EZ News

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 127-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,860 on turnover of $8.2-billion N-T. The market continued its momentum from the previous session on Wednesday to close moderately higher, as large cap artificial intelligence development-related tech stocks gained ground after rebounded on Wall Street overnight. However, funds rotated out of the non-tech sector, in particular financial stocks, to cap the upturn ahead of the 23,000-point mark. Net emissions in 2022 down 1.77% from 2005 The Ministry of Environment has released its latest National Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report - which indicates that net emissions have declined since 2022. According to the report, emissions totaled 264.13 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (相等的) in 2022 - and that represented a decrease of 1.77-per cent from the baseline year of 2005. The ministry says the figures for 2022 emissions also represents a decrease of 4.07-per cent from 2021. Officials say net emissions of 264.13 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent are calculated by taking total emissions of 285.97 million metric tons and deducting the carbon sink of 21.83 million metric tons. The earliest records Greenhouse Gas emissions date back to 1990 and peaked in 2007. The Ministry of Environment says compared to global trends, which saw energy-related CO2 emissions grow by 1.3-per cent from 2021 to 2022, Taiwan's emissions saw a decrease over that same period. NKorea Claims Successful Test of Multiwarhead Missile North Korea says it successfully tested a multiwarhead missile, a sophisticated (複雜的) weapon coveted by leader Kim Jong Un to overwhelm missile defenses in the continental United States. The statement contradicted South Korea’s assessment of a failed launch. North Korea's state media says today that the launch tested the separation and guidance control of individual mobile warheads. It said they were guided correctly to their targets and a decoy that separated from the missile was verified by radar. It was North Korea’s first known launch event related to the development of a multiwarhead missile, though outside experts believe it was a preliminary test. South Korea had evaluated Wednesday's launch as a solid-fueled hypersonic missile that blew up over water. China’s slams US Ambassador’s comments about Beijing interference BUT… Beijing has hit back after the US Ambassador accused China of of getting in the way of people to people ties. Nicholas Burns told the Wall Street Journal Beijing was "taking dramatic (驟然的) steps to make it impossible" for citizens from both sides to reconnect. Jagruti Dave has more. That was Jagruti Dave. Sri Lanka Announces Debt Restructuring Plan Sri Lanka’s President Ranil Wickremesinghe has announced a debt restructuring deal with countries including India, France, Japan and China in a televised address to the nation. The agreement marks a key step in the country’s economic recovery after defaulting on debt repayment in 2022. Sri Lanka is in an International Monetary Fund bailout program. The debt treatment deal is expected to reopen the doors to bilateral transactions and the resumption of foreign projects that stalled when the island nation defaulted (拖欠，不履行債務). Sri Lanka declared bankruptcy in April 2022 and suspended repayments on some $83 billion in domestic and foreign loans. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 62-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,938 on turnover of 6.4-billion N-T. The market closed higher on Tuesday. Select large cap tech stocks recouped early losses following a plunge by Nvidia on Wall Street overnight. The rebound helped the local main board overcame stiff technical resistance ahead of the 22,567-point mark. That was the intraday high seen on June 17. Premier Announces Plans for Constitutional Interpretation of LY Power Bills Premier Zhuo Rong-tai says the Cabinet is now finalizing plans to request a constitutional interpretation as soon as possible on the constitutionality (符合憲法) of legislative reform bills passed by lawmakers. According to Zhuo, all branches of government must respect each other's roles under the Constitution. They must perform their duties accordingly and he hope once the court has issued its decision, it will reinforce cooperation among the five branches of government The D-P-P is seeking a similar ruling from the Constitutional Court on the constitutionality of the amendments to the Law Governing the Legislature's Power and the Criminal Code. While the Control Yuan has also announced that it will also seek a Constitutional Court ruling on the recently passed amendments. CWA Predicting Two to Four Typhoons to be Near Taiwan this Year The Central Weather Administration says between two and four typhoons are likely to be in the vicinity of Taiwan between now and November. According to Forecast Center director Chen Yi-liang, that number is slightly lower than the average of three to five. This reflects the weakening El Nino weather pattern and the possibility of a La Nina weather pattern approaching. Chen says under those conditions, there are typically fewer typhoons. But their routes will be more likely to come near Taiwan. And if a typhoon forms near the island, its intensity will be limited by disruption (破壞) by unfavorable surroundings or land. UN Threatens to Halt Aid Deliveries in Gaza The United Nations says it may halt aid deliveries to Gaza. Speaking at the UN Security Council on Tuesday, the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process said indiscriminate (不分青紅皂白) attacks on convoys are impeding the delivery of aid. It's now emerged that senior U.N. officials told Israel they will suspend aid operations unless urgent steps are taken to better protect humanitarian workers. Jody Jacobs reports… Report: Global Tax on Super Rich Proposed A global tax on the super-rich is proposed in a new report that Brazil commissioned for its current presidency of the leading 20 rich and developing nations. The proposal says individuals with more than $1 billion in total assets would be required to pay the equivalent of 2% of their wealth in income tax. It says the tax would raise $200 billion to $250 billion per year globally from about 3,000 individuals. The money could fund public services such as education and healthcare as well as the fight against climate change. The issue of inequality is a priority (優先，重點) for Brazil in its G20 presidency. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

President Lai Says Autocracy is the Crime, not democracy President Lai Ching-te said that autocracy (專制主義), not democracy (民主主義), is deserving of punishment (懲罰). The president's remarks come in response to the recent threat (威脅) by Chinese authorities (大陸官員) imposing the death penalty (死刑) on "diehard" advocates (頑固的支持者) of Taiwan independence (臺獨). The President added that China has no right nor jurisdiction (管轄權) to punish Taiwanese people for expressing their opinions or stances, stating that according to China's logic, not supporting unification (不支持統一) is the same as supporting Taiwan independence (等於支持台灣獨立). Lai called on (呼籲) China to accept the existence of the Republic of China and engage in exchanges (交流) with Taiwan's democratically-elected government. He said that's the only way to protect the welfare (福利) of those on both sides of the Taiwan Strait (台灣海峽兩岸). The president also expressed condolences (表示慰問) to those impacted by the deadly rain in southern China and said he hopes post-disaster reconstruction (災後重建) goes well. Lai welcomes Saint Kitts and Nevis PM with military salute Meanwhile, President Lai Ching-te welcomed Saint Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister (聖克里斯多福及尼維總理) Terrence Drew with a military salute ceremony (軍禮儀式) in Taipei Monday. Lai said that Drew's frequent visits to Taiwan demonstrated the nation's high regard for bilateral ties (雙邊關係). This is Drew's second state visit (國事訪問) since taking office in August 2022. Both leaders emphasized shared values of democracy and human rights (人權) and expressed commitment to deepening cooperation (深化合作) since their diplomatic relations began in 1983. President Lai also thanked Drew for calling for justice and demonstrating staunch support for Taiwan on the international stage (國際舞台). Drew said his ongoing trip to Taiwan held "great importance", and thanked Taiwan for its support and technical assistance (技術援助) and underscored Taiwan's significant global economic role and contributions to various global challenges. The visit included a 21-gun salute and national anthems (國歌), with both Drew and Lai inspecting honor guards. Drew's delegation, which arrived Saturday for a five-day visit, includes his wife and senior cabinet members. EU has plan to use Russian frozen assets: Foreign Policy Chief The European Union's foreign policy chief (歐盟外交政策負責人) says a plan has been devised to ensure (確保) Ukraine receives funds through Russian frozen assets (凍結的俄羅斯資產). EU foreign ministers convened (召開會議) on how to navigate Hungary's opposition to support for Kyiv. Charles de Ledesma reports. Israel Hamas latest The viability (可行性) of a U.S.-backed proposal to wind down the war in Gaza is in doubt … after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he would only agree to a “partial” cease-fire deal (部分停火協議) that would not end the war. His comments were made in an interview with a pro-Netanyahu Israeli TV channel and sparked an uproar (引起強烈反應) from families of hostages held by Hamas. This comes as Israel's Defense Minister (國防部長) Yoav Gallant is in Washington DC for what he's describing as "critical" talks (關鍵會談) on the fighting in Gaza and escalating tensions on the border with Lebanon, exchanges of fire which are stoking fears of an all-out war (全面戰爭). Benji Hyer reports. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. 2024 Han Kuang Exercises Focuses on 24/7 Drills The upcoming live-fire phase of the annual Han Kuang military exercises will be focusing on testing troops' responses to decentralized command, the updated Rules of Engagement), and 24/7 operational scenarios. This year's 40th edition began with the tabletop war games phase, conducted from April 19 to 26. The live-fire exercise component (部分) is scheduled to take place from July 22 to 26. According to defense officials, the live-fire exercises will prioritize tests on troops' capabilities to fend off Chinese invasion 24/7, grassroot troops' preparedness to launch counterstrikes individually, and troops' ability to follow updated R-O-E during counterstrikes. Fire at Hualien Pet Shop Destroy Five Two-Story Houses And, Fire investigators are looking into the cause of a blaze at a pet store in Hualien that destroyed five two-story houses. Officials say due to the degree of destruction, the exact cause of the fire has not yet been determined. According to the Hualien County Fire Department, it received a report Saturday evening that flames were spotted coming out of a house. The house was later identified as a pet store next to a Burger King chain restaurant. The flames quickly spread to the adjacent (鄰近的) stores, which were all between 40 to 50-years-old. More than 20 pet dogs were rescued from the scene, including 20 owned by the fire-hit pet store. One dog died. NKorea Could Ratify Russia Treaty This Week North Korean leaders are set to hold a key party meeting this week following the signing of a security treaty with Russia. The two countries on Wednesday agreed to mutually (互相) assist each other if they are attacked,. Chris Gilbert has more. Houthi Drone Damages Red Sea Vessel An aerial drone launched (發射) by Yemen’s Houthi rebels struck and damaged a vessel in the Red Sea. The drone attack happened around dawn Sunday off the coast of the rebel-held port city of Hodeida. That's according to the British military’s United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center. The U.S. military’s Central Command said several mariners on the bulk carrier suffered minor injuries from the attack. Hajj Pilgrimage Heat Sees Over 1Thousand Dead More than 1,300 people died during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage as the faithful faced soaring (上升) temperatures at Islamic holy sites in Saudi Arabia. The Saudi health minister said 83% of the fatalities were among unauthorized pilgrims who walked long distances in soaring temperatures. Egyptian officials said more than 660 of the dead were from Egypt. The fatalities included 165 pilgrims from Indonesia, 98 from India and dozens more from Jordan, Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria and Malaysia, according to an Associated Press tally. Two U.S. pilgrims were also reported dead. Daily high temperatures exceeded 46 degrees Celsius, on some days. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 212-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,194 on turnover of 14.9-billion N-T. The market continued to gain ground on Thursday - despite thinner trading compared to the previous session. Wall Street was closed overnight in observance of Juneteenth. MOFA Stressed Taiwan-Haiti Ties Remain Solid The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says Taiwan formal diplomatic ties with Haiti's transitional government are solid. According to the ministry's Office of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs, Taiwan's ambassador to the Caribbean nation, Gu Wen-jian has established friendly interactions with Haiti's key officials. Those officials include Haiti's interim prime minister, its foreign minister and the head of the Transitional Presidential Council. The foreign ministry says Gu has informed them that Taiwan looks forward to Haiti's continued progress in restoring (恢復) constitutional and social order. The minister also says Taiwan aims to strengthen cooperation with Haiti's new administration to deepen their diplomatic ties. Haiti's new Cabinet was formally inaugurated on June 12. SKorea Considers Sending Arms to Ukraine South Korea says it will consider sending arms to Ukraine after Russia and North Korea rattled the region and beyond. They signed a pact to come to each other’s defense in the event of war. The office of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol issued a statement condemning the agreement. He called it a threat to his country's security and a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions, and warned that it would have negative consequences on Seoul’s relations with Moscow. The comments came hours after North Korea’s state media released the details of the agreement. Observers say it could mark the strongest connection between Moscow and Pyongyang since the end of the Cold War. It comes at a time when Russia faces growing isolation over its war in Ukraine and both countries face escalating (增加, 加劇. ) standoffs with the West. Climate Change Makes Extremem Heat More Likely in USMexicoCentralAmerica Climate change made extreme heat felt in the United States, Mexico and Central America around 35 times more likely, according to scientists. The World Weather Attribution says many extreme weather events are becoming more frequent (頻繁) and intense as a result of global warming. Sally Patterson reports from New York. France Joins Africa in Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator French President Emmanuel Macron has joined African leaders to kick off a planned $1 billion project to accelerate the rollout of vaccines in Africa. The effort comes after the coronavirus pandemic exposed gaping inequalities in access to vaccines globally. The African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator will provide financial incentives (獎勵) to vaccine manufacturers. Many African leaders and advocacy groups say Africa was unfairly locked out of access to COVID-19 treatment tools, vaccines and testing equipment when the pandemic swept the globe starting in 2020. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 13-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,197 on turnover of $7.5--billion N-T. The market moved sharply higher on Wednesday. The market gained by more than 450 points to close at a new record high amid continuing investor optimism (樂觀) over growth in artificial intelligence development. Coast Guard Undeterred by China's New Maritime Rule The Coast Guard Administration says a new regulation implemented (實施) by China's Coast Guard last week will not affect the way it enforces the law at sea. China's new regulation took effect on June 15. It allows the China Coast Guard to board and hold vessels in waters it lays claim to. And it allows the Chinese Coast Guard to question and detain foreign nationals found to have violated its "exit and entry rules" for up to 60 days. Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration says it has put into place principles while responding to contingencies at sea. These include guidelines on communicating with the armed forces of Taiwan and friendly nations .. .. and the administration will vigorously defend the rights and interests of Taiwan's fishing vessels and uphold national sovereignty and maritime safety. MRT Disputes Prompt Review of Priority Seating Rules The Ministry of Health says it's considering expanding access to priority seats on the Taipei MRT. The statement follows two violent confrontations (衝突) between senior citizens and younger passengers within the past nine days. According to ministry's Social and Family Affairs Administration, the proposal is aimed at changing the clause in the People with Disabilities Rights Protection Act to include more potential users. That act currently mandates that public transport facilities without reserved seats set aside priority seats for the "disabled, elderly, women and children". The number of priority seats must be no less than 15-per cent of available seats. Officials say the planned amendment will seek to replace the wording with "those with other actual needs." Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an says that the metro operator will discuss the issue with regulatory authorities. UN investigation finds Israel and Hamas responsible for war crimes An Independent UN investigations team that's found Israel committed (犯（罪、錯) war crimes in Gaza has officially presented its findings to the Human Rights Council. The UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory headed by Navi Pillay investigated the military attacks in Gaza since 7 October last year. It also says Hamas is responsible for war crimes committed in Israel. Jody Jacobs reports from the United Nations in New York. Ecuador Blackout After Transmission Line Failure Ecuador's government reported a failure in an energy transmission line has produced an unexpected blackout throughout the country. Just days earlier, the government announced that there would be new power outages in the country due to production problems. Officials say the failure was reported by the country’s National Electricity Operator and caused “a cascade disconnection (斷開),” leaving the nation without energy service. In some sectors of the country the outage lasted 20 minutes. But media outlets and social media users reported that the problem remained in most cities and even in some hospital areas. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 101-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,858 on turnover of 7.2-billion N-T. The Tai-Ex closed at another record high on Tuesday, led by solid gains posted by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing following a rally among tech stocks on Wall Street overnight. T-S-M-C's gains contributed about 180 points to the main board's rise to push both electronics and the semiconductor sub-index higher during the trading day. Weekly COVID Cases Nearly Double The Centers for Disease Control says weekly COVID-19 cases have nearly doubled. Data shows that a total of 623 new locally transmitted cases were reported from between June 11 and 17 - and that's up from 329 cases during the previous week. According to the C-D-C, the rise in domestic cases means that Taiwan is now in the pandemic phase - and mathematical modeling suggests the currently wave will peak in August and September, with a decline (衰退) expected after September. The C-D-C is encouraging people who have not yet received the X-B-B vaccine to get a shot as soon as possible. MOA to Cull Hens Amid Over Supply of Eggs The Ministry of Agriculture says it plans to cull 1.8-million hens on a monthly basis beginning later this month due to an oversupply eggs. The statement comes after a week after the ministry said it will be culling 1.2-million hens per month. According to the ministry, its hoped the move will cut daily egg production to approximately (大約) 120,000 crates, from the current 121,600 crates and will reduce the number of egg-laying hens from the current 35.7-million to between 33 and 34-million. The ministry says it chose to increase the number of hens culled as oversupply issues are continuing, despite the price of eggs dropping to 50 N-T a box at leading supermarket chains. Kim and Putin Meet in Pyongyang The leaders of Russia and North Korea are holding their first summit (會議) in Pyongyang in 24 years. Russian president Vladimir Putin arrived to a hug and handshake from his counterpart Kim Jong-un on Wednesday. Chris Gilbert reports. McKellen Looks Forward to Returning to Work After Fall Veteran actor Ian McKellen says he is looking forward to returning to work after toppling off a London stage during a play and being hospitalized. The 85-year-old actor known for playing Gandalf in the “Lord of the Rings” said on Tuesday that doctors had assured (保證) him his recovery would be “complete and speedy.” The actor said he was looking forward to returning to work. McKellen was playing John Falstaff in a production of “Player Kings” when he fell at the Noel Coward Theatre on Monday. The theater was evacuated (疏散) and the play was canceled. McKellen is one of Britain's most acclaimed Shakespearean actors, with roles including Richard III, Macbeth and King Lear. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 193-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,690 on turnover of 8.7-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Monday after initial gains were eroded. Investors took cues from a lackluster (黯淡無光) performance on Wall Street at the end of last week. Hon Hai managed to buck the downturn, to hit a 16-year high at the close. This provided some support to the broader market amid optimism toward the company's efforts in artificial intelligence development. ---------------------------- MOI Warns Against Chinese Influence in Political Parties In news from and about Taiwan this morning, The Ministry of the Interior is warning members of the public against forming political parties under the influences of foreign forces. The call comes amid allegations that a Chinese entity (實體) has recently attempted to recruit Taiwanese celebrities to establish the "Taiwan Pro-Peace Party." According to the interior ministry, people have the right to form political parties. But the ministry says they cannot accept instructions (指示) or funding from foreign forces. The ministry says that would violate the National Security Act and the Anti-Infiltration Act. ---------------- Consumers' Foundation to File Class Action in Fatal Food Poisoning Case The Consumers' Foundation has announced it has begun the process of collecting documents from victims of the Malaysian restaurant chain food poisoning outbreak. The foundation is set to file a class action. Foundation Chairman Wu Rong-da says 30 people have so far expressed support for the filing of a lawsuit on their behalf. This includes the families of the six individuals who died. The foundation's legal team says defendants in the case will include the restaurant chain as well as the chef, Far Eastern Department Stores, which hosts the restaurant branch and FoodRepublic, the company that runs the food court at the department store. ------------------------------- Russian President Putin Visits NKorea Russian President Vladimir Putin is visiting North Korea today, It’s his first state visit to Pyongyang in 24 years. Chris Gilbert reports. ------------------------------------ EU Gives Final Approval for Nature Restoration Plan European Union countries have given final approval to a major and long-awaited plan to better protect nature in the 27-nation bloc. The Nature Restoration plan is part of the EU’s European Green Deal that seeks to establish the world’s most ambitious (要求高的；需要極大努力的) climate and biodiversity targets. Under the new law, EU countries will be required to restore at least 30% of habitats such as forests, rivers, grasslands, wetlands, lakes and coral beds deemed in poor condition by 2030. This percentage is set to increase to 60% by 2040 and 90% by 2050. The law also introduces specific requirements for measures to reverse the decline of pollinators. The plan was finally adopted at a meeting of environment ministers in Luxembourg after rallying the required support from a qualified majority. Austria's vote in favor of the plan helped to break the stalemate. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 36-points this morning from Friday's close, at 22,468 on turnover of 7.2-billion N-T. The market rose to yet another closing high last Friday to hit 22,500-points as investors were boosted by the continuing frenzy around artificial-intelligence technology. This sent the S&P 500 and the NASDAQ to record highs on Wall Street overnight. Lai Touts Whampoa Spirit at Centennial President Lai Ching-te has attended centennial celebrations of the Whampoa Military Academy in Kaohsiung. Speaking at the event at the R-O-C Military Academy, Lai said over its 100-year history, the institution has trained thousands of troops who have fought for the nation's survival. He says the spirit (精神) of "Whampoa" follows where the R-O-C goes. And he also vowed to further strengthen the nation's defensive capabilities while promoting peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. Taipower to Adjust Power Capacity for Peak Travel Season Tai-Power says it will review and adjust its electricity supply for the outlying islands during the peak summer season. The statement comes Liuqiu Island lost power for an hour on Saturday. According to the state-generator, the power outage hit the island off the northwest coast of Pingtung at around 7:30PM. The outage was the result of hot weather and large numbers of tourists turning on electrical appliances. The result was power demand of 12,475-kilowatts - a record high. The system tripped because of the overload (超載), causing the blackout. Tai-Power was able to restore the area's electricity in about an hour. Seoul Uges Doctors to Cancel Walkout South Korea’s Prime Minister is urging doctors to cancel a planned walkout this week. The strike is expected to escalate (加劇) a long running standoff between the government and medical community over wages, conditions, and staffing. Chris Gilbert reports. Countries Call for Ukraine Territorial Integrity in Peace Deal Nearly 80 countries have jointly called for the “territorial integrity” of Ukraine to be the basis for any peace agreement to end Russia’s two-year war. Some key developing nations at the Swiss conference did not join in. The joint communique capped the two-day conference marked by the absence (缺席) of Russia, which was not invited. Many attendees hoped Moscow could join in on a roadmap to peace in the future. India, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Thailand and the United Arab Emirates were among countries that did not sign the final document. NewCaledonia Shortening Curfes The French Pacific territory of New Caledonia is shortening its overnight curfew. It's also reopening its international airport that was closed to commercial flights for more than a month because of deadly violence. The archipelago's high commissioner said Sunday the La Tontouta airport that links New Caledonia’s capital, to Sydney, Tokyo and other Pacific hubs (中心) will reopen today. The commissioner also said the curfew is being shortened by two hours, its start pushed back from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Violence that flared on May 13-th over controversial (有爭議的) voting reforms led to nine deaths and widespread destruction of shops, businesses and homes. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 0.1-point this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,312 on turnover of $7.3-billion N-T. The market hit yet another high on Thursday. It rose by more than 260-points on the back of a surge in investor interest in large tech stocks. This comes after a strong showing on Wall Street overnight. The new closing high was led by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing and Hon Hai. Investors were also relieved to see inflationary pressures (通膨壓力) in the U-S easing. That was shown by the cooler-than-expected Consumer Price Index for May. Central Bank Leaves Interest Rates Unchanged The central bank has opted to leave its key interest rates unchanged following its quarterly policymaking meeting. The decision was in line with market expectations. That means the discount rate remains at 2-per cent - but is still at a 15 year high. The bank also decided to lower the mortgage ceiling in certain areas from 70 to 60-per cent. That measure is meant to rein in manipulation (操縱) in the property market. UN Urges Houthis to Release Staff The heads of six U.N. agencies and three international humanitarian organizations issued a joint appeal to Yemen’s Houthi rebels. They are urging the immediate release of 17 members of their staff. The workers were recently detained along with many others also being held by the Iranian-backed group. Their appeal was echoed by a statement from several nations and the European Union ahead of a U.N. Security Council meeting on Yemen Thursday. UN special envoy Hans Grundberg said the Houthis were holding all those detained in the crackdown incommunicado. The Houthis said Monday they had arrested members of an “American-Israeli spy network". Houthi authorities issued what they purported to be videotaped confessions by 10 Yemenis, several of whom said they were recruited (被招募) by the U.S. Embassy. They did not include any of the U.N. employees who were arrested. The Houthis’ claims could not be independently verified. TESLA SHAREHOLDERS REAFFIRM MUSK’S $56B PAY PACKAGE Tesla shareholders have voted to reinstate (恢復) CEO Elon Musk's pay package - worth up to $56 billion. It's the largest pay deal in corporate US history. But the package was struck down by a judge in January, citing its size. Toni Waterman has more from outside the Tesla gigafactory in Austin, where the vote took place. Canada Shackleton Shipwreck Found The wreck of the last ship belonging to a famous Irish-born British explorer of Antarctica has been found off the coast of Canada. The wreck was found by an international team led by the Royal Canadian Geographical Society. The Quest was found using sonar scans on Sunday evening, sitting on its keel under 390 meters of water. The society said Wednesday that its towering mast is lying broken beside it. They believe the mast likely cracked off as the vessel was sucked into the depths after it struck ice on May 5, 1962. The society says It won’t be brought to the surface, as that would be too expensive. But they say it will be thoroughly documented and studied. A crew will likely head out some time before the end of summer to begin taking footage of the vessel with a remotely operated vehicle. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Economics Minister Once Again Claims Power Supply for AI-Driven Demand Sufficient FDA Warns Consumers about Online Drug Purchases G-7 Ukraine Deal Russian Warships in Cuba Oscars Governors Awards -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 50-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 21,842 on turnover of $6.1-billion N-T. Shipping stocks led shares in Taiwan to close down 0.30 percent Tuesday. That was the first trading session after the Dragon Boat Festival long weekend. Freight rates to Europe from China are plunging. But analysts say select tech heavyweights appeared resilient, providing some support to the broader market. Taiwan rejects U.S. condiments due to presence of carcinogen Three shipments of seasonings imported from the United States have been returned or destroyed. They were found to contain a banned chemical. The Food and Drug Administration says the imports were intercepted (攔截) after sample testing conducted in late April and May. The tests detected the presence of ethylene oxide, a cancer-causing chemical. The problematic products were Briannas French Vinaigrette Dressing and Briannas Smoked Chipotle Marinade, both imported by Hao Shi International Co., along with A-1 Steak Sauce imported by Zhan Ying Trading Co. The FDA says products imported by the two companies will now be subject to batch-by-batch inspections. UN Cites Possible War Crimes in Israeli Operation that Freed Hostages The U.N. human rights office is citing possible war crimes by Israeli forces and Palestinian armed groups. The crimes may have been committed in connection with a deadly raid by Israeli forces that freed four hostages over the weekend. A spokesperson expressed concerns about possible violations of rules of proportionality, distinction and precaution by the Israeli forces in Saturday’s raid at the urban Nuseirat refugee camp. Palestinian health officials say at least 274 Palestinians, including dozens of women and children, were killed in the operation. The spokesperson says Palestinian armed groups who are holding hostages in densely populated areas are putting the lives of nearby civilians and the hostages at “added risks” from the hostilities (戰鬥). Mexico Less Vaquita Sighted This Year Only 6 to 8 of Mexico’s critically endangered vaquita marina porpoises were sighted this year in the Gulf California. But researchers suggested Tuesday that some of the few remaining vaquitas _ the world’s most endangered marine mammal _ may have moved elsewhere in the Gulf. The gulf is the only place in the world where they live. Last year, experts estimate they saw from 10 to 13 during nearly two weeks of sailing in the Gulf. But this year, the conservation group Sea Shepherd said an expedition (考察) May 5-26, only saw a half dozen. But they also say the search was not as extensive. And no baby vaquitas were seen this year. Japan Push for Gender Gap Transparency Japan may soon require more companies to disclose gender gap data. It comes as the country ranks 118th in a new World Economic Forum gender parity (性別平等) survey. Chris Gilbert reports from Tokyo. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 126-points this morning from Friday's close, at 21,984 on turnover of $11.7-billion N-T. MOEA revokes Taoyuan stoppage of 3 SRF plants in apparent U-turn The Ministry of Economic Affairs is reversing (推翻) the Taoyuan city government's decision to halt the construction of three solid recovered fuel power plants. Taoyuan officials had previously revoked permits for companies Cleanaway, Taiwan Cube Energy and Li Jiang Development due to application issues. But Cleanaway submitted an appeal. The M-O-E-A overturned the decision by the Taoyuan City Government, allowing the projects to proceed. Taoyuan Mayor Chang San-cheng said the decision was regrettable. But he says he is committed to closely monitoring the construction of the plants to protect the health of city residents. S-R-F is a fuel made from commercial waste. It offers potential environmental benefits over coal. But it also raises concerns about pollution and recycling disincentives. Delegation led by Czech Senate vice president arrives in Taiwan Czech Senate Vice President Jiri Drahos arrived in Taiwan this week for a six-day visit at the head of a 19-member delegation. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the group will meet with President Lai Ching-te, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim, Premier Cho Jung-tai, among others. MOFA said both sides will exchange views on issues of mutual concern including the economy and trade, technology, as well as education and culture. MOFA says the two sides will also deepen cooperation in areas spanning key industries, science development and talent cultivation (人才培育)… and culture and arts. SKorea Fires Warning Shots After Border Violation Last Week South Korean media reports say South Korean soldiers fired warning shots after North Korean troops violated the border line earlier this week. Yonhap news agency says North Korean soldiers briefly crossed the heavily fortified (強化的) border before retreating back to their territory on Sunday. Yonhap, citing South Korea’s military, said South Korean soldiers had fired warning shots at the time. Other South Korean media outlets have published similar reports. The incident came amid rising tensions over North Korea’s recent launches of trash-carrying balloons. SKorea US Begin Nuclear Contingency Plans In related news…. The US and South Korea have begun plans to respond to a hypothetical (假定的，假設的) nuclear attack by North Korea. Officials from the two countries met for the first meeting of the Nuclear Consultative Group in Seoul on Monday. Chris Gilbert reports. IOC: France Elections Won't Affect Paris Olympics The president of the International Olympic Committee says the snap national election called by French President Emmanuel Macron will not impact the Paris Olympics. Thomas Bach says on Monday the Paris Games have always had broad support across the French political spectrum (政治光譜). He adds there are "no indications whatsoever that this unity (一致，團結) will break now, just …before the Games open.” The French legislative elections will take place in two rounds on June 30th and July 7th. That's three weeks before the July 26 opening ceremony in central Paris. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 79-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 21,824 on turnover of $5.2-billion N-T. The market surged to another all time high on Thursday, to jump to just over the 21,900 point mark. Investors continued to rally (恢復,價格回升) around artificial-intelligence development-related stocks. Ministry of Environment Seeks Zero Waste Environment Minister Peng Chi-ming says the government is still hoping to achieve (達到) zero waste. He says new regulations on recycling will be drafted by the end of this year Speaking at a legislative committee hearing, Peng said amount of stored general waste increased from 210,000 tonnes in 2018 to 840,000 tonnes last year. That's largely due to an rise in the amount of packaging waste from online shopping and food delivery. According to Peng, the government is seeking to add five new incinerators. He says the incinerators will bring the total number of waste incinerators islandwide to 29 by the end of 2027. The environment minister said that will increase the total waste processing capacity from 6.81 million to 7-million tonnes per year. And he went on to tell lawmakers that new regulations will also be drawn up to promote recycling and reuse of certain products. Bird Flu Strains Spreading Through US Mexico There are growing concerns about strains (菌株) of bird flu infecting livestock and humans in the United States. There have been at least three confirmed cases of people developing the H5N1 virus in recent months, including in the US states of Texas and Michigan. Authorities, though, say the risk to the general public is still low. Sally Patterson reports. UN: Congo Camp Fire Leaves Families without Shelter The U.N. says a fire at a displacement camp in eastern Congo has destroyed around 50 makeshift tents. The blaze left dozens of families without shelter (庇護所). On Wednesday afternoon, the tents were reduced to ashes at the Mugunga displaced people camp near the provincial capital Goma. The United Nations said the fire is believed to have started during cooking at the camp. The UN says the same camp was hit by bomb attacks in early May, which killed at least 18 people and injured 32 others. ECB Cuts Key Interest Rate The European Central Bank cut its key interest rate by a quarter-point, moving ahead of the U.S. Federal Reserve. The ECB cut its benchmark rate to 3.75% from a record high of 4% at a meeting of the bank’s 26-member rate-setting council in Frankfurt. ECB President Christine Lagarde said inflation had eased (緩解) enough for the central bank to start lowering rates. But inflation in the eurozone is expected to remain (保持) above the ECB’s 2% target into next year. Lagarde declined to say how fast or how deep any future rate cuts might be. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened 371-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 21,856 on turnover of $9.8-billion N-T. The market gained ground on Wednesday to move closer to the 21,500-point mark. Select tech heavyweights staged a technical rebound from the previous session. Investors continued to show interest in artificial intelligence development-related stocks. Large-cap shipping stocks also led support to the broader market, after Copenhagen-based container shipping giant Maersk raised its profit forecast for 2024 for a second time. Japan Further Opens Market to Taiwan-Grown Dragon Fruit The Ministry of Agriculture says the Japanese government issued an official notice to allow imports of all types of Taiwan-grown dragon fruit. Taiwan-grown dragon fruit were first exported to Japan in 2010. But only those with white-flesh were granted Japanese market access. The agriculture ministry says it filed an application with Japan in 2016 to export all types of Taiwan-grown dragon fruit. The ministry says that was based on data showing that the cultivation (耕耘) of red dragon fruit had surpassed that of the white variety. The agriculture ministry says the fruit passed quarantine examinations in Japan in August of last year. Putin: Moscow Will Use Nuclear Weapons if Sovereignty Under Threat Russia's leader Vladimir Putin reaffirmed his country's readiness to use nuclear arms if it sees a threat to its sovereignty (主權). He also warned that Western arms deliveries to Ukraine were "a very dangerous step". Putin says Moscow reserves the right for "asymmetrical" retaliation (報復) elsewhere in the world. The threats came in response to recent decisions of the US and several EU countries allowing Ukraine to use Western-supplied weapons to strike targets inside Russia. Our correspondent Daria Bondarchuk reports from Moscow. Japan Calls Falling Birth Rate "Critical Situation" The Japanese government data shows the country's birth rate fell to a new low for the eighth straight year in 2023. The data released on Wednesday by the Health ministry shows that the average number of children a woman gives birth in her life time was 1.2. The number of babies born in Japan in 2023 were down 5.6% from the previous year. It was also the lowest since Japan started compiling (匯集) the statistics in 1899. The data shows that the number of marriages fell by 6% last year, something authorities say is a key reason for the declining birth rate. Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary cited economic instability, difficulties in balancing work and childrearing and other complex factors as main reasons why young people have a hard time deciding to get married or raise children. He called the trend "a critical situation". He urged authorities to do everything they can to reverse (倒轉，徹底改變) the trend. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 28-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 21,385 on turnover of 4.8-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Tuesday after artificial intelligence development-related stocks came under pressure as investors opted to lock in (保持優勢) profits from the previous session. The bellwether electronics sector led the downturn, eroding around half of the gains seen a session earlier, when the main board surged by just over 362-points. Regenerative Medicine Act Passes Final Reading LY Lawmakers have passed The Regenerative Medicine Act. The Act provides a legal basis for conducting research and development on regenerative medicine (再生醫療), technology control and cell sources for patients in emergency needs. It stipulates that regenerative medicine must undergo human trials before execution and that non-medical facilities will no longer be allowed to offer regenerative medicine treatments. Entities or individuals found to be in violation of that stipulation face a maximum fine of 20-million N-T. Around 2,000 Attend Taipei Vigil to Remember Tiananmen Square Massacre Some 2,000 people have attended the annual candlelight vigil (守夜（表達不同政見等的）) in Taipei to commemorate the events that unfolded in Tiananmen Square on June 4, 1989. The candlelight vigil is organized by the New School for Democracy and other human rights groups. It took place once again at the plaza in front of the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall in Taipei under the theme of "Ideals are bullet-proof." According to organizers, many of the participants were people from Hong Kong who now live in Taiwan. US presents new draft Security Council resolution to stop the fighting in Gaza The United States has requested UN Security Council support for President Joe Biden's three-phase plan to end the nearly eight-month war in Gaza. A draft resolution has been circulated to all council members and is expected to be voted on at some stage. Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed Israel will accept the framework deal (框架性協議) though he described it as flawed and in need of much more work. Jody Jacobs reports from the United Nations in New York. UK Spooked Military Horses Return to Duty The British Army says that the five military horses that bolted (受到驚嚇而脫韁奔跑) and injured themselves as they ran loose through central London in April are all expected to return to duty. Three of them are already back to work. The horses were performing routine exercises near Buckingham Palace on April 24 when they became spooked by noise from a nearby building site and galloped loose through the capital’s streets. They crashed into vehicles and caused chaos during the morning rush hour. The two most severely injured horses are recovering well in the countryside after undergoing operations and are set to return to work soon. The soldiers who were injured after being tossed by the horses are also recovering and will likely return to military service. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

MAC Urges China to Face History of June 4 Incident TAITRA Touting 2024 Computex Attracting 50,000 Buyers Zelenskyy meets with Marcos in Manila India election's results about to be announced US Congress investigates Covid-19 origins China spacecraft returns -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 214-points this morning from Friday's close, at 21,388 on turnover of 7.2-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Friday, as investors reacted to Wall Street declining overnight following mixed profit reports from some big tech companies and after an official survey showed Chinese factory activity weakening in May on slowing export orders. AMD Head Lisa Su to Deliver Opening Keynote Speech at Computex 2024 Advanced Micro Devices Chairwoman and CEO Lisa Su has been delivering the opening keynote speech at Computex 2024 in Taipei. The address was entitled "The future of high-performance computing in the AI era." And in it Su shared how her company and its partners are leading the way in developing the next generation of high-performance personal computers, data centers, and A-I solutions. Reports have been saying A-M-D is planning to invest about 5-billion N-T to set up a research and development center here in Taiwan. The local governments in Tainan and Kaohsiung are both courting (企圖獲得，追求) the company in a bid to secure the capital allocation. Boxer Huang Hsiao-wen Secures Paris Olympics Berth Taiwan's Huang Hsiao-wen has secured her place at the Paris Olympics boxing event. She won the second boxing qualification tournament in Bangkok. According to the Olympic organizers, boxers in the women's 54-kilogram category qualify when they reach the semifinals in the tournament, which Huang has done. Huang's coach Liu Zong-tai says the pressure had been piling on (堆起來) Huang. She failed to secure a place in the Olympics at the 2023 Asian Games and at the first qualification tournament held in Italy in March. In addition to Huang, female boxers Chen Nien-qin, Lin Yu-ting, and Wu Shi-yi and male boxers Kan Chia-wei and Lai Chu-en have also secured spots at the Summer Games. Ukraine Imposes Emergency Power Shutdowns Ukraine has imposed emergency power shutdowns in most of the country a day after Russia unleashed large-scale attacks on energy infrastructure (基礎設施). The shutdowns Sunday are in place in all but three regions of Ukraine. This comes after Saturday’s drone and missile attack on energy targets that injured at least 19 people. Ukraine’s state-owned power grid operator said the shutdowns affected both industrial and household consumers. Sustained Russian attacks on Ukraine’s power grid in recent weeks have forced the government to institute nationwide rolling blackouts. Earlier this week, four U.S. officials, who requested anonymity, said President Joe Biden had given Ukraine the go-ahead to use American weaponry to strike inside Russia for the limited purpose of defending Kharkiv. Mexico Polls Close in Presidential Election Polls have closed in Mexico's presidential election, with the Latin American country poised to (將要) elect its first-ever female president. However, the historic election has been marred by political violence. Ira Spitzer reports. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 36-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 21,401 on turnover of $5.4-billion N-T. The market retreated on Thursday after Wall Street fell overnight under the weight of higher yields in the bond market. Government Allows Tour Groups Arranged before June to Visit China The government says group tours to China organized before June 1 can travel there as planned. The statement backtracks on a previous decision to suspend cross-strait group tourism starting from tomorrow. The government originally decided to only allow tour groups scheduled to leave for China before May 31 to go ahead. However, Cabinet spokesman Chen Shi-kai says the policy was altered. A certain number of tour groups were unable to depart before the end of May. According to the Cabinet spokesman, the ban on tour travel to China from tomorrow 1 will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Changes will be implemented dependent on it "being in the best interests of Taiwan's people and tourism industry." The spokesman also says the government's policy of welcoming Chinese tourists to Taiwan has not changed. He says it still hopes both sides of can reopen bilateral group tourism on an equal footing (平等). US Trump Guilty on all 34 Counts Former US President Donald Trump is now a convicted felon after being found guilty in his New York hush-money trial. It's a deep blow for Trump, who has spent considerable (相當多的) time attacking the case he calls a witch-hunt. From outside the court in New York, Mitch McCann reports: Pakistan Sends Official to Taliban Pakistan has sent an official to Kabul and shared the findings of its investigation into a suicide bombing with Afghanistan’s Taliban government The March bombing killed five Chinese engineers and a Pakistani driver . The foreign ministry in Islamabad said on Thursday that an Interior Ministry official traveled to the Afghan capital to share the findings with the Taliban administration. Pakistan has said the attack was planned in Afghanistan and that the bomber was an Afghan citizen. Pakistan alleges that the Afghan Taliban administration should be held accountable (追究責任) for the attack. Afghanistan’s Taliban government has denied it was in any way responsible. Report Finds Billions in Gold Smuggled Out of Africa Annually A new report has found that billions of dollars in gold is smuggled out of Africa each year. The report is from Swissaid, an aid and development group based in Switzerland. It says most of the gold ends up in the United Arab Emirates. There, it is refined and then sold to customers around the world. The report published Thursday found that more than $30 billion worth of gold, or more than 435 metric tons, was smuggled out of the continent in 2022. The main destinations (目的地) for African gold were the United Arab Emirates, Turkey and Switzerland. The authors of the report said their goal was to make the trade in African gold more transparent. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 181-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 21,481 on turnover of 5.8-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Wednesday, after Wall Street slippled overnight following a rise in bond yields. Premier Aims to Return Parliamentary Reform Bills to LY Premier Zhuo Rong-tai is continuing to stress that the Cabinet will not sign-off on the just passed parliamentary reform bills. The Cabinet will instead return the bills to the Legislative Yuan for further review. According to Zhuo, the decision to bounce the bills back to lawmakers is constitutional. He says the Cabinet is legally obligated (有義務的) to call for further legislative reviews of any laws that would to difficult to enact. The premier is also voicing his support for the D-P-P's decision to seek a constitutional interpretation of the reform bills by the Constitutional Court. Prototypes of First Taiwan Developed Robot Dog Make Debut The National Taiwan University's Autonomous & Soft Robotics Laboratory has unveiled the first locally developed robot dogs. The lab says it says could ease labor shortages. The laboratory showcased the prototypes of two kinds of robot dogs at an event in Taipei. The professor leading the development team says "one is for use as a pet, while the other is for industrial use" According to Professor Guo Chong-xian, robot dogs can be of particular help in Taiwan's non-tech and service sectors. He says their environments are not as well suited (適合) as high-tech factories to standard robots. NKorea Fires Ballistic Missiles into Sea of Japan North Korea has fired about ten missiles into the Sea of Japan. Japanese officials believe the projectiles landed short of Japan’s exclusive economic zone. Chris Gilbert reports from Tokyo. Brazil Withdraws Ambassador to Israel Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has withdrawn his ambassador to Israel after months of tensions between the two countries over the war in Gaza. It's the latest repercussion (反響) from a South American nation over Israel’s military campaign in the Palestinian territory. Lula has been a frequent (常) critic of Israel’s offensive in Gaza. He compared the campaign to the Holocaust earlier this year. That led Israel’s Foreign Minister Israel Katz to summon the Brazilian ambassador to the national Holocaust museum in Jerusalem for a public reprimand (懲戒). Israel says its war in Gaza is a defensive action triggered by Hamas’ unprecedented assault. Israel rejects any comparisons of its offensive to the Holocaust. Iceland Volcano Eruption A volcano in southwestern Iceland is erupting again. The volcano is spewing red streams of lava and triggered the evacuation of the popular Blue Lagoon geothermal spa. The eruption Wednesday occurred in an area north of Grindavik, a coastal town of 3,800 people. The town was largely evacuated after a December eruption that ended centuries of dormancy (休眠). It was the fifth eruption and estimated to be the area's most vigorous (劇烈的) so far. The Icelandic Meteorological Office said lava shot 50 meters into the sky from a fissure (裂縫) that grew to 3.5 kilometers in length,. Anyone still in the town was ordered to leave. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 12-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 21,846 on turnover of 6.6-billion N-T. The market gained ground once again on Tuesday, as other regional indexes ended mixed and Wall Street was closed for the Memorial Day holiday. Presidential Office Bemoans Passage of Parliamentary Reform Bills The Presidential Office is bemoaning passage of the parliamentary reform bills. Speaking to reporters office spokeswoman Guo Ya-hui said President Lai Ching-te still hopes the government and opposition can continue to debate the bills and make adjustments if warranted (有正當理由的，需要的). The Presidential Office spokeswoman said Lai believe lawmakers should to respond to the demands of the people regarding the reform bills. She says the government doesn't believes passage of the bills meets with the "expectations of Taiwanese society. " And she went on to say the D-P-P will seek a constitutional interpretation on the the constitutionality of the contents of the amendments. Investigation Finds Deadly Fire Likely Caused by Power Cable Short Circuit The Hsinchu City Government says a preliminary investigation indicates that a short circuit in a power cable may have caused the fire at an apartment complex early this week. The blaze resulted in the deaths of two firefighters. According to the city government, the fire bureau investigation shows the blaze likely originated (起源) with a power cable on the basement's first floor. But the results of a full report into the casuse of the blaze are still pending. Residents in the apartment complex, which comprises of four 28-story buildings were permitted to retrieve their belongings yesterday. The investigation into the case of the fire is continuing and safety checks are being carried out. NKorea Vows Response to SKorean Drills North Korea is vowing to take stern (嚴厲的) actions against South Korea for military drills held on Tuesday. Chris Gilbert reports. Missile Attacks on GreekOwned Ship in Red Sea Missile attacks twice damaged a Marshall Islands-flagged, Greek-owned ship Tuesday in the Red Sea off the coast of Yemen. The British military says the first attack on the bulk carrier happened off the port city of Hodeida in the southern Red Sea. The crew was reported safe and the vessel proceeded (繼續進行) to its next port of call (停靠港). Then late Tuesday night local time, the vessel reportedly “sustained further damage” in a second missile attack near Mokha in the Bab el-Mandeb. No group claimed responsibility, but suspicion fell on Yemen's Houthi rebels. The Houthis have launched a number of attacks targeting ships over Israel's war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Italy Celebrates Return of Antiquities from US Italy is celebrating the return of around 600 antiquities (古物) from the U.S. They were looted years ago, sold to U.S. museums and collectors and recovered as a result of criminal investigations. Italian officials say the items have a value of around $65 million US dollars. They say the artifacts date from the ninth century B.C. to the second century. It presentation is part of Italy’s decades-old effort to recover antiquities that were looted or stolen from its territory by tomb-raiders. The items are then sold to antiquities dealers who often forged (偽造的) records to resell the loot to high-end buyers, auction houses and museums. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened marginally higher this morning from yesterday's close, at 21,812 on turnover of 4.5-billion N-T. The market closed at a new high on Monday. It edged above the 21,800-point mark on the back of strong performances by the electronics and shipping sectors. The bellwether electronics sector attracted (引起) strong buying, rising by 1.32-per cent. The transportation index jumped 2.8-per cent, driven primarily by shipping stocks benefiting from rising freight rates. Health Minister Calls for Taiwan's WHA Inclusion Health Minister Chiu Tai-yuan is calling for Taiwan's participation in the World Health Assembly, under the name of Taiwan or the Republic of China. The call comes as Chiu is heading delegation to Geneva this week to promote Taiwan's inclusion ( 加入) in the global health body. According to Chiu, the W-H-O continues to exclude Taiwan due to political considerations, He says this undermines the efforts to create a more comprehensive global health architecture and greatly hinders pandemic prevention efforts. The health minister was accompanied by members of a cross-party delegation of Taiwan lawmakers at the press conference. Chiang Wan-an Touts Need for Twin-City Forum Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an is hosting a delegation of city officials from Shanghai this week. According to the mayor's office, the delegation is visiting for four-days to help finalize this year's Shanghai-Taipei Twin-City Forum, which will be hosted by Taipei. Speaking to reporters, Chiang said the Shanghai delegation's itinerary follows all legal requirements and has been approved by the Mainland Affairs Council. The mayor also stressed (強調) that he firmly believes the forum should take place, despite the current cross-strait situation. Chiang points out it is the only official communication mechanism between the two sides. He says there should be "no adjustments in the level of visitation." Ukraine Gets Defense Missiles, Appeals for More Ukraine is receiving (得到;收到) more air defense missiles from Spain to fight deadly Russian glide bombs AP correspondent Norman Hall reports Canada Town Residents Return as Wildfire Continues Residents in the western Canadian city of Fort Nelson, British Columbia, are being allowed to return home. Thousands were evacuated from the community for more than two weeks due to wildfires. Local authorities rescinded their evacuation orders Monday, lifting roadblocks and clearing the way for people to go home. The residents were forced to leave on May 10th, when strong winds pushed a wildfire close to town. The 123-square-kilometer wildfire is now classified as “being held", meaning its not expected to grow. But the blaze hasn't been extinguished (撲滅). Officials say parts of it are expected to continue burning into the fall. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 134-points this morning from Friday's close, at 21,699 on turnover of 6.9-billion N-T. The market recovered most of its early losses on Friday to close well above the five-day moving average of around 21,450 points by the end of the trading day. Although large cap semiconductor stocks came under pressure, artificial intelligence-related stocks attracted strong buying after Nvidia's strong results overnight, while shipping stocks also rose amid increasing freight (貨運) rates. US Lawmakers Arrive in Taiwan A group of bipartisan American lawmakers has arrived in Taipei. The delegation is being led by Republican Michael McCaul who chairs the House Foreign Affairs Committee. The American Institute in Taiwan says the delegation will meet with senior government officials to discuss US-Taiwan relations, regional security, trade and investment, and other significant (重要的) issues of mutual interest. According to A-I-T, their four-day visit to Taiwan is part of a trip to the wider Indo-Pacific region. The six House members will be the first group of serving U-S officials to meet with President Lai Ching-te following his inauguration. Taiwan Delegation in Geneva for WHA Sideline Talks A delegation led by Health Minister Chiu Tai-yuan has arrived in Geneva as part of efforts to promote Taiwan's inclusion in the World Health Assembly. Speaking to reporters at the opening of a "World Health We Share" exhibition at Geneva Airport train station, Chiu said "health is a fundamental (基本的) human right and a universal value, but Taiwan is denied participation due to political interference." The minister went on to say "this is deeply disappointing" and "although Taiwan was not invited to the W-H-A, the island has strong soft power in the medical and health fields." The "World Health We Share" exhibition has been organized by a Taiwanese civic promotional team to promote Taiwan's healthcare. Japan Informed by NKorea of Planned Satellite Launch Japan says North Korea has informed it of a plan to launch a satellite by June 3rd. Japan’s coast guard says today it has been notified by North Korea about its planned launch of a “satellite rocket" beginning today through midnight June 3rd. The launch plan likely refers to the North’s efforts to launch its second military spy satellite into space. South Korea’s military said Friday that it detected signs of North Korea engaging in (從事於; 忙於) activities believed to be preparations to launch a spy satellite at its main Tongchangri launch facility. Tonga Earthquake Causes No Tsunami or Major Damage A strong earthquake has struck the South Pacific Island nation of Tonga but there are no immediate reports of damage. The U.S. Geological Survey said the quake had a preliminary (初步的) magnitude of 6.6 when it hit at 9:47 a.m. local time today. Its epicenter was 198 kilometers north of the Tonga's capital, at a depth of 112 kilometers. The Hawaii-based Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said there was no risk of the quake causing a tsunami. Nikki Minaj Arrested B4 UK Concert Nicki Minaj's England concert was postponed (延遲) after rapper was detained by Dutch authorities over pot AP correspondent Margie Szaroleta reports That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 165-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 21,442 on turnover of $6.6-billion N-T. The market closed higher once again on Thursday - as investor sentiment in the local tech sector was buoyed (受到鼓舞) by news about soaring Nvidia earnings - after the company released its latest quarterly results overnight. Draft of AI Governing Law to be Finalized this Year National Science and Technology Council head Wu Cheng-wen says his office is scheduled to draw-up a draft of the law governing the use of A-I and send it to the Cabinet by the end of this year. Speaking at a legislative committee hearing, Wu said the draft law will aim to ensure (確保) user privacy, human rights and security .. and will also seek to help the development of Taiwan's industries. Wu told lawmakers that the main concept behind Taiwan's A-I basic law will be more aligned (對齊，與…保持一致) with those released by United States and Japan - which have a more open attitude to AI use .. … rather than that of the European Union, which is more conservative and discreet. The National Science and Technology Council head also said the law will be drafted to restrict A-I to being used for good, protecting user privacy, human rights and security. Germany Police Clear ProPalestine Student Protesters German police have cleared about 150 pro-Palestinian demonstrators from a Berlin university facility, ending one of a wave of student-led protests across Europe over Israel’s conduct of its war against Hamas. Activists had occupied several rooms of the Humboldt University’s Institute for Social Sciences in downtown Berlin on Wednesday. University administrators agreed to let them stay until Thursday evening, but called in the police when some refused to leave. Police briefly detained 130 people during the operation, in which officers broke through several barricaded (堵住…) doors. Unicef warns Haiti's healthcare system may collapse The UN's Children's Fund warns that Haiti's health system is now "on the verge of collapse". It says there has been an "alarming decrease" in the number of hospitals still functioning (運作) in the violence-wracked Caribbean nation. Jody Jacobs has more from the United Nations in New York. Pakistan: UAE Comits to 10Billion Investment The Pakistani government says that the United Arab Emirates has committed to investing up to $10 billion in Pakistan during a meeting in the UAE capital between that country’s president and the Pakistani prime minister. The office of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif says that UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan made the commitment (承諾) during a meeting in Abu Dhabi with Sharif, who is visiting the UAE. It provided few details. The statement said Sharif told the UAE president about measures the Pakistani government is taking to encourage foreign investment, and that the UAE president committed to investing $10 billion in various sectors in Pakistan. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

E*Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 117 points this morning from yesterday's close, at 21,668 Thursday on turnover of 8.9 billion NT. The Tai-Ex closed at a new high on Wednesday, gaining more than 300 points as investors scrambled (爭相買) to pick up Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing and other artificial intelligence-related stocks. The rise in investor interest in heavyweight tech stocks came ahead of Nvidia's release of its first quarterly earnings report. _____________________________________ E*MODA to Set U- A-I Industrial Parks Digital Affairs Minister (數位發展部部長) Huang Yen-nan says the government is planning to set up two artificial intelligence industrial parks (人工智慧產業園區) to capitalize (資本) on Taiwan's strength in the information and communications sectors (資訊和通信領域). According to Huang, the parks will be jointly established (共同設立) by the Ministry of Digital Affairs and National Development Council and are aimed at attracting A-I startups from around the world. It's hoped that the parks will help Taiwan establish a comprehensive software and hardware cluster (軟硬體集群). And Huang says the parks are part of his ministry's strategy to take advantage of the global A-I boom (全球人工智慧熱潮) to drive digital economic growth and push the local digital economy's output value above 1-trillion N-T within two years. Huang is an expert in data security, communications, and A-I development. _____________________________________ E*Unemployment Rate Dips to Lowest April in 24 Years The island's unemployment rate (失業率) dipped to the lowest ever for the month of April in 24 years. Data shows the rate fell zero-point-zero-two percentage points from a month earlier to stand at 3.36-per cent in April. Along with that being the lowest April level since 2000 it also marked the second consecutive month-on-month decline. After seasonal adjustments (經過季節性調整後), April's jobless rate fell zero-point-zero-one percentage points from March to stand at 3.39-per cent. In the first four months of this year, the unemployment rate has fallen 0.16 percentage points from a year earlier to 3.36-per cent. The government is attributing (歸因於) the decline in the April jobless rate to the economy continuing to improve on the back of solid post COVID consumption (疫後消費支撐). _____________________________________ E*United Kingdom General Election on July 4th In global news, The United Kingdom will hold its first election in five years. The country is reeling (發蒙) from the cost-of-living crisis (生活成本危機), the fallout (餘波) from Israel-Hamas conflict and deep divisions over how to deal with migrants and asylum seekers (移民和尋求庇護者) crossing the English Channel from Europe on small inflatable boats. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday announced that the election will be held on July 4th. The timing was earlier than analysts expected. Sunak, a former Treasury chief who has been prime minister since October of 2022, is expected to lead his party into the election. His primary opponent will be Keir Starmer, a former director of public prosecutions in England and leader of the Labour Party since April 2020. _____________________________________ E*Iran's Supreme Leader Presides Over Funeral for President After Helicopter Crash Iran's supreme leader presided over (主持) funeral ceremonies (葬禮儀式) for the president and others killed in the recent helicopter crash. Here's AP correspondent Charles de Ledesma. _____________________________________ E*New Study Says Daily marijuana use outpaces daily drinking in the US And, A study shows daily marijuana (大麻) use in the U-S is outpacing (超過) daily drinking. AP correspondent Haya Panjwani reports. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 12-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 21,248 on turnover of 2.7-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Tuesday - as financial and old economy stocks led a downturn. This comes after President Lai Ching-te's inaugural address on Monday failed to offer any surprises to boost market sentiment. Analysts say the bellwether electronics sector remained resilient (有彈性的) through much of the trading day. This stabilized the broader market on the back of gains posted by tech stocks on Wall Street overnight. US Urges China to Act with Restraint The United States is urging Beijing to act with restraint and not use Taiwan's transition as a pretext for provocative or coercive (脅迫的) actions. According to a U-S State Department spokesperson, Washington welcomes the comments made by President Lai Ching-te in his inaugural address. In the speech, Lai voiced his commitment to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and to maintain the status quo. The spokesperson says the inauguration was part of a normal, routine democratic process. The spokesperson says if Beijing chooses to escalate tensions or pressure Taiwan as a result, it "should be seen as the provocateur (挑釁者)." The spokesperson also stressed that U-S policy toward Taiwan has not changed and it continues not to support Taiwan independence. Taiwan and Paraguay Sign MOU to Build E-Bus Plant Master Transportation Bus Manufacturing has announced that it will invest 30-million U-S dollars to build an electric bus manufacturing and assembly plant (組裝廠) in Paraguay. The statement follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding in Taipei between the company and the Paraguayan government. According Master Transportation Chairman Wu Ding-fa, the project's goal is to "enhance the development of public transportation in Paraguay". When completed, the plant will create an estimated 2,600 local jobs. Under the M-O-U, the bus manufacturer will establish the first fast-charging bus chassis and body manufacturing plant in Paraguay. And the manufacturer will assist in bringing a Taiwan-developed intelligent transportation system to the South American country. US Navy ExOfficers Bribery Convictions Dismissed A federal judge has dismissed the felony convictions of five retired military officers who had admitted to (承認) accepting bribes from a Malaysian contractor Leonard Francis, nicknamed “Fat Leonard. AP’s Lisa Dwyer reports. Thailand Welcomes Back Trafficked Statues Thailand's National Museum has welcomed back two ancient statues illegally trafficked (非法買賣) from Thailand by a British collector of antiquities. The statues were returned from the collection of New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. The objects — a tall bronze figure called the Standing Shiva and a smaller sculpture called Kneeling Female — are thought to be around 1,000 years old. The Metropolitan Museum had announced last year that it would return more than a dozen artifacts to Thailand and Cambodia after they were linked to the late Douglas Latchford. The art dealer and collector was accused of running a huge antiquities trafficking network out of Southeast Asia. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 32-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 21,239 on turnover of 3.8-billion N-T. The market closed slightly higher on Monday as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing reversed earlier losses to push the broader market back into positive territory. Analysts say although the bellwether electronics sector was mixed during the trading day, buying rotated to financial heavyweights and select old economy stocks to provide further support to the broader market. MAC Calls on Beijing to be Receptive to Lai's Overture The Mainland Affairs Council is urging Beijing to be receptive (樂於接受，願意傾聽) to President Lai Ching-te's inclusion of calls for engagements between the two sides in his inaugural speech. According to the council, Lai extended "the greatest goodwill gesture" in the address by calling for engagements to ensure mutual benefit and joint prosperity. It's calling on China to respond to that overture positively and meet the expectations of the people from both sides of the strait and the international community. The statement comes after Beijing slammed Lai's inaugural address - describing it as an attempt to promote Taiwanese independence. Two Haneded Suspended Sentences in Chinese Recruiting Case The Hsinchu District Court has handed down suspended sentences to two men found guilty of illegally recruiting (吸收) personnel for a Chinese high-tech company in Taiwan. One of the men received a prison term of six months, suspended for two years, and was ordered to pay 360,000 N-T. While the other man was sentenced to three months in prison, suspended for two years, and ordered to pay 200,000 N-T. The court found the two guilty of violating (違反) the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area. The sentences for both men can be appealed. SKorea UK to Kick Off AI Summit South Korea and the United Kingdom are kicking off a global summit on Artificial Intelligence as governments struggle to keep up with the evolution of the technology. The two countries are co-hosting the talks which look to tackle (對付，處理) a growing number of risks as AI rapidly advances. Chris Gilbert reports. Haiti Main Airport Reopens Haiti’s main international airport has reopened for the first time in nearly three months after gang violence forced authorities to close it to all traffic in early March. Monday’s reopening of the airport in the capital of Port-au-Prince is expected to help ease a critical shortage (嚴重短缺) of medications and other basic supplies since the country’s main seaport remains paralyzed. However, only a local carrier is flying in and out of Port-au-Prince for now. US-based airlines are not expected to start doing so until late May or early June. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 19-points this morning from Friday's close, at 21,278 on turnover of 5.5-billion N-T. The market closed slightly lower on Friday as selling focused on the bellwether electronics sector following losses by tech stocks on Wall Street overnight on the back of profit taking. Buying rotated to (輪換) the non-tech sector, with large cap financial stocks were in focus as government-led funds are believed to have picked up these stocks to stabilize the main board ahead of today's presidential inauguration Lai Pledges to Continue on "Democratic Path" President Lai Ching-te and Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim have been sworn-in to their new leadership roles at an ceremony at the President Building in Taipei. The swearing-in ceremony took place at 9:15. Lai and Hsiao have also met with foreign dignitaries and the vice president is currently presiding over the handover ceremony of the new secretary-generals of the National Security Council and the Presidential Office. Lai is slated to give his inaugural address at in the coming hour - which takes the theme of "Building a Democratic, Peaceful and Prosperous Taiwan." The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says 508 guests from 51 delegations are attending today's inauguration ceremony and other related events. According to the ministry, eight of the delegations are being led by heads of state. European countries that have sent delegations include the U-K, France, Germany, Italy, Lithuania and Ukraine as well as the European Parliament. Several American delegations are attending today's events. They include one by led American Institute in Taiwan chair Laura Rosenberger; one comprising (包括) of former U-S deputy secretary of state Richard Armitage and former assistant to the U-S president and director of the National Economic Council Brian Deese .. .. and a delegation led by former U-S secretary of state Mike Pompeo. Meanwhile, The state banquet for the presidential inauguration wil be taking place at the Formosa Yacht Resort in Tainan this evening. Organizers say it will feature eight dishes prepared by 70 chefs and focus on showcasing Taiwan's culinary expertise (專業知識) and heritage. The eight courses incorporate ingredients from all 22 cities and counties in Taiwan and were inspired by the country's five major ethnic groups - the Minnan, Hakka, Han, Indigenous, and new immigrant. It is the first time the inauguration banquet will be held outside of Taipei. Hungary Boat Collision Leaves Dead and Missing Two are dead and 5 remain missing after a boat collision (碰撞) on the Danube River in Hungary AP correspondent Karen Chammas Paris Harry Winston Robbed French prosecutors say armed robbers who used a motorbike as a battering ram (破門錘) made off with “several million" dollars' worth of valuables in a heist of the luxury Paris boutique of Harry Winston. Having refused Saturday to confirm that Harry Winston was the target, the Paris prosecutor’s office did so on Sunday. It said the store on the Avenue Montaigne was robbed by a gang of at least three people. It said they “forced entry to the jewelry store using a two-wheeler" and stole jewelry from several windows, while one of them kept watch with a long-barreled firearm. Officials say the damage is under assessment (評估), and estimated to be several million euros. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 42-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 21,346 on turnover of $6.6 -billion N-T. NT$10 million worth of contraband cigarettes seized by Taiwan's coast guard The Coast Guard Administration says patrols have seized a cache of contraband cigarettes worth nearly $10-million NT. Officials say the 164-thousand packs were found in a hidden compartment (隔層) on a fishing vessel during an inspection Wednesday evening. The compartment was detected after officers noted a machine placed in an unusual position, and used a handheld x-ray machine and a detection dog to uncover the stored contraband. The 66-year-old captain and five Vietnamese crew members were referred to the Keelung District Prosecutors Office for investigation. Taiwan to serve as 1st guest of honor country at Festival Off Avignon The Ministry of Culture says Taiwan will be the first-ever guest of honor country at the renowned Festival Off Avignon. The festival aims to promote contemporary performing arts, enhance awareness of international emerging (發展初期的) dance and theater troupes, and facilitate international co-productions and touring opportunities. The Avignon Festival & Compagnies and the Taiwan Cultural Center in Paris announced at a press conference held on Wednesday local time, that 1,316 teams will participate in the festival in Avignon between July 3rd and July 21st. The co-president of the Avignon festival, said given Taiwan's long-standing close collaboration with the festival and the nation's unique and diverse contemporary art and culture, it was invited to be the guest of honor country -- the first-ever in the festival's history. And the Taiwan Cultural Center said that the selection of Taiwan symbolizes the deep friendship between Taiwan and the Avignon festival. NKorea Kim Sister Denies Weapons Exports to Russia The influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has again denied that her country has exported weapons to Russia. Kim Yo Jong labeled outside speculation on North Korea-Russian arms dealings as “the most absurd paradox.” The U.S., South Korea and others have accused North Korea of supplying artillery, missiles and other conventional (傳統的) weapons to Russia for its war in Ukraine in return for advanced military technologies and economic aid. Kim Yo Jong said in a statement today that North Korea had no intention of exporting its military technical capabilities to any country or opening them to the public. Russia also has dismissed that accusation. China Jails Professor for Espionage The family of a Chinese national being held on espionage (間諜行為) charges says he received a jail sentenced from a court in Jilin province. Yuan Keqin was detained in 2019 when he returned to China while holding a post at Japan’s University of Education in Hokkaido. Chris Gilbert reports UN Reports Improved Economic Prospects The United Nations is reporting improved economic prospects since its January forecast for the global economy. According to its mid-2024 report, the world economy is now projected to grow by 2.7% this year. That's up from 2.4% the U.N. forecast in its somber (暗淡的) January report, and 2.8% in 2025. The report notes a better outlook in the United States and several large emerging economies including Brazil, India and Russia. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 172-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 21,319 on turnover of $7.6-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed at a record high for the third consecutive trading session Wednesday. The bellwether electronics sector led the way in the wake of gains posted by tech stocks on U.S. markets overnight. Analysts say large cap financial stocks also steamed ahead (精力飽滿地全速前進) amid optimism toward their bottom lines. The upturn on the main board was capped as investors took advantage (利用…的機會) of the initial gains. Court Approves Mother's Detention Incommunicado After Death of Children A mother suspected of killing her children will now be held incommunicado while the case is under investigation. The New Taipei District Court held an early morning detention hearing. It ruled that the mother surnamed Su is suspected of committing a serious crime, and is at risk of fleeing or colluding with witnesses. The crime of murder of a child by an adult carries a maximum penalty of over 5 years in prison. The 37-year-old woman is suspected of smothering (使窒息) her children in a New Taipei hotel room, possibly due to the pressure of caring for an ill family member and long-term umemployment. The bodies were delivered to prosecutors Wednesday morning for autopsies to confirm cause of death. (NS) US Presidential Hopefuls to Debate in June US President Joe Biden and former president Donald Trump are set to debate (辯論) live on television in June. The hurriedly-arranged plan came after Biden said he wanted to arrange two events hosted by news networks, rather than those organized by the formal Commission. Nick Harper reports from Washington. Yemen Braces for More Electricity Protests Yemeni authorities have deployed security forces and armored vehicles across the port city of Aden, in preparation for the latest in a series of protests over hours-long electricity outages caused by a shortage of fuel for power stations. For several days, hundreds of demonstrators in three central districts of Aden blocked roads and set tires on fire as temperatures soared. On Monday and Tuesday, security forces moved in to disperse (分散) the demonstrations, beating protesters and barricading some streets, according to witnesses who spoke to The Associated Press. The government pays up to $1 billion a year to import fuel, but is behind on payments. Canada Gets Slight Reprieve in Wildfire Fight Canadian officials say favorable (有利的) winds are expected to push an “out of control” wildfire away from Canada’s oil sands hub of Fort McMurray, Alberta, a day after thousands were evacuated. Wildfire season has started early in Canada this year with several fires burning across the country’s west, forcing residents out of their homes. The fire, which started last week, caused about 6,600 residents to flee parts of the southern end of Fort McMurray. The rest of the city remains on evacuation alert Wednesday and many others self-evacuated though they weren’t ordered to leave. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 1-point this morning from yesterday's close, at 20,984 on turnover of 7.8-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed at a record high and moved closer to the 21,000 point mark Tuesday for the second consecutive session. The bellwether electronics sector continued to steam ahead. But turnover failed to expand. Dealers say this indicates that caution remains over when the U.S. Federal Reserve will cut interest rates ahead of the release of the April consumer price index today. Taiwan mulls legalization of surrogacy, with high threshold The Ministry of Health is announcing plans to legalize surrogacy under certain criteria. It said amendments to the Assisted Reproductive Act are expected to benefit groups such as infertile heterosexual couples, as well as lesbian and gay couples, should they meet certain requirements. Requirements include at least one individual in the couple being under the age of 50 … … and females involved must have uterine issues, or other health concerns that make a safe pregnancy impossible. Surrogate mothers must possess Taiwanese household registration. They must be 20 to 39 years old, and be physically and mentally healthy. And they must have experience with natural birth. The Ministry adds they must provide the service free of charge, though they're entitled to some allowances. The proposal will be open for public feedback until July 13th. And the amendments could undergo Cabinet review by the end of this year. US Baltimore Collapsed Bridge Salvaging U.S. salvage teams are in the process of moving remains of the collapsed Baltimore bridge from the river. This comes seven weeks after a container ship rammed into it. On Monday, they set up controlled explosions to break the structure into smaller pieces. And the teams plan to pull the ship completely from the waterway. Caroline Malone has more. Thai Activist Dies After Hunger Strike A young Thai activist who went on a hunger strike after being jailed for advocating reform of the country・s monarchy system has died in a prison hospital. Netiporn Sanesangkhom was a member of an activist group. The group was known for campaigns demanding reform of the monarchy and abolition of the law that makes it illegal to defame members of the royal family. She appears to be the first political activist in Thailand to die from a hunger strike. Officials say she suffered cardiac arrest early Tuesday. Other activists decried her death and repeated her call for bail to be granted in cases involving political offenses. Spain Issues Notice After Orca Attack Spanish authorities are recommending small vessels stick to the coastline around the Strait of Gibraltar after an orca rammed a boat that later sank. On Sunday, two people aboard a 15-meter boat in Moroccan waters sought help after an orca knocked the craft several times, damaging its rudder and causing a leak. An oil tanker picked up the sailors and their boat later sank. Government ministries and Spain's merchant marines issued notices Tuesday. They urged sailboats and small motorboats to beware of orcas between May and August in the area between the Strait of Gibraltar and the Gulf of Cadiz. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 22-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 20,836 on turnover of $5.2-billion N-T. With the benchmark index closing at a new high Monday, market capitalization on the local main board surpassed the $66 trillion NTmark for the first time, according to the data compiled by the Taiwan Stock Exchange. The data also shows that investors riding the uptrend have earned an average of $740-thousand NT this year. Higher electricity bills coming as summer rates to begin in June The average household in Taiwan is expected to see its electricity bill rise by more than 70 percent a month when the four-month summer-rate period begins in June. TaiPower said households in Taiwan use an average of 413 kilowatt-hours of power per month from June to September, which costs around 1000 NT monthly during that period. While electricity use at other times of the year averages at just 301 kWh per month, costing around 600 NT. That means there’s a 73 percent difference in electricity bills between summer and non-summer months. But TaiPower says only around 100 NT is attributable to the higher summer rate. A TaiPower spokesperson said the summer rates were introduced in 1989, as more power generators are deployed to meet higher consumer demand, increasing the company’s operating costs. UN Staffer Killed in Gaza Another United Nations staff member has been killed in Gaza. The UN worker was killed when the vehicle they were travelling came under fire on Monday in Rafah. Jody Jacobs has more… EU Human Smuggler Arrested One of Europe’s most notorious (惡名昭張的) human smugglers has been arrested in the semi-autonomous Kurdish region of northern Iraq. The regional government’s security agency said it had arrested Barzan Majeed, known as “the Scorpion,” upon a request from Interpol and “after the exchange of intelligence information.” The agency said he had attempted to smuggle 100 migrants to the U.K. in small boats and trucks. The U.K.'s National Crime Agency had issued an appeal (求助，懇求) for assistance in tracking Majeed down in 2022, after he was convicted in absentia in Belgium of people smuggling crimes. Officials say Majeed has been handed over to the regional justice department. Germany Merkel Memoir Released in November The memoirs of former German Chancellor Angela Merkel will be released in November. The publication will come nearly three years after the end of her 16-year tenure (任期) at Germany's helm (領導地位). Publishers say the 700-page-long memoir will be published on Nov. 26-th. Merkel was a scientist who grew up in communist East Germany and became Germany’s first female chancellor in 2005. She steered Germany through a succession of crises including the global financial crisis, the migrant crisis and the coronavirus pandemic. She was succeeded by current Chancellor Olaf Scholz in December 2021. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Taiwan donates US$50,000 to flood-hit Brazil Taiwan's government recently donated 50 thousand NT to Brazil to help the country cope (應付) with devastating floods. The floods have wreaked havoc across nearly 90 percent of municipalities in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. Over 300 thousand homes were damaged, as well as roads, bridges and a hydroelectric plant. Local media reports say the death toll has risen to 126, and 141 are missing. The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Sao Paulo said the overseas Taiwanese community in Brazil have delivered essential supplies to disaster areas. The office hopes all victims can return to normal life as soon as possible. Brazilian officials said they're very grateful to Taiwan for providing immediate assistance. They say the people of the state will not forget the good deed. Taichung government introduces pet-friendly taxi service The Taichung City government is announcing a pet-friendly taxi service, allowing owners to bring their pets along without any additional charge. It said pet-owning passengers can choose from 16 local service providers listed on the website of the City's Transportation Bureau. And many drivers are pet owners themselves. Transport officials said passengers are required to place their pets in a cage before boarding. They must also ensure taxi cleanliness throughout the journey to avoid incurring (招致、遭受) an additional cleaning fee. They said the taxi fare is metered as a regular yellow cab service. But officials caution that those who choose non-traditional ones with various sizes and functions should pay attention to how they charge. Afghanistan Flash Floods Leave Dead and Missing Flash floods in northern Afghanistan sweep away livelihoods (生計), leaving hundreds dead and missing AP correspodnent Karen Chammas reports on floods in Afghanistan. Russia Putin Proposes Removing Defense Minister Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed removing Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu from his post. Putin nominated First Deputy Prime Minister Andrey Belousov for the role. The change comes weeks after a Russian deputy defense minister in charge of military construction projects, was jailed pending an investigation and trial on charges of bribery (受賄). In line with Russian law, the entire Russian cabinet resigned on Tuesday when Putin began his fifth presidential term at a Kremlin inauguration. The announcement came as Ukrainian officials say thousands more civilians have fled Russia's renewed ground offensive in Ukraine’s northeast. The attacks have targeted towns and villages with a barrage of artillery and mortar shelling. The intense battles have forced at least one Ukrainian unit to withdraw in the Kharkiv region. This is a loss of more land to Russian forces across less defended settlements in the so-called contested gray zone along the Russian border. Prince Harry Meghan Visit Nigeria Britain's Prince Harry and his wife Meghan are visiting Lagos, Nigeria. They are promoting mental health for soldiers and empowering young people. The couple visited a local charity using sports to empower young people. Meghan and Harry later attended a fundraiser for Nigeria’s soldiers wounded in the country’s fight against Islamic extremists and other armed groups in the country’s conflict-battered (連續猛擊) north. The event was related to Harry's Invictus Games, which Nigeria is seeking to host in the future. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 21-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 20,582 on turnover of $3-billion N-T. Longer Summers and Stronger Typhoons A national scientific report on climate change is warning that if global warming continues without effective control measures, Taiwan could face seven-month long summers and fewer, but more severe typhoons. According to the Ministry of Environment, without effective efforts to curb (抑制) greenhouse gas emissions that could happen by the end of the century, under the worst-case scenario. The Climate Change Scientific Report 2024 has been published by the National Science and Technology Council. The report says the number of typhoons affecting Taiwan is projected to decrease from four to five a year to three to four a year by mid-century and reach one to two a year by the end of the century. However, is also warns that under the worst greenhouse gas emissions scenario, severe typhoons would intensify, move closer to the west, and pose greater risks to the region. UN: No food or fuel entering Gaza The United Nations says no humanitarian aid or fuel is currently entering the Gaza strip, which could have "catastrophic" consequences (結果) for the people there. In its latest daily update, the world body says there have been ongoing and "significant amounts of bombardment (轟擊)" in eastern Rafah early Thursday "and all through the night". Jody Jacobs reports from the UN headquarters in New York… Japan Proposes Expanding Commercial Whaling to Fin Whales Japan’s Fisheries Agency has proposed expanding commercial whaling to fin whales, a larger species than the three allowed now. The proposal comes five years after Japan resumed commercial whaling along the country’s coast after withdrawing from the International Whaling Commission. The agency decided to propose adding fin whales to the allowable catch list after stock (供應物,) surveys confirmed sufficient recovery of the fin whale population in the North Pacific. It hopes to get the proposal formally approved in mid-June. Japan's chief cabinet secretary says whales are an important food resource and that his government will support sustainable whaling. China Baidu Exec Apologizes for Videos Glorifying Overwork A top public relations executive from Chinese technology firm Baidu has apologized after she made comments that were seen as glorifying a culture of overwork. Baidu’s head of communications Qu Jing implied in the videos that she was not concerned about her employees as she was “not their mom” and said she only cared about results. Many on social media platforms like Weibo criticizing Qu for her lack of empathy (同理、同情). Qu posted an apology Thursday on her private WeChat account, where she “sincerely apologized to all netizens." Qu said her short videos did not represent Baidu’s stance. The videos, which have since be taken down, came at a time when many young people in China are pushing back against a culture of competition and grueling (使人精疲力盡的) hours in the workplace. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened marginally lower this morning from yesterday's close, at 20,710 on turnover of 3.2-billion N-T. The market closed slightly higher on Wednesday. It consolidated following a lackluster (缺乏生氣的) performance on Wall Street overnight. It opened down and continued to lose ground until buying emerged toward the end of the session. The buying was led by large cap tech stocks, and pushed the main board into positive territory at the closing bell. KMT Lawmaker Denies Government Claims of Leaking Confidential Documents K-M-T lawmaker Hsu Chiao-hsin is denying charges by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that she leaked confidential documents related to an agreement between Taiwan and the Czech Republic concerning aid to Ukraine. According to Hsu, information about the 10-million U-S dollar healthcare project had been reported in a newsletter published the Czech Republic's foreign ministry in March. The statement comes after the foreign ministry earlier this week submitted a report to the Taipei District Prosecutors' Office. The report accused (指控) Hsu of violating the Criminal Code by leaking, what it claims to be "confidential information." CDC to Fully Lift Face Mask Mandates The Centers for Disease Control is lifting its face mask mandate (命令，指令) for people visiting medical facilities such as hospitals, clinics and senior nursing homes. The move means people will no longer be required to wear face masks from May 19. It is the final face mask mandate to have been lifted. Once the mandate has been lifted, the C-D-C will only "recommend" that individuals visiting medical or elderly welfare facilities wear a face mask. The mandate on wearing face masks in medical facilities and nursing homes has been in place since December 1, 2020. Biden Threatens to Withdraw Israel Arms Shipments US President Joe Biden says that if Israel launches an all-out assault on Rafah in the Gaza Strip, he will withhold further weapons supplies from Benjamin Netanyahu's government. He made the threat (威脅) hours after America's defense secretary confirmed that one weapons shipment has already been held back. The official said the delay was due to the crisis unfolding in the Palestinian territory. Our US Correspondent Simon Marks reports. HK Court Grants Request to Ban Protest Song An appeals court has granted the Hong Kong government’s request to ban a protest song. "Glory to Hong Kong” was often sung by demonstrators during the huge anti-government protests in 2019. It was the first time a song has been banned in the city since Britain handed the territory back to Chinese rule in 1997. The ban would target anyone who broadcast (播放) or distributed the song to advocate (提倡) for the separation of Hong Kong from China. The song can still be played if it is for lawful journalistic and academic activities. Failure to comply with the court order may be considered as contempt of court and could be liable for a fine or imprisonment. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 49-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 20,604 on turnover of 4.5-billion N-T. The market gained ground once again on Tuesday. Investors were interested in large cap tech stocks after Wall Street moved higher overnight. Investor sentiment improved on hopes about a possible rate cut cycle by the U-S Federal Reserve. That would follow the release of weaker than expected American job data for April. KMT Seeking LY State of the Nation Address The K-M-T is seeking to invite president-elect Lai Ching-te to make what would be Taiwan's first state of the nation address at the Legislative Yuan following his May 20 inauguration. According to K-M-T caucus secretary-general Hong Meng-kai, Lai needs to explain and clarify his planned policies with lawmakers. Hong sasy the proposal for Lai to address lawmakers adheres to Article 15-2 of the Act on Exercising Legislative Yuan Powers. The Taiwan People's Party has also submitted (已提交) a similar proposal. The K-M-T caucus secretary-general says the matter will now added to Friday's legislative agenda. Thailand to Extend Visa Waiver for ROC Passport Holders Thailand will extend its visa waiver program for R-O-C passport holders to six months. Thailand first announced a visa waiver for Taiwanese travelers in November of last year. That program was slated to ends on May 10. The program has now been extend starting from May 11 to November 11. Under the visa waiver program, R-O-C passport holders traveling to Thailand for tourism purposes are granted a visa-free stay of up to 30 days. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says this is evidence that the Tsai administration's New Southbound Policy has paid off (得到好結果). US Holds Up Arms to Israel The United States is holding up arms shipments to Israel. Officials claim (宣稱) the move is intended to send a political message to its Middle East ally. With the details, Benji Hyer. UK Military Personal Information Breach British officials say the names and bank details of thousands of serving British soldiers, sailors and air force members have been exposed in a data breach (違反) at a payroll system. The defense secretary says state involvement cannot be ruled out. He didn't comment on British media reports that Chinese hackers are suspected of carrying out the cyberattack. The breach occurred at a third-party payroll system. The system describes itself as “the largest provider of critical business support services for government.” The system holds bank details of as many as 272-thousand serving armed forces personnel and recent veterans. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 111-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 20,634 on turnover of 5.1-billion N-T. The market rose nearly 200 points on Monday to close above the 20,500-point mark - as buying was sparked by Wall Street's solid performance at the end of last week amid renewed hopes over a rate cut cycle by the U-S Federal Reserve. Artificial intelligence development-related stocks attracted strong investor interest and led the local main board higher, while the financial sector also posted strong gains throughout the session. MOFA defends deal to provide Ukraine aid via Czech NGO The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is denying allegations that it misused taxpayer money in a partnership with the Czech Republic to provide assistance (協助) to Ukraine. According to ministry spokesman Jeff Liu, his office plans to pursue legal action against K-M-T lawmaker Hsu Chiao-hsin for releasing secret details of an agreement between Taiwan signed with the Czech Republic last December. The statement comes after Hsu released details of the agreement in a Facebook post -which she defended that by saying she released the information due to Foreign Minister Joseph Wu's failure to properly respond to her concerns during a legislative hearing. Circular Line Repair Costs Surpass NT$400Million And, The New Taipei City Department of Rapid Transit Systems says current estimates show that the cost of repairing sections of the Circular Line's elevated track damaged during the April 3 earthquake stand at over 400-million N-T. According to the metro operator, the funds will be initially covered by the New Taipei City Government. The earthquake damage the disc bearings of the connecting beams between the Banxin and Qiaohe stations, resulting in the displacement (移位) of steel box beams at 11 spots and severe twisting to some sections of track. The New Taipei City Government has said it could take over a year to fully repair the damaged sections of track. US Soldier Detained in Russia US lawmakers say they're "deeply concerned" after an American soldier was detained in Russia. An army spokesperson confirmed on Monday that the man — who's unnamed — was apprehended (被捕) last week in the far east of the country "on charges of criminal misconduct." Benji Hyer reports. Spain Lost Caravaggio to be Exhibited Spain’s Prado Museum has confirmed that a painting that was due to be auctioned in Madrid in 2021 is in fact a work by Italian Baroque master Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio that was considered (認為) lost. It will be unveiled to the public for the first time in the museum later this month. The Prado said in a statement on Monday the work titled “Ecce Homo” will go on display from May 27-th until October as a special one-piece exhibition following an agreement with its owner, who has not been identified. It said that since its reappearance at an auction three years ago, Ecce Homo has represented one of the greatest discoveries in the history of art. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 149-points this morning from Friday's close, at 20,479 on turnover of 5.7-billion N-T. The market closed-up on Friday after Wall Street gained ground overnight. The market cut its losses for the week as big U-S companies reported solid earnings for the first quarter. Investors awaited a key report on America's jobs market. Paraguay's President Talks Increasing Ties with Taiwan Paraguay's President Santiago Pena says he's seeking to boost cooperation with Taiwan. Speaking to reporters in Japan following a meeting with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Pena said his country has enjoyed a long diplomatic relationship with Taiwan. He says he plans to continue to promote a wide-ranging cooperative partnership. Pena and Kishida also expressed their opposition to any unilateral changes to the cross-strait "status quo" using force . They said "attempts to change the status quo by force will not be tolerated (容忍)." KMT Chairman Responds to Russia Envoy Invite K-M-T Chairman Eric Chu says his party will take action to handle fallout from an invitation that was extended to Russia's top envoy to Taiwan to attend an international banquet last month. The statement comes after reports surfaced that the the K-M-T was forces to cancel the invitation sent to Russia's representatives. Envoys from the U-S and European offices threatened to boycott the event. According to the K-M-T chairman, the invitation was sent out on the basis of (的基礎、根據) "good diplomacy." Chu says the party has regular contact with all the representative offices and embassies in Taiwan. UN Declares Northern Gaza "Full Blown Famine" A UN official says northern Gaza is going through "full blown famine". But Israel is vowing to conduct (執行) a military operation in the 'very near future'. AP correspondent Karen Chammas reports… Brazil Flooding Leaves Dead and Missing Authorities say massive floods in Brazil’s southern Rio Grande do Sul state have killed at least 75 people over the last seven days. Another 103 are reported missing. Damage from the rains has forced more than 80,000 people from their homes. Some are taking refuge (避難) in schools, gyms, and other temporary shelters. Landslides, flooded roads and collapsed bridges have left devastation (破壞) in the state. Operators reported electricity and communications cuts. The government says more than 800,000 people are without water supply. Bernard Hill Obit Actor Bernard Hill who starred in “Titanic,” and “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy has died. Hill's agent says he died Sunday at age 79. Hill delivered a rousing (激動人心的) cry before leading his people into battle in “The Return of the King.”