ICRT

Posted on 2026-04-11 16:11:13

South Korea has adjusted its electronic arrival card system to no longer list
Taiwan as part of China, in a move that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs says
will help facilitate exchanges between the two sides.

South Korea listed "Taiwan" as "Taiwan (China)" in dropdown menus of a
recently updated online entry system.

Taiwan's foreign ministry responded by requesting a revision and threatening
to change a "Korea, Republic of" dropdown listing to "KOREA (SOUTH)" on
Taiwan's own online immigration system.

The standoff was eased when South Korea said it would remove "previous
departure place" and "next destination" fields from its e-arrival card
system.

Those changes were made as of yesterday.

According to a previous report by Yonhap News Agency, a South Korean foreign
ministry official said the change was aimed at simplifying entry procedures
for all inbound travelers and aligning the digital form with the paper
version, which didn't have the fields in question.

CNA_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-11 16:11:14

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an says that the city is installing negative-pressure
smoking rooms around town as part of recently announced plans to make Taipei
a smoke-free city.

Chiang says that Zhongshan and Ximending shopping districts will be the first
two areas to get outdoor smoking rooms. He says the move respects the right
of smokers to pursue their habit ... and the right of non-smokers to avoid
second-hand smoke.

The mayor added that the smoke-free-city plan will also soon see one model
smoke-free neighborhood established in each of the city's 12 districts

CNA_zh_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-11 16:11:14

Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelleh has been reelected for a sixth term,
winning 97.81% of the vote.

The 78-year-old Guelleh has ruled the Horn of Africa nation for more than two
decades.

Opposition groups often boycott elections, citing restrictions on political
freedoms.

AP_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-11 15:08:13

Health Minister Shi Chong-liang (石崇良) says Taiwan will introduce a new
color-labeling system for foods in the second half of the year that will be
easier for customers to understand than current labeling standards.

Shi said Taiwan is borrowing the idea from places including Australia, New
Zealand and Europe in adopting the red, yellow and green color-coding system
for salt, sugar and saturated fats on product labels.

Eventually, Taiwan will launch "health tokens," which could be accumulated by
buying items with green labels that could in turn be used to purchase healthy
foods.

The health minister noted that current nutritional labeling, which is reliant
on numbers, is inscrutable for most consumers, who just want to know how
healthy a product is.

CNA_zh_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-11 15:08:13

The so-called "First Tuna of Su'ao" was auctioned off for nearly 2 million NT
(NT$1.9872 million) today.

The bluefin tuna weighing in at 276 kilos was sold at NT$7,200 a kilo at
Nanfang'ao Port.

Every year, the first tuna caught by a Su'ao-registered fishing vessel and
weighing at least 180 kilograms gets the title of First Tuna of Su'ao. This
year, the Quanchanglong No. 168 was a repeat titleholder. It also brought in
the first tuna last year and in 2020.

The boat called in the catch on Tuesday morning and motored into port at
Nanfang'ao the next day to weigh the fish that was auctioned today.

CNA_zh_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-11 15:08:13

The Central Weather Administration says Taiwan is expected to continue to
experience summer-like weather into next week.

Temperatures are expected to fall to 21-23 degrees around Taiwan tonight.

Stable weather is expected to continue into next week, although the CWA says
moisture in the air will increase in northern Taiwan, which will lower
temperature highs slightly to around 29 degrees on Thursday.

Posted on 2026-04-11 15:08:13

A US delegation led by US Vice President JD Vance has landed in Pakistan for
high-level talks with Iranian representatives.

The talks beginning today will be the first such meeting since the war began
more than a month ago.

The meeting will test whether the sides can shore up a fragile ceasefire and
pave the way for peace.

The ceasefire brokered by Pakistan still faces hurdles, as Israel and
Hezbollah militants have been trading fire along the border of southern
Lebanon.

Iran has said negotiations can't begin until frozen assets are released and
Israel agrees to a ceasefire with Lebanon.

Negotiations between Israel and Lebanon were expected to begin on Tuesday in
Washington.

AP_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-11 14:08:13

Taiwan watchers are reflecting on the meeting yesterday of KMT Chair Cheng
Li-wun and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Kharis Templeman of the Hoover Institution says Cheng's visit to China hasn't
changed the dynamics much ... but he did observe that her remarks show her to
be even more aligned with Beijing than her predecessors.

Cheng and Xi both rejected Taiwan independence and affirmed the so-called
1992 Consensus as the basis for continuing communication.

Bonnie Glaser of the German Marshall Fund said that Cheng's decision not to
express concern about Beijing's military pressure on Taiwan is most
noteworthy ... as it implies that military coercion is legitimate because its
target is so-called "separatists."

Templeman said that this visit may help Cheng consolidate her power within
the KMT, at least in the short term, as Beijing seems to be giving her
deference as a leader.

He added that many in Washington continue to distrust Cheng, particularly
because her party has been slow to approve Taiwan's special defense bill,
which involves the acquisition of billions of dollars of US defensive
weapons.

CNA_zh_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-11 14:08:13

Lion Travel says rising airfares and geopolitical tensions are reshaping
travel demand, with bookings shifting away from routes that transit the
Middle East ... toward Asia, Oceania and North America.

The travel agency says bookings have remained strong despite higher costs,
with group tour bookings rising about 15 percent on year since last month.

Demand for Australia and New Zealand has surged around 40 percent, while
bookings to the United States and Canada have also increased.

Lion Travel said Japan tour bookings are up about 40 percent, with South
Korea up around 20 percent.

Rising global oil prices linked to Middle East tensions have led airlines to
increase fuel surcharges, which took effect on April 7.

Lion Travel says it has raised the cost of short-haul group travel trips by
less than NT$2,000 and long-haul tours by about NT$4,000.

CNA_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-11 14:08:13

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has voiced support for China's push to build
a multipolar world and called for deeper ties between the traditional allies.

North Korean state media reports that Kim met yesterday with Chinese Foreign
Minister Wang Yi.

Kim said his government will fully support Chinese efforts to achieve
territorial integrity based on its one-China principle -- a reference to
Beijing's official position that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China.

He told Wang that sustained development of ties between the two countries has
become more crucial in the current geopolitical environment.

Wang said the countries' relations were entering a "new phase" following a
summit last year between Kim and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

CNA_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-11 13:07:14

Taiwan's foreign minister says Asian-Pacific countries need to view the First
Island Chain as a single military theater and not a series of island nations
to be defended individually.

Speaking at an event themed around democratic first-chain islands, Lin
Jia-long said that deterrence from aggressors -- and ultimately peace -- can
only be achieved if democratic nations cooperate to defend the First Island
Chain holistically.

Lin's audience included former top regional commanders of US and Japanese
navies, among other leading lights in the naval community around the region.

He called the First Island Chain a crucial frontline for global freedom,
democracy and order.

Speaking of Taiwan's role, he said that while producing more products will
continue to be important, it should also be seen as an indispensable hub for
unmanned systems and a key node in the democratic supply chain.

CNA_zh_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-11 13:07:15

President Lai Ching-te has officially opened the National Center for AI
Robotics in Tainan, calling it a crucial step toward Taiwan's goal of
becoming a technology-oriented island.

The center was created in line with the government's "Ten AI Initiatives
Promotion Plan" to give Taiwan a competitive edge in the global tech market.

Lai expressed hope that the AI initiatives plan will benefit a million SMEs.

He said he expects the center to become an engine for local robotics R&D,
provide a platform for nurturing talent in the field and serve as a bridge
between the tech education sector and industry.

At the same event, National Applied Research Laboratories President Tsai
Hung-yin unveiled a government program to promote the local robotics industry
that will be launched this year -- with plans to invest NT$20 billion from
2026-2029.

CNA_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-11 12:09:13

Taiwan's annual Han Kuang war games kicked off yesterday and will run through
April 24th.

Minister without Portfolio Chi Lien-cheng (季連成) stressed that the Han
Kuang drills _aren't_ live-fire exercises ... with the focus this time on
simulating the normal operation of government mechanisms during wartime.

Aside from a Central Joint Response Center, the exercises will also set up
local-government response centers in New Taipei, Yilan, Kaohsiung and
Pingtung.

Chi noted that during peacetime, the military can be called upon to support
civilian government, for example in providing aid and labor after natural
disasters. In wartime, the situation is reversed, he said, with local
governments expected to provide support to the military, which will be
focused on defending bases that will be the enemy's most likely targets.

CNA_zh_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-11 12:09:17

Agricultural authorities have suspended the rollout of a pet medication
regulation originally slated for July 1.

This is in response to concerns over possible drug shortages.

The regulation would have mandated that manufacturers of a class of 701
human-grade drugs register with the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency
as a prerequisite for selling to veterinary hospitals.

