Taiwan Tati Cultural and Educational Foundation

Legislative speaker matters for EU

Marcin Jerzewski and Jakub Janda 葉皓勤，楊雅嚳

Tomorrow, the 11th Legislative Yuan is to elect its speaker. This decision will have important ramifications for Taiwan’s efforts to expand its international space, as parliamentary diplomacy has been a critical tool for Taipei to circumvent its diplomatic isolation. Europe continues to closely observe the lead-up to the consequential vote.

The pertinence of parliamentary diplomacy for Taiwan becomes clear in the context of Taiwan’s recent openness in relations with Europe.

Out of all EU institutions, the European Parliament, with its directly elected lawmakers across the 27 member states, has been at the forefront of efforts to elevate the perception of Taiwan to that of a like-minded partner in its own right rather than a festering sore in EU-China relations.

Itu Aba dredging completed, CGA says

Taipei Times

The Coast Guard Administration (CGA) yesterday confirmed that a dredging project to allow larger vessels to dock at a wharf serving Taiwan-controlled Itu Aba Island (Taiping Island, 太平島) has been completed.

However, the coast guard did not respond when asked if President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) would preside over a planned opening ceremony for the renovated wharf.

The CGA’s confirmation came following a report in the Chinese-language United Daily News earlier yesterday, which included a call from Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) Legislator Charles Chen (陳以信) for Tsai to reaffirm the nation’s sovereignty by visiting the disputed island.

Time to bolster Taipei-Manila ties

Huynh Tam Sang

In congratulating president-elect William Lai (賴清德) with his election victory on X, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr risked an even more aggravated relationship between the Philippines and the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Marcos’ congratulatory message was followed by his vow to “[strengthen] mutual interests, [foster] peace” with Taiwan, indicating his resolve to forge ties with the nation despite mounting pressure from Beijing.

Marcos’ diplomatic backing of Taiwan prompted China to swiftly summon and rebuke the Philippine ambassador. Chinese spokesperson Mao Ning (毛寧) went so far as to warn the Philippines “not to play with fire” on the Taiwan issue, which Chinese leaders have consistently asserted as China’s “internal affair.” As a tactic, China often uses “wolf-warrior diplomacy” to drive a wedge between Taiwan and the democratic nation’s like-minded partners, making it harder for them to back Taipei.

India’s story of tech innovation

Manharsinh Laxmanbhai Yadav

India celebrates its 75th Republic Day today. It is on this date in 1950 that the constitution of India came into effect. Projected by the World Economic Forum to reach a US$10 trillion economy by the end of this decade, India’s journey is characterized by steady growth, technological innovation and resilience. This growth story is not just about economic figures; it represents a civilization’s indomitable spirit to leapfrog into the future, leveraging the power of technology.

In the landscape of global economic uncertainties, India’s economy stands out as a beacon of resilience and growth. Registering a 7.2 percent growth rate, India was the fastest growing major economy in fiscal year 2022-2023. With a demographic dividend providing tailwinds, India has significant potential of further growth in areas such as infrastructure, industrialization and energy consumption. India’s economic narrative, in contrast to the sluggish growth and high inflation affecting many economies globally, highlights its unique position as a rapidly developing nation with vast potential for further growth and development. The nation’s strategic focus on digital infrastructure, public investment and robust domestic demand positions it not just as a growing economic powerhouse, but also as a key player in shaping the future of the global economy.

More Articles...