Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

On the afternoon of August 5, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from the Brookings Institution. In remarks, President Lai thanked the institution for its long-term focus on Taiwan, and for fostering mutual understanding between Taiwan and the United States. He emphasized that in the face of expanding authoritarianism, global supply chain restructuring, the AI wave, and other challenges, Taiwan hopes to deepen its partnership with the US in all areas, including AI supply chains, digital infrastructure, high-tech talent development, and non-red drone supply chains to jointly contribute to global peace and stability. 
A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: 
Brookings Institution Director Ryan Hass is an old friend of Taiwan. Notably, since the COVID-19 pandemic, he has led a delegation to visit us for five years in a row. During this time, the international landscape has been in constant flux. Yet, Director Hass’s concern for Taiwan has remained unchanged. I would like to warmly welcome him and all our esteemed guests back to Taiwan. I also want to thank the Brookings Institution for its long-term focus on Taiwan. Your research and observations build an important bridge that fosters mutual understanding between Taiwan and the US. I look forward to hearing your valuable insights today. 
This year marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of the US and the 30th anniversary of Taiwan’s first direct presidential election. We are jointly commemorating the development of democracy, freedom, and human rights. Early this year, we held the sixth annual Taiwan-US Economic Prosperity Partnership Dialogue. We also signed the Joint Statement on the Pax Silica Declaration and Taiwan-US Economic Security Cooperation. This laid a solid foundation for collaboration in semiconductors and advanced technology. 
Currently, the government is actively transforming Taiwan into an AI island. This involves helping all sectors adopt AI applications, as well as promoting the development of three critical technologies: silicon photonics, quantum technology, and robotics. We firmly believe that there is room for even closer exchanges and cooperation between Taiwan and the US in such areas as AI supply chains, digital infrastructure, and high-tech talent development. Meanwhile, we have also set a goal to make Taiwan the Asian hub of global drone development.
The government has therefore invested heavily in plans to advance industrial development, and we have proposed a special defense budget to procure unmanned vehicles and establish drone defense systems. We look forward to Taiwan and the US working together to build non-red drone supply chains, promote mutual industrial development, and contribute to global peace and stability. 
I must emphasize that Taiwan stands on the frontline of the democratic world. We are resolutely determined to defend our national sovereignty and protect our free and democratic way of life. We will continue to strengthen our self-defense capabilities, and maintain regional peace and stability, as well as the status quo across the Taiwan Strait, in a responsible and steady manner. Today, we launched the annual Han Kuang military exercises. During these drills, we will also hold our Urban Resilience Exercises. We will continue to integrate the resources of the central and local governments and the public and private sectors to further enhance the efficacy of military-civilian operations. These efforts will help Taiwan become more resilient in responding to all challenges. 
In the face of expanding authoritarianism, global supply chain restructuring, the AI wave, and other challenges, Taiwan hopes to deepen its partnership with the US in all areas. I once again welcome our distinguished guests, and wish you a fruitful visit and success in all your endeavors. 
Director Hass then delivered remarks, stating that the Brookings delegation is in Taiwan for an annual study tour, continuing a tradition that dates back many years. He noted that they have participated in a study tour through Kuomintang and Democratic Progressive Party administrations, through pandemics, and through calm periods and tense times in the cross-strait relationship. 
The director added that the continuity of these exchanges speaks to the enduring importance that they attach to the US-Taiwan relationship, and to the strong foundation of shared interest, democratic values, and mutual respect that underpin our relationship. Through this year’s study tour on technology and national security, he said, they look forward to making a small contribution to thickening the ties that bind our two sides, and strengthening the peace and stability that our two sides cherish. 

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Civil Service College today held the inaugural sharing session of the Heads of Department (HoD) Fellowship, which aims to strengthen leadership mindset and enhance departmental management capabilities.

Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki, Secretary for the Civil Service Ingrid Yeung, and about 140 Permanent Secretaries, HoDs and their deputies from 63 bureaus and departments attended.

Mr Chan and Mrs Yeung encouraged HoDs to practise proactive leadership by establishing effective management teams and operating systems, as well as fostering a positive culture of continuous improvement in order to boost the governance effectiveness of departments.

Mr Chan said HoDs are not only policy implementers and the ultimate parties accountable for departmental performance, but also helmsmen of departments and shapers of organisational culture during his opening remarks.

He added that HoDs should demonstrate proactive leadership daily, understand operational realities and potential problems, and establish effective feedback mechanisms.

