EZ News

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 97-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 18,950 on turnover of $8.6-billion N-T. The Tai-Ex closed at an all-time high on Thursday .. … as investor's looked to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing on the back of Nvidia's financial results - which showed the artificial intelligence chip designer reported 12.29-billion U-S dollars in net income during the fourth quarter of last year. Lawmakers Urge Friendly Farming Environment for Egg-Laying Hens Lawmakers from across party lines are urging the government to speed-up efforts to build a friendly environment in which to farm egg-laying hens. The call comes after the release of a report on progress made in assisting the industry shift to cage-free farming across Asia. Taiwan ranked sixth out of 17 countries surveyed in the report by Open Wing Alliance - a global coalition of 100 organizations from 72 countries. Lawmakers say Taiwan has made no progress in phasing out (淘汰) battery cages in the farming of egg-laying chickens and say the government to come up with effective measures as soon as possible. They're also calling for a policy to help cooperative egg farmers gain access to land and loans and for subsides to be granted to farmers who adopt an animal-friendly egg production model. UN Gaza Aid Agency at Breaking Point The Commissioner General of the UN aid agency in Gaza, UNRWA says the agency has reached breaking point (失控點；極限). Jody Jacobs reports from the United Nations in New York… Canada Man Found Guilty for Killing Muslim Family A man found guilty of using his pickup truck to kill four members of a Muslim family has been sentenced to life in prison as a Canadian judge ruled that the actions of the “admitted white nationalist” amounted to terrorism. Nathaniel Veltman has also been sentenced to a concurrent (並行) life sentence for the attempted murder of a boy who survived the 2021 attack. Veltman was found guilty in November of four counts of first-degree murder and one count of attempted murder for hitting the Afzaal family with his truck while they were out for a walk. The case was the first time Canada’s terrorism laws were put before a jury in a first-degree murder trial. Japan Whale Body to be Buried for Skeleton A whale as long as a train car that died after straying into a Japanese bay is set to be buried until it naturally becomes a skeletal specimen for a local museum. It’s the third year in a row that whales have become stranded in Osaka Bay, raising questions about the reasons why and the cost of handling the incidents. The animal that was confirmed dead Monday is believed to be a male sperm whale, about 12 meters long and weighing an estimated 20 tons. The whale was spotted several times in the bay and port since mid-January. Tidal fluctuations (起伏不定), diseases and climate change are among the possible reasons it became stranded. 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 150-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 18,827 on turnover of $6.8-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Wednesday as investors chose to pocket gains from the previous session when the main board closed at an historical high. The bellwether electronics sector led the downturn, as large cap semiconductor stocks were in focus after artificial intelligence chip designer Nvidia fell by more the 4-per cent on Wall Street overnight. Activists Calls for Addressing Surrogacy Separately from Sperm and Egg Donation Women's rights groups are urging the government to address single women and lesbian couples' access to sperm and egg donation separately from surrogacy (代孕) when amending the Assisted Reproduction Act. According to Taiwan Women's Link director Huang Shu-ing, the government should give single women and lesbian couples access to assisted reproduction services already available to heterosexual couples. Huang says as surrogacy is far more complicated than simply allowing access to sperm and egg donation, discussing both issues together would delay the amendment. A joint statement issued by the Taiwan Women's Link and 26 other groups in the fields of women's rights, gender, labor and medicine also calls for protecting single women and lesbian couples' right to access sperm and egg donation services. The Ministry of Health is slated to hold its first public hearing regarding amendments to the Assisted Reproduction Act next Tuesday. US Increases Port Security Over Chinese Hacking Fears US president Joe Biden has signed an executive order to increase cybersecurity at America's ports. It comes in response to fears of hackers gaining access to vital (必不可少的) infrastructure in the US that is Chinese-made. Nick Harper reports from Washington. UN Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal Only 10Percent Funded The U.N’s top representative in Ukraine says the U.N.’s humanitarian appeal to meet needs there is only 10% funded for 2024. That puts in jeopardy crucial assistance needed to reach those in need across frontline areas. Denise Brown says an estimated 8.5 million Ukrainians who are living in dire (危急的) conditions near combat zones risk going without basic humanitarian deliveries, including food and water. The U.N.’s annual appeal for Ukraine is $3.1 billion. Ukraine’s economy is still suffering the aftermath of Russia’s full-scale invasion two years ago. France Eiffel Tower Closed Again Due to Strikes Striking workers have again closed down the Eiffel Tower. It's the third day running that the landmark expected to be at the heart of celebrations for the Paris Olympics has been off-limits to visitors. A message Wednesday on the tower’s website also warned of more possible disruptions (中斷、 擾亂) today, if strikers continue their push for salary hikes and other concessions. One of the strikers’ representatives has previously warned that their protest action “could go on for several days, even 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 79-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 18,673 on turnover of 4.9-billion N-T. The market closed at a new high on Tuesday on the back of futures-led buying - as investors pushed up the spot market in a bid to profit in the futures market, where February contracts are scheduled to be settled later today. Electricity Rate Hikes Yet to be Finalized Economics Minister Wang Mei-hua says no final decision has been made on possible electricity rate hikes. The statement comes as the Ministry of Economic Affairs' electricity price review committee is scheduled to meet next month to decide on rates for the next six months. According to Wang, her office is considering adjusting rates even for users of less than 330-kilowatt-hours a month, but large electricity users will bear the brunt (首當其衝) of the rate increase in order reduce the impact on the general public. There have been reports claiming electricity rates could increased by more than 10-per cent for some users. Shrimp Snack Removed from Store Shelves Several local government have issued orders to remove a popular brand of spicy-flavored shrimp snack from store shelves. The move comes after it was confirmed that Yu Zong Foods had used a dye supplied by a Yunlin County-based food manufacturer that contains a carcinogenic (致癌的) dye. The Kaohsiung Department of Health says it has ordered Yu Zong Foods to remove all packaged of its "Wei Hsien" spicy shrimp chips from store shelves that used red chili powder supplied by the Yunlin County-based food manufacturer. A batch of chili powder from the company was recently found by the Yunlin Public Health Bureau to contain Sudan III, an industrial dye that is not allowed in food products. US Two Charged with Murder in SuperBowl Shooting Police in Kansas City have charged two people with murder following a mass shooting (大規模槍擊事件) at the Super Bowl celebration parade. The violence last week left one person dead and almost two dozen injured. US correspondent Nick Harper reports. Russia FM Expresses Support for Venezuela's Maduro Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has reaffirmed his government’s support for the administration of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro during an hours-long visit to the South American country. Lavrov on Tuesday expressed Russia’s commitment to strategic cooperation in numerous (很多的) sectors, including technology, energy and culture. His meetings with Venezuela's vice president and foreign minister in the capital, Caracas, took place as Venezuela’s government and a U.S.-backed faction of the opposition continue to negotiate conditions to level the playing field ahead of this year’s presidential election. UK Bust Ransomware Syndicate Law enforcement agencies say they have infiltrated and disrupted a prolific ransomware syndicate behind cyberattacks around the world. Britain’s National Crime Agency says it led an international operation targeting LockBit, which provides ransomware as a service to so-called affiliates (附屬機構) who infect victim networks with the computer-crippling malware and negotiate ransoms. The group has been linked to thousands of attacks since 2019. Hours before the announcement, the front page of LockBit’s site was replaced with the words “this site is now under control of law enforcement." The operation aimed to steal all of LockBit’s data and then destroy its infrastructure. 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 25-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 18,610 on turnover of 3-billion N-T. The market closed slightly higher on Monday as buying rotated to non-tech stocks, as the bellwether electronics sector came under heavy pressure following losses seen in artificial intelligence development-related stock on Wall Street at the end of last week. New Legislature Forms French and Polish Parliamentary Friendship Groups The new Legislative Yuan has formed two parliamentary friendship groups to promote closer exchanges with France and Poland via their respective lawmaking bodies. Both of the parliamentary friendship groups are being headed by (為首) D-P-P lawmaker Lin Chu-yin. According to Lin, the establishment of the groups is aimed at continuing and also further developing wide-ranging exchanges with the French and Polish parliaments. The new Legislature is expected to announce the establishment of another parliamentarian friendship group later today to promote exchanges with ASEAN member countries. CDC Reports First Local Measles Case Since 2022 The Centers for Disease Control has reported Taiwan's first locally acquired case of measles since September of 2022. According to C-D-C Deputy Director General Philip Luo, the infected individual was a man in his 30s who sought emergency treatment at hospital on February 13 and was diagnosed with measles two days later. He remains in a hospital isolation ward. The C-D-C deputy director says the origin of the infection is still being investigated. A total of 199 people, including family members and those whose hospital visits overlapped (重疊) with the man's have been identified as close contacts. Crew Abandons Ship After Houthi Missile Attack The crew of a British registered cargo vessel have abandoned (棄船) ship, after reportedly being hit by two missiles off the coast of Yemen. John Bevir reports. Gaza Reports 29Thousand Palestinians Killed Gaza’s Health Ministry says more than 29-thousand Palestinians have been killed in the territory since the start of the Israel-Hamas war. The ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza said on Monday that 107 bodies were brought to hospitals in the last 24 hours. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants (戰鬥人員) in its records, but says most of those killed were women and children. The war began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel from Gaza on Oct. 7, killing some 1,200 people and taking around 250 hostage. After a round of exchanges for Palestinians imprisoned by Israel in November, around 130 remain captive, a fourth of them believed to be dead. France Eiffel Tower Strikes Cause Disruptions Visitors to the Eiffel Tower are being turned away because of a strike over poor financial management at one of the world’s most-visited sites. Visits to the hugely popular landmark in central Paris have soared in the lead-up to the Summer Olympics in the French capital. But tourists planning to visit the Eiffel Tower on Monday were warned of disruptions (中斷、擾亂) in multiple languages on its website. Visitors were advised to check the website before heading to the monument or to postpone their trip. In December, the Eiffel Tower was closed to visitors for an entire day during Christmas and New Year’s holidays because of a strike over contract negotiations. 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 46-points this morning from Friday's close, at 18,561 on turnover of 7.3-billion N-T. The market bucked a global upturn on Friday, and lost ground - that, despite Wall Street setting a fresh record following some mixed reports on America's economy overnight. China Vows to "Enhance Maritime Law Enforcement" Around Kinmen and Matsu China's coast guard says it plans to "strengthen its law enforcement activities" and carry out more patrols in waters around Kinmen and Matsu. The statement comes as Beijing is continuing to blame Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration for the deaths of two Chinese nationals who were killed when their boat overturned while trying to flee a coast guard ship near Kinmen. China's coast guard says it will also carry out regular "inspections" in waters around the two outlying islands. The Mainland Affairs Council is slamming China for the move - saying Taiwan will continue to enforce the rules on banning unauthorized (未經授權的) Chinese access to waters around Kinmen. According to the council, maritime laws will continue "to be enforced" based on the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area. NTU Drama Department Founding Chair Hu Yao-heng Dies at 87 And, The National Taiwan University has announced the death of the founding chairperson of its Graduate Institute of Drama and Theatre. According to the university, Hu Yao-heng passed away last Friday. He was 87. No cause of death has been given. Hu was born in the Chinese province of Hubei in 1936. He graduated from N-T-U's Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures before earning a master's degree in drama from Baylor University and a doctoral degree in drama and comparative literature from Indiana University. He founded the N-T-U's Graduate Institute of Drama and Theatre in 1995. Russia Takes Avdiivka Russia takes control of a key city in eastern Ukraine after Ukrainian troops withdraw The fall of the town of Avdiivka in Ukraine's Donbas region is seen as Russia's biggest victory since last year's capture (攻下) of Bakhmut. AP correspondent Mimmi Montgomery reports Yemen Houthis Target BelizeFlagged Ship Yemen’s Houthi rebels are suspected in an attack on a Belize-flagged ship traveling through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait connecting the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The ship targeted in the assault Sunday reported sustaining (承受) damage after “an explosion in close proximity to the vessel.” That's according to the British military’s United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center. It said that the ship's crewmembers were safe. Since November, the rebels have repeatedly targeted ships in the Red Sea and surrounding waters over Israel’s war targeting Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Germany Lufthansa Labor Union Calls for Strike A labor union in Germany has called on ground staff for Lufthansa to walk off the job at seven airports on Tuesday following a similar strike earlier this month. The Ver.di union said Sunday that the one-day strike will affect the airports in Frankfurt and Munich, Lufthansa’s two main hubs (中心), and several other cities. A 27-hour strike at five of the same airports that started Feb. 7 prompted the airline to cancel hundreds of flights. The union is seeking pay raises of 12.5%, or at least 500 euros more per month, in negotiations for about 25-thousand employees. 