Richard Sanders As global leaders and citizens pay tribute to Pope Francis following his death, China’s reactions have been notably reserved. The Chinese Communist Party, an officially atheistic government with a substantial Catholic population, has had a tumultuous and intricate relationship with the Vatican. Pope Francis was a pivotal figure in fostering closer ties between…
Richard Sanders The Vatican has announced a period of mourning in honor of the late Pope, during which faithful around the world will pay their respects and reflect on his impactful papacy. His unique approach and ability to connect with people from all walks of life left an indelible mark on the Church and the…
Richard Sanders Chinese researchers have successfully tested a non-nuclear hydrogen bomb that created a sustained fireball, far outperforming traditional explosives, the South China Morning Post has reported. In an article on Sunday, the newspaper cited the researchers’ study published last month in the Chinese-language Journal of Projectiles, Rockets, Missiles and Guidance. According to the report,…
Richard Sanders Israel is considering a “limited strike” on Iran’s nuclear facilities in the coming months, despite Washington’s refusal to support military action, Reuters reported on Saturday, citing sources familiar with the matter. The deliberations come as the second round of US-Iran negotiations have concluded in Rome, with expert-level talks expected to continue on April 26 in…
Richard Sanders On Saturday, the Philippine government voiced deep concern over the recent arrest of three Filipino citizens in China on allegations of espionage. Officials believe these detentions may be a retaliatory measure following Manila’s intensified efforts against suspected Chinese spies. According to a report from the state-run China Daily, Chinese authorities claim the individuals…
Richard Sanders The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has initiated yet another military exercise near Taiwan, aimed at discouraging “separatism,” as announced by the Defense Ministry on Tuesday. According to Colonel Shi Yi, spokesperson for the PLA’s Eastern Theater Command, the drill involves various branches including the army, navy, air force, and rocket forces. It…
Richard Sanders During today’s visit to Manila, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the Trump administration will support the Philippines in addressing the threats from China. Amidst a national security controversy in the US, Hegseth reaffirmed Washington’s strong commitment to the region during a meeting with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. today in Manila….
Richard Sanders Sadly,Japan has formally requested that Taiwan clarify that its pavilion at the upcoming World Exposition in Osaka will be operated by a private company, according to sources familiar with Japan-Taiwan relations reported on Sunday. The request from Japan’s Foreign Ministry follows concerns that statements from the Taiwanese government implied the pavilion would be…
Richard Sanders A Canadian naval frigate, HMCS Ottawa, sailed through the Taiwan Strait yesterday, marking the first such passage this year and the sixth since Canada unveiled its Indo-Pacific Strategy in 2022. Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the move, praising Canada’s commitment to freedom of navigation and maintaining peace and openness in the Strait….
美國國務院從台灣概況說明書中刪除「不支持獨立」聲明 Richard Sanders, Taichung Washington D.C. – The United States Department of State has updated its fact sheet on U.S.-Taiwan relations, removing a key phrase stating that the U.S. “does not support Taiwan independence.” The change, made public on Thursday, has been welcomed by Taiwanese officials as a sign of strengthened support. The previous version…