TAIPEI — Taiwan’s forensic scientists are on the front lines of detecting synthetic drugs that are rapidly spreading across Asia, but officials warn the world is missing out on critical early warnings because Taiwan is excluded from major international crime-fighting networks. At the Criminal Investigation Bureau’s chemical laboratory, researchers have uncovered several new psychoactive substances, […]
Author Archives: Leilani Reklai
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Palau and Pacific Islands push for Equity, funding in High-Seas Biodiversity Treaty
UNITED NATIONS — As the world negotiates the future of life in the oceans beyond national borders, small island developing states are making their voices heard. At the second session of the Preparatory Commission for the Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, held at UN Headquarters from Aug. 18–29, Pacific Island nations, […]
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Taiwan’s Audrey Tang
Small Nations Can Harness Digital Democracy to Tame Tech’s Divide TAIPEI, Taiwan — Taiwan’s cyber ambassador Audrey Tang believes democracies can harness technology not only to withstand the harms of disinformation and social media but also to create more inclusive, participatory societies that rebuild trust. Tang, a former digital minister and a longtime advocate for […]
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Taiwan tackles Labor shortages by expanding Migrant Worker programs and protections
By: L.N. Reklai TAIPEI — Facing deepening labor shortages driven by an aging population and a shrinking birth rate, Taiwan is expanding recruitment of foreign workers while strengthening protections and integration programs to ensure they are treated fairly and welcomed into society. Minister of Labor Hung Sun-han said more than 800,000 migrant workers are currently […]
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Taiwan Charts Diplomatic Path in Pacific amid Solomon Islands Controversy
TAIPEI, Taiwan — Taiwan is ramping up its diplomatic presence in the Pacific, framing itself as a vital partner to island nations even as China’s influence complicates regional cooperation. The island’s Foreign Minister, Lin Chia-Lung, spoke Thursday to an international press corps about Taiwan’s approach to diplomacy, its response to the Solomon Islands’ recent decision […]
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Australia extends Qantas Flights to Palau through 2026; Whipps hails Tourism boost
Koror, Palau – Qantas Airways will continue its direct service between Brisbane and Palau for another year, a move welcomed by Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. as a boost to tourism and bilateral ties. The “Palau Paradise Express” flights, which first began operating in December 2024, will now continue until December 2026 with the support […]