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 4.9-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 18,640 on turnover of $5.6-billion N-T. The market opened in consolidation mode today after record gains on the first trading session of the Year of the Dragon. Shares in Taiwan surged almost 550 points and by more than 3 percent, despite stronger-than-expected U.S. inflation figures. Buying included stocks in the bellwether electronics sector, led by chipmaker TSMC American depositary receipts, which steamed ahead by more than 11 percent when the stock market was closed over the New Year holiday, due to enthusiasm about AI development. Woman gives birth during flight from Tokyo to Taipei: EVA Airways A woman gave birth to a baby after going into labor on board a flight from Tokyo to Taipei on Thursday, according to EVA Airways. The airline says flight attendants and four doctors who happened to be on board the morning flight assisted with the birth. It adds that the plane landed at Taipei Songshan Airport at 1:11 p.m., with the mother and her newborn son taken to a local hospital. Details regarding the passenger, including her nationality, or how many weeks she was pregnant, were not disclosed (公佈) by the airline. US Biden Informant Charged with Lying to Authorities An FBI informant has been charged with lying to authorities about a multimillion-dollar bribery scheme between President Joe Biden, his son Hunter and a Ukrainian energy company. The claim is central to a Republican impeachment inquiry in Congress. Prosecutors say Alexander Smirnov falsely told FBI agents in June 2020 that executives associated with the Ukrainian energy company Burisma paid Hunter and Joe Biden $5 million each in 2015 or 2016. The allegations became a flashpoint in Congress over the summer as Republicans demanded the FBI release the unredacted (內容沒有被刪減的) form documenting the allegations as they pursued investigations of President Biden and his family. An attorney for Smirnov declined to comment on the allegations. Greece Legalizes SameSex Civil Marriage Greece has become the first Orthodox Christian country to legalize same-sex civil marriage. AP's Lisa Dwyer has more. Senegal Voids Postponement of Presidential Election Senegal’s top election authority has voided the president’s postponement of a presidential election scheduled for Feb. 25 and its rescheduling in December, saying the moves were unconstitutional. A judgement approved by seven members of Senegal’s Constitutional Council cancelled the decree signed by President Macky Sall that postponed the election. The judgement also said that the National Assembly’s move on Feb. 5 to reschedule the vote for Dec. 15 also was “contrary to (與之相反) the constitution." 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 568-points this morning on the first trading day of the new Lunar New Year, at 18,664 on turnover of $24-billion N-T. Taiwan CDC reports sixth year of decline in new HIV infections The Centers for Disease Control says Taiwan is marking another year of decline in the number of new HIV infections. Officials say 944 new cases of human immunodeficiency virus were reported on the island in 2023, marking a sixth consecutive (連續的) year of falling case numbers. The CDC says it marks a decrease of nearly 12 percent from 2022, and the figure was the lowest since 2004. The agency encouraged individuals who have ever had sex to take at least one HIV test and those who have sex without using a condom to take a test annually. Two lotto players win NT$1 million prizes at same Taipei shop on same day Two lottery players recently won $1 million NT prizes on scratch lotto tickets they purchased (購買) on the same day at the same store in Taipei's Ximending neighborhood. According to Taiwan Lottery Co., the lotto wins both happened on "Super Red Envelope" scratch cards sold at a shop on Kunming Street in Ximen District on the first day of the Lunar New Year holiday last Thursday. The first of the winners was a married couple, while the second winners were two young men who put their money together to the scratch card. Taiwan Lottery released five new scratch cards for the Year of the Dragon, of which the $2,000 NT Super Red Envelope -- with eight top prizes of NT$20 million -- is the most expensive. NKorea Kim Supervises New Missile Tests North Korea state media says leader Kim Jong Un has supervised a test of new surface-to-sea missiles and warned that the country would take a more aggressive (積極進取的) military posture in disputed sea boundaries with war-divided rival South Korea. Kim lso accused South Korea of frequently violating what he decried as North Korean territorial waters with its maritime patrols and interdiction of third-party ships. He ordered his navy to strengthen its defense posture in waters near the South Korean border islands of Baekryeong and Yeonpyeong. The report today by North Korea’s state media came a day after South Korea’s military said it detected the North firing multiple cruise missiles in waters off its