MIL Asia Pacific Publishing Engine

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

MOFA response to surveillance and transnational repression of a member of President Lai’s family in the US by an agent of China

October 5, 2026  

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly condemns all acts of transnational repression committed by China that infringe on human rights, violate the principles of international law, and undermine the sovereignty of nation states. MOFA calls on the international community to jointly condemn and counter such conduct.

To enhance the safety of Taiwan nationals overseas, MOFA will further pursue the three-pronged strategy of prevention, protection, and countermeasures. It will also continue to work closely with the United States and other democratic allies to reinforce intelligence sharing and security mechanisms, jointly combat illegal transnational threats and actions, and firmly defend the universal values of freedom, democracy, and human rights.

MOFA sincerely thanks the US judiciary and law enforcement agencies for taking swift action to protect the human rights and ensure the safety of Taiwan nationals in the United States.

Source: Government of Singapore

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Government today hosted a commendation ceremony for the recent “Salute to the National Flag” visit to Beijing involving Hong Kong and Macao youth, while also launching a thematic exhibition on the 90th Anniversary of the Victory of the Red Army’s Long March.

A delegation of about 1,200 flag-raising team representatives from tertiary institutions, secondary schools and primary schools from Hong Kong and Macao visited Beijing last month. During the trip, they witnessed a Tiananmen Square flag-raising ceremony and explored the capital’s history and culture.

Speaking at the ceremony, Chief Executive John Lee urged students to revisit the history of the Long March, deepen their sense of patriotism through visiting the exhibition and become champions of the “one country, two systems” cause.

Highlighting the national flag as the symbol of sovereignty, dignity and unity that signifies the Chinese nation’s struggle and common ideals, he noted that saluting the flag pays tribute to both the country and the sacrifices and national ideals of Red Army soldiers.

Organised by the Education Bureau and hosted by the Patriotic Education Centre, the exhibition features various interactive installations, as well as oil paintings.

The exhibition is open to primary and secondary students starting today. Schools can apply to visit via the centre.

Guided tours, talks, and other educational activities will be available.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

