ICRT

Posted on 2026-04-10 13:07:13

Heavy fog is once again affecting transport to and from Kinmen.

The Central Weather Administration has issued a dense fog advisory for
Kinmen, with visibility dropping below 200 meters in some areas.

As of 9 this morning, eight flights to and from Taiwan had already been
canceled.

Kinmen port authorities announced this morning that ferry routes between
Kinmen and the Chinese cities of Xiamen and Quanzhou have been halted since
7:50 a.m. due to poor visibility at sea.

Passengers are advised to confirm their bookings directly with ferry
operators before heading to the port.

This comes just two days after authorities finished clearing a backlog of
stranded passengers from the Tomb Sweeping holiday weekend.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-04-10 13:07:14

As registration for the Bai-sha-tun (白沙屯) Mazu pilgrimage has exceeded a
record-breaking 463-thousand people, police departments along the pilgrimage
route are gearing up for the crowds.

The pilgrimage begins just before midnight on April 12 from Bai-sha-tun
Gong-tian Temple (拱天) in Miao-li, and arrives in Bei-gang (北港) Chao-tian
(朝天) Temple in Yun-lin on April 16.

Key rituals will follow, before the procession returns on April 20.

To manage the huge crowds, Miao-li police will deploy traffic control
measures centered around the Gong-tian Temple and nearby major roads on April
12 and 13 and again on April 19 and 20.

The
Number 1 Provincial Highway will be closed in both directions in stages
from 8 a.m. on April 12 to 8 a.m. the following day.

Entrances and Exits to and from the Number 61 West Coastal Expressway in
Miao-li could be closed as well depending on the situation on Saturday and
Sunday.

Police strongly urge participants to take Taiwan Railway or High-speed Rail
trains instead of driving.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-10 13:07:14

Now turning to international news...

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says, he has authorized direct
negotiations with Lebanon.

Israel says, those talks would be aimed at disarming Hezbollah militants.

This comes after Israel launched a renewed offensive in recent days, killing
about 300 people...

bringing the total death toll since the US and Israel began their war on Iran
to about 1700, with more than one million displaced.

Israel's continued strikes on Beirut prompted questions about the
sustainability of a ceasefire between the US and Iran...

with Iran still maintaining a tight grip on the Strait of Hormuz.

Talks on a permanent deal for Iran are set to begin soon in Islamabad.

Posted on 2026-04-10 13:07:14

Venezuelan lawmakers have approved a bill to regulate the mining industry.

This comes as the country seeks to attract foreign investors to an industry
that has long been exploited by criminal groups with government ties.

It's the latest legislative initiative by acting President Delcy Rodriguez
since the US abducted former President Nicolas Maduro.

The bill is now set to be reviewed by the country's high court.

It seeks to regulate mineral rights, establish different scale mining
categories, and allow for independent arbitration of disputes.

The bill would also ban executive level elected officials from holding mining
titles.

Posted on 2026-04-10 11:09:13

KMT chair Cheng Li-wun is set to meet with Chinese leader Xi Jin-ping in
Beijing today....

...and Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reminded Cheng to deliver the
message that the Republic of China and the PRC are not subordinate to each
other.

Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-qi also said today that Cheng should tell
Xi that Taiwan’s future must be decided democratically by its people, and
that “China should immediately stop military aircraft and naval harassment
around the island.

Chen emphasized that the messages represent the mainstream opinion of
Taiwan’s people instead of the position of any single party or individual.

He said conveying them clearly would send an unambiguous message to China and
the world.

Meanwhile Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an said cross-strait exchanges should aim
to avoid conflict and reduce misjudgment, adding that “the more tense the
situation, the greater the need for communication and dialogue.”

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-10 11:09:13

Animal rights groups are raising alarm over new regulations regarding the
use of human medications in pets.

The new rules, set for full implementation this July are designed to bring
the use of human drugs in cats and dogs under a formal legal framework and
prevent misuse.

But advocates say preparations are inadequate.

Drug registration, which will be required before a human medication can be
legally used on pets under the new system, stands at less than 30 percent.

The alliance is calling instead for all drugs to be permitted except those
explicitly listed on the registry, giving veteri-narians greater flexibility
while still allowing the government to restrict high-risk or addictive
substances.

They are also urging the government to set up a dedicated, easy-to-find
online information page to track drug registration progress, and including
pet owners and animal protection organizations to be included in
consultations.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-04-10 11:09:13

In world news...

Russia and Ukraine have agreed to a truce for Orthodox Easter, with Russian
leader Vladimir Putin saying he's ordered Russian troops to cease fire "in
all directions" this weekend.

The declaration from Moscow came after Ukrain's leader Volodymyr Zelensky
issued repeated calls for a ceasefire, all ignored by the Kremlin.

Now Putin has announced a truce from 4:00 PM local time on Saturday April 11
through Easter Sunday, adding that he expected Ukraine to "follow the
example" of Russia.

He ordered his forces to be ready to intercept "possible enemy provocations"
and any "aggressive actions."

Russia's tone, and the attempt to steal the initiative, will make Ukrainians
angry.

But Zelensky soon posted on X that Ukraine was "ready for symmetrical steps".

Posted on 2026-04-10 11:09:13

The foreign ministers of North Korea and China have agreed to further deepen
cooperation and exchanges at their “in-depth” talks on international
issues.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi flew to Pyongyang on Thursday in his first
visit to North Korea in seven years.

He met with North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui today.

China's Xin-hua news agency didn't mention any discussions on specific issues
like the United States or the Iran war.

The North’s official Korean Central News Agency reported that the two sides
agreed to strengthen strategic communication between their agencies handling
foreign policy.

Wang’s trip to North Korea comes before U.S. President Donald Trump is to
travel to China to meet with its leader Xi Jinping in May.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-10 11:09:13

Video of a sinkhole that swallowed two vehicles in Omaha, Nebraska captured
attention around the world, but hundreds of others happen with little notice.

Over the last five years, city work crews reported more than 2,100
“cave-ins”in the U.S., ranging from small dips in the pavement to gaping
chasms.

Though most are minor, a Flatwater Free Press analysis found that Omaha sees
more cave-ins than several other Midwestern cities.

Geologists say the city’s sinkholes comes from its soil.

Much of Omaha sits atop a fine-grained sediment called loess that is formed
by the accumulation of wind-blown dust, and it can be easily carried away by
water, leaving behind gaps underground.

The city has begun exploring new ways to diagnose underground problems.

Posted on 2026-04-09 18:53:13

Eight members of the Public Television Service review committee have resigned
accusing Culture Minister Li Yuan of violating long-standing practices by
failing to consult political parties in advance.

In a public letter sent to Legislative Speaker Han Guo-yu, the members said
the list of candidates that Li chose for the P-T-S board was based on
personal judgment instead of consultations with the Legislative Yuan.

The members also said Li has violated the spirit of the Public Television
Act.

Under such circumstances, they said they were unable to properly fulfill the
review process assigned by the Legislature.

The Culture Ministry, however, has urged the reviewers to return to the
meeting to select the PTS board in an independent and professional way.

It stressed that the Public Television Act does not require prior cross-party
consultation.

The resignations come just days before the scheduled vetting session on April
16th.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-09 18:53:14

Premier Chuo Jung-tai is calling on the Legislative Yuan to pass a flood
control budget of 14-billion-700-million NT for this year following heavy
rain that caused widespread flooding last week.

The April 4th downpour triggered flooding at 86 locations across Hsinchu,
Miaoli, and Taichung.

Most affected areas drained within two hours, with flood depths generally
between 10 and 30 centimeters.

The Water Resources Agency chief says the recent rain has boosted reservoir
levels across the north and center of the island.

Hsinchu remains on a yellow-light reduced water pressure advisory, though
nighttime restrictions have been eased by two hours.

Officials are also monitoring a new landslide dam on the He-huan (合歡) River
in Nantou's Ren'ai Township, though no immediate threat to residents has been
identified.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-04-09 18:53:14

Authorities in Taoyuan report a sharp rise in illegal food advertisements,
with most violations occurring on online platforms.

The city's Department of Public Health says it identified 611 illegal food
ads in 2025, a 62 percent increase from the previous year.

Of those, nearly 80 percent were found on internet platforms.

Officials say individual sellers account for the majority of violations,
making up about 61 percent of cases.

Common misleading claims include weight loss effects, skin improvement, and
boosting metabolism, with some even falsely suggesting medical efficacy.

Authorities warn that such advertisements can face fines of up to $4 million
NT, or up to $5 million NT if medical claims are involved.

They also caution that lending e-commerce accounts to others may result in
both parties being held jointly liable.

Officials urge consumers to carefully evaluate ads before making purchases.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-09 17:17:13

The Executive Yuan says it will handle Central Election Commission
appointments according to the law .... to ensure election operations run
smoothly ahead of year-end local elections.

The move comes after lawmakers approved four nominees, including the
chairperson, but blocked the three other candidates.

Cabinet officials say they find the rejection of three nominees difficult to
accept, but will submit new candidates to fill the remaining seats.

They're also urging the legislature to quickly exercise its confirmation
powers.

The opposition has criticized the delay in issuing formal appointments —
more than two weeks after legislative approval — calling it a violation of
constitutional order.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-09 17:17:14

proposals

Military experts and DPP lawmakers are calling for the legislature to examine
special defense budget proposals in a non-partisan and objective manner.

The comments come as the legislative committee on national defense and
foreign affairs was originally scheduled to review different versions of the
proposal today.

Chair of the Veterans Affairs Council Yan De Fa 嚴德發said that ensuring
peace requires strength, and he encouraged all lawmakers to support the
executive yuan's version of the proposal.

Yan, who is a former Defense Minister, also noted that China's military
spending is currently 11 times that of Taiwan.

Meanwhile DPP Lawmaker Chen Guan Ting 陳冠廷, who heads the committee, said
earlier he hoped to see KMT lawmakers at the session...

but they ultimately did not show up.

Chen thus ruled that negotiations would take place at a later date.

Chen this morning noted that the KMT caucus had earlier requested to postpone
the meeting until next week...

but some have questioned whether the delay is related to KMT Chair Cheng
Li-wun’s current visit to China.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-09 17:17:18

In Nantou, a former TPP county councilor has become the first to publicly
drop his party affiliation following a ruling sentencing party founder Ke Wen
Zhe to 17 years behind bars.