eastern coast. Some experts say Kim may seek to further dial up pressure in an election year in South Korea and the U.S. US SuperBowl Victory Parade Shooting Police say there are several casualties (傷亡) in Kansas City, after shots were fired during a Super Bowl victory parade. Thousands of fans had gathered on Wednesday in the US state of Missouri to celebrate the Kansas Chiefs's victory in America's National Football League game. Benji Hyer has the latest. Haiti Kenya Discuss Police Force Deployment Haiti’s government has announced that it is working on an official agreement with Kenyan officials to secure the long-awaited deployment of a police force from the east African country. The government said Wednesday that high-ranking officials from both countries met in the U.S. for three days this week to draft a memorandum of understanding and set a deadline for the arrival of Kenyan police forces. The closed-door meetings included top U.S. officials and were held weeks after a court in Kenya blocked the U.N-backed deployment of police to help Haiti fight a surge (急遽上升) in gang violence. 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. MOFA Plays Down Guatemala's China Trade Ties The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says plans by Guatemala's new government's to develop trade ties with China does not conflict with the country's policy of maintaining diplomatic ties with Taiwan. The statement comes after Guatemala's foreign minister earlier this week told Reuters that his country "cannot ignore the weight and power China represents" - but will "continue working with Taiwan at the levels we have been doing." According to the foreign ministry here in Taiwan, the report "did not come as a surprise" as President Bernardo Arevalo has "consistently (始終如一地) maintained a policy" of maintaining formal ties with Taiwan while also developing trade links with China. TSMC Announces Employees' Business Performance Bonus Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing says its board has approved a plan to distribute employees' business performance bonus and profit sharing totaling about 100.1-billion N-T for 2023. That total includes a business performance bonus of 50.09-billion N-T distributed (分配) following each quarter of 2023 and profit sharing of 50.09-million N-T to be distributed in July this year. The board meeting also approved a plan to issue a 3.5 N-T per share cash dividend for the earnings of the fourth quarter of 2023, which hit 9.21 N-T. The ex-dividend date has been set for June 13 and the dividends will be distributed on July 11. MOA Warning on Carrying of Meat Products into Taiwan And, The Ministry of Agriculture is warning public not to bring meat products into Taiwan from other countries due to the risk of African swine fever. The annual Lunar New Year holiday reminder (提醒) comes as African swine fever has now been found in 79 countries since the first reports of the virus emerged in China in August of 2018. Data shows that between August of 2018 and January of this year, of the 6,795 meat seizures tested, 639 came back positive for the virus. Eighty-three percent of the meat products that tested positive for African swine fever came from China. Those caught entering Taiwan carrying pork and other meat products face fines of between 200,000 and 1-million N-T. Israel Arrests Palestinian American Woman in West Bank Israeli forces have arrested a 46-year-old Palestinian American woman in the West Bank. Relatives say that Samaher Esmail was pulled out of bed by soldiers late Monday and they still don't know where she is. The army says she was arrested for “incitement” (煽動) on social media. Esmail's arrest comes just as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Israel on a diplomatic visit. A U.S. government spokesperson said the State Department was aware of reports that a U.S. citizen had been detained and was “seeking additional information" about the incident but had no further comment. Late Tuesday, Blinken arrived in Israel, where he is expected to press ahead with efforts to at least pause Israel's offensive in Gaza and curb violence in the West Bank. US Homeland Security Secretary Survives Impeachment Attempt US Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has survived an impeachment attempt in the House of Representatives after several Republicans broke ranks with their party. Congressional Republicans had sought to oust (逐出) Mayorkas over the surge in migration at the US's southern border. 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. Stock Investors Earned NT$850,000 on Average in the Year of Rabbit Investors in the local stock market pocketed an average of 850,000 N-T in the Year of the Rabbit after the Tai-Ex ended the final trading day of the Lunar year up by 0.2-per cent. Trading in the Year of the Rabbit began on January 30 of last year. Since then the weighted index soared 3,163-points, or 21.18-per cent, to close the year at 18,096-points - boosting market capitalization by 10.76-trillion N-T for a total of 57.52-trillion N-T. This was a marked improvement from the Year of the Tiger - when the main board tumbled by over 2,700-points, or 15.51-per cent. The stock market will resume trading on February 15. Passenger Faces Fine Over Emergency Train Stop in Taitung The Railway