For medicines not yet registered, the regulation stipulated that owners must
use a "purchase certificate" provided by a veterinarian to acquire drugs from
pharmacies ... and then give those drugs to the veterinary clinic for
treatment.

Most such drugs haven't yet been registered, fueling concerns that vets won't
be able to deal with emergencies late at night, when most pharmacies are
closed.

Deputy Agriculture Minister Tu Wen-jane said the policy won't take effect
until complementary measures are in place, relenting after pet owners, animal
welfare activists and veterinarians gathered in front of the agency to demand
a delay.

CNA_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-11 11:08:13

Taiwan's exports hit a fresh monthly high in March, soaring by more than 60
percent from a year earlier, as global demand for AI applications continued
to increase,

Data compiled by the Ministry of Finance showed the country's exports
exceeded US$80 billion, up 62 percent from a year earlier ... and marking the
29th consecutive month of year-on-year growth.

The ICT-slash-audio/video device industry continued to lead Taiwan's exports,
accounting for nearly half of the total (at a new high of US$39.73 billion).

On the other hand, the data show that base-metal exports fell 7.4 percent to
US$2.4 billion on a decline in steel and copper sales.

The ministry said Taiwan's imports in March rose 38 percent from a year
earlier to reach a record high of nearly US$59 billion as the AI boom
prompted Taiwanese suppliers to buy equipment for expansion.

The trade surplus was US$21 billion, tripling on year.

In the first quarter, Taiwan posted US$196 billion in exports, up 51 percent
from a year earlier.

CNA_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-11 11:08:13

The Mainland Affairs Council is warning that KMT Chair Cheng Li-wun's framing
of cross-strait ties as an "internal matter" and her request that foreigners
butt out could shape how the international community responds to Taiwan,
including arms sales and other forms of support.

The MAC said that the KMT and the Chinese Communist Party share a political
foundation that ultimately seeks to eliminate the Republic of China. The
Taiwanese agency that handles cross-strait affairs reiterated its rejection
of the so-called 1992 consensus that Cheng has been touting as a basis for
seeking peace with Beijing.

The "1992 consensus" refers to a tacit understanding ostensibly reached in
1992 between Taiwan's then KMT government and the Chinese government, under
which both sides acknowledge there is "one China," while differing on its
definition.

The MAC argues that there's no room for interpreting "China" as the Republic
of China under the consensus.

Meanwhile, the American Institute in Taiwan stressed the importance of
dialogue between Taipei and Beijing being conducted between democratically
elected leaders on both sides without coercion or preconditions.

CNA_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-10 20:07:13

A planned housing project in Taipei is receiving heat from civil groups and
city councillors.

Councillors from the DPP, TPP, and the Social Democratic Party have all
called on the city government to axe the plan.

It would entail building 725 units near MRT stations around the city.

Several NGOs as well as SDP councillor Miao Poya 苗博雅, DPP councillor Chien
Shu-pei 簡舒培, and TPP councillors Chen You-cheng 陳宥丞 and Huang
Ching-ying 黃(水靜)瑩 held a press conference today...

during which they called on the city government to convert some of the
planned joint development housing into social housing, particularly given the
exorbitant cost of housing in Taipei.

Critics say that the plan actively goes against Mayor Chiang Wan-an's
promises to construct more social housing in Taipei, and may even drive up
the cost of housing in the areas affected.

Councilor Miao Poya noted that the 725 units planned for sale is equal to the
total number of social housing units built during Chiang's 3 years in office.

Meanwhile the MRT said that the plan is necessary to help them pay off
significant debt.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-10 20:07:13

Japan's Kenzo Maeda has been named head coach of Taiwan's women's national
basketball team.

Maeda, 43, is currently head coach of B.League side the Akita Northern
Happinets and will succeed American Michael Olson.

He will lead the team at the William Jones Cup here in Taiwan this summer and
at the Asian Games in Japan in September.

"I will emphasize team defense, tactical flexibility and timely rotations,
while focusing on the long-term development of young players as we work
together to build a team culture," Maeda said in a statement.

He has also served multiple stints on the coaching staff of Japan's men's
national team.

The Happinets went 19-22 in the 2019-20 season and are currently last in the
Eastern Conference with an 8-42 record.

Maeda is currently learning Chinese and reviewing game footage of Taiwanese
players, and he is expected to meet the team in Taiwan in mid-April, the
Chinese Taipei Basketball Association said.