Jian Qian Xiang 簡千翔said that he made the choice because the TPP's party
platform has become more and more vague...

with their actions departing further and further from their purported values.

Jian says, he'll be running for reelection this November as an independent.

Jian said today that he originally joined the TPP with the hope of fighting
against partisanship in Taiwan and became Nantou's first TPP city councilor
four years ago.

However, he says that the TPP's currently prioritizes personal connections,
leading him to become disenchanted with the party.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-09 17:17:18

Now turning to international news and in Russia,

people are becoming frustrated with the government over restrictions on the
internet that have disrupted daily life, hurt businesses, and prompted
condemnation from those on all sides of the political spectrum.

The intensifying crackdown has shut down regular cellphone internet
connections, blocked popular messaging apps, and affected thousands of other
websites.

Despite restrictions on unathorized demonstrations, activists have oragnized
small rallies and filed lawsuits...

while industry leaders have pleaded with the government to reconsider, saying
the restrictions are bad for business.

The crackdown does not only affect which websites Russians can access, but
also poses inconveniences for daily life, like ordering taxis or deliveries.

Posted on 2026-04-09 15:25:13

already said. )Retailers limit plastic bag purchases amid Middle East supply
fears

Two major retailers have introduced purchase limits on plastic bags, citing
concern over panic buying.

Carrefour announced a limit of one pack per person on heat-resistant bags and
garbage bags.

And Costco has imposed limits on 14 items, including zip-lock bags, garbage
bags, and plastic wrap.

Economy Minister Kung Ming-hsin (龔明鑫) told lawmakers today that supplies
are stable and the limits are a precaution against panic buying, not a sign
of shortage.

The Bureau of Commerce says it is monitoring major retailers daily.

Middle East tensions have raised concerns about the supply of petrochemical
raw materials, including ethylene, plastics, and asphalt.

Officials say current inventory levels remain sufficient.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-04-09 15:25:14

Keelung City has fined Jiang Cheng Company (將誠公司) more than 22-million NT
and revoked its waste disposal license over illegal wastewater dumping into
the Keelung River.

The discharge contaminated tap water for more than 100-thousand households in
Keelung and New Taipei's Xizhi (汐止) district.

Mayor Hsieh Kuo-liang (謝國樑) says the company is a serious repeat offender,
having been penalized ten times between 2013 and 2021.

The total fine of 22-million-146-thousand NT covers violations of water
pollution, waste disposal, and air pollution control laws.

Prosecutors have indicted 32 people and are recommending heavy sentences.

Investigators say the company ran an illegal underground factory inside a
water source protection zone in Nuan-nuan (暖暖) District, discharging
wastewater directly into the river.

It allegedly conspired with another firm to cover up the operation.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-04-09 15:25:14

Data from the 165 anti-fraud dashboard shows that the top three reported
scams are online shopping, fake investment, and prostitution-related scams.

The Criminal Investigation Bureau said scammers would also impersonate
government agencies, claiming victims have unpaid fines.

Common scam keywords include “limited-time low prices” and “free
giveaways.”

If victims fail to verify and proceed with transactions, scammers typically
claim further steps are needed, such as identity verification.

They then say the verification has failed and ask victims to contact customer
service—often directing them to add a LINE account, where many ultimately
fall victim.

Taiwan recorded an average of 460 scam cases per day in March, with total
daily financial losses exceeding $150 million NT.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-09 15:25:14

Israel has launched its largest coordinated strike of the current war on
Beirut, killing at least 182 people and wounding nearly 900 others.

The strikes hit busy commercial and residential neighborhoods in central
Beirut on Wednesday afternoon ? hours after a ceasefire was announced in the
U.S.-Israeli war with Iran.

Israel says the ceasefire does not apply to its separate conflict with
Iran-backed Hezbollah.

U.S. President Donald Trump called the Lebanon strikes "a separate skirmish."

Israel's military says it hit more than 100 Hezbollah targets within 10
minutes, including missile launchers and command centers.

Since the war began just over five weeks ago, nearly 17-hundred people have
been killed in Lebanon and more than one million displaced.

Posted on 2026-04-09 15:25:14

Heavy rains in the Dominican Republic have killed one child, damaged more
than 1,000 homes and are causing power and water outages, forcing officials
to suspend classes at some public and private schools.

Crews evacuated more than 5,000 people as the government on Wednesday ordered
nonessential employees to work remotely as authorities warned of flooding and
possible landslides.

Local newspaper Listin Diario reported that more than 20 communities were cut
off in a province near the capital Santo Domingo after a river overflowed its
banks.

Crews in the capital rescued seven people, including a man who became trapped
in a sewer.

The heavy rains began Monday and are expected to dwindle late Wednesday

Posted on 2026-04-09 15:25:14

A viral photo of Mount Fuji, a red pagoda, and cherry blossoms has turned a
quiet Japanese town into a tourist hotspot, and locals are not happy about
it.

Fujiyoshida canceled its annual cherry blossom festival this year because of
overcrowding, but the tourists came anyway.

Residents are calling the phenomenon "tourism pollution," pointing to heavy
traffic, piles of litter, and poor behavior from visitors.

The problem reflects a wider tension across Japan.

The government is actively working to attract millions more foreign visitors
? but many local communities say they are not ready for the influx.

Posted on 2026-04-09 14:59:13

Taiwan's latest inflation figures show an unusual trend: high-income
households are feeling more price pressure than low-income ones.

March CPI data from the Directorate-General of Budget, Accounting and
Statistics show high-income households saw prices rise 1.42 percent
year-on-year.

That compares with 1.14 percent for middle-income households and 0.83 percent
for low-income households.

Officials say the gap is driven by surging travel costs, which make up a
bigger share of high-income spending.

International fuel surcharges and airfares rose sharply in April as Middle
East conflict pushed oil prices above 100 US dollars a barrel.

Historically, low-income households felt more price pressure due to rising
food costs, but that pattern has now reversed.

Officials say the trend is unlikely to change in the short term.

Low-income and middle-income commuters, meanwhile, are feeling the pinch from
rising fuel costs at the pump.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-04-09 14:59:17

The F-D-A has issued a red-level alert for a drug used to treat breathing
problems in premature babies.

The Food and Drug Administration says the drug "Curosurf", known locally as
Kai-shi-fu (凱適福), faces a precautionary recall due to microbial
contamination risk at the overseas manufacturing plant.

The alert follows recall notices issued by the Czech Republic and Italy in
mid-March.

The manufacturer is Italian pharmaceutical company CHIESI Farmaceutici.

In Taiwan, the importer Ho Lien Biotech Pharmaceutical has been ordered to
recall one batch of 70 bottles by April 24th.

Officials say the affected batch met quality specifications and no adverse
events have been reported, but the recall is a precautionary measure.

The agency adds that unaffected batches remain available and there is no
shortage risk.

Parents or caregivers with concerns are advised to consult their doctor about
alternative medications.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-04-09 14:59:17

Iran's semiofficial news agencies have published a chart suggesting the
Revolutionary Guard placed sea mines in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical
shipping lane, during the war.

The reports from the I-S-N-A news agency and Tasnim, which is believed to be
close to the Guard, show a "danger zone" over the Traffic Separation Scheme.

That route is used by ships through the strait. It suggests ships travel
north through waters closer to Iran’s mainland.

The dates on the chart ran from February 28 to Thursday, April 9.

It’s unclear if the Guard cleared the mines.

This likely serves as a pressure tactic in two-week ceasefire and ahead of
possible negotiations in Islamabad.

The reports come as uncertainty hangs over a two-week tentative ceasefire
announced early Wednesday.

Posted on 2026-04-09 14:59:17

The world-first facility for permanently disposing spent nuclear fuel is set
to begin operations in Finland after decades of construction.

Construction of Onkalo — which means “cave” in Finnish — began on the
west coast in 2004 as the site for the final resting place for tons of
dangerous radioactive waste.

Costing $1.2 billion US dollars, the authorities are expected to grant a
license within months for operations to begin.

The site of the repository was chosen for its stable bedrock.

But experts have safety concerns, especially for future generations.

Posted on 2026-04-09 14:59:17

Four astronauts are heading home after a historic journey around the moon.

The Artemis II crew is set to splash down off the coast of San Diego,
California on Friday around 8 P-M Eastern Time.

During the mission, the crew reached a record distance of 252-thousand miles
from Earth ? surpassing a record held by the Apollo 13 crew for 56 years.

The four astronauts flew past the far side of the moon, becoming the
farthest-traveling humans in history.

On re-entry, their Orion capsule will hit speeds of nearly 24-thousand miles
per hour as it burns through the atmosphere.

Mission pilot Victor Glover described the return as "riding a fireball
through the atmosphere."

The next mission, Artemis III, will test docking procedures in low-Earth
orbit, ahead of a planned crewed lunar landing in 2028.

Posted on 2026-04-09 14:13:13

Health officials in New Taipei say the number of people who have sought
medical attention in a suspected food poisoning case has risen to 143.

The cases are linked to the Chin Liu (清六) Cuisine bento chain, with 25 new
reports confirmed as of 10 AM today.

Health officials say 18 people are hospitalized, and 12 remain under
observation.

Patients reported symptoms including stomach pain, diarrhea, and fever.

Further analysis indicates the pathogen is Salmonella group D.

Officials say the outbreak should peak today, as more people sought treatment
after seeing news reports and recognizing symptoms.

The operator has been found in violation of the Food Safety and Sanitation
Act and will be referred to the Taipei District Prosecutors Office.

All three branches remain closed as testing continues.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-09 14:13:17

The Minister of Sports is defending his decision not to accept a funding
request by the Changhua County government.

Lee Yang yesterday attended an event where magistrate Wang Hui Mei appeared
to hand him a request for funds for new sports equipment, but Lee refused to
take it, citing the continued blockage of the central government budget in
the legislature.

Lee has reiterated today that his ministry doesn't have the funds for helping
local governments.

He emphasized that the central and local governments hope to offer more
exercise and sporting equipment to the public...

but progress has been hampered by the fact that the 2026 central government
budget still has not been passed.

Addressing the cancellation of a prestigious track and field event originally
slated for June, Lee said it had to be called off for the same reason.