Police Bureau says a passenger who deliberately pulled an emergency brake valve that brought an EMU3000 express train to a stop in Taitung County last week could face a fine of up to 1-million N-T. The fine is based on Article 68-1 of the Railway Act. According to the bureau's Hualien Precinct, the passenger has been identified as (確定為) a 28-year-old Taitung resident. He was questioning by police on Monday and law enforcement authorities say the Ministry of Transport will now review the case. The train came to an unplanned stop in Taitung's Jinlun Station when the emergency brake valve in the train's ninth car was pulled. Police say the man has told them he fell asleep on the train and pulled the brake because he had missed his stop. Tobacco Warning to Big Enlarged The Health Promotion Administration says health warnings must have to cover at least 50-per cent of cigarette packaging from next month. According to the administration, the new packaging policy will come into affect on March 22. The warnings are currently required to cover at least 35-per cent of packaging (包裝). The administration says the move is in line with the World Health Organization's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. That convention states that all tobacco product packaging carries health warnings and such warnings should cover 50-per cent or more of the packaging area. Chinese Court Sentences Australian Writer to Death A Chinese court has handed Australian writer Yang Hengjun and pro-democracy blogger a suspended death sentence for spying. Human rights advocates say it's an unusually harsh verdict (判決) and it could hurt ties between Beijing and Canberra. Patrick Fok reports. Tokyo Heavy Snow Disrupts Travel Heavy snow in the Tokyo area has knocked out power to homes and disrupted travel. Officials cautioned drivers to avoid nonessential travel. The Japan Meteorological Agency forecast more than 55 centimeters in mountainous areas north of the capital. Central Tokyo had much smaller amounts. More than 100 domestic and several international flights in and out of Tokyo’s Haneda airport were canceled Monday. Some highways were partially (部分地) closed, and more than 14,000 homes were without electricity. 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

Cities and Counties Removing TaiSugar Pork Davis Cup Journey Ended by France Europe Israel Palestinians Middle-East Tensions El Salvador Elections Britain-Magritte-Auction -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Bureau of Labor Funds Posted Record High Returns for 2023 Private College Tuition Subsidy Rolled Out US approves plan to strike Iranian targets in Syria and Iraq Cancer cases to rise Spain's drought getting serious -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

CAA Protests China's Unilateral Adjustment of Flight Routes UMC expects shipments to grow 2-3 percent sequentially in Q1 World court rejects portions of Ukraine allegations EU nations agree on using profits from frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan Sentenced to 14 Years -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

CAA Protests China's Unilateral Adjustment of Flight Routes Keelung Mayor Unveils Plan to Build Ferris Wheel Israel Palestine latest Imran Khan Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison France's National Assembly Approves Bill to Abortion Rights in Constitution. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

MOTC Approves Taichung Metro's Proposed Blue Line Six Indicted over Deadly Pingtung Golf Ball Factory Fire UN Palestinians Aid Agency Facing More Funding Cuts Italy Unveils Development Plan for Africa King Charles and Princess of Wales Discharged from Hospital -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Government Thanks US for Supporting Cross-Strait Peace Fu Kun-chi to Serve as KMT's New Legislative Caucus Convener Palestinian Officials Slam UNRWA Funding Suspension Pakistan Police Disperse Khan Supporters Trial of Jam Master Jay to Begin in Brooklyn -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Taiwan's Ambassador to Tuvalu Dismisses Switch in Recognition Reports Four Indicted for Illegally Hiring Migrant Workers Giant Yellow Duck Heading Back to Kaohsiung Global shipping "not in crisis" just yet, says the UN Denmark's report on South Korea adoptions -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

KMT Pledge to Push for Absentee Voting in New Legislature NIA Bans Japan-Based China Journalist North Korea Conducts Strategic Cruise Missile Test Israel Denies Responsibility for Deadly Strike on U.N. Shelter in Gaza Grounded Boeing planes could soon be in the air again -- 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 17,883 on turnover of 3.1-billion N-T. The market continued its winning streak on Tuesday as, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing attracted strong investor interest amid lingering optimism over the company's outlook for this year. Interest also focused on electricity development related stocks in the electric machinery and optoelectronics sectors, to give the broader market with an additional boost. Tuvalu Affirms Ties with Taiwan In news from and about Taiwan this morning, The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says senior government officials in Tuvalu have affirmed that the