Taiwan Tati Cultural and Educational Foundation

Clarity on KMT conscription stance

Chang Cheng-shuh 張正修

Given the strong possibility that China could invade Taiwan, the Presidential Office has formulated an “armed forces realignment plan to strengthen our all-out national defense.”

Having been discussed and finalized at a high-level national security meeting, the plan is to be submitted to the Legislative Yuan via the Executive Yuan.

Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislative caucus whip Ker Chien-ming (柯建銘) said that after the Executive Yuan had approved the bill, it would pass it on to the Legislative Yuan for approval.

Taiwan built sub to be tested from September

Taipei Times

A prototype of Taiwan’s first locally built submarine is set to begin testing in September, marking a milestone in the nation’s Indigenous Defense Submarine program, CSBC Corp, Taiwan (台船) chairman Cheng Wen-lon (鄭文隆) said yesterday.

The construction of the prototype has continued around the clock after overcoming a series of difficulties thanks to the cooperation of the Naval Shipbuilding Development Center, the navy’s 256th Submarine Squadron and a CSBC task force, Cheng said.

Japan taking China threat seriously

Yao Chung-yuan 姚中原

In the past few years, the Chinese military threat to Japan has become increasingly serious. Under such circumstances, Japan has acted accordingly, outlining strategic plans for the next five years to expand military budgets, boost defense capabilities and enhance its ability to deter enemies.

On Dec. 16, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s Cabinet approved three key security documents: the National Security Strategy, the National Defense Strategy and the Defense Force Buildup Plan.

Why I support Taiwan’s independence

Ian Easton

Loyal readers of this column, which I have had the privilege of contributing to for the past five years, will be aware that I harbor some contrarian views and, on occasion, delight in sharing them.

This is one such moment. The truth is that I support Taiwan’s independence. Prudence would demand, of course, that I camouflage such “politically sensitive” thoughts. But one can deny the existence of an idea for only so long before it becomes unbearable, especially when it is backed by empirical evidence of the type that sticks to grey matter like superglue.

More Articles...