The Chief Secretary also urged HoDs to ensure that manpower deployment and financial resources are aligned with policy objectives, and take full accountability for their departments’ overall performance.

Furthermore, Mr Chan noted that the success of the HoD Accountability System lies not only in the number of investigations activated, but also in the continuous enhancement of departments’ execution capabilities through the proactive leadership of HoDs. Such enhancement upgrades policy execution, raises governance standards, and delivers tangible benefits to the public, he said. 

Mrs Yeung, meanwhile, pointed out that civil servants’ performance is the key to improving governance. She said HoDs must personally lead human resource management, ensuring that such strategies are closely tied to their departments’ overall work objectives and development needs.

She noted that the Civil Service Bureau has been actively strengthening relevant measures, including implementing the Performance Appraisal Enhancement Scheme for Civil Servants (Phase 1) in October this year, to more accurately reflect and differentiate civil servants’ work performance.

The Civil Service College has also been actively cultivating a culture within the civil service that values training, and launched a scheme last month to set out continuous learning requirements for civil servants.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Financial Secretary has given directions to terminate the investigation into the affairs of Next Digital Limited (NDL), and the inspector’s term of office expired on July 27.

The Financial Secretary noted today that the Court of First Instance of the High Court granted a winding-up order against NDL on December 15, 2021, and the relevant liquidation is now underway.

In addition, the listing of NDL’s shares was cancelled by the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong on January 12, 2023.

A number of former senior officers of NDL were convicted of offences endangering national security and sentenced to imprisonment by the Court of First Instance on December 15, 2025 and February 9, 2026.

Three subsidiaries of NDL were convicted and fined by the Court of First Instance in the above criminal case. On March 24, 2026, the Chief Executive-in-Council, pursuant to the Hong Kong National Security Law and the Companies (Winding Up and Miscellaneous Provisions) Ordinance, ordered them to be struck off the Companies Register, and the three subsidiaries were dissolved forthwith.

Having carefully reviewed these circumstances and all relevant factors, the Financial Secretary considered that it was no longer necessary to continue the investigation into the affairs of NDL and hence directed the inspector to terminate the investigation pursuant to the Companies Ordinance.

The Financial Secretary emphasised that as an international financial centre, Hong Kong possesses a corporate governance regime that is sound, efficient and aligned with international standards. Companies in Hong Kong, particularly listed companies, generally adhere to high standards of corporate governance.

He pointed out that the governance and financial problems of NDL, as well as the unlawful acts committed by its senior officers exploiting corporate vehicles, represented only an isolated incident.

The Government, regulatory bodies and the business community will continue to work together to ensure that Hong Kong consistently adheres to its internationally acclaimed corporate culture and high standards of corporate governance, maintains a high-quality, fair and efficient market, and remains steadfast in safeguarding its status and reputation as an international financial and commercial centre.

The Government expresses its gratitude to Clement Chan for his exemplary professional competence and high degree of professionalism during his tenure as the inspector for upholding the principles of objectivity and impartiality, and for faithfully discharged his duties with dedication and distinction.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