President Lai and King Mswati III of Eswatini visit Army Aviation Training Command
On the morning of October 11, President Lai Ching-te and His Majesty King Mswati III of the Kingdom of Eswatini visited the Army Aviation Training Command in Tainan. In remarks, President Lai stated that Taiwan and Eswatini have enjoyed a deep friendship over their 58 years of diplomatic relations, and that the Army Aviation Training Command has contributed to bilateral cooperation by helping train military pilots and maintenance officers from Eswatini. He expressed hope that the visit would give the king an even deeper understanding of Taiwan and that the two countries would continue to expand cooperation and further strengthen their diplomatic ties.
Upon arrival, President Lai and King Mswati III received a briefing on the flight simulator system and tried a simulated flight. They then proceeded to an exhibition area for an introduction to various helicopter models and assault vehicles.
A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
Taiwan and Eswatini have maintained diplomatic relations for 58 years and share a deep friendship. I have been honored to welcome His Majesty King Mswati III, Inkhosikati Make Zuma, and their delegation here for the special occasion of our National Day celebrations. This is His Majesty’s 20th visit, reflecting his support for Taiwan and the depth of our two countries’ diplomatic ties.
Following yesterday’s celebrations, I have specially invited His Majesty to visit Tainan today. The Army Aviation Training Command is responsible for educating and training helicopter pilots and aviation maintenance personnel for the army, navy, and air force, making it an important center for developing aviation professionals for our armed forces. This training experience has also been applied to cooperation between Taiwan and Eswatini.
In connection with the transfer of UH-1H helicopters to Eswatini, the Army Aviation Training Command helped train a total of 11 Emaswati military pilots and maintenance officers between 2019 and 2020. It also dispatched instructors to Eswatini to share their flying and maintenance expertise. I would like to thank all personnel involved in this mission for their contributions to the diplomatic ties between our two countries.
Earlier, His Majesty and Inkhosikati Zuma also tried the flight simulator. His Majesty proved to be a natural pilot, flying very smoothly and skillfully. I have therefore presented him with a certificate of achievement and invited him to board a Black Hawk helicopter to experience the difference between simulated flight and sitting in an actual Black Hawk cockpit.
I hope this visit will give His Majesty an even deeper understanding of Taiwan, and that our two countries can expand cooperation and further strengthen their diplomatic ties.
King Mswati III then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for inviting the delegation to visit the Army Aviation Training Command. Recalling the previous day’s National Day celebrations, he said that he was impressed to see the population come together to celebrate, as well as see the love and respect that President Lai has received from the people of Taiwan. The celebrations, he said, showcased Taiwan’s achievements in economic development, social welfare, and other fields. He added that Taiwan would not be where it is today without the support of the nation’s people, and said that these achievements are worth celebrating. For this, he extended his congratulations to President Lai and the government and people of Taiwan.
King Mswati III said that, having seen the displays by the fighter jets and helicopters at the National Day celebrations, he is happy to be visiting the Army Aviation Training Command to see its equipment and training achievements firsthand. He noted that today’s world faces many challenges, including climate change and the natural disasters it brings, while emergencies such as accidents in mountainous areas and traffic accidents also occur. Helicopters and trained pilots, he said, play a vital role in emergency response and rescue operations. He emphasized that every country needs such equipment and skilled personnel, and that their professionalism must be passed on to generations to come so that we are always ahead of any natural disaster or emergency we may come across.
King Mswati III thanked Taiwan for helping train Emaswati pilots and for allowing some of its helicopters to be deployed in Eswatini. He said that the helicopters are doing a fantastic job, including transporting patients who are unable to reach medical facilities on their own or who need urgent medical attention. On behalf of Her Majesty the Queen Mother and the government and people of the Kingdom of Eswatini, he expressed gratitude to the government and people of Taiwan.
King Mswati III said that, during the visit, he noticed Taiwan’s aviation industry is continuing to grow and improve, and that he looks forward to further exchanges between the two countries and the sharing of expertise and experience. He once again thanked President Lai for bringing the delegation to the Army Aviation Training Command following the major activities of the previous day, saying that this reflects the friendship and mutual respect between the two countries. He concluded by wishing Taiwan every success, and expressing hope that the relationship between the Kingdom of Eswatini and the Republic of China (Taiwan) will grow from strength to strength.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

