First approval of US military transfer to Taiwan under sovereign states program

The Biden administration has given the go-ahead for the first-ever transfer of U.S. military equipment to Taiwan, marking a significant move typically reserved for independent nations. The State Department spokesperson confirmed the sale to Congress, stating that the materials would enhance Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities. The sale falls under the Taiwan Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program, …

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Important National Security Questions for GOP Candidates in the First Debate

In order to avoid years of political obscurity, Republican candidates should shift their focus during the first presidential debate towards policy matters. It remains to be seen whether they will succeed in doing so, or if the media will be preoccupied with Donald Trump’s activities and legal issues. However, for voters who still prioritize policy …

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China Conducts Military Exercises near Taiwan Following High-Level Official’s Visit to US

The Chinese military conducted drills around Taiwan on Saturday, characterizing it as a “storm warning” against “separatists and foreign forces.” The timing of these drills coincided with Taiwanese Vice President William Lai’s visit to the United States this week. According to a spokesperson for China’s Eastern Theater Command, the drills involved the coordination of vessels …

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Makers invest billions as talent gap arises in U.S. chip sector

A surge in private funding for semiconductor manufacturing in the U.S. has sparked concerns about the availability of skilled workers. One year ago, President Joe Biden signed the CHIPS and Science Act into law, prompting semiconductor companies to commit $231 billion towards building chip manufacturing hubs in the United States. However, as construction begins, companies …

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Preserving the Aspiration for a Democratic Taiwan

Taiwan, renowned for its exceptional handpicked teas and technological advancements in microchips, is facing a complex question: Is it a part of China? The answer to this question is highly disputed. China’s President, Xi Jinping, insists that Taiwan is part of China and even threatens military intervention. China has conducted military exercises near Taiwan that …

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Growth Challenges Loom as Asia’s Factories Encounter Weak Demand

In the workshop of a machinery and equipment manufacturing enterprise in Qingzhou Economic Development Zone, East China’s Shandong province, a worker is seen engaged in welding. (July 17, 2023) Image Source: Future Publishing | Getty Images In July, factories in Asia experienced a slowdown in demand as both domestic and global orders declined, signaling a …

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