China's Taiwan Affairs Office that a
current exhibition in the Czech Republic is an attempt to promote "Taiwan
independence through culture."

Posted on 2025-09-16 08:14:13

And finally,

Some 500 members of the Taiwanese Canadian community gathered Sunday for the
first-ever "Taiwan Day" - as the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Baltimore Orioles
11-2 at a sold-out Rogers Centre.

The Taiwanese Canadians traveled traveled to stadium from cities including
Vancouver, Montreal and Detroit - many of them wearing "Taiwan Day" jerseys
and waving "Team Taiwan" towels.

The event was organized by the Taiwan Merchants Association of Toronto and
sponsored by local Taiwanese businesses.

Organizers say its success has encouraged them pursue a long-term partnership
with the Toronto Blue Jays to establish "Taiwan Day" as an annual fixture.

Canadian lawmaker Judy Sgro, the co-chair of the Canada-Taiwan Parliamentary
Friendship Group, joined the crowd, along with Taipei Economic and Cultural
Office in Toronto Director-General Liang Yi-peng.

Liang said the turnout far exceeded expectations and reflected the
community's love for both Taiwan and Canada.

Posted on 2025-09-16 07:04:13

The Taipei District Court has upheld its previous ruling and approved bail
for Taiwan People's Party founder and former Chairman Ko Wen-je .

The hearing came after the Taipei District Prosecutors' Office appealed the
court's earlier decision to free Ko on bail of 70-million N-T.

The court also upheld its earlier decision to free Taipei City Councilor
Angela Ying on bail of 30-million N-T.

The district court kept their original bails.

Ko had been detained since September in 2024 until September 8 when he was
released bail.

While Ying was released on bail on September 5.

Prosecutors appealed the bail orders, arguing that key witnesses had not yet
completed their testimony in court and that Ko had contacted witnesses two
witnesses after posting bail.

According to the Taipei District Court, while some witnesses have yet to
appear in court, they testified under oath during the investigation and
defense attorneys did not dispute that the testimony would be admissible as
evidence during the trial.

The court also said existing court documents will allow prosecutors and
defendants' lawyers to make their cases at the upcoming hearings, and
the large amount of bail set will impose psychological pressure and
restrictions on Ko and Ying that will serve as a substitute to detention.

Prosecutors say they make a decision later this week on whether or not to
appeal the latest lower court ruling.

Posted on 2025-09-16 07:04:16

President Lai Ching-te has sent a letter to Pope Leo XIV congratulating him
on his 70th birthday - in which he conveyed "cordial and heartfelt wishes" on
behalf of the government and people of Taiwan.

According to the Presidential Office, Lai said the Pope demonstrated
"dedication to human dignity" and "commitment to church unity" in his resolve
to "promote world peace, social justice, and global outreach" in the first
few months of his pontificate.

Lai also lauded the "efforts to build fellowship between different faiths and
fraternity among nations," saying that they strengthened Taiwanese people's
"will to uphold universal values and strive for the common good."

And the message went on to say that "Taiwan will continue to coordinate with
the Holy See to promote humanitarian assistance and bring comfort to people
in need around the world."

Lai's message was conveyed to the Pontiff by Taiwan's embassy in the Holy See.

Five D-P-P lawmakers currently visiting Rome recorded a video at St. Peter's
Square as a birthday greeting, expressing their wishes that the ties between
Taiwan and the Holy See continue to deepen.

Posted on 2025-09-16 07:04:16

The government has formally endorsed the 2014 Brighton plus Helsinki
Declaration on Women and Sport.

The move reinforced its commitment to gender equality in sports and to
promoting the country's international presence through sports diplomacy.

The document was signed by D-P-P lawmaker Huang Jie, who also serves as the
chairwoman of the Taiwan Parliamentary Women's Sports Diplomacy Committee,
and International Working Group on Women and Sport representative Elizabeth
Pike in Taipei.

The ceremony witnessed by Sports Minister Lee Yang.

The Brighton Declaration was established in 1994 and was updated as the
Brighton Plus Helsinki Declaration in 2014.

It provides a global roadmap for promoting the involvement of women in sports
and physical activity.

According to the sport minister, his agency will continue strengthening ties
with the international sporting community while cultivating more female
talent in leadership roles and working with the International Working Group
on Women and Sport on future projects.

Posted on 2025-09-16 07:04:17

It is estimated that Taiwan generates more than 11-million tons of garbage
every year, a number which is on the rise.

Although there are no specific numbers for how much trash is created at
exhibitions and trade show in Taiwan every year? but with the number of
booths and displays at these shows, that number is estimated to be
significant.

At the recent Asia Pacific Sustainability Expo in Taipei? the Taiwan
Institute for Sustainable Energy made its mark? with a display made
completely of recyclable materials.

TAISE Deputy Secretary General Dennis Chien explains??

Chien says they hope to share with the public ideas on how to make
sustainability and conservation a part of our daily lives? which he says
will bring about real change in Taiwan.

The TAISE booth also featured informative quizzes to test the public??s
understanding of the source and magnitude of waste in Taiwan, and force them
to think about ways to tackle the problem, and build a greener tomorrow.

Posted on 2025-09-16 07:04:17

The Golden Bell Awards judging committee has unveiled this year's nominees -
and the period drama "Black Tide Island" is leading the nominations this year
with 16 nod.

"Black Tide Island" centers on jailed dissidents in 1950s Taiwan and has been
nominated for Best Miniseries, Creative Award for a Drama Series, and Best
Directing for a Miniseries or Television Film.