Pacific island country will maintain formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan. The statement comes after Tuvalu's ambassador to Taiwan told the Australian newspaper that his country could sever (斷絕) formal diplomatic recognition with Taipei in favor of Beijing following its election this Friday. According to the ministry, the Tuvalu government has clarified that the ambassador's statement did not represent the country's official stance, and affirmed that its diplomatic relations with Taiwan remain strong. Tsai Call for Support of Taiwan's Participation in IPEF President Tsai Ing-wen is calling for support for Taiwan's participation in the US-led Indo Pacific Economic Framework. Speaking during a meeting with visiting members of the US-Taiwan Business Council in Taipei, Tsai said "Taiwan will continue to express its willingness to play a role in this initiative" and she hopes the business group "can support Taiwan's participation." The visiting delegation includes business council President Rupert Hammond-Chambers and Keith Krach, who served as under secretary of state for economic growth, energy, and the environment under Donald Trump's administration. The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity was launched (發起) by U-S President Joe Biden on May of 2022. It currently has 14 partnering countries. SKorea: North Fired Missiles into Western Sea South Korea’s military says North Korea fired several cruise missiles into the western sea as it continues a streak of weapons testing in the face of deepening nuclear tensions with the United States, South Korea and Japan. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff says the U.S. and South Korean militaries were analyzing the launches. The event followed a Jan. 14 flight test-firing of the country’s first solid-fuel intermediate range ballistic missile, which reflected (顯示) its efforts to advance its lineup of weapons targeting U.S. military bases in Japan and Guam. UK House of Lords Votes Againt UKRwanda Treaty The House of Lords has voted against the Government's controversial UK- Rwanda Treaty. For the first time, the UK's upper house of parliament has voted to delay ratifying a Treaty, which is central to the Government's plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda. Simon Gaitan reports. Mexico Train Project Damages Historic Limestone Caves Activists in Mexico have published photos of steel and cement pilings (地樁) from a government project driven directly through the roofs of sensitive limestone caves on the Yucatan peninsula. The cave networks and their underground rivers are both environmentally sensitive, and have been found to hold some of the oldest human remains in North America. Mexico's president had promised that part of his controversial $20 billion tourist train project would run on an elevated causeway (堤道) to avoid crushing or disturbing the caves. Authorities had claimed that studies would ensure the supports for the causeway wouldn't hit caves. But the activists say that was a lie, and the damage is irreversible. 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 25-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 17,840 on turnover of 6.5-billion N-T. The market continued to gain ground on Monday on the back of another strong showing from the bellwether electronics sector. Buying focused on artificial intelligence development stocks following a rally by A-I-related stocks on Wall Street at the end of last week. However, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing fell into consolidation mode after surging 6.46-per cent surge last Friday. Snow Reported as Mercury Plummets Snow was reported falling on Jade Mountain overnight - resulting in an accumulation (累積) of 4-centimeters by 9 o'clock this morning. Snow fell on Hehuan Mountain in Nantou. Snow was also reported falling in Yilan's Taiping Mountain area at around 6 o'clock in the morning. According to the Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area Office, the mercury in areas near the peak dropped to minus-3 degrees overnight before this morning's snow fall began. And in Taipei, snow was reported on parts of Yangminshan this morning - and between 1 and 2-centimeters had accumulated in some areas by around 6 o'clock. MOHW to Expand Scope of Telemedicine Services from July 1 The Ministry of Health says the definition of special circumstances in which chronic (慢性的) patients are eligible to seek medical treatment remotely will be expanded from July 1. According to the ministry, the move will benefit roughly 2.47 million people. The amended Rules of Medical Diagnosis and Treatment by Telecommunications will be expanded to cover individuals who are on a National Health Insurance system chronic disease care plan, or subject to terminal care, correctional institutional care and mobility care. Those who are in need of remote healthcare due to disasters and infectious diseases will also be included in the expanded program. China Quake in Xinjiang Region A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck a sparsely (稀疏地) populated part of China’s western Xinjiang region, but no casualties were immediately reported. State media and local authorities said the quake early this morning destroyed two houses and downed power lines, though electricity has now