At noon on October 10, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from the Japanese Diet visiting to take part in the National Day Celebration. In remarks, President Lai thanked Japanese House of Representatives Member and Japan-Taiwan Diet Members’ Consultative Council Chairman Furuya Keiji for leading a congratulatory delegation to Taiwan for the National Day Celebration for many years running, demonstrating support for Taiwan through concrete action. He noted that their visits give the people of Taiwan an understanding of the very close relationship between Taiwan and Japan, as well as a sense of security and stability. The president expressed hope that he will be able to meet with the guests often and that the friendship between Taiwan and Japan will be carried forward.
A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
On behalf of our nation, I would like to express my utmost gratitude to the congratulatory delegation led by Chairman Furuya. Our guests have a tight schedule today and will be leaving for Kaohsiung shortly, so our time together is short.
Chairman Furuya has led a congratulatory delegation to Taiwan for our National Day Celebration for many years running, demonstrating support for Taiwan through concrete action. Seeing the delegation’s arrival gives to the people of Taiwan not only joy but also an understanding of the very close relationship between Taiwan and Japan, as well as a sense of security and stability. Therefore, on behalf of all the people of Taiwan, I would like to once again express our gratitude to all of our friends in the Diet.
I look forward to meeting with all of you next year, the year after, and every year to come. I hope, too, that our time together will not be too brief and that there will be enough of it to share a meal and for me to express my heartfelt gratitude in person. In closing, I wish you all a smooth and successful trip.
Chairman Furuya then delivered remarks, first offering his congratulations on the 115th National Day of the Republic of China and thanking Taiwan for its warm hospitality. He pointed out that this is the first delegation to visit Taiwan since the Japan-ROC Diet Members’ Consultative Council was renamed in June this year to the Japan-Taiwan Diet Members’ Consultative Council. He also thanked President Lai for conferring on him the Order of Brilliant Star with Grand Cordon this July, saying that the honor belongs to all the Japanese Diet members who have dedicated themselves to Taiwan over the years, and that they will continue to do their utmost to promote friendly relations between Taiwan and Japan.
Chairman Furuya mentioned that President Lai’s National Day address earlier in the day conveyed a firm determination to safeguard the peace and security of Taiwan and in the Indo-Pacific region. Close cooperation among Taiwan, Japan, the United States, and other like-minded countries, he said, is essential to safeguarding Taiwan’s democracy and peace and security across the Taiwan Strait. He noted that the Japan-Taiwan Diet Members’ Consultative Council is also actively promoting various initiatives through several task forces. Last year, he said, it succeeded in allowing the listing of “Taiwan” in the field designating nationality or region of origin in Japan’s family registry system, and it is now encouraging junior and senior high school students in Japan to take their graduation trips to Taiwan, a concrete action to pass on the Taiwan-Japan friendship to the next generation.
Also in attendance were Japanese House of Representatives Member Ryu Hirofumi, House of Representatives Member Kaneko Yasushi, House of Councillors Member Yamatani Eriko, House of Councillors Member Yamamoto Junzo, House of Representatives Member Inoue Shinji, House of Councillors Member Kitamura Tsuneo, House of Representatives Member Azuma Toru, House of Representatives Member Nagasaka Yasumasa, House of Representatives Member Inoue Hidetaka, House of Representatives Member Usami Noboru, House of Representatives Member Yoshida Shinji, House of Councillors Member Ishii Megumi, House of Representatives Member Kitagami Keiro, House of Representatives Member Wada Masamune, House of Representatives Member Hosoda Kenichi, House of Representatives Member Ishikawa Akimasa, House of Representatives Member Ihara Takumi, House of Representatives Member Saiki Takeshi, House of Councillors Member Umemura Mizuho, House of Representatives Member Kawano Masami, House of Representatives Member Nishioka Yoshitaka, House of Councillors Member Iwamoto Mana, House of Councillors Member Yamada Yoshihiko, House of Councillors Member Seki Hei, House of Representatives Member Dobashi Akihiro, and House of Representatives Member Kobayashi Syuhei. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Deputy Representative Mizobuchi Masashi.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is the keynote address by the Permanent Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Mr Kevin Choi, at the HKTDC (Hong Kong Trade Development Council) Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition) 2026 Future Industries Zone Opening Ceremony today (October 13):

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

Good morning. It is a pleasure to join you all at the opening of the Future Industries Zone at the Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition) 2026.

Electronics remains central to Hong Kong’s economy. Electronic products accounted for close to 80 per cent of Hong Kong’s total exports in the first eight months of this year. Yet the significance of the industry goes beyond trade figures. Electronics is the foundation of artificial intelligence, advanced computing, smart manufacturing, healthcare technologies and many of the industries that will shape our future.

That is why the launch of the Future Industries Zone is timely. A new generation of technologies is creating new industries and transforming established ones. The challenge is no longer confined to making a scientific discovery. We must also turn that discovery into a product, validate it in a real setting, establish a viable production process and bring it to the market.

This is the essence of new industrialisation, and a practical way to develop new quality productive forces. It connects technological innovation with industrial innovation, so that research can create real economic value. For hardware companies in particular, transforming a prototype into a commercial product involves design for manufacturability, rigorous testing, certification and supply chain management, demanding clear validation before meeting operational needs.

The Future Industries Zone responds directly to these needs. It brings together future microelectronics, future computing, future marine and quantum technology, future manufacturing and future wellness. More importantly, it places researchers and technology developers alongside manufacturers, users, investors and industry partners. This can help close the gap from research and development to design for manufacturing and mass production, while strengthening the wider electronics supply-chain ecosystem.