On the morning of August 4, President Lai Ching-te met with a study delegation from the Youth Division of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). In remarks, President Lai thanked the Japanese government for its continued support for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and emphasized that to address China’s continuous gray-zone aggression and maritime coercion against neighboring countries, Taiwan and Japan should deepen cooperation, solidarity, and mutual aid to jointly protect democracy, freedom, peace, and prosperity.
A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
Last week, an earthquake struck Japan’s Kumamoto Prefecture, and on behalf of the people of Taiwan, I once again want to express our most sincere condolences. I hope that the reconstruction efforts will proceed safely and smoothly, and that those affected by the disaster can resume their normal lives as soon as possible. This delegation originally included three distinguished guests from Kumamoto, but they were unable to come due to the earthquake. We sincerely hope that they, and their relatives and friends, are all well. Taiwan is also ready to provide assistance at any time if needed. I myself, the government, and many Taiwanese citizens, enterprises, and civil society groups all hope to do our part through donations to help those affected by the disaster get through this difficult time, rebuild their homes, and return to normal life soon.
I firmly believe that this is the best, most natural, and most genuine expression of Taiwan-Japan relations. As good friends who stand together through thick and thin, Taiwan and Japan have supported each other in the face of natural disasters, the pandemic, and many other challenges. After the Hualien earthquake two years ago, the LDP Youth Division also initiated fundraising efforts to assist Taiwan significantly, for which we were deeply grateful and moved.
I welcome the LDP Youth Division to continue sending large delegations to Taiwan for study and visits, enhancing friendly Taiwan-Japan relations. House of Representatives Member Hiranuma Shojiro, who is joining us today, maintains close ties with Taiwan, and was the guest from abroad I met with most frequently last year. We are also very grateful to Representative Hiranuma for promptly and publicly expressing his support after my visit to the Kingdom of Eswatini in April was delayed due to external interference.
I want to thank the Japanese government once again for reaffirming the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait on numerous occasions at international venues, highlighting Japan’s firm commitment to regional peace. I have always believed that without unity, there is no freedom, and that without strength, there is no peace. The greatest threat to Taiwan and Japan is not typhoons, earthquakes, or infectious diseases, but China’s continuous gray-zone aggression and maritime coercion against neighboring countries. Last month, China even implemented a law facilitating transnational repression, intending to extend its political jurisdiction and governance by fear to Taiwan, Japan, and democratic countries around the world. Therefore, only through unity and cooperation can Taiwan and Japan jointly safeguard democracy, freedom, peace, and prosperity.
In closing, I hope to continue deepening the Taiwan-Japan partnership, and wish the delegation a smooth and rewarding trip.
Representative Hiranuma then delivered remarks, thanking President Lai for taking time out of his busy schedule to meet an overseas study delegation with over 80 members. He then stated that the members of this year’s delegation, like similar delegations in the past, come from local youth divisions and student divisions from various regions. He said that he hopes to cultivate the next generation who will shoulder the future development of Taiwan-Japan relations and carry on the spirit of the Taiwan-Japan friendship.
Representative Hiranuma then mentioned the recent Kumamoto earthquake, thanking President Lai and the governments of Taiwan’s various counties and cities, as well as civil society groups and enterprises, for their heartfelt assistance after the disaster. He also said that Taiwan and Japan are both facing the threat of natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes, and so disaster prevention is an important issue for both countries. Currently, he said, one of the important missions of Japan’s newly established Disaster Management Agency is to promote international cooperation in that field. Representative Hiranuma said that he looks forward to deepening cooperation and exchanges related to disaster prevention with Taiwan in the future.
Representative Hiranuma noted that the international landscape is becoming increasingly tense and complex, with regions around the world, such as the Middle East, facing many challenges. Taiwan and Japan, who share the same values, should strengthen their cooperative relationship to promote regional peace and stability, he said. The representative added that Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae is actively promoting cooperation between the government and the private sector to foster industrial development in 17 strategic sectors including semiconductors, AI, and drones. He stated that he firmly believes that deepening Taiwan-Japan relations will also contribute to industrial development in both countries, including strengthening supply chain resilience, reducing dependence on a single market, and cultivating talent.
Representative Hiranuma stated that the Youth Division and Taiwan have maintained friendly relations for over half a century, and that he hopes this visit will create more opportunities for exchanges and further deepen bilateral ties. In the future, he said, he will continue to promote cooperation and exchanges between Taiwan and Japan, fostering an even more amicable relationship.
The delegation also included Japanese House of Representatives Members Takami Yasuhiro, Kusama Tsuyoshi, and Sakamoto Ryutaro, as well as Aichi Prefectural Assembly Member Tanaka Yasuhiko. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Chief Representative Katayama Kazuyuki. 