Taiwan finished seventh at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou (held in 2023),
its first finish outside the top four in the last nine editions.

Posted on 2026-04-10 20:07:13

Min Aung Hlaing, the army chief who ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian
government five years ago, has been sworn in as Myanmar's president.

His inauguration followed a general election that U.N. experts and rights
groups had said was neither fair nor free.

Aung San Suu Kyi's popular National League for Democracy and other major
parties did not participate.

Critics said the process will maintain military control under a civilian
facade.

Twenty-eight of the thirty new cabinet members are military-affiliated.

Min Aung Hlaing pledged peace with ethnic rebels and said he aims to restore
relations with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, which has been
concerned about instability in Myanmar.

The election was also criticised for only taking place in less than half of
Myanmar's territory.

Posted on 2026-04-10 20:07:13

Protests in Ireland over high fuel prices have entered a fourth day.

Demonstrators have clogged roads and blocked access to refining and
distribution sites around the country.

This has sparked concerns about fuel shortages and emergency services.

The Irish government meets with farmers, truckers and agricultural
contractors today to discuss the crisis.

Rising gasoline and diesel costs have been triggered by the conflict in the
Middle East, as oil exports from the region have been restricted.

National broadcaster RTE said that more than a hundred service stations have
now run out of fuel, and that number could rise to five hundred tonight if
fuel supplies remain disrupted.

The Irish government asked the army to intervene yesterday, removing vehicles
from blocked roads.

Posted on 2026-04-10 20:07:13

Stefano Gabbana has stepped down as chairman of the fashion house that he
co-founded with Domenico Dolce.

The company said on Friday that Gabbana's resignation from oversight roles
was effective Jan. 1.

The company called it "a natural evolution of its organizational structure
and governance.''

The statement said that Gabbana, 63, will continue in his creative role at
the company.

Gabbana was present at the last runway show in February, with Madonna as a
front-row guest.

Both he and Dolce greeted Madonna personally at her seat after the show and
brought her backstage.

Posted on 2026-04-10 19:58:13

Taiwan's main opposition leader Cheng Li-wun of the KMT met with Chinese
President Xi Jinping earlier today at Beijing's Great Hall of the People, the
first such encounter in over a decade.

Cheng described the atmosphere of the talks as positive and friendly, saying
that both sides have affirmed the need for maintaining peace across the
Taiwan Strait.

They have also said they would uphold the 1992 Consensus and opposed Taiwan's
independence, as well as move toward closer ties.

The meeting started at around 11 AM and lasted an hour behind closed doors,
and it was followed by a lunch with Xi as the host.

At a news conference this afternoon, Cheng said she made it clear at the
meeting that both sides can work together in preserving shared history,
promoting Chinese culture, and boosting people’s well-being through
cooperation.

(In Mandarin, pot Burli channel down half way through)

Cheng said she's also proposed to Xi that Taiwan and China should resume
dialogue mechanisms, expand mutually beneficial exchanges and increase
Taiwan’s international participation.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-10 19:58:13

A former television producer has been indicted on charges of spying for China
and could face up to 12 years in prison.

The Taipei District Prosecutors Office says Lee Neng-chien (李能謙) is
accused of being recruited by Chinese intelligence and directing others to
collect sensitive military information in Taiwan.

Authorities say he provided thousands of pieces of confidential data,
including information on military personnel, posing a serious threat to
national security.

The case was uncovered during an investigation into an investment scam that
used fake advertisements featuring public figures.

Further evidence revealed alleged links to Chinese intelligence operatives,
including contacts in China who offered payment for sensitive information.

Prosecutors have indicted Lee and four others on charges including violations
of the National Security Act, Intelligence Services Act, and Personal Data
Protection Act.

They say Lee also attempted to recruit active-duty military personnel, though
those efforts were unsuccessful.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-04-10 19:58:13

Taiwan Railway Corporation has unveiled a range of souvenir items ahead of
two major religious events honoring the sea goddess Mazu.

The state-owned company says the launch coincides with the Baishatun Mazu
pilgrimage starting Sunday in Miaoli County, and the Dajia Jenn Lann Temple
procession set to begin in Taichung on April seventeenth.

The collection includes long towels and ribbon key chains featuring
cartoon-style Mazu designs, along with small bags and stainless steel lunch
boxes printed with blessing messages.

