MOFA sincerely thanks Saint Christopher and Nevis government for supporting peace and stability across Taiwan Strait
Date：2025-04-21
Data Source：Department of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs
April 21, 2025
No. 106
In a statement published on April 18, the government of Saint Christopher and Nevis said it observed with profound and growing concern the recent escalation of tensions in the Taiwan Strait. It said it held the conviction that all societies, regardless of size or geopolitical influence, should be allowed to advance their development without fear of aggression, intimidation, or the threat of conflict. In addition, it emphasized the need for constructive diplomacy to ensure lasting peace and security across the Taiwan Strait.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) extends its sincere gratitude to the government of Saint Christopher and Nevis for taking concrete action to convey staunch support for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.
This statement by the government of Saint Christopher and Nevis, which follows the adoption of a resolution by the country’s National Assembly on April 17 endorsing Taiwan’s international participation, fully demonstrates the close and cordial diplomatic bond between Taiwan and Saint Christopher and Nevis. As a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan will continue to work with the global democratic camp to jointly safeguard stable and prosperous development globally and throughout the Asia-Pacific region. (E)
MOFA welcomes pragmatic step by the Philippine government to promote closer bilateral interactions
Date：2025-04-21
Data Source：Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs
April 21, 2025
No. 108
The government of the Philippines issued Memorandum Circular No. 82 on April 21. The document, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, declared that the Philippine government would relax certain restrictions on interactions with Taiwan to promote economic, trade, and investment relations between the two countries.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung affirms the Philippine government’s pragmatic step to promote bilateral relations, expressing his belief that new regulations will help Taiwan continue to deepen substantive cooperation with the Philippines under the policy of integrated diplomacy.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stresses that Taiwan is the Philippines’ eighth-largest export market, ninth-largest trading partner, and 10th-largest source of imports. As Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has emphasized repeatedly, peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait are a priority, while peace, security, and stability are the concern of all nations. Moving forward, Taiwan will continue to work with democratic allies such as the Philippines to jointly contribute to regional prosperity, peace, and stability. (E)
MOFA response to false claims regarding Taiwan in joint statement between PRC and Cambodia
Date：2025-04-19
Data Source：Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs
April 19, 2025
Chinese leader Xi Jinping met with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet during a visit to Cambodia from April 17 to 18. The two sides issued a joint statement on April 18 falsely claiming that the authority of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 “brooks no question or challenge.” It also said that Cambodia “recognizes that there is but one China in the world and emphasizes that the government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory.” These statements could not be further from the truth.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) solemnly protests and condemns the Chinese government’s repeated dissemination of preposterous narratives aimed at undermining Taiwan’s sovereignty. It also expresses deep regret over the Cambodian government’s subservience to China, whose actions are designed to downgrade Taiwan’s sovereignty.
MOFA emphasizes that UNGA Resolution 2758 merely established China’s representation in the United Nations. It makes absolutely no mention of Taiwan, nor does it authorize the PRC to represent Taiwan in any international organization.
MOFA reaffirms that the Republic of China (Taiwan) is an independent, sovereign country; that neither the ROC (Taiwan) nor the PRC is subordinate to the other; and that the Chinese communist regime has never governed Taiwan. It also reiterates that narratives aimed at distorting Taiwan’s sovereign status run contrary to reality and cannot change the internationally recognized status quo across the Taiwan Strait. MOFA strongly denounces the Chinese government for repeatedly claiming that Taiwan is an internal issue at international events and attempting to downgrade Taiwan’s sovereignty.
MOFA calls on the global community to be aware of China’s efforts to use lawfare to misrepresent UNGA Resolution 2758, mischaracterize Taiwan as an internal matter, and block international support for Taiwan. MOFA urges nations worldwide to continue to take concrete action to counter and explicitly oppose China’s relentless misrepresentation of the resolution and China’s malicious endeavors to change the cross-strait status quo, thereby jointly safeguarding peace, stability, and prosperity across the Taiwan Strait and the Indo-Pacific region.