However, he said the government would still do what it could with limited
funding.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-09 14:13:17

Taiwan and the United States have co-hosted their first G-C-T-F workshop on
Guatemalan soil.

The Global Cooperation and Training Framework event was held in Guatemala
City on Monday.

Around 100 experts from Taiwan, the US, Guatemala, and Japan took part.

Sessions covered risk assessment of low-cost telecom products, building
resilient digital infrastructure, and cross-border cybersecurity cooperation.

Taiwan's Ambassador to Guatemala Chang Chun-fei (張俊菲) said Taiwan stands
on the front lines of global digital defense and will continue sharing its
cybersecurity governance experience through the G-C-T-F platform.

U.S. officials stressed that deeper regional cybersecurity cooperation is key
to improving digital transparency.

The G-C-T-F has been a platform for international capacity building since
2015.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-04-09 14:13:17

Asian stocks are trading lower today over concerns regarding a ceasefire in
the Iran that appears to be in jeopardy.

Markets in Japan, Korea, Australia, and China were all lower today.

Taiwan shares, however, are up today, with the benchmark tai ex closing at
34861 after gaining 99 points.

The turnover was 844.2 billion NT

Posted on 2026-04-09 14:13:17

Now turning to international news...

Indian voters are heading to the polls in local elections that will test
support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Assam state and the federally administered region of Puducherry are now
governed by an alliance led by Modi's Hindu Nationalist Bharatiya Janata
Party.

In parts of Assam, the BJP seeks to retain power through hardline immigration
rhetoric- a hot button issue due to Assam's proximity to Bangladesh...

while in Kerala state,the BJP has struggled to gain ground but has invested
heavily in expanding its presence.

The results are expected at the beginning of next month.

This round of elections comes against the backdrop of rising energy costs and
tighter supply of cooking gas due to the US/Israeli war on Iran.

The outcomes may show if Modi's party can extend its dominance by making
inroads into opposition strongholds.

Posted on 2026-04-09 14:13:17

In the US,

Protesters are rallying against a planned immigration detention facility.

The federal government bought a warehouse to convert into a detention center
in the state of Maryland.

Residents and activists are displeased, saying they had no say in the
decision.

The facility is meant to hold up to 1500 people, but legal battles have
delayed its opening.

The US federal government has in recent weeks faced fierce opposition in
communities in which they've purchased warehouses.

In this particular case, however, local officials have pledged their
"unwavering" support for federal immigration officers also known as ICE...

but residents are outraged due to moral objections to the facility.

In other areas around the country, residents have questioned why the federal
government didn't consider using old prisons instead of warehouses.

Posted on 2026-04-09 13:06:13

With Formosa Plastics ramping up production, the Economics Minister said
shortages in plastic bags should soon ease.

Gong Ming-xin said today the company has promised that about 5,000 tons of
polyethylene pellets are set to ship tomorrow.

Gong admits that global uncertainty has led to localized shortages of some
petrochemical materials and downstream products, including plastic bags.

The Ministry has rolled out response measures, including boosting upstream
supply, improving distribution, and setting up a cross-agency reporting
system to respond quickly to shortages.

Authorities have also formed a joint inspection team to prevent hoarding and
price gouging.

On supply sources, Gong said state-run CPC has already loaded a tanker with 2
million barrels of crude oil in the Persian Gulf.

If it can pass through the Strait of Hormuz and arrive in Taiwan within the
next two weeks, he said the shipment would provide more than half a month of
additional supply, helping to further stabilize the market.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-09 13:06:13

Tainan health officials say this year’s second imported dengue fever case in
Tai-nan involves a young man who traveled to the Maldives last month.

Officials say the patient, who's from Yong-kang (永康) District, traveled to
the South Asian nation from March 25th to 30th, and began experiencing
symptoms on March 31st after returning to Taiwan.

The symptoms include fever, headaches, and a runny nose.

He sought medical treatment three times at clinics and hospitals, and
antibody tests came back positive on Tuesday.

Health officials say control teams were immediately deployed to carry out
emergency spraying, eliminate mosquito breeding sites, and conduct density
surveys around the patient’s home and workplace.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, Indonesia is the leading source
of infection, followed by the Maldives, Vietnam, and the Philippines.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-09 13:06:13

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban is a rare case of a European leader
that has won approval from US President Donald Trump.

Orban continues to align with Trump despite what could be described as
chaotic foreign polict that has turned off other far-right European leaders.

Italian leader Giorgia Meloni and Marine Le Pen of France have criticized
Trump's actions in the middle east, signaling a shift in support.

The leader of Germany's far right also called for US troops to leave their
bases in the country.

Despite this, US Vice President JD Vance headed to Budapest this week to help
Orban campaign ahead of an election this weekend.

Analysts say, Orban's gamble may not pay off, as perceptions of the US take a
dive.

Orban faces a tough reelection campaign after 16 years of power, with
center-right Peter Magyar appearing to lead in some polls.

Posted on 2026-04-09 06:54:13

K-M-T Chairwoman Cheng Li-wun has referenced the Republic of China in remarks
focused on cross-strait peace during a visit to Sun Yat-sen's mausoleum in
Nanjing.

After her visit, Cheng said Sun was not only revered for overthrowing the
Qing Dynasty, but also for founding "Asia's first democratic republic -- the
Republic of China."

Cheng also urged people not to forget Sun's dying words - "the revolution has
not yet succeeded; comrades must still strive on" ...

..... saying both sides of the Taiwan Strait should work together to promote
reconciliation and unity, and create regional prosperity and peace.

The Mainland Affairs Council has responded to Cheng's reference to the R-O-C
- claiming she did so in a "in a veiled manner," similar to past K-M-T
chairpersons during their visits to China.

Cheng is scheduled to meet with Taiwan businesspeople in Shanghai today
before heading to Beijing.

She is reportedly expected to hold talks with Xi Jinping there tomorrow...
but China's Taiwan Affairs Office has not yet confirmed that meeting.

Posted on 2026-04-09 06:54:13

concerns

Economics Minister Kung Ming-hsin says the government has rolled out a series
of measures aimed at stabilizing the supply of plastic bags.

This comes amid reports of shortages and rising prices amid disruptions
linked to Middle East tensions.

Kung says his ministry has set up coordination channels with retailers and
distributors to ensure stable supply, after some business districts reported
shortages.

He also said the government will help adjust distribution channels based on
local needs.

He's also stressing that overall supply remains sufficient and the shortages
are limited to certain areas due to mismatches in existing supply networks.

The government earlier this week said it has increased domestic polyethylene
supply to exceed demand and may expand supply further if needed - and now
easing oil prices could help reduce upstream cost pressures.

The government has also urged the public to avoid panic buying of plastic
bags.

Posted on 2026-04-09 06:54:13

Mandarin Airlines is seeking to suspend flights between Hualien and Kaohsiung
and Taichung - citing weak demand and rising losses.

Chairman Chen Da-chun said load factors on the two routes have fallen to
between just 20 and 30-per cent, with one Kaohsiung-Hualien flight carrying
only five passengers last year.

Chen says there's no point continuing to try to make the routes successful,
as fuel costs are up from 13 to 21-per cent of the airline's total expenses.

Chen is warning that airline's losses could reach 10-per cent of its
projected annual revenue of 6-billion N-T.

He also says the airline will not be able to pass those cost increases on to
passengers because domestic base fares have remained unchanged for 26 years,
and even if fare prices were raised, demand for tickets on the two routes
will likely further decrease.

The airline currently runs three weekly Taichung-Hualien flights and daily
Kaohsiung-Hualien services.

The Civil Aviation Administration says its understands the situation and will
evaluate the routes.

Posted on 2026-04-09 06:54:13

The Taichung City Government is facing increased criticism for oversight
failures after a child sexual abuse scandal involving a baseball coach now
includes around 50 victims.

Questions are being raised to how the man was able to secure a coaching
position at a school despite having a criminal record - and the city
government has been slammed for lapses in background check procedures.

Taichung Prosecutors have filed additional charges against the man, after
they identified 11 more victims last week.

However, the exact figure remains unconfirmed .. as the city government says
the victims were identified by codenames in two previous indictments and that
could result in double-counting.

The man was convicted by the Taichung District Court in July of last year of
90 counts of sexual offenses against 32 minors.

He was sentenced to a prison term of between 3.5 and 8.5 years per count.

The High Court's Taichung branch upheld that ruling in November last year
after an appeal, and the case is currently before the Supreme Court.

Posted on 2026-04-09 06:54:13

The New Taipei City Government says it will assist victims seek compensation
for food poisoning.

The move comes after nearly 100 people sought medical treatment in a
suspected food poisoning case linked to a lunch box chain in the city's
Xindian District.

City health officials have suspended the operations at all three branches of
Chin Liu Cuisine and food samples are currently being tested.

New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih says authorities will take legal action against
the lunch box chain, including possible prosecution and fines, if violations
to food safety and hygene laws are confirmed

New Taipei Health officials say 55 new cases were reported on Wednesday,
bringing the total number of people who have sought medical care to 99.

Health authorities say 87 of the affected individuals consumed meals from a
branch near the Xindian District Office, while 12 ate food from its Zhongxing
Road branch.

Six patients have been hospitalized and 20 remain under observation, while
the rest have been discharged to recover at home.

Posted on 2026-04-09 06:54:13

And,

The Taiwan High Speed Rail Corporation has announced it will be adding an
additional 30 trains over the Mother's Day travel period from May 8 to 11.

Ticket for those train services went on sale earlier this morning.

The additional services consist of 15 northbound and 15 southbound trains.

Early-bird discounts will be available for all trains departing from their
origin stations before 8AM on May 9.

The high speed rail operator is also offering half-price student tickets on
eight more services, while non-reserved seating will be expanded from three
to four carriages on trains stopping at all stations during peak travel
periods.

Posted on 2026-04-09 06:54:13

The Japan Times is reporting a conversation between Japanese Prime Minister
Sanae Takaichi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, most of it on the
Strait of Hormuz.

The chat took place hours after Tehran agreed to a ceasefire in the war with
the U.S. and Israel.

Takaichi told reporters that she had held a 25-minute call with Pezeshkian...
and she says that while Japan welcomed the breakthrough as “a positive
step,” securing “a final agreement” quickly is “of the utmost
importance."