The items are being sold in discounted sets on the company's website and at
selected Taiwan Railway shop locations.

The promotion runs through April thirtieth, which is this coming Monday.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-04-10 19:58:13

In business news,

Local supermarket chain PX Mart says it's targeting 230 billion NT in revenue
this year, after posting more than 220 billion last year.

The company says it plans to continue expanding, aiming to reach about 1,280
stores nationwide, up from around 1,260 currently.

PX Mart says it will keep investing in physical stores as well as e-commerce
and rapid delivery services to better serve customers.

The company is also testing electronic shelf labels in a small number of
stores, with a full rollout planned in the coming years to improve efficiency
and reduce labor demands.

Addressing online criticism, Lin says the company will review feedback
carefully and continue making improvements, adding that any shortcomings will
be corrected.

He also emphasized PX Mart's commitment to supporting local farmers and
Taiwan’s domestic market.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-10 17:15:13

With the 2026 central government budget still stalled in the legislature, the
ruling and opposition parties have reached a concensus to discuss it next
week with Legislative Speaker Han Guo-yu as the convener.

They've also agreed that the bill should be at top of the agenda of the next
plenary session.

KMT Legislative Caucus Whip Fu Kun Chi has stuck with his party's line on the
issue...

insisting that the budget won't be referred for committee review until the
Executive Yuan "acts according to the law" to include pay raises for military
members and police in the budget.

Meanwhile, DPP heavyweight Wu Si-yao accused the KMT of backtracking on its
pledge to review the special defense budget, after its lawmakers skipped a
Legislative Defense committee meeting on the bill yesterday.

Wu accused the KMT of intentionally delaying the examination of the defense
budget due to Chair Zheng Li Wen's meeting today with Chinese leader Xi
Jinping.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-10 17:15:13

opposes Mingjian incinerator

The DPP's pick to run for Nantou magistrate has come out against the current
county government's plan to build a incinerator in the county's Mingjian
township.

Wen Shi Zheng, accompanied by lawmaker Luo Mei Ling at a press conference
today, proposed 5 measures to deal with waste in Taiwan's only
incinerator-less municipality.

Wen said that he hoped the county could diversify its waste management so
that it would not have to rely on the contentious incinerator.

He said that the problem with trash in Nantou is caused by a series of
complex factors that only a series of solutions can address.

The measures Wen put forward include strengthening recycling infrastructure,
the separation of compostables, and private and public cooperation, among
others.

The Mingjian incinerator proposal has attracted criticism across the board,
with local residents raising concerns over how the incinerator may affect tea
plants and other crops.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-10 17:15:13

The Criminal Investigation Bureau has dismantled a major money-laundering
operation that used mobile phone shops as cover.

Police say the group worked with fraud rings using fake investment and fake
online relationship scams.

Victims were first drained of their savings, then pushed to raise credit
limits and sent to designated stores for 'card-for-cash' deals.

Investigators say the shops helped convert credit card payments into cash,
taking a cut and disguising the transactions as normal purchases.

Victims were then instructed to pass the cash to couriers or move it through
cryptocurrency, making it harder to trace.

Authorities estimate illegal profits is over 40 million NT.

They also seized cash, vehicles, card machines, and other evidence.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-10 17:15:13

Now turning to international news and in Gaza,

it's been 6 months since a ceasefire took effect, but challenges persist.

Most of the ceasefire work remains to be done, including disarming Hamas and
deploying an international stabilization force...

not to mention the reconstruction of everything that the Israeli barrage on
the Gaza Strip destroyed.

Gaza residents are forced to rely on only limited aid entering through a
single border post controlled by Israel.

Trucks entering Gaza declined by 80% in early March, causing the cost of
basic goods to skyrocket.

The US created what it called the "Board of Peace" and kicked off with 7
billion dollars in pledges and promises to resolve conflict in Gaza and
around the world... before the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran just
over a week later.

The organization has not met again since.

Posted on 2026-04-10 17:15:13

and, why did the frog cross the road?

Well, in Poland, they do it every spring to migrate to marshes, but a road
bisecting the route has made the journey dangerous.

That's why hundreds of volunteers have joined a "frog patrol" project to help
the frogs survive road crossings during their mating rituals.

The female frogs do most of the hard work during the journey, while the male
ones ride on the backs of the females...

holding on tightly all the while to avoid being dumped in favor of a rival.