MOFA thanks Saint Christopher and Nevis National Assembly for passing resolution endorsing Taiwan’s participation in international organizations
Date：2025-04-18
Data Source：Department of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs
April 18, 2025
No. 101
The National Assembly of Saint Christopher and Nevis on April 17 adopted a resolution proposed by Prime Minister Terrance Drew that endorsed Taiwan’s participation in the United Nations, the World Health Organization, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the International Criminal Police Organization, and the International Civil Aviation Organization. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) sincerely appreciates the staunch and unwavering support and friendship that parliamentarians from governing and opposition parties of Saint Christopher and Nevis have shown toward Taiwan through concrete action.
The resolution pointed out that Saint Christopher and Nevis parliamentarians, as members of the Formosa Club, cherished their country’s diplomatic ties with Taiwan. It stated that over the years the two nations had built a robust friendship based on shared values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. The resolution lauded Taiwan for its contributions to global public health and recognized Taiwan’s efforts and actions in such fields as renewable energy, climate change adaptation, disaster warning systems, the fight against transnational crime, and the development of international civil aviation. It urged all sectors to support Taiwan’s professional, pragmatic, and constructive participation in the United Nations and other international organizations.
This marks the third consecutive year that the National Assembly of Saint Christopher and Nevis has passed a Taiwan-friendly resolution, underscoring the close and friendly diplomatic alliance between the two countries. Taiwan will continue to work with Saint Christopher and Nevis and other allies and like-minded nations to make even greater contributions to peace, security, and sustainable development across the globe. (E)
This year’s April 23 marks the second Hong Kong Reading for All Day. Hong Kong Public Libraries (HKPL) today collaborated with stakeholders to set up reading locations for “Read Together for Half an Hour” activities to promote reading among the public.
Director of Leisure & Cultural Services Manda Chan attended the “Read Together for Half an Hour” activity at the Hong Kong Central Library to share her reading experience with the participating students, remarking that reading while broadening one’s horizons is also life-enriching. She encouraged students to keep reading.
HKPL also invited renowned online content creator SaiDorSi to explore the relationship between reading and creativity with the participating students.
“Read Together for Half an Hour” is one of the highlight activities of Hong Kong Reading Week 2025.
The department provided a variety of books at different reading locations today, including the Museum of Art, the Science Museum, the Oil Street Art Space, the Railway Museum, Choi Hung Road Sports Centre, Tsuen Wan Sports Centre, Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park and individual public libraries.
In addition, “Read Together for Half an Hour” activities were held at 2025 Hong Kong Reading+ at New Town Plaza in Sha Tin, as well as at individual community libraries and community centres.
Furthermore, HKPL, in collaboration with the Hans Andersen Club, carried out the “Read together for Half an Hour” event and carnival at Lok Fu Place, featuring storytelling sessions, game booths and handicraft workshops. A reading area with selected books was also set up to promote reading.
Hong Kong Reading Week is being held from April 19 to 27. Under the theme “Zoom/LIBRARY”, it offers about 450 online and on-site events to encourage the public to develop a reading habit.
Activities include fun days, sharing sessions, videos and audio clips in which celebrities share their reading experiences and more. QR codes for selected e-books are available at different government venues for easy public access.
All Hong Kong Reading Week activities are free of charge, with seat reservations required for individual events.
Software launch of CGHS Digital Health Platform CGHS to launch modernized Health Management Information System (HMIS) from 28th April 2025; legacy system to be discontinued
All CGHS services, including those at Wellness Centres, to remain closed on 26th April 2025 (Saturday) to facilitate the transition
CGHS mobile applications for Android and iOS re-launched with upgraded interface and integrated digital services
Posted On: 23 APR 2025 11:41AM by PIB Delhi
The Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), a flagship programme under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, is undergoing a major digital transformation with the launch of the next-generation Health Management Information System (HMIS). Developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), this comprehensive digital platform is scheduled to go live from 28th April 2025.
