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Lawrence Chung
Taipei
Lawrence Chung covers major news in Taiwan, ranging from presidential and parliament elections to killer earthquakes and typhoons. Most of his reports focus on Taiwan’s relations with China, specifically on the impact and possible developments of cross-strait relations under the pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party and mainland-friendly Kuomintang governments. Before starting work at the South China Morning Post in 2006, he wrote for Reuters and AFP for more than 12 years.
Lawrence Chung covers major news in Taiwan, ranging from presidential and parliament elections to killer earthquakes and typhoons. Most of his reports focus on Taiwan’s relations with China, specifically on the impact and possible developments of cross-strait relations under the pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party and mainland-friendly Kuomintang governments. Before starting work at the South China Morning Post in 2006, he wrote for Reuters and AFP for more than 12 years.
Defence ministry briefs lawmakers on ‘heightened risk’ of sudden strike designed to paralyse command and control systems at start of conflict.
A dispute over how funds are allocated has triggered a stand-off in which both sides accused the other of undermining the constitution.
Proposed changes would also mandate alternative service for transgender and intersex people, a move that has sparked backlash.
Senators’ bid to ‘strongly encourage’ invitation is removed from compromise bill, raising questions in Taipei.
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Island’s legislature moves to deter rise in intentional sabotage, which now carries a prison sentence of up to seven years.
Many users and opposition politicians accuse Taiwan’s ruling party of overreach and damaging island’s reputation for open internet access.
‘Little orange book’ sent to nearly 10 million households advises on survival response, but many question its cost and value.
KMT and TPP say William Lai’s government is seeking a ‘blank cheque’ and demand details of procurement plans before proposal can be reviewed.
Taiwan downplays concerns that Kingstown could flip ties to Beijing while eyeing polls in Honduras, where Taipei-friendly candidates lead.
Network would protect key infrastructure from incursions by small commercial drones but there are concerns over use of takeover function.
Critics question where the money will come from to finance Lai’s plans for a massive increase in military spending.
William Lai says in newspaper article that the eight-year spending commitment is aimed to create ‘greater costs and uncertainties’ for Beijing.
Current law requires elected officials to prove they renounced their former citizenship – which is impossible for those born on the mainland.
Citing the Ukraine war, plan entails ‘forward-looking multi-integration development project’ for uncrewed platforms between 2026 and 2028.
If endorsed by Donald Trump, the legislation will require the State Department to review guidelines limiting relations with Taipei.
Island now at risk of becoming a flashpoint in confrontation between two major world powers, opposition says.
Rise in cases since military service term was extended follows a poll that showed an increased reluctance to die in defence of island.
Supporters call Hsiao Bi-khim’s secret address a diplomatic win but critics label it a show to ‘deceive voters’.
The worsening manpower shortage has prompted warnings that it will undermine the armed forces’ combat readiness.
With the issue left off the table during last week’s meeting, analysts suggest that ‘strategic silence’ could mean new risks ahead.
Taekwondo star, professor among those stripped of household registration because they held ID cards from the mainland.
Analysts said the findings suggest growing ‘fatigue from constant talk of war’ in the face of escalating tensions with mainland China.
While leadership says new Loyalty Hall name highlights army ethos, opposition accuses DPP of politicising military and rewriting history.
The former legislator’s victory shows she can fire up the party’s base, but her stance on mainland China risks alienating the wider public.
Taiwan was to receive 66 of the Lockheed Martin aircraft by the end of 2026. Not a single one has been delivered.
The guidelines were disclosed in an annual report and follow the growing presence of mainland Chinese drones over and around the island.
Proposal seen to underscore Lai’s resolve to show loyalty to US strategic agenda, but critics question whether idea is workable for Taiwan.
Hong Kong tourist was raped in broad daylight in Taipei Main Station by man she knew who was also fugitive, local media reports say.
Mainland China’s economic blueprint is expected to promote cross-strait economic integration, especially in hi-tech industries.
