MIL Asia Pacific Publishing Engine

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

President Lai meets delegation led by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Labour and Trade Paulson Panapa of Tuvalu
On the morning of September 15, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Labour and Trade Paulson Panapa of Tuvalu. In remarks, President Lai noted that Taiwan and Tuvalu will soon mark the 47th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, and that over the years the two countries have supported one another and walked side by side, like brothers. The president thanked Tuvalu for its longstanding support of Taiwan’s international participation and expressed hope that the two countries will continue to deepen cooperation across all domains and jointly respond to such global challenges as climate change and authoritarian expansion, so as to share in the fruits of development and together forge a prosperous future. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
To begin, I warmly welcome Minister Panapa back to Taiwan. This visit marks Minister Panapa’s first time leading an official delegation here since taking office, symbolizing our nations’ strong and friendly diplomatic partnership and demonstrating the government of Tuvalu’s high regard and staunch support for our diplomatic ties. I sincerely welcome our esteemed guests and look forward to the ties between our nations growing ever stronger.
This Saturday will mark the 47th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Taiwan and Tuvalu. For decades, our nations have supported one another in the international arena and walked side by side in undertaking all manner of cooperation. Taiwan and Tuvalu are more than good friends; we are like brothers. Over the years, we have worked together to promote projects involving digital transformation, power grid resilience, and climate adaptation. These initiatives have all achieved fruitful results, and we will continue to deepen cooperation. At present, Taiwan is implementing pioneer projects on outer islands like Vaitupu focusing on milkfish aquaculture, increased production of fruits and vegetables, and balanced nutrition and diet. Through our collaboration, we aspire to advance balanced development across Tuvalu’s outer islands and create a better living environment for the next generation.
We also look forward to Taiwan and Tuvalu jointly engaging in more international affairs so as to make greater contributions to the world. I would like to take this opportunity to especially thank the government of Tuvalu for consistently speaking up for Taiwan at international venues and supporting our international participation. During this year’s World Health Assembly and the Pacific Islands Forum, Tuvalu once again took concrete action to back Taiwan. Taiwan will always hold these gestures of sincere friendship close to its heart.  
The United Nations General Assembly and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP31) will be held one after the other in the near future. We look forward to Tuvalu’s continued staunch support for Taiwan’s international participation. We also hope that, under the framework of the Kaitasi Treaty, our countries will continue to promote cooperation and exchanges in all domains and jointly respond to such global challenges as climate change and authoritarian expansion.
In closing, I congratulate our good friend Minister Panapa on his appointment as foreign minister and once again welcome him and his delegation to Taiwan. I have every confidence that, through our joint efforts, Taiwan and Tuvalu will share in the fruits of development and together forge a prosperous future. 
Minister Panapa then delivered remarks, first expressing his sincere appreciation to the government and people of Taiwan for providing extensive support to Tuvalu over the past 46 years. He also thanked the government of Taiwan for inviting his delegation, and President Lai for taking the time to meet with them. Minister Panapa said that his relationship with Taiwan began 25 years ago, when he first visited as a young official to attend a national development course at Fu Hsing Kang College. During that visit, he said, he encountered not only a society characterized by innovation and discipline, but also a people whose warmth and hospitality reminded him of home, an experience that shaped his understanding of the principles underlying a strong and lasting partnership. He has returned to Taiwan on numerous occasions since, he noted, but this visit, his first official visit as minister of foreign affairs, labour and trade, holds particular significance, as it provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress our two countries have made together and to reaffirm the enduring strength of our friendship.
Minister Panapa said that Tuvalu and Taiwan are united by the common values of democracy, respect for human rights, and the rule of law. These principles guide both nations and give meaning to our cooperation, he said, and they are further strengthened by the spirit of Kaitasi, the understanding that we are a family standing together in solidarity. In a world where democratic voices are increasingly tested, he said, the partnership between Tuvalu and Taiwan stands as a reminder that small nations can lead with principle and courage.
Minister Panapa noted that the partnership between the two countries is very visible in the lives of Tuvaluan families. He added that Taiwan’s support has helped Tuvalu build resilience against climate change, improve health and education, and expand digital connectivity. He emphasized that the agreements signed this year, covering the milkfish project and clean energy initiatives, are more than just programs; they are practical expressions of friendship and trust. Looking ahead, he said, Tuvalu is committed to deepening this cooperation. Together the two countries can strengthen renewable energy, build climate-resilient infrastructure, expand opportunities for education and labor mobility, and advance sustainable development, efforts that will ensure the partnership continues to deliver tangible benefits for our peoples. He expressed hope that together we can build a future in which our vaka, our shared canoe, is powered by clean energy, strengthened by resilient infrastructure, and guided by opportunities for our young people.
Minister Panapa emphasized that Taiwan’s leadership in health, digital innovation, and disaster response enriches the global community, and that it is only right that such expertise has a seat at the table. He said that Tuvalu will continue to speak with a clear voice in support of Taiwan’s rightful place in the international community. Pointing out that Tuvalu and Taiwan share a friendship built on trust, respect, and family, he expressed hope that as the two countries walk forward together, our partnership will continue to be a beacon of peace and resilience, not only for our peoples, but for the wider Blue Pacific and the world.
 