The transformation is being implemented in view of the technical obsolescence of the existing CGHS software, which has been in use since 2005 and lacks compatibility with modern IT standards, cyber security frameworks, and user expectations. The revamped HMIS will enable faster, more transparent, and user-friendly access to CGHS services, ensuring improved service delivery and administrative efficiency.
To ensure a seamless rollout, all CGHS services including those at Wellness Centres shall remain closed for one day on 26th April 2025 (Saturday). This temporary suspension is necessary to complete data migration, switch-over activities, and final validation.
Key Reforms and Technological Advancements in the New CGHS HMIS
PAN-Based Unique Identification of Beneficiaries • Every beneficiary will now be mapped to a unique PAN-based identifier. This will eliminate duplication of records and help in streamlining the validation process for entitlements.
Integrated Digital Verification & Contribution Tracking • Contribution payments will now be auto-verified through direct integration (Line of Business Application Integration) with Bharat Kosh. There will be no manual choosing of options, entry of details on Bharat Kosh portal which shall eliminate errors and refund issues.
Pre-payment Scrutiny of Applications • New system enables scrutiny and approval of card applications before the payment stage. This ensures that applicants are guided regarding eligibility and contribution amount before making a payment.
Online Card Modification Services • Services like card transfers, change in dependent status, and category change (Serving to Pensioner, etc.) can now be initiated and completed entirely online.
Real-Time Application Tracking and Alerts • The system will generate SMS and email alerts at each stage of application processing. This increases transparency and reduces in-person follow-ups.
Mandatory Password Reset and Secure Access • All existing users will be prompted to reset their passwords on first login. This is being enforced as a cyber hygiene measure in accordance with MeitY security advisories.
DDO/PAO-Based Department Identification • Department identity will be verified using Pay and Accounts Office (PAO) and Drawing and Disbursing Officer (DDO) codes, as indicated in employee salary slips. This ensures backend mapping of sponsoring authorities.
Mobile Application Relaunch (Android & iOS) • The official CGHS mobile apps have been re-developed and now offer an enhanced beneficiary experience with:
Access to Digital CGHS Card
Real-time status tracking
E-referrals and appointment scheduling (where applicable)
Integrated contact with Helpdesk and AD Offices
Legacy System Deactivation and Website Migration
From 28th April 2025, the old CGHS websites www.cghs.gov.in and www.cghs.nic.in will be deactivated. All services and information will henceforth be hosted on the new unified CGHS Digital Platform at www.cghs.mohfw.gov.in.
Beneficiaries are advised to access all online services, including registration, application, grievance redressal, and information retrieval, through this new portal only.
All legacy beneficiary data, including medical history and pharmacy transactions, are being securely migrated, ensuring no loss of records. The transition complies fully with government data privacy and protection standards.
Additionally, the department shall be onboarded on the new CGHS Platform for a paperless approval process. In the interim, departments may continue to submit applications physically at the respective CGHS Card Sections.
Advisory for Beneficiaries and Departments
28th April onwards, CGHS Contribution shall be only through CGHS Website i.e. www.cghs.mohfw.gov.in. The existing manual process of payment available on www.bharatkosh.gov.in shall discontinue from 28th April 2025.
Applications for CGHS services in progress but not paid for by 27th April 2025 will lapse. A fresh application will be required through the new portal.
All Beneficiaries aged above 18 years are advised to link their PAN Card with their CGHS Beneficiary ID and apply for corrections in case of any errors through the beneficiary login on CGHS website www.cghs.mohfw.gov.in.
Instructions shall be issued for the Departments regarding onboarding on the new platform.
The existing issued cards shall continue to function normally.
Support initiatives include:
CGHS Helpdesk and User Manuals are available on the CGHS website www.cghs.mohfw.gov.in and mobile app for use by Departments and Beneficiaries.
Continuous support through the CGHS Card Sections and respective Additional Director (AD) Offices.