About 93% of Japan’s imported crude oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz...

Just three Japanese-related vessels are known to have transited the strait
since the war began.

Posted on 2026-04-09 06:54:13

A federal judge has handed down a sentence of 15 years in prison to a woman
who pleaded guilty to selling “Friends” star Matthew Perry the ketamine
that killed him in a 2023 overdose.

Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett sentenced 42-year-old Jasveen Sangha on
Wednesday.

Sangha is the third defendant to be sentenced of the five people who have
pleaded guilty in connection with the 54-year-old “Friends” star’s death.

Prosecutors had recommend a 15-year sentence for Sangha.

They cast her in court filings as a “Ketamine Queen” who had an elaborate
drug operation catering to high-end clients.

Posted on 2026-04-08 19:15:13

The Ministry of Labor has expanded who counts as a company's top leadership,
in a move to strengthen protections against workplace sexual harassment.

Under the new rules, six groups — including major shareholders, board
members, and others in positions of authority — are now considered top
responsible persons.

If someone in these roles is accused of sexual harassment, workers can bypass
internal company procedures and file complaints directly with local
authorities.

Officials say the change addresses situations where companies may not be able
to handle cases impartially when senior figures are involved.

The ministry says more than 600 workplace harassment complaints were filed
last year, with over 100 involving individuals in top positions — though
only 33 cases were formally established.

Authorities add that confirmed violations could result in fines ranging from
10 thousand NT to one million NT.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-08 19:15:14

Starlux Airlines says it will launch direct flights between Taipei and the
Indonesian island of Bali starting October 1st, with tickets now on sale.

The Taiwan-based carrier says the route will initially offer five flights per
week, operated by Airbus A321neo aircraft.

Starlux CEO Glenn Chai says Bali has long been a popular destination for
international travelers, including those from Taiwan and Western markets.

He adds that as the airline expands its long-haul network to North America
and Europe, it expects to attract more transit passengers connecting through
Taiwan to Bali — boosting traffic between Europe, the United States and
Southeast Asia.

Following the launch, Starlux will serve more than 13 destinations across
Southeast Asia.

The airline is also preparing to open new routes to Busan in South Korea on
June 1st, and to Prague on August 1st — its first destination in Europe.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-04-08 19:15:14

Iran, the United States and Israel have announced a two-week ceasefire, but
its status is already uncertain.

The last-minute deal allowed U-S President Donald Trump to pull back from
threats of a major bombing campaign against Iran.

Details of the agreement remain unclear, with all sides offering different
versions of the terms.

And within hours, attacks resumed on Wednesday in Iran and across Gulf Arab
countries, casting doubt on whether the ceasefire is holding.

In the latest developments, Iranian state television says an oil refinery on
Lavan Island has come under attack, just hours after the ceasefire was
announced.

Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates says its air defenses are responding to
an incoming Iranian missile barrage.

Posted on 2026-04-08 18:24:14

Taiwan's top statistical office says the nation's consumer price index rose
by 1.2 percent in March, suggesting inflation remained unexpectedly subdued.

According to the Directorate General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics,
the increase came in lower than expected, despite concerns over rising global
oil prices linked to the Middle East conflict between the U-S and Iran.

Core inflation, which excludes volatile items like food and energy, stood at
1.94 percent.

Officials say price increases were driven by higher costs for eating out,
meat, rent, utilities, and transportation, including airfare and vehicle
maintenance.

However, declines in the prices of vegetables, fruit, vehicles, and some
communications equipment helped offset the overall rise.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-08 18:24:14

Young renters in Taipei could soon receive extra thousands of NT a month in
housing subsidies ... as the city expands support for tenants.

The Department of Urban Development says the plan adds three subsidy
categories and builds on the central government's expanded housing subsidy
program.

Married couples under 45 can qualify for the maximum monthly subsidy of 10
thousand NT.

While single residents under 40 can qualify for up to 4 thousand 600 NT per
month.

Families with children will receive an extra 1 thousand NT per child per
month, with no limit on the number of children.

Officials say there is no cap on applicants and are encouraging eligible
residents to apply early.

Applications are open through March 31st, 2027, with central and local
subsidies available at the same time — though applicants can choose only one
category.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-08 18:24:14

The Health Promotion Administration says it has reached a preliminary
consensus on national guidelines for outdoor smoking areas.

Officials say future smoking zones should be located away from building
entrances and main walkways, with proper height and good ventilation.

The goal is to prevent smoke from directly dispersing toward crowded public
spaces and reduce exposure to secondhand smoke.

Currently, while indoor smoking is banned, outdoor smoking is not clearly
regulated and enforcement remains limited.

In a HPA survey from 2024, almost half of respondents reported secondhand
smoke exposure in places like sidewalks and arcades.

Authorities say the proposed standards draw on international practices,
favoring open, non-enclosed designs placed away from high-traffic areas.

The agency adds that local governments will still have flexibility in
planning.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-08 18:24:14

KMT Chair Cheng Li-wen paid respects to Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum in
Nan-jing this morning, using the occasion to highlight history, identity, and
cross-strait ties.

Speaking to a large group of reporters after the visit, Cheng said news of
Sun Yat-sen’s death in 1925 had once brought deep grief to people in Taiwan,
citing historical writings that described island-wide mourning.

She stressed Sun’s global legacy, noting that he not only overthrew the Qing
Dynasty but also founded the first democratic country in Asia, the Republic
of China.

The KMT chairwoman also described her visit as the foundation for renewed
cross-strait dialogue under the “1992 Consensus.”

Local cable TV news footage showed that she drew large crowds at the
mausoleum, with some local residents lining up before dawn for a chance to
see her.

Cheng and the delegation have returned to Shanghai and will meet the city's
leaders at a banquet tonight.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-08 17:06:13

Financial losses at the state-run CPC Corporation have reached nearly 79.2
billion NT, as it continues to absorb rising global energy costs.

The Ministry of Economic Affairs has announced three support measures:
special financing, budget subsidies, and capital injections.

Minister of Economic Affairs Kung Ming-hsin (龔明鑫) says a 350 billion NT
capital injection plan over four years is in place, beginning with about 168
billion NT next year.

Officials say the measures are aimed at easing CPC's financial burden and
maintaining stable domestic energy prices.

But lawmakers warn the plan may not be enough, saying import costs could rise
by about 176 billion NT between March and June, pushing CPC's debt ratio to
around 92 percent and increasing financial risks.

The company has absorbed almost 613 billion NT in costs since 2020 to help
shield consumers from price hikes.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-08 17:06:16

The Minister of Sports has rejected a request from the Changhua County
government to obtain funding for new sports facilities.

Changhua County Magistrate Wang Hui Mei yesterday attended an event for the
opening of a new exercise center, at which Sports Minister Lee Yang was also
present.

Wang appeared to hand Lee a list of items for which the county government
sought funding from the ministry.

Lee looked over the document before rejecting the request, citing the
continued blockage of the central government budget.

When reporters today asked Wang about the incident, she simply smiled.

The Ministry of Sports said in a statement that the media had reported the
situation accurately and that they had no further comment.

DPP Lawmaker and Changhua Magisterial Candidate Chen Su Yue said that she
respected Wang's efforts to secure funding, but said that more thorough
communication ahead of time might prevent similar awkward incidents in the
future.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-08 17:06:16

Taiwan Railway says it will add 108 extra train trips to handle increased
travel demand over the upcoming Labor Day long weekend.

The additional services will run from April 30th to May 4th, covering both
western and eastern lines.

Ticket bookings will open starting at midnight on the morning of April 10
through online platforms, mobile apps, convenience stores, and phone
reservations.

On the busy western line, EMU-3000 trains will suspend non-reserved seating,
with 200 standing tickets available on the day of travel.

Family car tickets will also be suspended during the holiday period.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-08 17:06:16

Now turning to international news

Israel says, it's continuing fighting and ground operations in Lebanon
against Hezbollah...

even as a ceasefire between Israel, the US, and Iran was announced.

The military issued a statement acknowledging that the war against Hezbollah
was contuing, even after mediator Pakistan said that Israel would halt its
attacks as part of a 2 week ceaseifre in Iran.

Israel separately acknowledged strikes into Iran up to the ceasefire.

Posted on 2026-04-08 17:06:16

Rwanda is beginning to use satellite imagery and strict land rules to protect
farmland in the capital.

That's as Rwanda is striving to ensure food security amidst fertilizer prices
rising since the US/Israeli war on Iran began.

The government has been mapping agricultural land and tracking new
construction near farms and forests.

Developers who encroach on land meant for agriculture face fines of up to
3000 US dollars and jail terms of up to 6 months.

City data shows the capital of Kigali setting aside nearly a fourth of land
for agriculture.

Officials acknowledge that housing construction is attractive due to demand,
but say demand for food is also rising...

and they say, with innovation, the same amount of food can be grown on
smaller pieces of land.

Posted on 2026-04-08 16:16:13

State-run C-P-C said today that it has coordinated with Middle Eastern
suppliers to reroute shipments via pipelines to Oman or Red Sea ports.

The company said four tankers carrying a total of about 8 million barrels of
crude are expected to depart from the Red Sea in April, helping stabilize
domestic energy supplies.

CPC chair Fang Zhen-ren (方振仁) noted that his company has already taken
steps to diversify supply sources, including exploring crude imports from
West Africa and assessing options from Southeast Asia, Australia, and the
United States.

Fang says the aim is to reduce reliance on any single region.

He adds that C-P-C is currently not importing oil and natural gas via the
Strait of Hormuz as it has shifted to alternative transport arrangements with
Middle Eastern suppliers.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-08 16:16:13

Taiwan High Speed Rail Corporation says, it's going to add 30 trains over the
Mother's Day holiday.

Tickets for the added trains during the May 8th to 11th period will go on
sale tomorrow night.

The added trains will be split evenly between north- and southbound trains.

THSR also says that unreserved seating will be expanded to car 9 to 12 for
some trains during peak periods... as opposed to the usual cars 10 to 12.

The company advises passengers to check the "Ticket Availability" section on
their app to plan travel during peak periods.

Passengers can use the THSR website or app to purchase the tickets starting
from midnight on the 10th.