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

On the afternoon of August 4, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Prime Minister Russell Dlamini of the Kingdom of Eswatini. In remarks, President Lai thanked Eswatini for voicing support at international venues for Taiwan’s international participation, demonstrating its staunch backing for Taiwan. The president stated that both countries will continue to expand exchanges and cooperation in such fields as energy, public health, talent cultivation, and industrial development. He expressed hope that Taiwan and Eswatini can steadily advance ties through creating more mutually beneficial outcomes.
A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
To begin, I would like to warmly welcome our distinguished guests to Taiwan and to the Presidential Office. This morning, I attended the Ketagalan Forum with Prime Minister Dlamini. I am glad to have this opportunity for further exchanges with your delegation. At the forum, Prime Minister Dlamini delivered a keynote speech on behalf of His Majesty King Mswati III, sharing Eswatini’s perspective and observations on international affairs, democratic governance, and sustainable development. The speech brought valuable insights to this year’s forum and pointed out directions for Taiwan and Eswatini to explore for future cooperation.
I would like to thank His Majesty King Mswati III of Eswatini for staunchly supporting Taiwan. Earlier this year, my visit to your country was temporarily postponed due to external interference. Shortly afterwards, thanks to help from His Majesty King Mswati III and Her Majesty the Queen Mother, I successfully visited Eswatini in early May. The visit was very fruitful, and it allowed the international community to witness the unwavering friendship between Taiwan and the Kingdom of Eswatini. I especially thank Prime Minister Dlamini for personally receiving me and seeing me off at the airport, demonstrating Eswatini’s high regard for Taiwan. Now, three months later, you have led a delegation to Taiwan at our invitation, further reaffirming the strong ties between our nations.
Taiwan and Eswatini have long supported each other over the years. We continue to expand exchanges and cooperation in such fields as energy, public health, talent cultivation, and industrial development. Major projects including the strategic oil reserve facility, the Taiwan Industrial Innovation Park, and the Royal Science and Technology Park are fruits of our collaboration that advance national development and create greater well-being for our peoples.
I once again thank Eswatini for staunchly backing Taiwan’s international participation. At last year’s United Nations General Assembly, His Majesty King Mswati III urged the international community to correctly interpret UNGA resolution 2758 and include Taiwan in international affairs. And last year, during the COP30 Leaders’ Summit, Prime Minister Dlamini spoke up for Taiwan’s participation in global climate governance. The people of Taiwan will always remember these meaningful actions with heartfelt gratitude.
Facing a rapidly changing international landscape, as well as opportunities and challenges brought about by technological development, Taiwan will continue to build upon our current foundation of cooperation in implementing the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project. We will deepen exchanges in industry, public health, and digital transformation with Eswatini to help it realize its vision of development. Through creating more mutually beneficial outcomes, we will steadily advance the ties between our two nations. In closing, I wish you a smooth and successful visit. I also kindly ask Prime Minister Dlamini to convey sincerest greetings from Taiwan to His Majesty King Mswati III and Her Majesty the Queen Mother.
Prime Minister Dlamini then delivered remarks, first expressing sincere gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to the delegation since their arrival in Taiwan last night. He said it is indeed a pleasure to be back in what they proudly regard as their second home. He conveyed to President Lai and the people of the Republic of China (Taiwan) greetings and best wishes from His Majesty King Mswati III and Her Majesty the Queen Mother. He said that President Lai’s successful visit to Eswatini and safe return home reaffirmed the enduring friendship between our two nations, strengthened our long-standing partnership, and demonstrated to the international community the depth and resilience of our bilateral relations.
Prime Minister Dlamini then reaffirmed that the government and the people of the Kingdom of Eswatini greatly value the steadfast friendship and cooperation they continue to enjoy with the government and people of Taiwan. Over the years, he continued, the partnership has delivered meaningful and tangible benefits to their people, noting that Taiwan’s support through scholarships, technical cooperation, and capacity-building initiatives has contributed significantly to the advancement of their health, agriculture, education, and energy sectors, amongst others. He expressed particular appreciation for Taiwan’s contributions towards expanding access to electricity in Eswatini, which continues to improve livelihoods and stimulate economic development.
Prime Minister Dlamini stated that His Majesty King Mswati III is committed to nurturing this special relationship, and is encouraged by the progress we have made together. Our shared aspiration, he said, is not only to preserve our long-standing friendship, but to elevate it into a modern strategic partnership that is politically resilient, economically transformative, technologically innovative, and visibly beneficial to the people of both our nations.
Prime Minister Dlamini pointed out that as trusted partners, we are well positioned to expand cooperation in areas such as trade and investment, innovation, digital transformation, healthcare, education, agriculture, renewable energy, and youth empowerment. He expressed confidence that by building our shared values of democracy, peace, mutual respect, and sustainable development, our partnership will continue to flourish for generations to come.
Prime Minister Dlamini mentioned that he enjoyed the session at the Ketagalan Forum this morning, adding that he learned much and that Eswatini will be better positioned to support Taiwan in future as a result of their participation in the forum. In closing, he thanked the Taiwan government once again for its generous invitation and warm hospitality, and said that he looks forward to fruitful discussions and to the continued strengthening of the excellent relations between the Kingdom of Eswatini and the Republic of China (Taiwan).
The delegation also included Minister of Natural Resources and Energy His Royal Highness Prince Lonkhokhela, Economic Planning and Development Minister Dr. Thambo Gina, and Minister of Labour and Social Security Phila Buthelezi and was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Charge d’Affaires a.i. of the Embassy of the Kingdom of Eswatini Sithembiso M. Gama.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) announced today (August 5) that Commune, a leading bar-restaurant chain from the Mainland, has opened its first store in Hong Kong, marking a significant step in its global expansion. The brand will establish its regional headquarters in the city to steer overseas growth. Located at Lee Garden Three in Causeway Bay, the store serves as the group’s flagship location in Hong Kong.

     Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion Mr Arnold Lau said, “Hong Kong has always been the perfect launchpad for brands to test new ideas, connect with an international audience, and grow across the region. Commune’s decision to open its first store here highlights the city’s key advantages: a sophisticated consumer market, a vibrant dining scene, and its role as a gateway to Southeast Asia and beyond. We are delighted to support the brand in setting up in Hong Kong and look forward to seeing it flourish throughout the region.”

     The Co-Founder and Chief Brand Officer of Commune, Ms Fan Xiameng, said, “Hong Kong is the first step in Commune’s global journey. The city’s international clientele, excellent business environment, and robust legal framework provide the ideal foundation for us to build our brand and expand across Southeast Asia. We are deeply committed to Hong Kong, with plans to open additional store locations over the next 12 months.”

     Commune is an all-day directly-managed bar-restaurant chain that combines craft brewers, curated dishes and spacious social areas to create a relaxed and comfortable gathering setting for customers. Operating in over 100 locations across the Chinese Mainland, Commune has ranked first among bar-restaurant brands in the market by revenue for three consecutive years since 2022.

     Throughout the setup process, InvestHK provided end-to-end strategic guidance, including licensing regulation and visa facilitation, location advisory, and industry ecosystem networking, ensuring a seamless launch for the brand’s regional expansion out of Hong Kong.

     For more information about Commune, please visit www.jiwusiwei.com (Chinese only).

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     In connection with a murder case happened in Tsim Sha Tsui on July 26, Police further arrested four local men. 

     Police arrested four local men, aged between 26 and 33, for murder yesterday (August 4) in various districts.

     Investigation revealed that the four arrestees were in suspected connection with the aforementioned murder case, in which a 32-year-old local man died.

     Each of the four arrestees will be laid a holding charge with one count of murder and the case will be mentioned at the Kowloon City Magistrates’ Courts tomorrow (August 6) morning. 

     Concerning the case, Police earlier arrested nine men and three women, aged between 24 and 52. Eight of the arrestees have been laid holding charges with murder and assisting offenders respectively. The cases were mentioned at the Kowloon City Magistrates’ Courts from July 30 and August 3. The remaining arrestees have been released on bail and are required to report back to the Police in late August.

     Active investigation by the Regional Anti-triad Unit of Kowloon West is under way.      

     Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers on 3661 8361.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Hong Kong Customs conducted an enforcement operation with Mainland and Macao Customs from July 20 to 31, during which inspections of goods across the three places and destined for countries in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia were stepped up, with a view to combating cross-boundary and transshipment counterfeiting activities.

Through intelligence analysis and detailed investigations, Hong Kong Customs in the operation detected 23 related cases at a number of local express couriers and logistics companies, seizing a total of about 38 000 suspected counterfeit goods, including watches, mobile phones, bags, clothing and footwear, with a total estimated market value of about $15 million. 

Hong Kong Customs will continue to work closely with the Mainland Customs, Macao Customs and overseas law enforcement agencies to vigorously combat cross-boundary counterfeit goods transshipping activities through intelligence exchanges and joint enforcement actions.

Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, any person who imports or exports any goods to which a forged trademark is applied commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years.

Members of the public may report any suspected counterfeiting activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Hong Kong Customs detected a suspected smuggling case involving a river trade vessel on July 27. Large batches of suspected smuggled goods with a total estimated market value of about $4 million were seized.

Through intelligence analysis and risk assessment, a river trade vessel departing from Hong Kong for Macao was selected for inspection on the abovementioned date. Upon examination, Customs officers aboard the vessel found large batches of suspected smuggled goods, including suspected pharmaceutical products, cosmetic injection vials, tobacco products, and suspected dried geckos. 

Investigations are ongoing. The likelihood of arrests is not ruled out.

Being a government department primarily responsible for tackling smuggling activities, Customs has long been combating various smuggling activities on all fronts. Customs will keep up its enforcement action and continue to resolutely combat sea smuggling activities through proactive risk management and intelligence-based enforcement strategies, and carry out targeted anti-smuggling operations at suitable times to crack down on relevant crimes.

Smuggling is a serious offence. Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years upon conviction.

Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region