[PRESS RELEASE 07 April 2025] – The Samoa Airport Authority (S.A.A.) wishes to clarify the recent vehicle screening operations conducted at the entry gate of Faleolo International Airport.
The SAA’s decision to implement random screening of vehicles entering the airport premises was made in response to serious and escalating threats to public safety, security and airport property. Over the past several months, there have been three separate incidents involving violent disputes on airport grounds including in the public car park area. These incidents involved the use of dangerous weapons such as machetes and alarmingly, the discharge of firearms.
These occurrences represent a threat to the safety and security of travelers, airport personnel, and the general public. As stipulated in the Airport Authority Act 2012, relevant by-laws, operating procedures and codes of practices, the SAA may exercise all necessary measures to prevent such threats from materializing again.
It is important to note that the initial intent of the screening operation was to carry out a brief series of security-related questions to the general public entering the Airport, not to conduct physical searches of vehicles or personal belongings. Unfortunately, there was a miscommunication with some members of our security teams, which resulted in unintended and more extensive screening procedures at the entry point in recent days.
While we regret the inconvenience this may have caused, the decision was made with the safety and security of all airport users as the highest priority. We are currently reviewing our communication and operational protocols to ensure clarity and consistency in the future.
The Samoa Airport Authority appreciates the understanding and cooperation of the public as we continue to work towards providing a safe and secure environment at Faleolo International Airport.
[PRESS RELEASE 07 April 2025] – Marking a major milestone for regional cooperation and resilience, the Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority (SFESA) and the National Fire Authority (NFA) of Fiji have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance fire safety and emergency response capabilities across the Pacific.
“This MOU represents more than a formal agreement — it is a shared vision for a safer, more resilient Pacific, knowing your neighbours and knowing their strengths and capabilities is a valuable asset.
It is testament to the value of regionalism, of understanding that when we combine our knowledge, skills and resources, we are far more capable than when we act alone” said Commissioner Tanuvasa Oloapu Petone Mauga of SFESA.
Through collaboration, training, and mutual support, we can strengthen our collective ability to respond to the evolving risks facing our communities.
The MOU outlines key areas of cooperation, including:
•Share trainings opportunities and personnel exchanges to strengthen operational readiness
•Collaborative fire prevention and community education programs – SFESA and NFA will promote fire safety and educate the public/community on best practices to reduce fire risks
•Adoption of modern firefighting technologies and best practices – the partnership will focus on adopting latest technology in firefighting and techniques to improve operational effectiveness in times of disaster and major emergencies
•Cooperation for the purpose to support each other in the building of safe and more resilient communities in the Pacific Region
Following the formalities, the SFESA delegation visited key NFA facilities, beginning with Lami Fire Station, where they were warmly welcomed with a ceremonial parade. The visit provided an in-depth overview of the station’s operations and highlighted the dedication of Fiji’s firefighters.
These engagements provided valuable insights into Fiji’s emergency response infrastructure and reinforced the importance of regional learning and exchange.
SFESA extends its heartfelt gratitude to the leadership and personnel of NFA Fiji for their warm hospitality, and to the Pacific Islands Emergency Management Alliance (PIEMA) for their continued support in making this milestone a reality.
[PRESS RELEASE – TUESDAY 8 APRIL 2025] – His Excellency Mr. Victor Vavricker presented his Letters of Credence to the Head of State of the Independent State of Samoa, Afioga Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II, at a Credentials Ceremony held this morning at the Official Residence of the Head of State at Vailele, accrediting His Excellency as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Switzerland to Samoa with residence in Wellington, New Zealand.
Samoa and Switzerland have enjoyed cordial relations since the establishment of formal ties on 1 August 1981. Over the years, our collaboration has grown through shared values of multilateralism, sustainable development, and in addressing the challenges posed by climate change. Ambassador Vavricka reaffirmed Switzerland’s continued support for Samoa and the Pacific region, underscoring the importance of cooperation, respect for sovereignty, and shared development goals, as well as recognizing the vital role of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the global community.