(AH-CNA)

Posted on 2026-04-08 16:16:13

Supermarket chain Carrefour has announced it will impose buying limits on
plastic bags, as concerns grow over supply stability linked to Middle East
conflict affecting petrochemical supplies.

The retailer says customers will be limited to one set of heat-resistant bags
and garbage bags per person, starting April 3rd.

However, official city-designated garbage bags in Taipei and New Taipei,
along with some eco-friendly bags, are not included in the restriction.

Carrefour says the move is a precaution ... and not due to immediate
shortages, but to ensure long-term supply remains stable.

The announcement follows similar measures by wholesaler Costco, which has
also limited purchases of multiple plastic-related items.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-08 16:16:13

In world news...

Iran, the United States and Israel have reached a two-week ceasefire as U.S.
President Donald Trump pulls back from his threats to destroy Iranian
“civilization.”

But questions have emerged over what appeared to be dueling proposals, with
Iran insisting it would control and charge ships passing through the Strait
of Hormuz as well as enrich uranium.

Trump initially said Iran proposed a “workable” 10-point plan that could
help end the war but later called the plan fraudulent without elaborating.

Israel backed the U.S. ceasefire but Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said
it doesn’t cover fighting against Hezbollah in Lebanon, which continued
through the morning.

Iranian Foreign Minister has said passage through the strait would be allowed
under Iranian military management.

The plan allows for both Iran and Oman to charge fees on ships transiting
through the strait, according to a regional official.

But that would upend decades of reliance on the strait as an international
waterway free for transit and will likely not be acceptable to the Gulf Arab
states

Posted on 2026-04-08 15:19:13

China trip

Taichung Mayor Lu Xiu Yan is downplaying rumors over internal discord in the
KMT...

saying that she supports KMT Chair Zheng Li Wen's trip to China.

Lu added that trying to bring cross-strait peace was the right thing to do,
saying she hoped the trip would bring lasting results.

Lu made the comments at a Taichung City Council session today, at which DPP
city councilor Zhou Yong Hong 周永鴻urged local government members not to
think that the trip had nothing to do with them...

emphasizing that, if Zheng continued to block the general budget and arms
purchases, then commuters, renters, the elderly, and children would pay the
price.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-08 15:19:15

A police investigation has turned up nothing unusual at National Cheng Kung
University...

after the school received threats over a planned showing of the documentary
State Organs.

School offcials say, the threats were received from an overseas IP address
believed to be in Hong Kong, and had the intention of stopping the student
organization from showing the film.

The threat said that if the school did not cancel the showing by yesterday
evening, there would be an explosion.

But NCKU today says that there were no irregularities discovered in an
investiation.

School aurthorities say that students were already off the past 2 days for
inter-school activities, but that they advised those on campus to remain
vigilant.

Officials say this is not the first threat over screenings of “State
Organs"; in fact it’s the sixth or seventh such incident.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-08 15:19:15

Health officials in New Taipei are reporting a growing number of suspected
food poisoning cases linked to a bento restaurant.

Authorities say 55 new cases were reported today, bringing the total number
of people seeking medical attention to 99.

Most patients experienced symptoms including stomach pain, diarrhea, and
fever after eating bento meals from two of the restaurant's branches.

Officials say six people remain hospitalized, about 20 are under observation,
while others have been discharged.

All three branches of the eatery have been ordered to suspend operations as
investigations continue.

Health authorities say lab results could take two to three weeks, as samples
from food, staff, and the environment undergo further testing.

In the meantime, the city government is offering support to those affected
and says consumer protection officials will assist victims in seeking
compensation.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-08 15:19:19

Now turning to international news...

South Korea says, North Korea has fired another ballistic missile towards the
sea.

This follows an earlier firing of several short-range ballistic missiles
earlier today.

Military officials say that the missiles were fired from an area near the
eastern coastal town of Wonsan.

They say that the missiles yesterday were launched from near Wonson as well,
and flew about 240 kilometers towards the ocean.

The latest launches came hours after a senior North Korean official issued a
statement ridiculing South Korean hopes for warmer ties.

A foreign ministry official said South Korean would always remain the North's
"most hostile enemy state."

Posted on 2026-04-08 15:19:21

Indonesian authorities have extradited a Scottish man sought by Spain as an
international crime boss, after his removal was delayed multiple times as
police pursued an ongoing investigation.

The man was arrested in Bali after arriving from Singapore and was flagged by
an Interpol Red Notice issued at Spain’s request.

Authorities are investigating his suspected associates believed to be on the
island.

The 45-year-old man is described by police as a senior figure in a crime
syndicate.

He has been wanted by Spain for about two years following a killing in the
country.

Police allege he led a transnational criminal network controlling narcotics
trafficking routes between Spain and the U.K.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-04-08 15:19:21

Australia’s most decorated living veteran did not apply for bail when five
war crime murder charges against him were listed in a Sydney court today.

Ben Roberts-Smith faces a potential life sentence for the charges.

A military report released in 2020 that found evidence elite Australian
Special Air Service and commando regiment troops unlawfully killed 39 Afghan
prisoners, farmers and other noncombatants.

The allegations against Roberts-Smith relate to the deaths of five Afghan
people while he served in Afghanistan as an SAS corporal.

Police allege he shot his victims or ordered a subordinate to shoot them.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-04-08 13:36:13

The National Security Bureau is warning of China's ulterior motives for the
KMT chair's trip to the country.

NSB Chair Cai Ming Yan says, China may be aiming to further polarize
Taiwanese society over KMT Chair Cheng Li-wen's trip...

further noting that the visit may jeopardize cooperation between Taiwan and
the US.

Cai says, he suspects that the invitation extended to Cheng represents
another form of United Front intervention on the CCP's behalf.

However, Cai emphasized that the NSB does not comment on Taiwan's internal
partisan activities...

but noted that Cheng's trip represents an opportunity for the CCP to push the
narrative to international observers that Taiwan is in favor of
"unification."

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-08 13:36:15

The Ministry of Economic Affairs says, it's working to secure plastic
supplies as some areas are lacking access to plastic bags.

That's as the US/Israeli war on Iran continues to affect shipments of LNG and
other raw materials.

Minister Gong Ming-xin says, officials yesterday held a meeting with 30
business representatives from around the country...

and noted supply shortages in central and southern Taiwan, particularly in
Chiayi.

The minister says the two main bags that are most lacking in supply are
flower bags and the single jin斤 inner bags used for meat and produce.

Gong says that his ministry will assist in coordinating distribution
channels.

Separately, Gong noted that at least temporary easing conditions in the
middle east have seen oil prices drop by 10 US dollars per barrel.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-08 13:36:17

700 travelers remain stuck in Kinmen following the Tomb Sweeping long
weekend.

Heavy fog on the island has caused flight delays and cancellations since
Monday, affecting the travel plans of over 2000 passengers.

That's despite added ferry service and military aircraft assistance.

KMT lawmaker and Kinmen magisterial candidate Chen Yu Zhen is requesting help
from the Civil Aviation Administration and the Ministry of National Defense
to get the stranded travelers home.

Chen said she hoped they would be able to return home today, seeing as the
weather is more clear than the past two days.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-08 13:36:18

In Cuba, hundreds of women have gathered in Havana to decry a U.S. energy
embargo and other measures imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump that are
strangling the Caribbean island.

Tuesday's rally was organized by the Federation of Cuban Women.

It is a massive organization with close ties to the government and the
Communist Party.

The crowd waved Cuban flags, held signs that read “Down with the Blockade,”
and carried pictures of Fidel Castro and the late Vilma Espin, the
federation’s founder, a guerrilla fighter, and wife of Raul Castro, the
former president.

Cuba produces only 40% of the fuel it consumes.

The fuel shortage has paralyzed the country, affecting its health system,
public transportation, and production of goods and services, and deepening
Cuba's existing economic crisis.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-04-08 08:14:13

In news from and about Taiwan this morning,

A delegation led by K-M-T Chairwoman Cheng Li-wun has attended a banquet in
Nanjing hosted by Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Song Tao.

The banquet took place after Cheng took a high-speed rail train to Nanjing
following her arrival at Shanghai's Hongqiao International Airport.

It was the first part of the itinerary of her six-day visit.

Speaking at the banquet, Cheng said her trip is aimed at ensuring that
cross-strait relations can demonstrate to the world that political
differences do not necessarily lead to conflict, and cross-strait ties are
not "destined for war" as the international community fears.

Cheng went on to stress that her visit to China once again proves that the
"1992 Consensus" and "opposition to Taiwan independence" remain the
foundation and "stabilizing force" of cross-strait relations.

She is slated to visit Sun Yat-sen's mausoleum in Najing later today, before
returning to Shanghai.

She is scheduled to meet with Taiwan businesspeople there Shanghai before
heading to Beijing.

Cheng is expected to hold talks with Xi Jinping there on Friday.

Posted on 2026-04-08 08:14:13

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has revoked certain privileges for Danish
diplomatic staff at its representatives in Taipei over Denmark's listing
Taiwan residents' nationality as China instead of Taiwan.

However, it has not elaborate on what exact measures have been taken.

The dispute began in 2024 when Denmark changed the nationality and place of
birth categories for Taiwan expats from "Taiwan" to "China."

According to the foreign ministry, the policy does not follow European Union
diplomatic practices and could damage the long-term friendship between the
two countries.

The ministry's Department of European Affairs says Taiwan's representative
office in Denmark is continuing to communicate with the Danish government on
the issue ..

... and it's hoped that the Danish government can propose an acceptable
solution as soon as possible and correct the designation on its residence
permits.

Posted on 2026-04-08 08:14:13

Meanwhile,

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that it received a proposal
last month calling for increased Taiwan investment in Lithuania and the plan
is currently under review.

The statement comes after Lithuanian National Radio and Television reported
this past weekend that Lithuania's Foreign Ministry had outlined priority
economic sectors and potential projects aimed at strengthening cooperation
with Taiwan.

That report said that plan focuses on building "sustainable economic ties
that would contribute to the development of Lithuania's high-tech sectors"
and centers on potential Taiwan investment in the country.

According to the foreign ministry here in Taiwan, the government received the
proposal in March.