The direction of the Zone is closely aligned with national and Hong Kong development priorities. This year marks the beginning of the National 15th Five-Year Plan. The Plan calls for deeper integration between technological and industrial innovation, the development of a modern industrial system and the fostering of new quality productive forces according to local conditions. It also supports Hong Kong in developing into an international innovation and technology centre.

Hong Kong’s First Five-Year Plan and this year’s Policy Address translate these national priorities into concrete action for Hong Kong. Building on our strengths in basic research, international connections and professional services, and the Greater Bay Area (Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area)’s strong manufacturing capabilities and complete supply chains, Hong Kong is developing a new industrialisation system with three major innovation and technology parks and five research and development institutions as its backbone.

A central task is to strengthen the path from research and development to testing, pilot production, industrial application and market development. Pilot production is particularly important. It allows companies to verify whether a technology can be manufactured reliably and at the required quality, and to resolve technical problems before moving to full-scale production.

In microelectronics, the Hong Kong Microelectronics Research and Development Institute is establishing pilot lines for third-generation semiconductors. They will support research, proof-of-concept fabrication, pilot production and low-volume production. The Institute will also take the lead in operating the first national manufacturing innovation centre to be established in Hong Kong, bringing together resources from Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland and overseas, including local enterprises and start-ups participating in the Zone today, to strengthen our microelectronics ecosystem and accelerate commercialisation.

Technology needs to be tested in real operating environments. This is another area where the Future Industries Zone can make a practical contribution. Through scenario-based displays, enterprises and start-ups can show how their hardware and software solutions work, engage prospective users and obtain direct feedback. These are not merely product showcases. They give companies a valuable opportunity to validate and improve their technologies with reference to real needs.

This year’s Policy Address also supports the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation in exploring the establishment of the Hong Kong Innovation and Technology Application Scenario Promotion Centre. By helping technology companies identify opportunities for validation and adoption in public services and different industries, the proposed centre will enable more promising solutions to move from demonstration to wider use.

The Top 100 Future Industries Pioneer List adds another important dimension. By identifying promising enterprises in the frontier fields featured at the Zone, it gives them greater visibility and creates opportunities to connect with technology partners, manufacturers and potential users. This complements the Government’s efforts to support enterprises through various policy initiatives such as the $10 billion New Industrialisation Acceleration Scheme in establishing smart production facilities in Hong Kong.

The Zone also provides a link to the international technology community. The debut of CES Asia Unveiled Hong Kong, made possible through the HKEIA (Hong Kong Electronic Industries Association)’s partnership with the Consumer Technology Association, brings an internationally recognised technology platform to the Fair. The pitch competition offers high-potential start-ups an opportunity to present their technologies, while the winning company will receive complimentary exhibition space at CES 2027 Eureka Park.

This international exposure is valuable, but it rests on the same foundation: strong technology, effective validation and the ability to turn an idea into a product. By combining these elements in one place, the Future Industries Zone can help companies progress further along the path from research to industrial application, and support the formation of future industry clusters in Hong Kong.

The Government will continue to work with industry, universities and research institutions to strengthen that path. The HKEIA’s collaboration with the Government and the industry demonstrates how the wider innovation and technology ecosystem can work together.

I thank the HKEIA, HKTDC and all partners for creating this new platform. I look forward to seeing the Future Industries Zone foster practical collaboration, accelerate the commercialisation of promising technologies and contribute to Hong Kong’s new industrialisation and technology development.

I wish the Future Industries Zone and the Hong Kong Electronics Fair every success, and all of you a productive and rewarding event. Thank you.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The following is issued on behalf of the Office of The Ombudsman:

     The Ombudsman, Mr Jack Chan, today (October 13) announced the launch of a direct investigation operation to examine the effectiveness of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD)’s management of indoor fitness rooms.168–200 Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong
Fax: 2882 8149
Email: di496@ombudsman.hk

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Hong Kong Customs raided a suspected illicit cigarette storage site in Kwun Tong yesterday (October 12). A total of about 430 000 suspected illicit cigarettes were seized. The estimated market value was about $1.94 million, while the duty potential was about $1.42 million. A local woman involved in the case was arrested.