The series' leading actor, Wu Nien-hsuan has received a nod for best leading
actor in a miniseries or television film, while River Huang, Liu Cheng-en,
and Mu Mei were shortlisted for supporting roles.

In the television series category, "Born for the Spotlight" and "The Outlaw
Doctor" are tied for first with 15 nominations each, including Best
Television Series, Best Directing, and Best Writing.

Three of "Born for the Spotlight's" leading actresses are competing against
each other for Best Leading Actress in a Television Series.

Meanwhile, nominees for Best Leading Actor in a Television Series include
Wayne Song for "A Second Chance of Life," Alex Ko for "Arong and Ayu," Fandy
Fan for "Monday Again?!" and Yo Yang for "Us Without Sex."

The Special Contribution Award will be presented to veteran actress Chen
Shu-fang and set decorator Yeh Hui-lung.

Posted on 2025-09-16 07:04:17

Italian automaker Alfa Romeo has officially returned to the Taiwan market
after an 18-year absence by unveiling several new models at a launch event in
Taipei.

Alfa Romeo's general distributor, P-G Union showcased models slated to arrive
in Taiwan - including the Giulia, a compact executive car, and the Stelvio, a
sport utility vehicle.

Alfa Romeo's subcompact crossover S-U-V, the Junior, was also on display and
is scheduled to launch in Taiwan in the first half of next year.

Annie Kao, the chairwoman of Suntek Motor, which acquired operating rights
for Alfa Romeo from P-G Union Corp. in December of 2024, says she's excited
about the brand's return after an 18-year hiatus.

According to Kao, she believes many car enthusiasts have been waiting a long
time for Alfa Romeo to return and she's even ordered one for herself.

Kao also say she remains optimistic about Taiwan's auto market and hopes to
see it improve over the next year.

Alfa Romeo first entered the Taiwan market in 1974 but withdrew in 2007
following several distributor changes.

Posted on 2025-09-16 07:04:17

And,

The Central Weather Administration says New Taipei's Wugu District recorded
the highest temperature a islandwide on Monday - as the mercury there hit 39
degrees.

The temperature in Wugu was recorded at 12:10PM,

It was followed by New Taipei's Sanxia District - where the temperature
reached 38.3-degrees at 12:40PM.

Neihu District in Taipei, Sigang District in Tainan, and Luzhu District in
Taoyuan recorded temperatures above 37-degrees on Monday.

While parts of Chiayi, Pingtung, and Taitung reached highs of 36-degrees or
more.

Posted on 2025-09-16 07:04:17

Britain’s government has summoned the Russian ambassador in London following
what it calls Moscow’s “unprecedented violation” of NATO airspace.

The U.K. also announced it will send fighter jets to help defend Polish
airspace.

The Foreign Office on Monday called recent drone incursions into Polish and
Romanian airspace “utterly unacceptable” and summoned Ambassador Andrei
Kelin.

Multiple Russian drones crossed into Poland on Wednesday in what European
officials have described as a deliberate provocation, causing NATO to send
fighter jets to shoot them down.

Russia said Poland wasn't targeted, and Moscow's ally Belarus said the drones
went astray because they were jammed.

But European leaders have expressed certainty that the incursion was
deliberate, underlining long-held concerns about the expansion of Russia’s
more than three-year war in Ukraine.

Posted on 2025-09-16 07:04:17

In related news....

Polish authorities have neutralized a drone flying above government buildings
in Warsaw.

On Monday night, two employees of the State Protection Services spotted the
drone above the Belvedere castle, where the president resides.

They took steps leading to the detention of the operators, two Belarusian
citizens.

Officials say the drone involved in Monday's incident was not shot down but
landed after the operators were apprehended.

Posted on 2025-09-16 07:04:17

Bulgaria has arrested the Russian owner of a cargo ship linked to the massive
explosion in Beirut in 2020.

At least 218 people were killed and over 6,000 wounded when hundreds of tons
of ammonium nitrate detonated in a warehouse.

Igor Grechushkin's arrest comes nearly five years after a Lebanese judge
issued warrants for him and the ship's captain.

Lebanese officials are preparing documents to request Grechushkin's
extradition for questioning.

No Lebanese official has been convicted.

New leaders elected in early 2025 have vowed to complete the investigation
and hold those responsible accountable.

Posted on 2025-09-16 07:04:17

Authorities say two men accused of spying for China in Britain including a
former researcher working in the U.K. Parliament will not face trial.

One was a parliamentary researcher who led the China Research Group and
worked closely with senior lawmakers focused on security and foreign affairs.

The other is reportedly an academic based in Oxfordshire who had taught in
China since 2015.

They were accused of providing information or documents that could be useful
to China and “prejudicial to the safety or interests” of the U.K. between
late 2021 and February 2023.

The men were due to go on trial next month at London’s Central Criminal
Court.

Posted on 2025-09-16 07:04:17

Two men have been sentenced to two years in prison with hard labor under a
witchcraft law for plotting to kill Zambia's president using charms and
spells.

The men, a Zambian and a Mozambican national, had been convicted under the
colonial-era law last week.

Police said the men were arrested in a hotel room in the capital, Lusaka,
last year after a cleaner reported hearing strange noises.

The Zambian court found that they had been in possession of a live chameleon,
an animal tail and 12 bottles of concoctions and had intended to use them to
put a spell on Zambia's president with the intention of killing him.

Zambia's witchcraft law carries a maximum sentence is three years in prison.

Username
Password
Lost your password