. The film was the third in the “Lord of the Rings” franchise that won 11 Oscars. He went down with the ship as the captain in “Titanic,” which also won 11 Academy Awards. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 159-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 20,382 on turnover of $4.99-billion N-T. The Tai-Ex fell sharply on Thursday, led by the bellwether electronics sector, following a sell-off triggered by heavy losses suffered by tech stocks on Wall Street overnight. Investor sentiment also turned cautious amid concerns the U-S Federal Reserve will continue to delay the timing of a rate cut cycle due to stubborn inflation. Delegation Heading to Geneva Deputy Legislative Speaker Johnny Chiang says he'll be lead a delegation of lawmakers and officials from the Ministry of Health to Geneva later this month to push for Taiwan's inclusion in the World Health Organization. According to Chiang, the delegation plans to hold meetings on the sidelines of the World Health Assembly to let "let the world know that Taiwan's bid to join the global health body is a consensus (共識) among all Taiwanese, regardless of political affiliation." Speaking to reporters, Chiang argued that United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 does not affect the international legal status of the R-O-C, and Taiwan should have the right to participate in the U-N and its affiliated bodies. The Deputy Legislative Speaker also stressed his full support for Taiwan's efforts to seek meaningfully participate in U-N specialized agencies - saying he believes Taiwan should have active participation within the international community. US Biden Calls for Order on Campuses US President Joe Biden says "order must prevail" on college campuses, as unrest engulfs (席卷) universities across the United States. Police have arrested more than 1000 people after pro-Palestinian protests and Gaza solidarity (團結) encampments took hold at major schools nationwide, with students and staff demanding a boycott of companies or individuals with ties to Israel. Benji Hyer reports. Japan Unveils Intl Framework for AI Use Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has unveiled an international framework for regulation and use of generative AI. Kishida says some 49 countries and regions have signed up to the voluntary framework, called the Hiroshima AI Process Friends Group. He says they will work on implementing principles and code of conduct to address the risks of generative AI and “promote cooperation to ensure that people all over the world can benefit from the use of safe, secure, and trustworthy AI”. When Japan chaired the Group of Seven leading industrialized nations last year, it launched a Hiroshima AI process to draw up international guiding principles and a code of conduct for AI developers. The voluntary framework is aimed at helping to implement (實施) the principles and code of conduct to address the risks of generative AI. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Economics Minister Defends Electricity Rate Hike Travelers Cautioned on China Travel May Day Protests Worldwide UCLA Cites Outside Instigators for Police Action Police and Protesters Clash in Georgia -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 12-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 20,508 on turnover of 4.6-billion N-T. The market closed sharply higher on Monday. Investor interest in the bellwether electronics sector spiked following rallies in U-S tech stocks on Wall Street at the end of last week. The upturn was also driven by the financial sector. Investors rushed to pick up finance heavyweights due to their general dividend payout plans. Government Seeking to Boost Agricultural Exports to US Deputy trade representative Jenni Yang says she will be pushing for more Taiwanese agricultural products to be exported to the United States during this week's trade talks in Taipei. The talks are taking place under the US-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century Trade and began on Monday. Yang is leading Taiwan's delegation. The U-S side is headed by Assistant United States Trade Representative for China, Mongolia and Taiwan Affairs, Terry McCartin. According to Yang, the latest round of negotiations is focusing on issues concerning labor, environmental protection and agriculture (農業). Five Indicted over Taipei Building Partial Collapse And, The Taipei District Prosecutors' Office has indicted five people in connection with an investigation into the partial collapse of a residential building in Taipei's Dazhi District last year. The five include the head of the construction project responsible for the incident. The case stems from September 7, 2023. Underground excavation (挖掘) work at a Kee Tai Properties construction site caused a neighboring building to sink into the ground and six others to lean to one side. The incident resulted in hundreds of people from different households being evacuated and temporarily re-housed. US pressures for ceasefire In international news, The United States is stepping up pressure for a cease-fire deal in Gaza. Hamas officials are in Egypt to discuss the new proposal (提議). Sagher Meghani reports. < [CLIP] Slug: > UN Call for Sudan Arms Sale to Stop The United States is urging all countries supplying weapons to Sudan's warring parties to halt arms sales .. …. warning that history in the vast western Darfur region where there was a genocide 20 years ago "is repeating itself." U-S Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield says the only capital in Darfur not held by paramilitary forces, is "on the precipice of a large-scale massacre." Sudan plunged into chaos in mid-April 2023. Long-simmering tensions between its military and the R-S-F paramilitary group broke out into street battles in the capital, Khartoum. Fighting has since spread to other parts of the country, especially urban areas and the Darfur region. Britain's Duchess of Edinburgh Visits Ukraine Britain's Duchess of Edinburgh has become the first member of the Royal Family to visit Ukraine since the Russian invasion. She went on a one-day visit, on behalf of the Foreign Office, to "demonstrate solidarity with the women, men and children impacted by the war". The duchess paid her respects to those who had lost their lives in the town of Bucha during the Russian occupation. There was also a meeting with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky. Britain's Royal Family has been unusually outspoken (直言不諱) in its support of Ukraine. King Charles marked the second anniversary of the invasion in February by warning of the "indescribable (無法形容) aggression" and the "unprovoked attack" by Russia. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 115-points this morning from Friday's close, at 20,235 on turnover of 6.5-billion N-T. The market moved sharply higher on Friday on buying in the bellwether electronics sector. The buying was fueled by a rally among semiconductor stocks on Wall Street overnight. Tsai Admin. Can's Accept China's Eased Rules on Travel to Matsu The government is urging Beijing to resume bilateral exchanges "without preconditions." The call comes after Chinese authorities said that tourists will once again be allowed to travel from Fujian Province to Matsu. The eased travel restrictions were announced following a meeting in Beijing between China's deputy minister of culture and tourism and a legislative delegation. The delegation was led by K-M-T caucus whip Fu Kun-chi as part of their three-day trip to China. According to Interior Minister, Lin You-chang, "equitable exchanges" between the two sides are a "shared expectation and consensus (共識)" among the Taiwanese people. The official says such exchanges should occur without preconditions or any type of political considerations. Food Poisoning Cases from Kaohsiung Buffet rise to 46 Fourty-six people have now sought medical attention for suspected food poisoning symptoms after dining at an upscale buffet restaurant in Kaohsiung. The department says has sent food safety inspectors to the Hi-Lai Harbour restaurant branch at Kaohsiung Arena. This is after being notified (通知) of the incident by a hospital where one of the diners was being treated. Health inspectors collected 20 samples of food items and from its kitchen, including salads, oysters and sashimi. They found signs of cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods. All of the samples are still being tested. US Arrests on Campuses as Protesters Demand Israel Ties be Cut From the US, arrests roil campuses nationwide ahead of graduation, as protesters demand Israel ties be cut. AP correspondent Julie Walker reports Australia PM says Violence Towards Women National Crisis Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has described domestic violence as a national crisis. Thousands rallied in cities around Australia on Sunday to draw attention to the deaths of 27 women so far this year allegedly caused by acts of gender-based violence. Albanese says today the rallies were a call to action for all levels of the Australian government to do more to prevent gender-based violence. The prime minister says he will host a meeting or Australian state and territory leaders on Wednesday to discuss a coordinated (協調的) response. Prince Harry Meghan to Visit Nigeria for Invictus Games Talks Nigerian defense officials say Prince Harry and his wife Meghan will visit the West African nation in May for talks about the Invictus Games. Harry founded the games to aid the rehabilitation (復原) of servicemembers and veterans. The Duke of Sussex is expected to make the trip after a service at London’s St. Paul’s Cathedral to mark the 10th anniversary of the games. The Invictus Games were founded by Harry in 2014. The event offers servicemembers and veterans the challenge of competing (競爭) in sports events similar to the Paralympics. Harry served in Afghanistan as an Apache helicopter copilot gunner in 2012-2013. He has championed veterans in need of assistance. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 237-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 20,094 on turnover of $6.4--billion N-T. The Tai-Ex lost ground on Thursday, as other regional closed mixed. Investors awaited the release of a flood of global earnings reports, including updates from leading U-S tech companies. Government Platform Touts 60-80% Reduction in Statutory Animal Testing The National Science and Technology Council says statutory animal testing could be significantly reduced if alternative testing introduced in regulations is more widely adopted. According to council head Wu Zheng-chong, the amount of animal testing could be cut by an average of 60 to 80-per cent. Wu says he believes using a large number of animals for testing is a matter of concern for many people. He says as a developed country, Taiwan has a responsibility to replace, reduce and refine animal testing. And he also says to achieve that objective, the government established the Inter-ministerial Platform for Alternative Technology of Animal Testing in October 2022. The platform aims to improve related regulations, cultivate talent in the field, and facilitate the development of relevant (相關的) technologies. The National Laboratory Animal Center says 102 alternatives to animal testing have so far been introduced for pesticides, chemicals and cosmetics. Ukraine Moves to Reverse Soldier Drain Ukraine is seeking to reverse the drain of potential soldiers from the country. It has announced that men of conscription age will no longer be able to renew (更新) their passports from outside the country. Ukraine is working to get much-needed new supplies of weapons and ammunition from a huge U.S. aid package to the front line. Millions of Ukrainians have fled the country since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. Poland's defense minister said Warsaw was ready to help ensure “those who are subject to compulsory military service go to Ukraine". But he did not specify how. US New Rules for Coal Power Plants Many of the US's fossil fuel plants could close after sweeping (廣泛的) new rules to limit pollution from power stations issued by the US Environmental Protection Agency. The Biden Administration says the new regulations will significantly reduce pollution. It could also bring hundreds of billions of dollars in climate and public health benefits. Kate Fisher reports from Washington Congo Questions Apple on BloodMinerals Congo’s government is questioning Apple about the tech company’s knowledge of “blood minerals” from a conflict zone in the African country. A group of international lawyers representing Congo said Thursday it sent letters to Apple’s CEO Tim Cook and its French subsidiary this week. They raised concerns about human rights violations involving the minerals extracted (提取的) from mines in the country’s east. They say those minerals might end up being used in the company’s products. They included a list of questions challenging Apple to show how it monitors its supply chains in a troubled region where more than 100 armed rebel groups operate. It's demanding answers within three weeks. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 128-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 20,003 on turnover of 4.6-billion N-T. The market moved sharply higher on Wednesday to close above the 20,000-point mark on the back of a rally on Wall Street overnight. The bellwether electronics sector led the day's gains. The sector mirrored tech stocks' strong performance on Wall Street. The market was boosted by hopes the the U-S Federal Reserve will cut interest rates after new data showed a slowdown in American manufacturing activity. No WHA Invite, but Incoming Health Minister Likely to Travel to Geneva Outgoing Health Minister Hsueh Jui-yuan says he has not received an invitation to attend this year's World Health Assembly. But he says the issue will be handled by the new Cabinet. According to Hsueh, he believes his successor, Chiu Tai-yuan will head a delegation to Geneva and hold meetings on the sideline of the event, if Taiwan fails to secure (獲得) observer status. The 77th World Health Assembly will be taking place from May 27 through June 1 and is being held under the theme of "All for Health, Health for All" this year. New Taipei Ward Chief Indicted for Subsidized China Trip The New Taipei District Prosecutors' Office has indicted a Yonghe District ward chief and his aunt on charges of taking other ward chiefs on a subsidized trip to China. According to prosecutors, Hsu Cheng-kai and his aunt were commissioned by the Taiwan Affairs Office in Kunshan City last year to invite 12 ward chiefs to China. Prosecutors says ward chiefs' expenses (花費) were fully covered. Their relatives only had to pay for the airfare. The ward chiefs and their family members were taken on all expenses paid trips to Kunshan City, Changshu City, Wuxi City, and several other locations in November of last year. Russia Vetos UN Resolution Against Nuclear Arms Space Race Russia has vetoed a U.N. resolution calling on all nations to prevent a dangerous nuclear arms race in outer space. The vote in the 15-member Security Council was 13 in favor, Russia opposed and China abstaining. The resolution was sponsored by the United States and Japan It would have called on all countries not to develop or deploy nuclear arms or other weapons of mass destruction in space. Such actions are banned under a 1967 international treaty that included the U.S. and Russia. Under the treaty, countries also agreed to the need to verify (核實) compliance (遵守). The U.S. and Russian ambassador traded accusations on space weapons. US Arizona Votes to Repeal Near Total Abortion Ban Arizona's House of Representatives has voted to repeal (廢除) a near-total abortion ban. The state's supreme court reinstated the ban earlier this month. The ban, which has yet to go into effect, has become a major political issue in the key swing state. Ira Spitzer reports. UK Military Horses Run Loose After Being Spooked Five military horses spooked by noise from a building site have bolted during routine exercises near Buckingham Palace in central London. They ran loose through the heart of the city. The horses injured at least four people, collided with vehicles and caused chaos (混亂) during the morning rush hour. Four soldiers were thrown off the horses and three of the troops were hospitalized with injuries. The horses were all captured shortly after. They were taken back to the barracks in Hyde Park where they are undergoing medical tests. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 171-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 19,770 on turnover of 4.4-billion N-T. The market staged a technical rebound on Tuesday following a recent slump as buying was sparked by a rally on Wall Street overnight amid eased concerns over Middle East tensions. The main board opened higher and momentum continued throughout the session, with large-cap electronics and artificial intelligence development related stocks in focus. Constitutional court Debates Abolition of Death Penalty The Constitutional Court has been debating whether the current death penalty system is constitutional. The debate saw attorneys representing 37 prisoners currently on death row who are challenging the constitutionality of capital punishment. The 37 petitioners argue that "the presence and implementation (執行) of capital punishment violate Article 15 of the Constitution of the Republic of China," which stipulates that "the right of existence … shall be guaranteed to the people." The case was brought to the constitutional court in 2022. A decision is expected within the coming three months at the earliest. More Cabinet Appointments Announced Premier-designate Cho Jung-tai has announced more new members of his Cabinet that will take office on May 20. Five of those appointed are keeping their posts and while there's one new face. Finance Minister Zhuang Cui-yun, Overseas Community Affairs Council head Xu Jia-qing, Ocean Affairs Council head Guan Bi-ling and Directorate-General of Personnel Administration head Su Chun-rong will keep their current (目前的) posts. Acting Agriculture Minister Chen Jun-ji will formally head the agency in the new Cabinet. While the sole new face is Chen Shu-zi, the current head of Tainan City Government's Research, Development and Evaluation Commission - and she has been appointed to head the Directorate General of Budget, Accounting and Statistic. UN Calls for Investigation After Mass Graves Discovered Near Gaza Hospitals The United Nations is calling for “a clear, transparent and credible investigation” of mass graves uncovered at two major hospitals in Gaza that were raided by Israeli troops. A U.N. spokesman said Tuesday that credible investigators must have access to the sites. The U.N. human rights chief also said he was “horrified” (驚駭) by the destruction of the hospitals and the reported discovery of mass graves in and around the facilities. He also called for independent investigations. The Israeli military said its forces exhumed bodies that Palestinians had buried earlier as part of its search for the remains of hostages captured by Hamas. Japan Former PM Meets with Trump Japan’s government is declining (拒絕) to comment on a meeting between former Prime Minister Taro Aso and US presidential candidate Donald Trump. Chris Gilbert reports. Aboriginal Spears Returned to Australia Indigenous Four Aboriginal spears that were taken to England by Captain James Cook more than 250 years ago have been returned to Australia's Indigenous community at a ceremony in Cambridge University. The artifacts were all that remain of some 40 spears that Cook and botanist Joseph Banks took in April 1770, at the time of the first contact between Cook’s crew and the Indigenous people of Kamay. The return of the spears was agreed last year following a campaign and a formal repatriation (歸國) request. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 153-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 19,564 on turnover of 5.5-billion N-T. The market lost ground again on Monday - after failing to sustain (維持) early gains as investors reacted to a plunge by tech stocks on Wall Street at the end of last week. Selling set within an hour of the opening bell - as tech heavyweights came under pressure to push the market into negative territory - where in remained throughut the rest of the trading day. Hualien Suspends Work and Classes after 5.8 Quake Hualien County has suspended work and classes today, after a magnitude 5.8 earthquake struck earlier this morning. The magnitude 5.8 quake shook large parts of the island at 8:04am, after a series of tremors overnight. Those quakes including two of magnitude 6 and 6.3. Two buildings in Hualien City have partially collapsed and tilted following the overnight earthquakes. The Full Hotel on Zhongshan Road and the Tong Shuai building on Mingli Road in downtown Hualien City both partially collapsed following the quakes. The hotel is currently undergoing renovation, while the unoccupied Tong Shuai building had already been marked for demolition (拆除) following the April 3 magnitude 7.2 earthquake. Both buildings have been cordoned off. (NS) UNRWA Report on Neutrality Released A UN report on a review of the world body's humanitarian organisation,UNRWA has found it has robust frameworks to ensure compliance (遵守) with humanitarian neutrality. The review of the organisation was initiated by the Secretary General following allegations by Israel that several UNRWA staff had been involved in the October 7th attacks on Israel. Jody Jacobs has more… Venezuela President Meets with ICC Head Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro met with the head of the International Criminal Court as he faces an ongoing investigation by the tribunal (法庭) into crimes against humanity for his crackdown on anti-government protests. ICC chief prosecutor Karim Khan didn’t make any statements following the meeting at the presidential palace in Caracas. Khan’s fourth visit to Venezuela comes almost two months after an appeals panel ruled that the court’s investigation could proceed over the objections of Maduro’s government. ESA Adds New Members to Astronaut Corps The European Space Agency has added five new members to its astronaut corps. The new astronauts are from France, Belgium, Britain, Switzerland and Spain. An Australian has also joined them as part of an agreement. They graduated Monday during a ceremony in Cologne, Germany, after completing a year of training. That brings the space agency’s astronaut roster up to 11. The newcomers are now eligible (有資格的) for trips to the International Space Station. More than 20,000 people applied for the five slots. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 60-points this morning from Friday's close, at 19,466 on turnover of 6-billion N-T. The market fell to a record single-day drop on Friday amid rising tensions in the Middle East. This is despite Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing reporting its highest-ever first-quarter sales a day earlier. The weighted index ended the session down a record 774-points. Tai-Power President Asked to Remain in Office after Announcing his Resignation Premier Chen Chien-jen is urging Tai-Power President Wang Yao-ting to remain in his post. Wang announced his resignation this past weekend following a series of power outages in Taoyuan. Wang was taking responsibility for the power outages over the past few days and a tight power supply on April 15 due to generator trips. However, Cabinet spokesman Lin Zi-lun says the premier called Wang and left him a text message in an effort to persuade (說服) him to continue in his post. The Ministry of Economic Affairs says it is also working convince Wang to stay on. AUO Chairman Says Computex will be a Reflection of Tech Sector's Evolution A-U-O Chairman Paul Peng says this year's Computex will be the biggest since the coronavirus pandemic. Peng also serves as the chairman of Computex's co-organizer, the Taipei Computer Association. He says the theme of "Connecting AI" will boost the show's popularity. According to Peng, this year's event will feature some 1,500 exhibitors. There will be keynote speeches from people leading the A-I boom, including Nvidia's Jensen Huang, A-M-D's Lisa Su and Intel's Pat Gelsinger. Peng says new opportunities related to the emergence (緊急狀況) of A-I personal computers have ensured that those C-E-Os will be showing up. He says "especially with the growth of the I-T industry in the first half of 2024 being a bit lackluster." Iran Supreme Leader Dismisses Discussion on Israel Attack Iran’s supreme leader has dismissed any discussion of whether Tehran’s unprecedented drone-and-missile attack on Israel hit anything there. It's a tacit acknowledgment that few projectiles actually made it through to their targets despite launching a massive assault. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s comments Sunday before senior military leaders didn’t touch on the apparent (貌似) Israeli retaliatory strike Friday on the central city of Isfahan. Air defenses opened fire and Iran grounded commercial flights across much of the country. But analysts say recent moves suggest both are trying to dial back tensions following a series of escalatory attacks between them. Argentina Sees Violence A town in Argentina is seeing an unprecedented (史無前例的) wave of drug-related violence. AP correspondent Karen Chammas reports Brazil Conservatives Praise Musk Conservative Brazilians heaped praise on Elon Musk at a rally in the capital of Rio de Janeiro state supporting far-right former President Jair Bolsonaro. Musk is a target in an ongoing (不斷的) investigation over the dissemination (傳播) of fake news by supporters of Bolsonaro. Musk said the social media platform X, formerly Twitter, wouldn't comply with a high court justice’s order to remove certain accounts accused of spreading disinformation. Musk recently accused the justice of suppressing free speech and violating Brazil’s constitution. At Sunday's rally Bolsonaro and other speakers praised Musk as a defender of Brazil's freedom. They say he faces censorship by a crusading high court justice. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 309-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 19,992 on turnover of 83-billion N-T. The market recouped its early losses on Thursday caused by increased volatility on Wall Street overnight. Bargain hunters stepped-in late in the session. . However, the gains were capped after recent inflation reports in the US were hotter than expect. And investor concerns grew over the possibility of the U-S Federal Reserve delaying a rate cut cycle. The Taiex continues to lose ground, heading into midday trading. MODA Upgrades Taiping Island Satellite Network System The Ministry of Digital Affairs says the establishment of signal connectivity with a newly-launched satellite network system on Taiping Island has boosted communications efficiency there. According to the ministry, the new system enables (使能夠) coastguard personnel stationed there to use improved communication and better meets their audiovisual needs. Wi-Fi and mobile network services were officially activated on Taiping Island earlier this week. This comes after tests on the newly installed Medium Earth Orbit satellite terminal equipment were completed. That equipment is capable of sending and receiving signals from a satellite communications service provider based in Luxembourg. The digital ministry says the total transmission bandwidth available to personnel on the island can now reach 25-Megabits per second. This is an approximate 3.9-fold increase in communication efficiency compared to before. US Vetoes Palestine's Bid to Join UN Palestine has not been admitted to the United Nations as a full member, following a Security Council vote. On Thursday, the United States vetoed the bid - as was widely expected. Sally Patterson reports from the UN headquarters in New York. NATO EU Officials Urge Defense Systems for Ukraine Top NATO and European Union officials are urging industrialized nations to take quick and concrete steps to provide more air defense systems to Ukraine. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell warned on Thursday that continued delays could tilt (偏向) the war in Moscow’s favor. Borrell was speaking on the Italian island of Capri at the start of a G7 foreign ministers meeting. He told reporters that without Patriot air defense missile systems to guard against incoming Russian strikes, “the electricity system of Ukraine will be destroyed." And he said that no country can fight a war without electricity. Brazil da Silva Creates Two New Indigenous Territories Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has announced the creation (創建) of two new Indigenous territories. This brings the total number of new reserves created during his term to 10. The Cacique Fontoura reserve will be in Mato Grosso state and the Aldeia Velha territory will be in Bahia state. They cover a combined total area of almost 342 square kilometers. Speaking at a ceremony Thursday in Brasilia, Lula’s said the latest two new territories would not be enough. He cited legal issues for the delay in setting aside additional lands. He says Indigenous peoples should be patient as he seeks to fulfill his pledge (保證) of creating 14 new territories. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 86-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 20,126 on turnover of 5.7-billion N-T. The market staged a technical rebound on Wednesday after tumbling during the previous session. The main board moved back above the 20,000-point mark. Investors were interested in large cap tech stocks. However, the main board still failed to recoup all of the losses seen on Tuesday. Market sentiment remained affected by uncertainty over when the U-S Federal Reserve could start to cut interest rates. MOTC Cites NT$3 billion as Needed Funding to Repair Quake Damage in Hualien Transport Minister Wang Kwo-tsai says estimates show that funding to repair tourism-related facilities and infrastructure in Hualien following the April 3 earthquake stands at more than 3-billion N-T. According to Wang, three rounds of stimulus initiatives for the county's tourism sector have been proposed by the Tourism Administration. The first focuses mainly on essential (必需的) disaster relief. The second phase of the plan covers funding for people whose homes were damaged or destroyed. And the third and final initiative will seek to subsidize individual and group tours to Hualien after facilities and infrastructure have been fully repaired. DeMarcus Cousins Returns for T1 League Taiwan Beer Leopards Four-time N-B-A all-star DeMarcus Cousins is back in Taiwan to finish out his renewed contract with the T1 League's Taiwan Beer Leopards. Cousins initially played a four-game contract with the Leopards in January. But the Taoyuan-based team announced in mid-March that he's officially renewed his contract. Cousins will play in all three of the remaining regular season games and will finish the postseason games with the team. He'll be making his return this weekend. That's when the Leopards play the Taipei Mars on both Saturday and Sunday at the Taoyuan Arena. The Leopards are currently sitting in second place in the standings (積分榜) behind the league leading New Taipei C-T-B-C D-E-A. Israel PM Responds to Calls for Restraint in Iran Response Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says his country will be the one to decide whether and how to respond to Iran’s major air assault over the weekend. Netanyahu's remarks on Wednesday appeared to brush off (漠視，不理睬) calls for restraint from close allies, including the visiting foreign ministers of Germany and Britain. Israel has vowed to respond to Iran’s unprecedented attack without saying when or how. That's left the region bracing for further escalation after months of unrest linked to the ongoing war in Gaza. Iran's president warned Israel against responding. Violence meanwhile has continued to surge along Israel's border with Lebanon. A rocket attack on an Israeli town by Iran-backed Hezbollah wounded at least 14 people. US Congress Dismisses Impeachment Against Homeland Security Director Lawmakers in the United States have voted to end impeachment proceedings (法律行動，訴訟程序) against Director of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, before they could even go to trial. Democrat Party Senators dismissed the two articles of impeachment against Secretary Mayorkas. The articleswere brought by Republicans who argue his department is failing to stem record flows of migrants entering the country from Mexico. Benji Hyer reports. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 84-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 19,986 on turnover of 3.9-billion N-T. The market closed below the 20,000-point mark on Tuesday for the first time in almost a month - as panic-led selling set-in amid concerns over Mid-East tensions and lingering inflation that could delay interest rate cuts in the U-S. The market opened down - but declined further as pressure escalated (逐步升級) after the main board dropped below the 20-day moving average of 20,290 points. The weakness then continued to the end of the session. Lawmakers Pass New Pedestrian Sidewalk Safety Rule Lawmakers have approved regulations aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety. The new regulations require both the central and local governments to develop guidelines to build, improve, and maintain safe, unobstructed (無障礙的), and continuous pedestrian spaces along sidewalks. Under the new rules, if sidewalks or walkways obstructed by fixed equipment or other objects, local governments should notify the responsible authority in writing and give it at least three months to resolve the issue. Failure to comply within the specified period can result in maximum fine of 150,000 N-T. CDC Reports 139,848 Cases of Diarrhea Last Week The Centers for Disease Control says the number of patients who sought medical assistance for diarrhea last week reached almost 140,000. According to Central Epidemic Command Center Deputy Director Lee Chia-lin, data for the week of April 7 through 13, shows that 139,848 people sought medical help for diarrhea-related sickness islandwide. Lee says the figure shows that number of patients climbed 15.7-per cent from the previous week. The number of people who fell ill from diarrhea-related sickness last week is also the fourth highest in the same time period over the past decade (十年). US House Speaker Pushes for Ukraine Aid US House Speaker Mike Johnson is facing a GOP revolt (反叛) as he vows to move ahead with U.S. funding for Ukraine and other allies. AP Washington correspondent Sagar Meghani reports Canada Budget Imposes Higher Taxes on Wealthy Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is imposing higher taxes on the wealthiest Canadians. The budget proposes to increase the capital gains inclusion rate, which refers to the taxable share of profit made on the sale of assets (資產). The taxable portion of capital gains above $250,000 Canadian would rise from half to two-thirds, which the federal government says will only affect 0.1% of Canadians. Canada's finance minister presented the federal budget, which pledges $38 billion US dollars in new spending that she says is focused on economic justice for younger generations. Trudeau's Liberal government is trailing badly in the polls amid concerns over the cost of living in Canada. That was the I.C.R.T. news, Check in again tomorrow for our simplified version of the news, uploaded every day in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn