Australian Economy Is Too Dependent on China and Needs Diversification, Says Senate Opposition Leader
Under Australia's new foreign relations law, which allows the federal government to veto pacts between states and overseas governments or institutions, it is expected that agreements on the ‘Belt and Road’ (‘B&R’) initiative and Confucian Institutes between local governments and China will be voided. Penny Wong, leader of the opposition Labor Party in the Senate, said on 7 December that she hopes the federal and Victorian governments will have “sensible discussions” regarding the latter’s ‘B&R’ agreement. While stressing the need for a new economic strategy where Australia will work with other countries, Wong fell short of signalling a revocation of Victoria’s ‘B&R’ agreement.
As Victoria’s ‘B&R’ agreement with China faces the prospect of being suspended, Wong said in an interview with the ABC that she thinks the federal government “should try to resolve this in a way that respects engagement with the state government and that recognises that China will observe how this is handled carefully”.
Adding that the Labor Party supports the Liberal government in opposing Victoria’s ‘B&R’ initiative, Wong did not indicate specifically that the agreement will be unilaterally cancelled. Wong suggested that instead of considering how Australia can fix its relationship with China, it needs a strategy to diversify its economy and cooperate with other countries in the region given that it is now too reliant on China.
Source: Stand News #Dec07
#Australia #Victoria #China #OneBeltOneRoad #BeltAndRoad #PennyWong #Labor #Diplomacy #Economy #Trade
https://bit.ly/38ES1Sa
Under Australia's new foreign relations law, which allows the federal government to veto pacts between states and overseas governments or institutions, it is expected that agreements on the ‘Belt and Road’ (‘B&R’) initiative and Confucian Institutes between local governments and China will be voided. Penny Wong, leader of the opposition Labor Party in the Senate, said on 7 December that she hopes the federal and Victorian governments will have “sensible discussions” regarding the latter’s ‘B&R’ agreement. While stressing the need for a new economic strategy where Australia will work with other countries, Wong fell short of signalling a revocation of Victoria’s ‘B&R’ agreement.
As Victoria’s ‘B&R’ agreement with China faces the prospect of being suspended, Wong said in an interview with the ABC that she thinks the federal government “should try to resolve this in a way that respects engagement with the state government and that recognises that China will observe how this is handled carefully”.
Adding that the Labor Party supports the Liberal government in opposing Victoria’s ‘B&R’ initiative, Wong did not indicate specifically that the agreement will be unilaterally cancelled. Wong suggested that instead of considering how Australia can fix its relationship with China, it needs a strategy to diversify its economy and cooperate with other countries in the region given that it is now too reliant on China.
Source: Stand News #Dec07
#Australia #Victoria #China #OneBeltOneRoad #BeltAndRoad #PennyWong #Labor #Diplomacy #Economy #Trade
https://bit.ly/38ES1Sa
Chinese Authorities Attribute Power Shortage to ‘Rapid Industrial Production Growth’, No Mention of Australian Coal Boycott
As many provinces in China face power shortage, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) has said in a statement that it was the result of economic recovery and a cold spell without mentioning the authorities’ boycott of Australian coal since last month, which commentators believe has exacerbated the crisis.
The Xinhua News Agency reported that power supply in Hunan and Jiangxi have been under pressure while rationing is in place in Zhejiang. The NDRC responded on 17 December that a rapid growth in industrial production and a cold spell had led to a more-than-expected increase in electricity demand. It further claimed that power supply had remained stable and residential consumption had not been affected, adding that it had been working with relevant departments and enterprises to ensure a steady electricity supply. The statement made no mention of the authorities’ earlier move to limit the import of Australian coal by such means as restricting high-priced coal purchases by power companies.
Source: Stand News #Dec19
#Australia #China #NDRC #PowerShortage #Coal #Boycott #Economy #Diplomacy
https://bit.ly/2WJZsSy
As many provinces in China face power shortage, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) has said in a statement that it was the result of economic recovery and a cold spell without mentioning the authorities’ boycott of Australian coal since last month, which commentators believe has exacerbated the crisis.
The Xinhua News Agency reported that power supply in Hunan and Jiangxi have been under pressure while rationing is in place in Zhejiang. The NDRC responded on 17 December that a rapid growth in industrial production and a cold spell had led to a more-than-expected increase in electricity demand. It further claimed that power supply had remained stable and residential consumption had not been affected, adding that it had been working with relevant departments and enterprises to ensure a steady electricity supply. The statement made no mention of the authorities’ earlier move to limit the import of Australian coal by such means as restricting high-priced coal purchases by power companies.