The ministry's Department of European Affairs says most of the projects
listed in the proposal build on existing cooperation between the two sides,
spanning sectors such as lasers, medical AI, and fintech ...

... and the proposal requires further consideration and cross-ministerial
discussions.

Posted on 2026-04-08 08:14:13

The Centers for Disease Control has reported its first imported case of Lyme
disease this year.

The case involve a woman in her 60s who was infected in Sweden.

According to the C-D-C, the patient is a Taiwan national who had been living
in Sweden since 2024 and was bitten by forest insects there.

She developed symptoms on March 10 and was diagnosed with Lyme disease at a
hospital in Sweden, where she received antibiotic treatment.

The woman returned to Taiwan on March 17 and sought medical attention again
on March 18 and March 25 due to persistent symptoms.

The infection was later confirmed as Lyme disease through testing.

A total of 21 confirmed cases of Lyme disease have been reported here in
Taiwan since it was classified as a Category IV notifiable infectious disease
in 2007.

All of them have been imported and most have come from the United States.

The disease is transmitted through bites from infected ticks and does not
spread from person to person.

Posted on 2026-04-08 08:14:13

The Miaoli District Court has sentenced a repeat offender to 29 years in
prison for carrying out indiscriminate stabbing attacks that injured two
elementary school girls and a man in October of last year.

The court handed down the sentence after finding Chiu Ming-chih guilty of
attempted murder of minors, attempted murder, and driving under the influence
of drugs.

Chiu had been released from prison just six months prior to the stabbing
after being convicted of attempted murder in 2015 multiple stabbing case.

According to the court, Chiu took methamphetamine, taped a 30-centimeter
knife to his left hand and went looking for people to attack.

All three victims survived after receiving emergency treatment.

The district court ruling can be appealed.

Posted on 2026-04-08 08:14:13

The New Taipei Department of Health has ordered three outlets of bento vendor
Chin Liu Cuisine to suspend operations on suspicion of food poisoning.

The move comes after at least 44 customers fell ill.

City health officials say the customers had all eaten boxed meals provided by
Chin Liu Cuisine outlets near the Xindian District Office or on Zhongxin Road
on either Saturday or Sunday.

Five of the customers have been hospitalized, seven are under observation,
while the remaining 32 have been discharged.

According to the New Taipei health department, it has collect food samples
and specimens from the stores and test results are expected to be available
within two to three weeks.

If food poisoning is confirmed, the bento vendor will be referred to
prosecutors for further investigation for violating the Act Governing Food
Safety and Sanitation.

Posted on 2026-04-08 08:14:13

And finally,

The Central Weather Administration says temperatures are forecast to reach up
to 33-degrees from tomorrow, as a frontal system that has brought rain to
much of the island in recent days weakens.

According to the administration's forecast center, moisture levels are
expected to drop off as the front weakens, bringing more stable and
increasingly hot conditions from tomorrow.

Highs are expected to range from between 31 and 33 degrees from Thursday
through Monday and higher temperatures are possible in some areas.

Lows over the five-day period will range from between 21 and 23 degrees.

However, another weather front is forecast to approaches Taiwan next Tuesday
- bringing more unstable conditions.

Posted on 2026-04-08 07:01:13

A delegation led by K-M-T Chairwoman Cheng Li-wun has attended a banquet in
Nanjing hosted by Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Song Tao.

The banquet took place in Nanjing, and following her arrival at Shanghai's
Hongqiao International Airport.

Cheng told banquet attendees that her trip is aimed at ensuring that
cross-strait relations can demonstrate to the world that political
differences do not necessarily lead to conflict, and cross-strait ties are
not "destined for war"

Cheng also stressed her visit to China once again proves that the "1992
Consensus" and "opposition to Taiwan independence" remain the foundation and
"stabilizing force" of cross-strait relations.

The KMT chairperson is slated to visit Sun Yat-sen's mausoleum in Najing
later today, before returning to Shanghai.

She is then scheduled to meet with Taiwan businesspeople there Shanghai
before heading to Beijing.

Cheng is expected to hold talks with Xi Jinping there on Friday.

Posted on 2026-04-08 07:01:15

President Lai Ching-te has used a memorial marking the 37th anniversary of
Nylon Cheng's death to promote his "Four Pillars of Peace" - saying the
activist's sacrifice helped awaken Taiwan's democratic transformation.

Lai said Taiwan's democracy continues to face threats from China and peace,
like democracy, "cannot be bestowed by a dictator, but must be secured
through strength."

He then outlined the four pillars of his peace framework, which was first
introduced in his inaugural address in May 2024.

The first pillar is strengthening national defense, the second is enhancing
economic resilience, the third pillar is deepening cooperation with
democratic partners to safeguard regional stability ..

.. and the fourth pillar is maintaining stable cross-strait interactions
based on equality and dignity.

Lai added that Taiwan's people have the right to pursue a democratic and free
way of life grounded in human rights and such aspirations should not be
viewed as provocation.

Nylon Cheng self-immolated on April 7, 1989 after being charged with sedition
for publishing a "Draft Constitution of the Taiwan Republic".

He was 41 at the time of his death.

Posted on 2026-04-08 07:01:15

Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung is leading a business delegation to the
Marshall Islands on a three-day trip aimed at deepening bilateral economic
and trade cooperation.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says Lin and members of the delegation will
be meeting with Marshall Islands President Hilda Heine, Legislative Speaker
Brenson Wase, and Foreign Minister Kalani Kaneko.

They will also visit several Taiwan-funded cooperation projects in the
Pacific island nation.

The delegation includes 60 representatives from several industries, including
shipping, cold-chain logistics, medical equipment, food processing and clean
energy.

Representatives from the government's "Drone Diplomacy Task Force" are also
part of the delegation.

The delegation will be holding the first committee meeting under the
Taiwan-Marshall Islands Economic Cooperation Agreement while in the Marshall
Islands this week.

Posted on 2026-04-08 07:01:15

The Ministry of Digital Affair says it has identified vessels dropping anchor
as being the most common cause of disruptions to Taiwan's near-shore undersea
cables.

Ministry figures show that over the past four years, more than 38-per cent of
the seven to eight annual cable disruptions recorded within 24-nautical miles
of Taiwan's coast were caused by anchor damage.

Of the seven incidents recorded last year, three were caused by anchor
strikes - two of which were attributed to flags of convenience vessels
anchoring illegally.

Along with anchoring, "suspected intentional damage" of cables accounted for
two of last year's incidents, while fishing activities and natural fiber-core
degradation each caused one incident.

The digital ministry says the data highlights a risk posed by ships flying
flags of convenience.

The ministry also says that "innocent passage" rights for third-flagged
vessels are increasingly being used by the Chinese authorities as a cover for
"grey-zone threats" against Taiwan's telecommunication security.

Posted on 2026-04-08 07:01:15

The Supreme Court has upheld a lower court's five-year, four-month prison
sentence against a retired lieutenant colonel who unsuccessfully tried to
recruit intelligence assets for China.

The ruling shows Kung Fan-chia met multiple times with a Chinese military
intelligence operative during overseas trips between 2006 and 2008 while
serving as an active-duty officer with the Ministry of National Defense's
Military News Agency.

The court says evidence proved that trips were arranged and paid for by
another former Taiwan Army officer.

That former officer died in June of last year while serving a
12-and-a-half-year sentence for violating the National Security Act and the
Banking Act.

The High Court last June cut Kung's initial sentence of five years and six
months in prison for violating the Anti-Corruption Act and National Security
Act - citing his confession and return of illicit gains.

The Supreme Court rejected the prosecutors' appeal against that ruling --
saying the lower court's ruling and sentence were appropriate.

The Supreme Court verdict is final.

Posted on 2026-04-08 07:01:15

The number of people who fell ill after eating a Kaohsiung food stall's
spring rolls has risen to 157, with multiple victims testing positive for
salmonella.

The incident came to light over the weekend, when dozens of people began
seeking medical treatment after eating spring rolls from a Zhengyi Market
stall in Lingya District.

Health officials ordered the stall to suspend operations for seven days on
Sunday.

The stall's owner has been fined 1.44-million N-T and the case has been
referred to prosecutors for possible criminal investigation.

The Kaohsiung City Health Department is warning that the number of cases of
salmonella poisoning could rise, as the incubation period is between 6 and 72
hours.

All those being treated are in stable condition and recovering.

Posted on 2026-04-08 07:01:15

Police in New Taipei have identified a pedestrian who was killed by a
semi-trailer truck that lost control and crashed into an intersection in the
city's Taishan District as a 35-year-old Vietnamese migrant worker.

The accident occurred early Monday morning, when a semi-truck traveling on
New Taipei Boulevard lost control as it approached the intersection.

The semi-trailer truck hit a median strip, swerved hitting and killing the
pedestrian before crashing into a nearby construction site, injuring two
security guards.

Officials at New Taipei Police Department's Linkou Precinct say they had been
unable to initially confirm the man's identity, due to damage from the crash
and the fact that he was not carrying an ID card.

Police later identified the victim via his telephone service provider and
using fingerprint records from the National Immigration Agency.

The 27-year-old driver of the semi-truck has been referred to prosecutors on
suspicion of negligent homicide.

Posted on 2026-04-08 07:01:15

And,

Cartoonist Chen Chao-pao has died.

He was 77.

He had been hospitalized since March with acute pneumonia caused by influenza.

Chen made his debut as a cartoonist in 1972, when his work was published in
Crown Magazine.

He later became a regular contributor to the United Daily News, where he was
known for his ability to distill sharp punchlines into single-panel cartoons.

His political cartoon in which a ragged man on a bicycle asked a luxury car
driver "Hey! Do you want some financial aid?" gained international attention
after being distributed by the Associated Press in 1981.

Chen later moved to Paris to focus on fine arts and returned to Taiwan in
2002.

He then taught at the National Taiwan University of Arts and continued to
create art after retiring in 2012.

Posted on 2026-04-08 07:01:15

China and Russia on Tuesday vetoed a U.N. resolution encouraging states to
coordinate efforts to protect commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

They calling the measure biased against Iran, while Washington's ambassador
to the world body called on "responsible nations" to join the U.S. in
securing the waterway.

Oil prices have surged since the U.S. and Israel struck Iran at the end of
February, Tehran has largely closed the strait once used to transport about a
fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas.