Frog patrol volunteers include families and kids who meet up to carry the
frogs across the street.

Since the project began, locals have saved about 18,000 frogs.

Similar efforts are taking place worldwide, including in the US, Germany,
France, and Estonia.

Posted on 2026-04-10 16:07:13

ASE Technology Holding has begun construction of a new facility in Kaohsiung
to meet rising global demand for AI-related chips.

The company says it will invest more than 108 billion NT in the project,
which will expand advanced chip testing capacity.

Production for the first phase should begin in April 2027, with a second
phase set to follow later that year.

ASE, the world's largest IC packaging and testing provider, says the new
plant will strengthen its operations in Kaohsiung and improve efficiency.

The facility will also feature AI-driven production systems, including
automated handling and advanced inspection technology.

Officials say the project will help build a major semiconductor cluster in
the city and support growing demand for high-performance computing devices.

The investment reflects continued expansion in Taiwan’s semiconductor
industry amid the global AI boom.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-04-10 16:07:17

Health officials are urging precautions ahead of the Bai-sha-tun Mazu
pilgrimage, which begins this Sunday.

The Health Promotion Administration says participants should stay hydrated
and watch for air pollution, as smoke from incense and firecrackers can cause
PM2.5 levels to spike, increasing risks for asthma and allergies.

Pilgrims are advised to wear medical masks throughout the journey and dress
in layers to manage large temperature swings that may affect blood pressure.

With long hours of walking, people with chronic conditions should monitor
their health, take medication regularly, and carry necessary medicine.

Officials also warn of risks including heatstroke, exhaustion, and
overeating, and recommend sun protection, balanced meals, and frequent
hydration.

Anyone experiencing serious symptoms should seek help at nearby medical
stations.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-10 16:07:21

Villagers in Taitung helped to rescue a trapped Formosan black bear in the
mountains yesterday evening.

One villager, from Yanping township's Wuling tribe, discovered an adolescent
bear trapped in the mountains in the area.

Local forestry officials say that they received the report and immediately
dispatched rescue and medical personnel...

while seven members of the Wuling tribe participated in the operation as
well.

Authorities note that the bear's injuries are minor and that he will be
released back in to the wild soon.

They add that the bear, which weighs only about 36 kilograms, only showed
slight redness and swelling on the nose.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-04-10 16:07:21

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says Ukrainian military personnel
shot down Iranian-designed Shahed drones in multiple Middle Eastern countries
during the Iran war.

He described the operations as part of a broader effort to help partners
counter the same weapons used by Russia in Ukraine.

Zelenskyy did not identify the countries involved but said Ukrainian
personnel operated across several nations,

He made his first public acknowledgment of the operations Wednesday in
remarks to reporters that were embargoed until Friday.

Zelenskyy said Ukrainian forces took part in active operations abroad using
domestically produced, battle-tested interceptor drones.

Posted on 2026-04-10 15:08:13

Taiwan's opposition leader Cheng Li-wun met with Chinese President Xi Jinping
earlier today at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People, the first such
encounter in over a decade.

Both sides have affirmed the need for maintaining peace across the Taiwan
Strat, saying they wanted to move toward closer ties.

They have also said they would uphold the 1992 Consensus and opposed Taiwan's
independence.

The meeting started at around 11 AM and lasted an hour behind closed doors,
and it was followed by a lunch with Xi as the host.

At a news conference this afternoon, Cheng said it would take time and
patience to bridge the differences between Taiwan and China.
>(Mandarin, pod down after 6 or 7 seconds)

She said both sides are hoping for increasing mutual understanding and
goodwill, adding that she's willing to do whatever it takes to help promote
peace across the Strait.

Her delegation is scheduled to return to Taiwan on Sunday.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-10 15:08:14

The opposition TPP has proposed a motion to demand that the Executive Yuan
promptly issue appointment orders for four approved members of the Central
Election Commission.

The proposal passed without objection and has been sent directly to a second
reading, with the TPP set to coordinate cross-party negotiations.

It comes after the Cabinet said yesterday that it would complete the
appointments based on the law.

The Legislature on March 13th approved 4 of the 7 C-E-C candidates that the
Lai Administration proposed, but Premier Chuo Rong-tai has refused to issue
their appointment orders citing the Legislative Yuan's "lack of integrity".

Chuo said the opposition parties had promised to cooperate on the C-E-C
nominations, a claim that refuted by both the TPP and KMT.