Source: Stand News #Dec19
#Australia #China #NDRC #PowerShortage #Coal #Boycott #Economy #Diplomacy
https://bit.ly/2WJZsSy
Swiss Government Exposed to Have Allowed In Chinese Agents in Secret Agreement
Human rights group Safeguard Defender has published a report exposing a secret agreement between the Swiss government with China allowing operations of Chinese public security agents in Switzerland. The agreement, the existence of which had been unknown to the Swiss parliament, allowed Chinese agents to enter the country in unofficial capacities and to track down and help investigate Chinese citizens that the Swiss authorities wished to expel.
According to the report, the “readmission agreement” was signed on 8 December 2015. The agreement allowed Chinese officials to enter Switzerland and to track down, investigate and question “illegal immigrants” or potential repatriates to help the Swiss authorities ascertain if the individuals were Chinese citizens.
While the agreement provided that Chinese officials could only come by the invitation of the Swiss authorities for an investigation lasting two weeks, China had full discretion in deciding in naming the agents without Switzerland’s approval. Upon arrival, the officials might be admitted in unofficial capacities with their identities and reports guaranteed secret by the Swiss authorities. They were also allowed to act freely on Swiss soil and to question up to six people every day for 10 days without being supervised by Swiss officials, meaning they could question as many as 60 people on each visit.
The annex further provided that all their travel and local expenses be covered by the Swiss authorities. Accommodation would also be arranged.
#Switzerland #China #PublicSecurityMinistry #ReadmissionAgreement #SecretAgreement #Diplomacy
Source: Stand News #Dec11
https://bit.ly/2Xatm2y
Human rights group Safeguard Defender has published a report exposing a secret agreement between the Swiss government with China allowing operations of Chinese public security agents in Switzerland. The agreement, the existence of which had been unknown to the Swiss parliament, allowed Chinese agents to enter the country in unofficial capacities and to track down and help investigate Chinese citizens that the Swiss authorities wished to expel.
According to the report, the “readmission agreement” was signed on 8 December 2015. The agreement allowed Chinese officials to enter Switzerland and to track down, investigate and question “illegal immigrants” or potential repatriates to help the Swiss authorities ascertain if the individuals were Chinese citizens.
While the agreement provided that Chinese officials could only come by the invitation of the Swiss authorities for an investigation lasting two weeks, China had full discretion in deciding in naming the agents without Switzerland’s approval. Upon arrival, the officials might be admitted in unofficial capacities with their identities and reports guaranteed secret by the Swiss authorities. They were also allowed to act freely on Swiss soil and to question up to six people every day for 10 days without being supervised by Swiss officials, meaning they could question as many as 60 people on each visit.
The annex further provided that all their travel and local expenses be covered by the Swiss authorities. Accommodation would also be arranged.
#Switzerland #China #PublicSecurityMinistry #ReadmissionAgreement #SecretAgreement #Diplomacy
Source: Stand News #Dec11
https://bit.ly/2Xatm2y
US State Department Voices Concern over China’s Threats to Taiwan and Calls for Pressure to Cease, Reaffirms Commitment to Help Maintain Taiwan’s Self-defence Capabilities
The US State Department has voiced its concerns over Chinese’s intimidation against Taiwan and its other neighbours. In a 23 January press release, it urges Beijing to “cease its military, diplomatic, and economic pressure against Taiwan and instead engage in meaningful dialogue with Taiwan’s democratically elected representatives”. The press release is the first statement on China-Taiwan relations from the State Department since Biden took office.
China-Taiwan relations have been tense with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) sending one Yunshuji-8 maritime patrol aircraft, eight Xian H-6K jet bomber, and four Shenyang J-16 strike fighter into Taiwan’s Southwestern Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) on 23 January alone. Dubbed “the largest intrusion of the year” by Taiwan media, the operation was met with radio warnings from air patrols of Taiwan’s defence ministry and tracked by anti-aircraft missile systems.
In the press release, titled “PRC Military Pressure Against Taiwan Threatens Regional Peace and Stability”, State Department spokesperson Ned Price stresses that the US will work with its friends and allies to “advance [their] shared prosperity, security, and values in the Indo-Pacific region”, which include “deepening [their] ties with democratic Taiwan”.
Source: Stand News #Jan24
#US #Taiwan #China #Military #Diplomacy
https://bit.ly/36n29yN
The US State Department has voiced its concerns over Chinese’s intimidation against Taiwan and its other neighbours. In a 23 January press release, it urges Beijing to “cease its military, diplomatic, and economic pressure against Taiwan and instead engage in meaningful dialogue with Taiwan’s democratically elected representatives”. The press release is the first statement on China-Taiwan relations from the State Department since Biden took office.
China-Taiwan relations have been tense with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) sending one Yunshuji-8 maritime patrol aircraft, eight Xian H-6K jet bomber, and four Shenyang J-16 strike fighter into Taiwan’s Southwestern Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) on 23 January alone. Dubbed “the largest intrusion of the year” by Taiwan media, the operation was met with radio warnings from air patrols of Taiwan’s defence ministry and tracked by anti-aircraft missile systems.
In the press release, titled “PRC Military Pressure Against Taiwan Threatens Regional Peace and Stability”, State Department spokesperson Ned Price stresses that the US will work with its friends and allies to “advance [their] shared prosperity, security, and values in the Indo-Pacific region”, which include “deepening [their] ties with democratic Taiwan”.
Source: Stand News #Jan24
#US #Taiwan #China #Military #Diplomacy
https://bit.ly/36n29yN
Canada-China Relations: Trudeau hopes for the release of two Canadian citizens before New Year; government sources have yet to receive any new information
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Wednesday he hoped for good news soon about two citizens who have been detained in China for the last two years.
Canadian police picked up Huawei Technologies Co Ltd Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou on a U.S. warrant in December 2018. Shortly after, China arrested businessman Michael Spavor and former diplomat Michael Kovrig on espionage charges, which Canada has described as a case of hostage diplomacy.
Asked by Global News whether he thought there would be good news for the men’s families before the New Year, Trudeau replied: “I certainly hope so,” and said, “they are just an inspiration to me ... we’re doing everything we can, both directly with China and with allies.”
Canada has consistently said the return of the two men is its top foreign policy priority. However, sources said they had not heard of any recent developments.
#Canada #China #espionage #Huawei #Trudeau #diplomacy
Source: Apple Daily #Dec17
https://hk.appledaily.com/international/20201217/YY5UVG2JAFBO7CX7C23576LMOU/
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Wednesday he hoped for good news soon about two citizens who have been detained in China for the last two years.
Canadian police picked up Huawei Technologies Co Ltd Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou on a U.S. warrant in December 2018. Shortly after, China arrested businessman Michael Spavor and former diplomat Michael Kovrig on espionage charges, which Canada has described as a case of hostage diplomacy.
Asked by Global News whether he thought there would be good news for the men’s families before the New Year, Trudeau replied: “I certainly hope so,” and said, “they are just an inspiration to me ... we’re doing everything we can, both directly with China and with allies.”
Canada has consistently said the return of the two men is its top foreign policy priority. However, sources said they had not heard of any recent developments.
#Canada #China #espionage #Huawei #Trudeau #diplomacy
Source: Apple Daily #Dec17
https://hk.appledaily.com/international/20201217/YY5UVG2JAFBO7CX7C23576LMOU/
“Who Is The Wolf? BTW, China Is Not A Lamb”: Tweet from Chinese Embassy Baffles Internet
As China continues flexing its muscles as part of its “wolf warrior diplomacy”, the Chinese Embassy in Ireland posted an enigmatic tweet inspired by Aesop’s fable of the wolf and the lamb. Published on 1 April, it began by asking rhetorically who the wolf was and went on to say that China was not a lamb to the confusion of the Internet. The tweet has since been deleted.
The fable originally tells the story of a lamb running into a wolf at a creek, where the wolf hurls various false charges against the lamb to justify its predation. When the lamb proves its innocence and refutes the accusations, the wolf gives up looking for an excuse and eats it straight away. The lesson is understood to be that there is no point appealing to reason in face of one as wickedly unreasonable as a wolf.
The tweet began with the question “Who is the wolf?” and went on to say that some had accused China of engaging in “wolf warrior diplomacy”. The embassy then noted how in the fable the wolf fabricates charges just so it can eat the lamb. Wrapping up the tweet, it wrote that “The wolf is the wolf, not the lamb” while remarking that “China is not a lamb”.
Source: Stand News #Apr01
#China #Ireland #Embassy #Twitter #WolfWarrior #Diplomacy
https://bit.ly/3a9pGFv
As China continues flexing its muscles as part of its “wolf warrior diplomacy”, the Chinese Embassy in Ireland posted an enigmatic tweet inspired by Aesop’s fable of the wolf and the lamb. Published on 1 April, it began by asking rhetorically who the wolf was and went on to say that China was not a lamb to the confusion of the Internet. The tweet has since been deleted.
The fable originally tells the story of a lamb running into a wolf at a creek, where the wolf hurls various false charges against the lamb to justify its predation. When the lamb proves its innocence and refutes the accusations, the wolf gives up looking for an excuse and eats it straight away. The lesson is understood to be that there is no point appealing to reason in face of one as wickedly unreasonable as a wolf.
The tweet began with the question “Who is the wolf?” and went on to say that some had accused China of engaging in “wolf warrior diplomacy”. The embassy then noted how in the fable the wolf fabricates charges just so it can eat the lamb. Wrapping up the tweet, it wrote that “The wolf is the wolf, not the lamb” while remarking that “China is not a lamb”.
Source: Stand News #Apr01
#China #Ireland #Embassy #Twitter #WolfWarrior #Diplomacy
https://bit.ly/3a9pGFv
立場新聞 Stand News
駐愛爾蘭使館引寓言《狼與小羊》：中國被誤指為狼，但也不是羊 學者：想說甚麼？ | 立場報道 | 立場新聞
中國近年的「戰狼外交」愈演愈烈，一眾外交官也似乎愈來愈入戲。不過，帖文似乎已被刪除。《狼與小羊》是講述狼同小羊...
Orbán to Borrow from China for Fudan University’s €1.5B Budapest Campus, Which Costs More Than to Run Hungary's Entire Higher Education System for a Year
A report published by the Hungarian investigative journalism centre Direkt36 on 6 April says Fudan University’s new Budapest Campus, the first European campus of the Chinese university, will cost a whopping 1.5 billion euros (around 13.9 billion HK dollars)—more than what the eastern European country spent on its entire higher education system in 2019. The project will depend mainly on Chinese loans. The report further reveals that the Hungarian Ministry of Innovation and Technology, which will supervise the project, has recommended the China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC) to be the builder with the firm indicating that a certain amount of Chinese material and labour will be employed.
The non-profit Direkt36 has gained access to a series of documents about the new campus, including a draft proposal by László Palkovics, Hungary’s innovation and technology minister. According to the proposal, the government estimates the cost to be 1.5 billion euros without taking into account the infrastructure costs and other expenses. This exceeds its entire expenditure on the country’s higher education system in 2019, which clocked in at 1.3 billion euros (around 12 billion HK dollars). It is further stated in the proposal that part of the cost will be covered directly by Hungary with the rest covered by loans from China. The China Development Bank will provide a loan of 1.3 billion euros on preferential terms.
According to Direkt36, the CSCEC made a bid of under one billion euros (around 9.23 billion HK dollars) and secured the innovation and technology ministry’s recommendation. The report says the CSCEC made it clear in its tender that a certain number of Chinese workers will take part in the project and building material will be imported from China. The report says further that the Hungarian government has decided that China shall be the sole constructor with a commissioner appointed by the innovation and technology ministry supervising the project.
Source: Stand News #Apr08
#Hungary #China #Fudan #Education #Diplomacy
https://bit.ly/3soyrBN
A report published by the Hungarian investigative journalism centre Direkt36 on 6 April says Fudan University’s new Budapest Campus, the first European campus of the Chinese university, will cost a whopping 1.5 billion euros (around 13.9 billion HK dollars)—more than what the eastern European country spent on its entire higher education system in 2019. The project will depend mainly on Chinese loans. The report further reveals that the Hungarian Ministry of Innovation and Technology, which will supervise the project, has recommended the China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC) to be the builder with the firm indicating that a certain amount of Chinese material and labour will be employed.
The non-profit Direkt36 has gained access to a series of documents about the new campus, including a draft proposal by László Palkovics, Hungary’s innovation and technology minister. According to the proposal, the government estimates the cost to be 1.5 billion euros without taking into account the infrastructure costs and other expenses. This exceeds its entire expenditure on the country’s higher education system in 2019, which clocked in at 1.3 billion euros (around 12 billion HK dollars). It is further stated in the proposal that part of the cost will be covered directly by Hungary with the rest covered by loans from China. The China Development Bank will provide a loan of 1.3 billion euros on preferential terms.
According to Direkt36, the CSCEC made a bid of under one billion euros (around 9.23 billion HK dollars) and secured the innovation and technology ministry’s recommendation. The report says the CSCEC made it clear in its tender that a certain number of Chinese workers will take part in the project and building material will be imported from China. The report says further that the Hungarian government has decided that China shall be the sole constructor with a commissioner appointed by the innovation and technology ministry supervising the project.
Source: Stand News #Apr08
#Hungary #China #Fudan #Education #Diplomacy
https://bit.ly/3soyrBN
立場新聞 Stand News
匈媒：復旦大學匈牙利分校耗資 15 億歐元 貴過匈牙利全年高等教育 匈政府向華借錢興建 | 立場報道 | 立場新聞
上海復旦大學計劃於匈牙利布達佩斯開設首家歐洲分校。匈牙利調查報道機構 Direkt36 昨日（6 日）發表報道...
The US supports Australia in repealing the “Belt and Road” agreement, saying Australia is the victim of China’s coercive diplomacy
Australian federal government repealed “Belt and Road” memorandum and “framework agreement” between the Victorian state government and China. The decision has caused China discontent and renewed tension between China and Australia. United Stated indicated their support to Australia’s decision on Thursday (22 April), described Australia as a victim of China’s coercive diplomacy, which borne tremendous toll.
On Wednesday (21 April), Australian Foreign Minister Payne used her powers conferred by Foreign Affairs (State and Territorial Arrangements) Act 2020 passed late last year, to cancel the “Belt and Road” memorandum and “framework agreement” between Victorian state government and China. US Spokesperson of State Council Ned Price, when asked whether US will take a similar action, or has US spoken to Australia about the move during regular press conference, responded “this is a decision made by the Australian Government”. He continued by saying that US will continue to stand with the people of Australia for the brunt of the PRC’s coercive behavior. Price said that Australia government's cancellation of agreements with China, Iran and Syria demonstrated that Australia is focused on protecting its national interest from all international concerns.
Source: Stand News #Apr23
https://bit.ly/3v6gIRD
#US #Australia #BeltandRoad #Victim #China #Diplomacy
Australian federal government repealed “Belt and Road” memorandum and “framework agreement” between the Victorian state government and China. The decision has caused China discontent and renewed tension between China and Australia. United Stated indicated their support to Australia’s decision on Thursday (22 April), described Australia as a victim of China’s coercive diplomacy, which borne tremendous toll.
On Wednesday (21 April), Australian Foreign Minister Payne used her powers conferred by Foreign Affairs (State and Territorial Arrangements) Act 2020 passed late last year, to cancel the “Belt and Road” memorandum and “framework agreement” between Victorian state government and China. US Spokesperson of State Council Ned Price, when asked whether US will take a similar action, or has US spoken to Australia about the move during regular press conference, responded “this is a decision made by the Australian Government”. He continued by saying that US will continue to stand with the people of Australia for the brunt of the PRC’s coercive behavior. Price said that Australia government's cancellation of agreements with China, Iran and Syria demonstrated that Australia is focused on protecting its national interest from all international concerns.
Source: Stand News #Apr23
https://bit.ly/3v6gIRD
#US #Australia #BeltandRoad #Victim #China #Diplomacy
#InternationalRelations #Regime
#China Pressures #Ukraine by blocking #COVID19 #vaccine shipment
//China pressured Ukraine into withdrawing its support for a call for more scrutiny of human rights in China’s western region of Xinjiang by threatening to withhold Chinese-made COVID-19 vaccines destined for Ukraine unless it did so, diplomats told The Associated Press on Friday, June 15, 2021.
Ukraine briefly joined a statement by over 40 countries, presented by Canada at the Human Rights Council in Geneva on Tuesday, urging China to allow immediate access for independent observers to Xinjiang. Some human rights groups have alleged Chinese mistreatment of Muslim Uyghurs and others in the region.