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

According to the statistics, from January to August 2026, 1,578 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects with a total approved amount of US$ 16,181,020,000 were recorded. This represents a 10.12% increase in the number of cases, and a 90.93% increase in the FDI amount compared with the same period in 2025.

Regarding inward investment from Mainland China, 15 cases with a total approved amount of US$8,337,000 were recorded from January to August 2026. This reflects a 7.14% increase in the number of cases and a 91.79% decrease in the investment amount compared with the same period in 2025.

In terms of Taiwan’s outbound investment (excluding Mainland China), 458 projects were registered from January to August 2026, with a total amount of US$ 62,389,879,000. This represents a 19.93% decrease in the number of cases, but a 98.37% increase in the investment amount, compared with the same period in 2025.

As for Taiwan’s outward investment to Mainland China, 161 applications were approved from January to August 2026, marking a 5.92% increase compared with the same period in 2025. The approved investment amount totaled US$ 660,358,000, representing a 21.68% decline compared with the same period in 2025.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The newly installed lifts are not functioning effectively at the new Clinical Block of Queen Mary Hospital. Chief Executive John Lee said the problems need to be rectified very quickly, the Development Bureau has given him a preliminary briefing and he has asked the Bureau to thoroughly investigate the matter and report within a month.

Speaking before the Executive Council meeting, Mr Lee stressed that the Government need to identify where and whether the system has any inadequacies and rectify them.

“We will pursue accountability, including contractors, subcontractors, engineering personnel and professionals. And if there are government personnel involved, we will pursue their accountability as well.” 

He said medical services are very important and the new clinical block must be opened for service as soon as possible.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Chief Executive John Lee said that Hong Kong’s Five-Year Plan will feature a blue cover to symbolise openness, progress, and stability, while his Policy Address will retain its signature green cover to represent continuity, vitality and hope.

Speaking to the media ahead of an Executive Council meeting today, Mr Lee revealed that both key documents will be unveiled simultaneously at the Legislative Council tomorrow.

“The Five-Year Plan is not a planned economy. It is a plan which tells us where the strategic directions are, where we are heading, and what the priority areas are,” Mr Lee said.

“It is a blueprint for us to implement in five years’ time, so when we, each year, roll out policies, then we also have to ascertain priorities, so that at the end of five years we will reach certain goals.”

He added that by reading both documents, people can see the indicators in the blueprint and how the Policy Address will roll out policies to implement the plan.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in New York (New York ETO) strengthened economic, academic and cultural ties and promoted talent admission schemes in Atlanta through hosting high-level meetings, sharing sessions in universities and participating in a dragon boat festival.

     The Director of New York ETO, Ms Maisie Ho, conducted a visit to Atlanta from September 10 to 12 (Atlanta time). During the visit, Ms Ho met with Managing Director of the Georgia Department of Economic Development Ms Stella Xu on September 10. Ms Ho provided an update on the latest developments in Hong Kong and exchanged views on matters of mutual interest, including opportunities to strengthen co-operation in trade, investment and innovation. On September 11, Ms Ho met with the Executive Director of Atlanta’s Mayor Office of International and Immigrant Affairs, Ms Paulina Guzman. Later in the afternoon, she also met with Gainesville Mayor, Mr Zack Thompson, and Tourism Director, Ms Robyn Lynch. Ms Ho expressed her appreciation for the two cities’ continued support and valued partnership.