Afioga Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II welcomed the Ambassador and acknowledged the growing partnership between Samoa and Switzerland. The Head of State highlighted Switzerland’s contributions to international development initiatives, particularly those that align with Samoa’s national priorities. His Highness reaffirmed Samoa’s confidence in the strengthening of bilateral relations, noting that Ambassador Vavricka’s tenure would further enhance the strong and enduring partnership between the two countries. The Head of State also acknowledged the contributions of the Honorary Consul Mrs. Sylvie Salanoa in strengthening Samoa-Switzerland relations through small grant projects in the local community.
H.E. Mr. Viktor Vavricka holds a licentiate in Law from the University of Zurich. He entered the service of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs in 2002, where he was initially assigned as a stagiaire in Bern and Ottawa. Mr. Vavricka has held several senior positions within Switzerland’s foreign service, including heading the Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law Section in the Directorate of International Law and the Asset Recovery Task Force. He also held various diplomatic postings including as Deputy Head of Mission in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Bangkok, Thailand, and Berlin, Germany. In 2021, he was appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Switzerland to New Zealand with cross accreditation to Cook Islands, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, and Tuvalu. He also serves as the Consul General to American Samoa.
END
Photo by the Government of Samoa (Jasmine Netzler-Iose)
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi paid a State Visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on April 22, 2025. Prime Minister was received by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at the Royal Palace in Jeddah and accorded a ceremonial welcome.
Prime Minister and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia held official talks and co-chaired the second meeting of the India–Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council (SPC). HRH Crown Prince strongly condemned the ghastly terror attack in Pahalgam and offered deepest condolences on the innocent lives lost. The two leaders resolved to combat terrorism tooth and nail.
The leaders reviewed the progress under the Council since their last meeting in September 2023 in New Delhi. The leaders noted with appreciation the intensification in bilateral engagement and the large number of high-level visits across various Ministries that have built trust and mutual understanding on both sides. The two leaders discussed cooperation in the fields of energy, defence, trade, investment, technology, culture and people-to-people relations. Prime Minister thanked His Royal Highness for the support and welfare extended to the Indian community in Saudi Arabia. He also appreciated the support provided by the Saudi government for the Indian Haj pilgrims.
Both leaders appreciated the progress in the discussions in the High-Level Task Force on Investment. They welcomed the understanding reached by the Task Force in multiple areas, which builds on the earlier commitment of Saudi Arabia to invest USD 100 billion in India across multiple sectors including energy, petrochemicals, infrastructure, technology, fintech, digital infrastructure, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and health. In this context, they particularly welcomed the agreement to collaborate on establishing two oil refineries in India, as well as the progress achieved on taxation issues. Prime Minister proposed that to further strengthen economic ties both countries could work for connecting payment gateways and trade settlement in local currencies.
The two leaders discussed progress in India-Middle East Europe Economic Corridor [IMEEC], particularly the bilateral connectivity initiatives being undertaken by the two sides. Both leaders also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest.
The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the outcomes of the work of the two Ministerial Committees under the Council, namely: (a) the Committee on Political, Security, Social and Cultural Cooperation and its subcommittees, and (b) the Committee on Economy and Investments and its Joint Working Groups.
The two leaders welcomed the expansion of the Strategic Partnership Council with the establishment two new ministerial committees. In this context, to reflect the deepening of the defence partnership, the leaders agreed on the establishment of the Ministerial Committee on Defence Cooperation. Acknowledging the growing momentum in cultural cooperation between the two sides in recent years, they also agreed to establish a Ministerial Committee on Tourism and Culture Cooperation. After the meeting, the minutes of the second SPC were signed by the two leaders.
The leaders welcomed the signing of 4 bilateral MoUs and agreements in the fields of Space, Health, Sports (Anti-Doping) and postal cooperation on the occasion of the visit. [List of Outcomes]
Prime Minister invited His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman to visit India for the third meeting of the Strategic Partnership Council.