On Thursday, Ukraine pulled its name off the list of supporting states after Chinese authorities warned Kyiv that they would block a planned shipment of at least 500,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines to Ukraine unless it did so, said diplomats from two Western countries. The diplomats spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly.
Ukraine has agreed to purchase 1.9 million doses of CoronaVac vaccine from China’s Sinovac Biotech. As of early May, Ukraine had received 1.2 million doses, according to Health Minister Maxim Stepanov.
In the past, China’s government has been no stranger to pressuring other countries in Geneva diplomatic circles or in national capitals either to line up behind its statements or avoid backing statements that criticize, question or seek scrutiny of human rights in the country...//
Read full article:
https://apnews.com/article/united-nations-china-europe-ukraine-health-a0a5ae8f735b92e39c623e453529cbb9
Source: Associated Press #Jun25
#Uyghurs #CCP #WolfWarrior #Diplomacy #MadeinChina #Sinovac
Image: Stand News
https://bit.ly/3ykp09J
#China Pressures #Ukraine by blocking #COVID19 #vaccine shipment
//China pressured Ukraine into withdrawing its support for a call for more scrutiny of human rights in China’s western region of Xinjiang by threatening to withhold Chinese-made COVID-19 vaccines destined for Ukraine unless it did so, diplomats told The Associated Press on Friday, June 15, 2021.
Ukraine briefly joined a statement by over 40 countries, presented by Canada at the Human Rights Council in Geneva on Tuesday, urging China to allow immediate access for independent observers to Xinjiang. Some human rights groups have alleged Chinese mistreatment of Muslim Uyghurs and others in the region.
On Thursday, Ukraine pulled its name off the list of supporting states after Chinese authorities warned Kyiv that they would block a planned shipment of at least 500,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines to Ukraine unless it did so, said diplomats from two Western countries. The diplomats spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly.
Ukraine has agreed to purchase 1.9 million doses of CoronaVac vaccine from China’s Sinovac Biotech. As of early May, Ukraine had received 1.2 million doses, according to Health Minister Maxim Stepanov.
In the past, China’s government has been no stranger to pressuring other countries in Geneva diplomatic circles or in national capitals either to line up behind its statements or avoid backing statements that criticize, question or seek scrutiny of human rights in the country...//
Read full article:
https://apnews.com/article/united-nations-china-europe-ukraine-health-a0a5ae8f735b92e39c623e453529cbb9
Source: Associated Press #Jun25
#Uyghurs #CCP #WolfWarrior #Diplomacy #MadeinChina #Sinovac
Image: Stand News
https://bit.ly/3ykp09J
AP NEWS
AP Exclusive: Diplomats say China puts squeeze on Ukraine
GENEVA (AP) — China pressured Ukraine into withdrawing its support for a call for more scrutiny of human rights in China's western region of Xinjiang by threatening to withhold Chinese-made COVID-19 vaccines destined for Ukraine unless it did so, diplomats…
China vows countermeasures on US arms sales to Taiwan
The Chinese foreign ministry has called on the US to scrap an arms deal with Taiwan, vowing to take proper and necessary countermeasures. The 5.8 billion Hong Kong dollar sale, which includes self-propelled artillery, has been approved by the US state department.
Citing the Taiwan Relations Act, the US Defence Security Cooperation Agency said the deal is in line with the US’ national economic and security interests by enabling the continuous modernization of Taiwan’s military and ensuring that it has a reliable defence capability. The deal, it said, will help improve Taiwan’s security and maintain political stability, military balance, and economic progress in the region.
Taiwan’s foreign ministry thanked the US government for continuing to uphold the Taiwan Relations Act and its six commitments to the security of Taiwan. It noted that in face of the mainland’s continued military expansion and provocations, the government of Taiwan will remain unwavering in strengthening defence, safeguarding its people’s lives and properties, and their democratic way of life. The ministry added that Taiwan will contribute to the long-term peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region by closely cooperating with the US to maintain security in the Taiwan Strait.
Source: Now News #Aug05
#Taiwan #US #China #Diplomacy #Military #Arms #Sales
https://bit.ly/2UEPnsW
The Chinese foreign ministry has called on the US to scrap an arms deal with Taiwan, vowing to take proper and necessary countermeasures. The 5.8 billion Hong Kong dollar sale, which includes self-propelled artillery, has been approved by the US state department.
Citing the Taiwan Relations Act, the US Defence Security Cooperation Agency said the deal is in line with the US’ national economic and security interests by enabling the continuous modernization of Taiwan’s military and ensuring that it has a reliable defence capability. The deal, it said, will help improve Taiwan’s security and maintain political stability, military balance, and economic progress in the region.
Taiwan’s foreign ministry thanked the US government for continuing to uphold the Taiwan Relations Act and its six commitments to the security of Taiwan. It noted that in face of the mainland’s continued military expansion and provocations, the government of Taiwan will remain unwavering in strengthening defence, safeguarding its people’s lives and properties, and their democratic way of life. The ministry added that Taiwan will contribute to the long-term peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region by closely cooperating with the US to maintain security in the Taiwan Strait.
Source: Now News #Aug05
#Taiwan #US #China #Diplomacy #Military #Arms #Sales
https://bit.ly/2UEPnsW
Now 新聞
美國對台軍售 中方指將有反制措施
【Now新聞台】美國國務院批准向台灣出售包括自走炮等武器，總值逾58億港元。在北京，外交部要求美方立即撤銷有關對台軍售計劃，中方會採取正當、必要的反制措施。
Taliban calls China its “most important partner”, vows support for Belt and Road
The Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid has called China the group’s “most important partner” in an interview with the Italian newspaper la Repubblica. This was the first time a Taliban representative openly declares China to be its most significant ally.
In the interview, Mujahid said China is ready to invest in and rebuild Afghanistan and called it an “extraordinary opportunity”. The spokesperson also said the Taliban is following the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative closely. Noting Afghanistan’s rich copper reserves, he said the country will be modernized, “thanks to China”.
“China is our pass to markets all over the world.”
Mujahid’s comments came before the Taliban announced a new government in Afghanistan. Previously named a contender for the head of the administration, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, chief of the Taliban’s political commission and leader of the group’s recent delegation to Beijing, was appointed the acting first deputy prime minister.
Source: Stand News #Sep03
https://bit.ly/39e5tx9
#Taliban #China #Afghanistan #BeltAndRoad #Diplomacy
The Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid has called China the group’s “most important partner” in an interview with the Italian newspaper la Repubblica. This was the first time a Taliban representative openly declares China to be its most significant ally.
In the interview, Mujahid said China is ready to invest in and rebuild Afghanistan and called it an “extraordinary opportunity”. The spokesperson also said the Taliban is following the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative closely. Noting Afghanistan’s rich copper reserves, he said the country will be modernized, “thanks to China”.
“China is our pass to markets all over the world.”
Mujahid’s comments came before the Taliban announced a new government in Afghanistan. Previously named a contender for the head of the administration, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, chief of the Taliban’s political commission and leader of the group’s recent delegation to Beijing, was appointed the acting first deputy prime minister.
Source: Stand News #Sep03
https://bit.ly/39e5tx9
#Taliban #China #Afghanistan #BeltAndRoad #Diplomacy
The European Parliament’s Report Mentioned Macau Legislative Assembly DQ Incident, Urging China to Respect the Basic Law and the Joint-Declaration
The European Parliament passed the “A New EU-China Strategy” yesterday (16th) with 570 votes in favour, 61 against, and 40 abstentions. The report indicates that Macau, one after another, banned the hosting of Candlelight Vigil for the June 4 Massacre, media being forced to adopt pro-China editorial guidelines, disqualified a large amount of pro-democracy candidates in the Macau Legislative Assembly Election. The European Parliament urged China to respect “Macau Basic Law”, which is effective till 2049, and the “Sino-Portuguese Joint Declaration”, which prohibit interference in an election and the operation of media.
Source: Stand News #Sep17
https://bit.ly/3EYjRZd
#China #Macau #EuropeParliament #ForeignAffairs #Diplomacy #NewEUChinaStrategy #June4th
The European Parliament passed the “A New EU-China Strategy” yesterday (16th) with 570 votes in favour, 61 against, and 40 abstentions. The report indicates that Macau, one after another, banned the hosting of Candlelight Vigil for the June 4 Massacre, media being forced to adopt pro-China editorial guidelines, disqualified a large amount of pro-democracy candidates in the Macau Legislative Assembly Election. The European Parliament urged China to respect “Macau Basic Law”, which is effective till 2049, and the “Sino-Portuguese Joint Declaration”, which prohibit interference in an election and the operation of media.