During an anti-illicit cigarette operation in Kwun Tong yesterday afternoon, Customs officers intercepted a suspicious woman on Yee On Street, and found 1 200 suspected illicit cigarettes from her backpack upon search. Customs officers immediately arrested the 63-year-old local woman, who claimed to be a cleaner, and escorted her to her residential address in a tenement building nearby for search. About 430 000 suspected illicit cigarettes were further seized. 
           
The case is still under investigation. The arrested woman has been charged and the case will be brought up at the Kwun Tong Magistrates’ Court tomorrow (October 14). Customs will continue to trace the source of the illicit cigarettes. The likelihood of further arrests is not ruled out.
           
Customs will continue its risk assessment and intelligence analysis for interception at source, as well as through its multipronged enforcement strategy targeting storage, distribution and peddling to spare no effort in combating illicit cigarette activities.

Customs stresses that it is an offence to buy or sell illicit cigarettes. Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance (Cap. 109), any person who deals with, possesses, sells or buys illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.

Members of the public are urged to report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080, 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

Hongkong Post today (October 13) announced the latest air mail posting dates for Christmas this year. While the dates are provisional, they have been compiled with due consideration of the requirements of respective postal administrations, and are for reference only. These dates and services are subject to availability of flights, and may be altered at short notice. The public are advised to post earlier than the dates shown. Members of the public may visit the web page at (www.hongkongpost.hk/en/about_us/whats_new/index.html) on the service availability for various destinations before posting.
 

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Air Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) today (October 13) published Interim Statement ITR-2026-09 on an accident that occurred on October 20, 2025, involving a Boeing 747-481 BDSF freighter aircraft (registration mark TC-ACF) operated by ACT Airlines (on behalf of Emirates SkyCargo), which veered off the runway at Hong Kong International Airport, resulting in the deaths of two airport security personnel inside a ground airport security vehicle parked outside the runway area.

Since the accident, the Government has attached great importance to the follow-up work in relation to the case. The Interim Statement is an interim report on the progress of the investigation, issued for anniversary updates in accordance with the requirement of the International Civil Aviation Organization. Its purpose is to provide the aviation industry and the public with timely information on the progress of the investigation. The final investigation report will be published upon completion of the investigation, and will set out a comprehensive account of the accident, its causes and recommendations for enhancing aviation safety.

The technical analysis for this accident is complex, some of the work must be carried out overseas by the relevant authorities. The AAIA is also required to undertake extensive co-ordination with the accredited representatives and their technical advisors of parties including the National Transportation Safety Board of the United States, Boeing, and aircraft component manufacturers, and to verify and confirm the information concerned. These factors will affect the investigation timeline. The Transport and Logistics Bureau (TLB) has requested the AAIA to press ahead with the investigation on the premise of ensuring its rigour and professionalism, with a view to completing it as soon as possible under the target of concluding all investigation work by the end of 2026.

The AAIA will continue to conduct an independent and in-depth professional investigation in strict accordance with international standards, with the aim of establishing the truth of the accident to prevent the recurrence of similar incidents. Should any evidence of suspected unlawful acts come to light in the course of the investigation, it will be referred to the relevant law enforcement agencies for follow-up without delay.

A spokesman for the TLB said, “We once again extend our deepest condolences on the deaths of the two airport security personnel in this accident, and offer our sincere sympathies to their families. Since the accident, the Government has maintained close contact with the families of the deceased and, through cross-departmental co-ordination, has provided them with comprehensive and appropriate support, including housing and other related assistance.”

In addition, as the freighter concerned is registered in Türkiye, the TLB has maintained close communication with the Turkish Consulate General in Hong Kong, exchanging information on the follow-up matters to the accident and co-ordination of the investigation. Türkiye has also been fully co-operative and supportive throughout. The TLB will continue to render full support to the investigation work, ensure the full implementation of the relevant safety recommendations, and further strengthen the flight and ground safety standards at Hong Kong International Airport.