Meanwhile, the TPP is proposing to extend the current legislative session to
the end of July instead of the usual May 30th, citing the need for more time
to review the 2026 general budget and the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-10 15:08:14

In world news...

Negotiators from Iran and the United States are preparing for high-level
talks planned to start a day later in Islamabad.

They are seeking to steady a ceasefire teetering over Israel and Hezbollah
exchanging fire and Tehran’s chokehold over the Strait of Hormuz.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance is set to take off from Washington, with Iran
still remaining mum over its team as it tried to pressure Washington to halt
Israeli attacks in Lebanon.

The semiofficial Tasnim news agency claimed that talks would “remain
suspended” otherwise.

Meanwhile, Kuwait said it faced a drone attack Thursday night it blamed on
Iran and its militia allies in the region.

Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard denies launching any assault.

In addition to talks in Iran, Israel-Lebanon negotiations are also expected
to begin next week at the State Department in Washington.

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

The Ministry of National Defense is calling for the swift examination of its
special defense budget proposal...

after the legislative committee tasked with handling the review of that and
other proposals failed to convene yesterday.

DPP Lawmaker Chen Guan Ting, who convenes the national defense and foreign
affairs committee, noted that KMT lawmakers had previously requested to move
back yesterday's meeting...

leading some to wonder if the delay had to do with today's meeting between
the leaders of the KMT and CCP.

Defense Minister Wellington Koo said that he hoped lawmakers would examine
the Executive Yuan's version of the proposal as soon as possible.

Lawmaker Chen also noted that Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu would facilitate
negotiations going forward.

(AＨ）

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

New Taipei reports the number of people seeking medical care in a suspected
food poisoning case linked to the Chin Liu Cuisine bento chain has risen to
162.

Health officials say 14 new cases were added as of this morning, with 35
people still hospitalized or under observation.

Patients developed symptoms including abdominal pain and fever after eating
lunch boxes from two branches — 111 cases at Gongsuo and 51 at Zhongxing —
purchased on April 4th and 5th.

Authorities say Salmonella infection is one possible cause, with symptoms
typically appearing within 6 to 72 hours.

While new cases appear to be slowing, officials continue follow-ups and are
submitting data to investigators.

All three branches remain closed, and the case has been referred to the
Taipei District Prosecutors Office.

(IG)

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

Asian shares dropped on opening this morning, but are mostly higher now...

with markets in South Korea, Japan, and China all gaining today.

Taiwan shares are up today, with the benchmark tai ex gaininng 556 points to
close the session at 35417.

The turnover was 829.5 billion NT

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

Now turning to international news...

Kuwait is accusing Iran on strikes on its territory despite a ceasefire in
place.

Iran has denied the claim.

Kuwait's statement comes as the US president has cast doubt on the efficacy
of a 2 week ceasefire with Iran.

Meanwhile Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he approved
direct negotiations with Lebanon...

where Israeli strikes yesterday killed 300 people.

Lebanon has not yet responded to that announcement.

But those in the Iranian capital reported multiple instances of what they
said sounded like air defense fire and explosions, though the Iranian
government did not acknowledge any attack during that period.

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

The foreign ministers of North Korea and China have agreed to deepen
cooperation and exchange.

That's after talked between the two countries in Pyongyang.

The visit to North Korea was the first by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in
7 years.

State media from both countries reported on the meetings, but did not mention
specific issues like the US or the Iran war.

Wang's visit comes as US President Donald Trump is set to travel to China to
meet with Xi Jinping next month.

The relationship between North Korea and China has been described as being
quite close, but their ties have appeared shakier in recent years, as North
Korea focuses on expanding cooperation with Russia and China reportedly
reluctant to join an alliance with Moscow and Pyongyang.

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

Pope Leo the 14th is taking a trip to 4 African countries- a trip to put the
new pope's endurance and linguistic skills to the test.

Leo will visit Algeria, Angola, Camerooon, and Equatorial Guinea over 11 days
starting Monday.

It'll be a long trip for the 70 year old pope, during which he will take 18
flights...

deliver homilies in French, Spanish, Portuguese, AND English...

and cover nearly 18,000 kilometers.

In making the trip, Leo is choosing to prioritize a part of the world that is
key to the continued growth of the Catholic Church.

Huge crowds are expected in Cameroon, in which nearly a third of the
population is Catholic, and where the pope will preside over a peace meeting
in an area plagued by violence.

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.

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