     During her visit, Ms Ho met separately with senior representatives of Georgia’s leading academic institutions, namely Emory University, Georgia State University and the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech). The meetings explored opportunities to deepen academic and research collaboration, and expand student exchanges. Ms Ho also met with students at sharing sessions at Emory and Georgia Tech to introduce Hong Kong as a dynamic global business and financial hub. She highlighted the city’s international career opportunities and extensive professional networks. She also outlined Hong Kong’s various talent admission schemes and career pathways available to graduates, researchers and young professionals. Recent graduates from both institutions also took part in the sessions to share first-hand experiences and practical insights on establishing their professional careers in Hong Kong.

     Ms Ho concluded her visit on September 12. She officiated at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Atlanta Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival at Lake Lanier Olympic Park. This year’s festival attracted 60 teams and a total of 1 500 paddlers to participate in the races. It also introduced a new All-Cancer Paddler Division, welcoming survivors of all cancer types to compete together in a supportive and empowering environment. In addition, the festival also expanded its cultural and educational programming, celebrating Hong Kong’s rich cultural heritage while fostering unity, understanding and community.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

​The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (September 14) reported the latest number of Legionnaires’ disease (LD) cases, and reminded the public of the importance of using and maintaining properly designed man-made water systems, adding that susceptible groups should strictly observe relevant precautions.

     From September 6 to 12, the CHP recorded one community-acquired LD case, involving a 73-year-old male with underlying illnesses. He lives in Southern District.
 
     The CHP is conducting epidemiological investigations to identify the potential sources of infection and high-risk exposure. An initial investigation revealed that this is a sporadic case. No epidemiological linkages have been established between this case and other confirmed cases previously recorded in Hong Kong. 

     As of September 12, 140 LD cases had been recorded this year. In 2025 and 2024, there were 167 and 135 LD cases respectively.

     Men, people aged over 50, smokers, alcoholics and persons with weakened immunity are more susceptible to LD. Some situations may also increase the risk of infection, including poor maintenance of water systems; living in areas with old water systems, cooling towers or fountains; using electric water heaters, whirlpool spas or hot water spring spas; and recent stays in hotels or ships.

Legionellae are found in various environmental settings and grow well in warm water (20 to 45 degrees Celsius). They can be found in aqueous environments such as water tanks, hot and cold water systems, cooling towers, whirlpool spas, water fountains, humidifiers and home respiratory devices that support breathing. People may become infected when they breathe in contaminated droplets (aerosols) and mist generated by artificial water systems, or when handling garden soil, compost and potting mixes.
 
Immunocompromised persons should:
 

• Use sterile or boiled water for drinking, tooth brushing and mouth rinsing;
• Avoid using humidifiers, or other mist- or aerosol-generating devices; and
• If using humidifiers, or other mist- or aerosol-generating devices, fill the water tank with only sterile or cooled freshly boiled water, and not water directly from the tap. Also, clean and maintain humidifiers/devices regularly according to manufacturers’ instructions. Never leave stagnant water in a humidifier/device. Empty the water tank, wipe all surfaces dry, and change the water daily.

The public should observe the health advice below:
 

• Observe personal hygiene;
• Do not smoke and avoid alcohol consumption;
• Strainers in water taps and shower heads should be inspected, cleaned, descaled and disinfected regularly or at a frequency recommended by the manufacturer;
• If a fresh-water plumbing system is properly maintained, it is not necessary to install domestic water filters. Use of water filters is not encouraged as clogging occurs easily, which can promote growth of micro-organisms. In case water filters are used, the pore size should be 0.2 micrometres (µm) or less and the filter needs to be changed periodically according to the manufacturer’s recommendations;
• Drain and clean water tanks of buildings at least quarterly;
• Drain or purge for at least one minute infrequently used water outlets (e.g. water taps, shower heads and hot water outlets) and stagnant points of the pipework weekly or before use;
• Seek and follow doctors’ professional advice regarding the use and maintenance of home respiratory devices and use only sterile water (not distilled or tap water) to clean and fill the reservoir. Clean and maintain the device regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. After cleaning/disinfection, rinse the device with sterile water, cooled freshly boiled water or water filtered with 0.2 µm filters. Never leave stagnant water in the device. Empty the water tank, keep all surfaces dry, and change the water daily; and
• When handling garden soil, compost and potting mixes:

1. Wear gloves and a face mask;
2. Water gardens and compost gently using low pressure;
3. Open composted potting mixes slowly and make sure the opening is directed away from the face;
4. Wet the soil to reduce dust when potting plants; and
5. Avoid working in poorly ventilated places such as enclosed greenhouses.

 
The public may visit the CHP’s LD page, the Code of Practice for Prevention of LD and the Housekeeping Guidelines for Cold and Hot Water Systems for Building Management of the Prevention of LD Committee, and the CHP’s risk-based strategy for prevention and control of LD.

     Additionally, as smokers and alcoholics are more susceptible to LD, the Government urges members of the public to quit smoking and avoid drinking. Members of the public may call the DH Integrated Smoking Cessation Hotline at 1833 183, which is answered by registered nurses who provide professional counselling and referrals to a wide range of free smoking cessation services. The public may also visit the smoking cessation thematic website (www.livetobaccofree.hk) for more information on smoking cessation. The DH has also developed and promulgated the Alcohol Screening and Brief Intervention tool to primary healthcare service providers to facilitate the early identification and management of at-risk drinkers. For information on alcohol-related harm, please visit the DH’s Change for Health website.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

​Regarding an earlier announcement on cluster of Influenza A cases, the spokesperson for TWGHs Wong Tai Sin Hospital (WTSH) gave the following update today (September 14):

Following a contact tracing investigation, the hospital has identified six more male patients (aged 63 to 95) in a Tuberculosis and Chest Ward, seven more female patients (aged 55 to 85) in an infirmary ward and one more staff member at WTSH were found with fever and respiratory symptoms. All patients and staff members were tested positive for influenza A. Three male patients (aged 81 to 95) passed away, all of whom had serious underlying diseases. The remaining three male patients and seven female patients are being treated in isolation and are in stable condition. One staff member is on sick leave.

The hospital has performed contact tracing investigation in accordance with the prevailing guidelines. The following enhanced infection control measures have already been adopted:

1. Thorough cleaning and disinfection of the wards concerned;
2. Enhanced hand hygiene of staff and patients; and
3. Application of stringent droplet precautions.

The hospital will continue to closely monitor the situation of the patients. The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Secretary for Home & Youth Affairs (SHYA) will appoint a supervisory committee to investigate Yuen Long District Council (YLDC) Member Sei Chun-hing, following his conviction for having intercourse with a girl under 16. 

The District Court handed down the conviction today, and Sei has been remanded in custody ahead of his sentencing on October 27.

The Government stressed that it places great importance on the conduct and integrity of District Council members. It added that it will closely monitor the ongoing legal proceedings and take appropriate follow-up action. 

Under the District Councils Ordinance, the YLDC chairman and three other members have formally requested the SHYA to launch an inquiry into the matter. 

The SHYA will appoint a supervisory committee to conduct the investigation in accordance with the ordinance and the established performance monitoring system for District Council members.

Source: Government of Singapore

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

Vice President Hsiao issues remarks after returning from conference on freedom and democracy in Ventotene, Italy
In response to an invitation to attend the Second European Conference of Ventotene for Freedom and Democracy, Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao, acting upon the designation of President Lai Ching-te, traveled to the Italian island of Ventotene for the conference, where she delivered a speech. Accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍), the vice president concluded her journey and returned to Taiwan on the morning of September 14, issuing remarks upon her arrival at Taoyuan International Airport.
In her remarks, Vice President Hsiao stated that this trip underscored that despite differences in culture and geographic location, freedom is a shared language and peace a common aspiration. She said that the challenges democracies face continue to turn up in different places and different forms. Taiwan faces mounting military and gray-zone pressures, she said, but we are firmly committed to our free and democratic way of life and to maintaining regional peace and prosperity. She expressed hope that the visit has helped the international community better understand that however difficult the circumstances, Taiwan will continue to move forward with courage, as one with the world.
A translation of Vice President Hsiao’s remarks follows:
Thank you all for coming to the airport so early this morning. It is a great honor to have once again led a delegation abroad to participate in an international conference. I would like to briefly share the significance of this visit and what we gained from it.
With President Lai’s full support and in line with his Europe policy, I accepted a joint invitation from Ms. Pina Picierno, vice-president of the European Parliament, and Mr. Carlo Corazza, head of the European Parliament Liaison Office in Italy, to attend the Second European Conference of Ventotene for Freedom and Democracy on the Italian island of Ventotene.
Ventotene is a small island, but it holds great symbolic meaning in modern European history. During World War II, it was where Altiero Spinelli and other Italians who opposed fascism were held as political prisoners. In that dark period of war and totalitarianism, Spinelli and fellow prisoners began to contemplate how Europe could avoid repeating the tragedies of war, and how countries could work together to maintain peace. They put forward the Ventotene Manifesto, which helped inspire the federalist ideas that drove postwar efforts toward a European union. One could say that Ventotene is the cradle of European integration. Spinelli later served as a member of the European Parliament, and its main building now bears his name.
Over the more than 80 years since then, Europe has emerged from the shadow of a war-torn and totalitarian past. Through the long and arduous process of rebuilding, it has moved step by step from division toward integration, building societies founded on democracy, freedom, human rights, and the rule of law.
Taiwan likewise traveled a long road from authoritarianism to freedom and democracy. Although our historical circumstances differ, both our experiences show that democracy and freedom are never just handed to us. They are won, put into practice, and protected through the continuing efforts of the people.
Europe today is very different from the Europe of World War II, but the challenges democracies face have never disappeared. Authoritarianism, gray-zone threats, and attempts to change the status quo through force or coercion continue to turn up in different places and different forms. None of this is unfamiliar to Taiwan. During the dialogue, I made a point of explaining to our international friends that Taiwan faces mounting military and gray-zone pressures. Yet, like our friends in Europe, we are firmly committed to our free and democratic way of life and to maintaining regional peace and prosperity.
It was no coincidence that I took part in a dialogue on freedom, democracy, and peace on Ventotene. This small Italian island carries profound historical significance. Despite our differences in culture and being half a world away, we share a language of freedom and an aspiration for peace. That was my deepest impression from attending this conference.
During this journey, I was once again reminded of the international community’s concern for Taiwan. More and more friends are open to learning about Taiwan and listening to our story. For me, the greatest significance of this trip goes beyond visiting a place and attending a conference. More importantly, it gave us the opportunity to allow Taiwan’s voice to be heard in a place of historical significance, and by more people. In my opening remarks at the dialogue, I emphasized that Ventotene and Taiwan, regardless of their size, both deserve to have their own voices and to be respected. Through this visit, I also wanted to convey a firm message: However difficult the circumstances, Taiwan will continue to move forward with courage, as one with the world.
In addition to participating in the conference and gaining a better understanding of our European friends’ topics of interest, I had the opportunity to see hydraulic engineering works on the island dating back more than 2,000 years to the time of Augustus. Italian engineering, architecture, culture, history, and aesthetics – all of it left a deep impression on me.
This visit was not announced before our departure in order to minimize unnecessary interference and ensure that we could reach our destination safely and smoothly. Traveling from Taiwan by plane, car, and ferry took about 27 hours. Along the way, we pressed forward through bad weather and rough seas.
I would like to once again express my heartfelt gratitude to our like-minded international partners who have long been friends of Taiwan. I am especially grateful to Vice-President Picierno for her warm invitation and to our friends for their arrangements throughout the journey. I also want to thank the China Airlines crew members, whose professional and thoughtful service helped make this trip safe and smooth.
I am deeply grateful to everyone in Taiwan for supporting my visit to Europe, and to our friends in the media for their interest. I particularly want to thank Minister Lin for his careful planning as well as his Ministry of Foreign Affairs team, which included Deputy Minister François Chihchung Wu (吳志中), Taiwan Representative to the European Union and Belgium Shieh Jhy-wey (謝志偉), Taiwan Representative to Italy Y. C. Tsai (蔡允中), and colleagues from various overseas missions. Everyone gave their all and overcame all obstacles. Working together with the Presidential Office team, they drove this European diplomatic initiative forward and strengthened Taiwan’s connections and communication with Europe and the wider world. Thank you all for your hard work.