Russia and China said to be proposing an alternative resolution on the
situation in the Middle East, which includes maritime security.

Posted on 2026-04-07 19:10:13

The Ministry of Labor is rolling out stronger incentives to help women
re-join the workforce.

Labor Minister Hung Sun-han (洪申翰) announced that re-employment bonuses
will double to sixty-thousand NT under an expanded "Women's Reemployment
Program".

The revised program removes previous restrictions that limited eligibility to
women who left work for family reasons.

Now, any woman who has been out of the workforce for more than 180 days can
apply.

Officials say the goal is to make it easier for women to return to stable
employment.

Under the new system, participants can receive 10 thousand NT for every 30
days of employment, up to a maximum of 60 thousand NT ... along with support
for job training and workplace support measures.

The ministry has also increased subsidies for employers who offer flexible
hours or family support programs.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-07 19:10:15

A duck farmer in his 70s in Changhua County has been confirmed as Taiwan's
first domestic case of H7N7 avian influenza.

The Centers for Disease Control says tests at the affected and nearby duck
farms, five in total, have all come back negative.

Health officials also monitored 33 people who had contact with the patient.

All have tested negative, and monitoring has now concluded.

The patient’s condition has improved, and he has been discharged after
repeated negative tests.

Genetic analysis shows the virus is closely related to strains found in wild
birds in Taiwan, as well as in Japan and South Korea, suggesting the case was
likely isolated.

Officials say the risk remains controllable, as joint surveillance and
prevention efforts continue.

Authorities also note that testing of wild bird droppings and surrounding
environments is still ongoing.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-07 19:10:15

The Miaoli District Court has sentenced a repeat offender to 29 years in
prison for a series of random stabbing attacks that injured two elementary
school girls and a man.

The defendant was found guilty of attempted murder, including against minors,
as well as drug-impaired driving.

Judges said the sentence was harsher because he had been released from prison
just six months earlier after serving time for a previous stabbing case.

According to the court, he had taken drugs before attacking victims in
public, targeting children and a passerby.

All three victims survived after receiving emergency treatment.

The court rejected his claim that he acted impulsively, saying he showed
clear intent and awareness during the attacks.

It also described the crimes as particularly cruel and alarming to the public.

The ruling can still be appealed.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-04-07 17:07:13

The DPP is releasing the names of its top contenders to be the mayoral
nominee in Taipei City.

DPP Spokesman Wu Zheng says, the party is currently considering Lawmakers
Puma Shen and Fan Yun- both of whom sit on the party's legislative caucus- as
well as Vice Premier Zheng Li Jun, and Forward Alliance Founder Enoch Wu.

Meanwhile, in Taoyuan, Wu says the DPP's election strategy committee is
likely to put forward Deputy Minister of Justice, Huang Shi Jie黃世杰.

The committee expects to formally nominate Huang at the beginning of next
month, assuming they're able to find someone to take over in the Ministry of
Justice.

Regarding the Taipei mayoral nominee, Wu said it's not yet clear when the
party will be able to put forward a nominee for certain.

As of now, the DPP has yet to nominate candidates to run in Taipei, Taoyuan,
Hsinchu City and County, Kinmen, and Mazu.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-07 17:07:13

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it's reviewing a proposal from Lithuania
aimed at boosting Taiwanese investment in the Baltic state.

Officials confirmed the plan was received in March and includes projects
focused on high-tech sectors such as lasers, medical AI and financial
technology.

The proposal builds on existing cooperation between the two sides, though
further discussions across government agencies are still needed.

The move comes amid growing ties between Taiwan and Lithuania since both
opened representative offices in 2021.

Taiwan says it has already invested more than 16 million euros in Lithuania,
while trade between the two sides has continued to grow.

The proposal also follows comments from Lithuania's prime minister suggesting
Taiwan had not fully delivered on earlier economic commitments.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-04-07 17:07:13

Kaohsiung residents can expect major water outages next Thursday, as Taiwan
Water Corporation says it's planning three projects affecting water supply
that day.

They anticipate water supply being suspended for 11 to 15 hours in some areas
of three districts of the city, including Da-liao, Feng-shan, and Da-shu...

affecting about 40,000 households in total.

Officials advise the public to store water in advance.

Ultimately, the company says, residents can expect to have their water
turned- at most- from 9am on the 16th until midnight.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-07 17:07:13

Now turning to international news...

The US Vice President is visiting Budapest today to support Hungarian Prime
Minister Viktor Orban's campaign for reelection.

JD Vance will meet Orban and appear at a campaign rally, signaling support
for the PM who's been in power since 2010.

Critics accuse Orban of undermining Hungarian institutions and media.

Orban faces a tough race against the center-right Tisza party led by Peter
Magyar.

Most polls show Orban trailing ahead of the vote this weekend.

The US president has several times endorsed Orban's candidacy, and many in
the US far right movement approve of Orban's positions on immigration, LGBT
rights, and the kneecapping of the media and academia.

Posted on 2026-04-07 17:07:13

Japanese officials say, a Japanaese national who had been detained in Iran
since January has now neen released on bail.

Authorities say, the release is confirmed, and Japan is demanding a full
release from Iranian authorities.

The released person has been confirmed to be in good health.

They're believed to be a journalist at Japan's NHK public television.

Another Japanese national that was detained in June was released and returned
to Japan in marhc.

Posted on 2026-04-07 16:32:13

Taiwan opposition leader Cheng Li-wun is heading to China today at the
invitation of President Xi Jinping, in what she calls a “journey for
peace”.

Government officials are voicing their concerns ahead of her trip.

Premier Zhuo Rong Tai says, any contact with Chinese officials should be
heavily scrutinized and supervised...

emphasizing that any illegal conduct on Cheng's part would lead to an
overhaul of the relevant law.

DPP Lawmaker Puma Shen noted that government officials' visits to China have
historically been subject to a high degree of supervision...

but those of party leaders are allowed to operate outside the legal
framework.

He raised concerns about how officials here in Taiwan were to know what would
be discussed between Cheng and Chinese leaders, calling for greater
oversight.

Cheng's trip comes ahead of a scheduled meeting between the Chinese and US
leaders, and as different special defense budgets pending in the legislature.

She said this morning that she aimed to show the world that "it is not just
Taiwan that unilaterally hopes for peace."

But the chair of the Ocean Affairs Council has questioned whether the CCP
truly wants peace, given their continued harrassment of Taiwan in the air and
sea.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-07 16:32:15

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is urging travelers heading to Europe to
allow extra time at border crossings as the European Union launches a new
biometric entry and exit tracking system this Thursday.

The EU's Entry/Exit System, known as EES, has been rolling out gradually
since October last year and goes fully into effect on April 10-th.

The ministry says first-time visitors entering the Schengen Area under the
new system will have their fingerprints and facial photographs collected at
the border.

MOFA is advising visitors to check the latest announcements on official EU
and Schengen member state websites, or contact the relevant countries'
representative offices in Taiwan before departure for the latest details.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-04-07 16:32:15

The Israeli military has warned Iranians in Farsi to avoid taking trains
until at least 9 p.m. local time, likely signaling a new target for its
airstrikes.

The warning was posted to X today, and it read' “Your presence puts your
life at risk.”

Iran has shut off access to the internet for weeks, making it difficult for
average Iranians to see these warnings.

However, Farsi-language satellite news networks abroad do report them,
allowing the information to make its way back into the Islamic Republic.

Meanwhile U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to bomb all of Iran's
power plants and bridges if Iran does not meet his Tuesday 8 p.m. Eastern
Daylight Time, which is 8 AM tomorrow Taipei time, to reopen the Strait of
Hormuz.

Trump says he’s “not at all” concerned about committing possible war
crimes.

Posted on 2026-04-07 16:32:15

Vietnam has unanimously elected Communist Party leader To Lam as president,
consolidating his control over both party and state.

At 69, Lam aims to maintain stability and boost livelihoods.

Analysts warn his rise could risk moving faster than the country’s
institutions can adapt, even as it speeds up decision-making.

His tenure follows sweeping bureaucratic overhauls and a focus on
private-sector growth, targeting 10% annual expansion, though the economy
grew at an annual rate of nearly 8-percent in early 2026.

It came amid the energy shock from the war in Iran.

He also faces political hurdles and the challenge of balancing U.S. and
Chinese ties.

Posted on 2026-04-07 14:07:13

Former TPP lawmaker Zhang Qi-kai (張啟楷) has emerged as the winner in the
primary polls for the Chia-yi City mayoral race, beating KMT candidate Ong
Shou-liang (翁壽良).

Zhang calls the result a victory for the “blue-white cooperation pilot
zone,” noting that Chia-yi City is the first of three trial areas, including
Yi-lan County and New Taipei City.

At a press conference today, Zhang thanked Ong for a friendly campaign, and
Ong has agreed to serve as his campaign manager.

Zhang will face DPP nominee Wang Mei-hui (王美惠), who said today that she's
expecting a rational and positive race for the mayor's office in the November
elections.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-07 14:07:15

Taiwan has withdrawn certain diplomatic courtesies extended to Danish
representatives in Taipei after Denmark began listing Taiwanese residents'
nationality as China instead of Taiwan.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says the dispute began in 2024 when Denmark
changed the nationality and place of birth categories for Taiwanese expats
from "Taiwan" to "China."

MOFA says today that the current policy does not follow EU diplomatic
practices and could damage the long-term friendship between the two
countries.

Taiwanese diplomats in Denmark say they are still in talks with local
officials to resolve the matter, and the foreign ministry is calling on the
Danish government to fix the labels immediately to reflect the correct
nationality.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-04-07 14:07:15

A bento shop in New taipei has been ordered to suspend operations after a
suspected food poisoning outbreak affecting two dozen customers.

A local hospital confirms that they have treated 24 patients linked to the
outbreak at two branches of the shop as of 11 a.m. today.

Health officials have collected samples for laboratory testing and inspectors
yesterday also cited the shops for improperly handled waste and failure to
maintain required health checks for food workers.

New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-ih the business will not be allowed to reopen
until it passes a reinspection.

And if the outbreak is confirmed as a food poisoning case, the operator could
be referred to prosecutors for violations of food safety laws.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-04-07 14:07:15

Taiwan shares are up today with the benchmark tai ex closing at 33229, after
gaining 657 points.

The turnover was 564.3 billion NT

Posted on 2026-04-07 14:07:15

Now turning to international news...

Vietnam has elected the Communist Party leader as president, thus
consolidating his control over both party and state.

The move marks a break from Vietnam's tradition of shared leadership, in
which the leaders of the Vietnamese communist party and the nation's highest
office have traditionall been different people.

To Lam told lawmakers that his top priority was to maintain peace and
stability, which he called the foundation for fast and sustainable growth.

The concentration of power means that Lam has a stronger mandate and more
power to push through his own agenda.

Lam began his career as a policeman and advanced from law enforcement into
the political system...

aided by an anti-corruption campaign launched by his predecessor which he
oversaw.

Lam has focused on economic performance...

but challenges remain, particularly due to a looming global energy crisis due
to the war in Iran.

Posted on 2026-04-07 14:07:15

Bangladesh is racing to contain a measles-rubella outbreak that has killed
more than 100 kids.

Authorities are conducting emergency vaccinations in partnership with the
World Health Organization and other internaitonal groups.

The team is working to vaccinate kids between the ages of 6 months and 5
years old in high-risk districts and is expected to expand the plan
nationwide starting next month.

Data shows nearly 1000 confirmed cases of measles reported since just 3 weeks
ago.

Vaccination is crucial to preventing the spread of measles, but the WHO says
95% of the population has to be vaccinated in order to stop the disease from
spreading.

Since the launch of a massive immunization campaign in 1979, Bangladesh has
raised the coverage of fully immunized children from just 2% to 81.6%.

But UNICEF warned last year that while Bangladesh has made strong strides to
increase immunization coverage, stark disparities persist.

Posted on 2026-04-07 13:23:13

Heavy fog in Kinmen has caused over a thousand passengers to be stranded on
the island as they seek to return to Taiwan.

Yesterday, on the final day of the tomb sweeping long weekend, 22 flights
from Kinmen to airports all around Taiwan were cancelled, affecting over 2000
travelers.

And just this morning, 2 more flights were cancelled while several others
were delayed.

Depite the fog however, some flighs have been able to take off.

Passengers say they're hoping more flights or ferries will be added as
standby spots on existing flights are limited.

Currently, some passengers still stuck at the airport are expecting to be
able to get on a plane Thusday at the earliest.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-07 13:23:13

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan An is touting two key policies as reasoning for his
recent rise in approval ratings.

Polling shows that the mayor's approval rate is now sitting at nearly 70%...

with the sector with the highest rating being for healthcare.

Chiang says that his "smokeless city" and family-friendly policies are likely
cause for the uptick.

The mayor also thanked his team for pushing Taipei in the right direction and
pledged to continue to improve.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-07 13:23:13

And,

Forecasters says a frontal system will move southward today -- bringing
localized showers or thunderstorms to much of the north and center.

However, the frontal system will weaken tomorrow - and the weather will be
stable...

with sunny skies expected islandwide from Thursday through Tuesday.

Another, weaker frontal system is forecast to affect the island from next
Wednesday and Thursday - but meterologists say, it's likely to have minimal
impact.

They also say a tropical disturbance is expected tp develop southeast of Guam
later this week, but it is currently not expected to impact Taiwan.

Posted on 2026-04-07 13:23:13

Now turning to international news...

Officials in Afghanistan say, extreme weather has left at least 110 dead
following widespread flooding and landslides.

Storms began nearly 2 weeks ago, affecting most provinces in the country.

Over the pasy 24 hours alone, 11 people have died and 6 have been injured.

Another 7 people have been reported missing since the floding began, with all
of them believed to have been swept away by floodwater.

On top of the dead, missing, and injured, nearly 1000 homes have been
completely destroyed, and another 4000 have been partially damaged.

Extreme weather warnings are continuing, as authorities warn the public to
stay away from bodies of water.

Posted on 2026-04-07 13:23:13

A key bridge linking Saudi Arabia to Bahrain has closed this morning over
threats of Iranian attacks.

Officials say, they've suspended traffic on the King Fahd Causeway as a
"precautionary measure" over Iranian attacks targeting Saudi Arabi's Eastern
Province.

That bridge is the only connection by road for Bahrain to the Arabian
Peninsula.

This comes as the US president has issued an ultimatum for Iran to reopen the
Strait of Hormuz and has threatened to bomb Iranian power plants and bridges
if it doesn't get its way.

Posted on 2026-04-07 07:02:13

K-M-T Chairwoman Cheng Li-wun is set to travel to China today for a six-day
trip.

Cheng has vowed to "lay a foundation for peace" across the Taiwan Strait and
regional stability during her trip and is expected to meet with Xi Jinping in
Beijing.

She is slated to visit Jiangsu, Shanghai and Beijing and will visit Sun
Yat-sen's Mausoleum in Nanjing on April 8.

But other details of her itinerary have not been released.

Cheng also announced last week that she plans to visit the U-S no later than
June.

The Mainland Affairs Council has said Cheng's China trip is aimed at delaying
passage of a the special defense budget bill... it also claimed that such a
deal was made "in exchange for Beijing's approval for her visit," which the
KMT denies.

Posted on 2026-04-07 07:02:13

The Ministry of Agriculture says Taiwan has restored its status as a
self-declared African swine fever-free area with the World Organisation for
Animal Health.

The ministry says the move means that Taiwan is again the only country in
Asia free of foot-and-mouth disease, classical swine fever, and African swine
fever.

The World Organisation for Animal Health recognized Taiwan's self-declaration
of freedom from African swine fever in May of last year, with the country
becoming the first in Asia to hold disease-free status for all three swine
diseases.

That ended last October, when the agriculture ministry reported Taiwan's
first-ever A-S-F case in a farm in Taichung.

The case was formally closed and reported the World Organisation for Animal
Health on January 23 of this year after the affected farm was cleaned and
disinfected and all samples came back negative.

The Ministry of Agriculture says it submitted an application on February 21
this year to regain self-declared A-S-F-free status.

Posted on 2026-04-07 07:02:13

The National Security Bureau says China is likely to step-up its cyberattacks
as part of its efforts to interfere in November's local elections.

This, after the bureau said government networks faced more than 170-million
attempted cyberattaks in the first quarter of this year.

Those attacks have included intelligence gathering, surveillance, and data
theft ...

.. and China is expected to increase its cyber-disinformation campaigns in
the coming, as it seeks to influence public opinion.

The N-S-B is warning those campaigns will likely include fake opinion polls
and AI-generated deepfakes videos.

Officials say they identified more than 13,000 suspicious online accounts
between January and March - while more than 860,000 pieces of false or
misleading information were detected.

Posted on 2026-04-07 07:02:13

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says a U-S Republican congressional
delegation led by Zach Nunn is visiting Taiwan this week for a seven trip and
will meet with President Lai Ching-te.

Nunn is the chairman of the Republican Study Committee's National Security
Task Force.

The delegation will also include Representatives Scott Fitzgerald, Julie
Fedorchak and Jefferson Shreve.

Along with meeting Lai, the delegation will also be holding talks with other
senior officials to discuss Taiwan-US relations, regional security, economic
and trade cooperation, and developments in the Taiwan Strait.

The Republican Study Committee is a caucus of conservative Republican members
in the U-S House of Representatives.

Its National Security Task Force leads policy efforts on national defense and
promotes a "peace through strength" approach.

Posted on 2026-04-07 07:02:13

The Coast Guard Administration says a fugitive who had been on the run in
China for 18 years has been arrested after allegedly entering Taiwan
illegally by motorboat.

The man is said to have been detained in Keelung City for violating the
Immigration Act.

Investigators later found the suspect had fled to China 18 years ago after
being involved in a firearms modification case and was subsequently listed as
wanted.

The Coast Guard Administration says a suspicious target was detected some
5.8-nautical miles off the mouth of the Zhengwen River in Tainan on March 25
- and a patrol team found an abandoned motorboat on a nearby beach.

The case is being investigated by the Tainan District Prosecutors' Office.

The man's previous case will be transferred to the New Taipei District
Prosecutors' Office.

Posted on 2026-04-07 07:02:13

One person has been killed and two others injured after a semi-trailer truck
plowed into them.

The incident occured at the intersection of Taili Street and Section 6 of New
Taipei Boulevard.

The semi-trailer truck crashed into a nearby construction site after running
down the pedestrians

Police say the 27-year-old driver was unharmed.

The pedestrian died at the scene, while two security guards who were inside
the construction site were injured and taken to hospital.

Initial investigations show the semi-trailer truck was in the inner lane
toward Taipei when, for unknown reasons, it veered onto the sidewalk before
crashing into the Wenzaizun redevelopment zone construction site.

Th exact cause of the incident remains under investigation.

Posted on 2026-04-07 07:02:13

Pope Leo XIV has celebrated his first Easter Mass as pontiff, urging peace
through dialogue and calling for an end to conflicts worldwide.

He departed from tradition by not listing global woes in his Urbi et Orbi
blessing.

Leo emphasized Easter’s message of hope and transformation.

In the Holy Land, Easter celebrations are subdued due to restrictions on
public gatherings, while Gazan Christians celebrated the first Easter since a
ceasefire.

Posted on 2026-04-07 07:02:13

Pressure is mounting for the American rapper Ye to be pulled from his
headline role at a London music festival this summer.

Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, has drawn widespread controversy in recent
years for a series of antisemitic remarks, and has voiced admiration for
Adolf Hitler.

U.K. Minister Keir Starmer has criticized the rapper's scheduled
appearance... saying it was deeply concerning that the rapper had been booked
to perform at the festival.

Pepsi already has withdrawn its lead sponsorship role of the Wireless
Festival at Finsbury Park in north London between July 10-12.

Other sponsors of the event including Budweiser and PayPal are being urged to
follow suit.

Posted on 2026-04-07 07:02:13

South Korea’s spy agency says it would now be fair to view the teenage
daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as his heir.

NIS director Lee Jong-seok made those comments at a closed-door briefing at
the National Assembly yesterday.

It was the NIS' strongest assessment yet on the girl's rising political
status.

The girl, reportedly named Kim Ju Ae and aged about 13, has accompanied her
father to numerous high-profile events in recent years.

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