Source: Stand News #Sep17
https://bit.ly/3EYjRZd
#China #Macau #EuropeParliament #ForeignAffairs #Diplomacy #NewEUChinaStrategy #June4th
“Eyes Wide Open” on Relations with China, Says Canadian Foreign Minister
The Canadian foreign minister Marc Garneau said in a CBC interview on 26 September that the Canadian government has no illusions about normalizing relations with China. Vowing to keep their “eyes wide open”, Garneau said the government will approach relations with China with coexistence, competition, cooperation and challenges.
After Huawei’s deputy chair of the board Meng Wanzhou was allowed leave Canada, China immediately released the Canadians Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor. Garneau said it was very emotional to see the two returning to Canada, noting that they are in good condition and that the government is not ruling out the possibility of providing compensation to them.
In response to China’s denial that Kovrig’s and Spavor’s detention were related to Meng’s case, Garneau said the timing of the two Canadians’ release shows that the cases are connected “in a very direct manner”.
#Canada #China #Garneau #Meng #Kovrig #Spavor #Diplomacy
Source: Stand News #Sep27
https://bit.ly/3wrLE0m
The Canadian foreign minister Marc Garneau said in a CBC interview on 26 September that the Canadian government has no illusions about normalizing relations with China. Vowing to keep their “eyes wide open”, Garneau said the government will approach relations with China with coexistence, competition, cooperation and challenges.
After Huawei’s deputy chair of the board Meng Wanzhou was allowed leave Canada, China immediately released the Canadians Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor. Garneau said it was very emotional to see the two returning to Canada, noting that they are in good condition and that the government is not ruling out the possibility of providing compensation to them.
In response to China’s denial that Kovrig’s and Spavor’s detention were related to Meng’s case, Garneau said the timing of the two Canadians’ release shows that the cases are connected “in a very direct manner”.
#Canada #China #Garneau #Meng #Kovrig #Spavor #Diplomacy
Source: Stand News #Sep27
https://bit.ly/3wrLE0m
PRC’s Taiwan Affairs Office accused Tsai Ing-wen for spreading Taiwan Independence; Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council: Defaming Taiwan’s Democracy
On 28 October 2021, the Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) of the State Council responded to the CNN interview of Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen, accusing her and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) of spreading “Taiwan Independence” on various international arenas, once again exposing their stubborn attempts on “Taiwan Independence”. Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council responded with a stern statement, saying that TAO is inciting confrontation by maliciously twisting the facts and defaming Taiwan’s freedom and democratic development.
The spokesperson of TAO Ma Xiaoguang criticized Tsai and DPP stubbornly promoting "Taiwan Independence”, deceiving international public opinion and covering “Taiwan Independence” under “Democracy and Freedom”. He further said ever since the DPP came to power, their incompetence in governance caused grievances among the general public, creating conflicts among ethics groups, deceiving the public and dividing Taiwan society, severely dividing the bloodline connection between Taiwanese, Chinese culture and Chinese, “seriously harming” the fundamental interest of all Taiwanese.
Source: Stand News #Oct29
https://bit.ly/3pDtIwC
#mainland #taiwan #tsaiingwen #Diplomacy #TaiwanAffairsOffice #MainlandAffairsCouncil #MaXiaoguang #TaiwanIndependence
On 28 October 2021, the Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) of the State Council responded to the CNN interview of Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen, accusing her and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) of spreading “Taiwan Independence” on various international arenas, once again exposing their stubborn attempts on “Taiwan Independence”. Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council responded with a stern statement, saying that TAO is inciting confrontation by maliciously twisting the facts and defaming Taiwan’s freedom and democratic development.
The spokesperson of TAO Ma Xiaoguang criticized Tsai and DPP stubbornly promoting "Taiwan Independence”, deceiving international public opinion and covering “Taiwan Independence” under “Democracy and Freedom”. He further said ever since the DPP came to power, their incompetence in governance caused grievances among the general public, creating conflicts among ethics groups, deceiving the public and dividing Taiwan society, severely dividing the bloodline connection between Taiwanese, Chinese culture and Chinese, “seriously harming” the fundamental interest of all Taiwanese.
Source: Stand News #Oct29
https://bit.ly/3pDtIwC
#mainland #taiwan #tsaiingwen #Diplomacy #TaiwanAffairsOffice #MainlandAffairsCouncil #MaXiaoguang #TaiwanIndependence