been restored. Local authorities said around 200 emergency workers were sent to the area. The Xinjiang railway authority also suspended dozens of trains. UN Concerend Abt Weapons Transfers in Ukraine Conflict The United Nations has once again called for adherence (嚴守) to International law in the supply of weapons to Ukraine. Jody Jacobs reports from the United Nations in New York… Canada Caps Student Visas Canada has announced a two-year cap on international student visas to ease the pressure on housing, health care and other services at a time of record immigration. The country's immigration minister says there will be a 35% reduction in new study visas in 2024. He said the country’s international students program has been exploited, putting pressure on housing and health care. A government statement says Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Cabinet retreat in Montreal this week will prioritize (優先考慮) affordability and housing. 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 89-points this morning from Friday's close, at 17,770 on turnover of 9.2-billion N-T. The market gained significant ground on Friday, rising by more than 450-points, driven primarily by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, which led the main board higher, as the electronics sector rose by 3.9-per cent during the trading day. Taipower Denies Reports of Rate Hikes Tai-Power is denying reports that plans to hike electricity rates this year. The denial comes amid speculation the state-generator could raise rates after its posted over 380-billion N-T in accumulated losses at of the end of last year. The Ministry of Economic Affairs' electricity price review committee is scheduled to meet in March to decide on rates for the next six months and reports have been claiming it could seek to raise rates for third consecutive year during that meeting. However, Tai-Power is dismissing (駁回) those claims and says it's currently "conducting an internal financial review" and seeking "financial support from the government." Nvidia's Jensen Huang Back in Taiwan Nvidia co-founder and C-E-O Jensen Huang is back in Taiwan. Huang was spotted at Ningxia Night Market in Taipei wearing one of his now trademark (（某人的）標記，特徵) leather jackets this past weekend. Speaking to reporters, Huang said he's in town to celebrate the Lunar New Year with employees at Nvidia's Taiwan Branch. He's also reportedly slated to meet with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing executives to discuss further cooperation between the two companies and attend a conference on advanced packaging supply chains. Nvidia is one of T-S-M-C's biggest customer. US DeSantis Ends Presidential Bid New Hampshire residents vote in their presidential primary Tuesday --with one less candidate (候選人) to choose from. AP correspondent Jackie Quinn reports. Germany Rallies Against AfD Party Hundreds of thousands of people have been protesting in Germany this weekend, against the right-wing Alternative for Germany party. The demonstrations came in the wake of a report that right-wing extremists recently met to discuss the deportation (驅逐出境) of millions of immigrants, including some with German citizenship. Although Germany has seen other protests against the far right in past years, the protests this weekend are notable for their size and scope. The demonstrations have garnered support from President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Vice-Chancellor Robert Habeck, and the Central Council of Jews. German companies also spoke out against extremism, emphasizing the country's commitment to democracy and tolerance. (PB) Indonesia Merapi Eruption Indonesia’s Mount Merapi has erupted, as other active volcanoes flared up across the country, forcing the evacuation (疏散) of thousands. Merapi unleashed Sunday clouds of gas, and lava that traveled up to 2 kilometers down its slopes. Several of Indonesia's active volcanoes also had eruptions. A volcano in East Nusa Tenggara province spewed hot clouds into the air as more than 6,500 people fled to shelters. Mount Marapi in West Sumatra province, Mount Semeru in East Java province and Mount Ibu in North Maluku province also had new eruptions. 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 319-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 17,547 on turnover of $11.3-billion N-T. The market staged a technical rebound on Thursday following two losing sessions. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing led the upturn, while buying also spread to other semiconductor heavyweights - with shares in MediaTek and A-S-E Technology also gaining ground. The financial sector rose and the transportation industry attracted strong buying to outperform the broader market. Geese Culled at Yunlin Farm Hit by Avian Flu The Yunlin Animal Disease Control Center says 1,477 geese have been culled (選擇性宰殺) at poultry farm in the county following an outbreak of the highly pathogenic H-5-N-1 avian flu virus. According to the center, the Dongshih Township farm reported "abnormal deaths" of geese this past Sunday and inspections teams were immediately sent there to carry out tests. The culling was carried out after the results of sample testing were confirmed yesterday. It's the second case of avian flu to have been reported in Dongshih Township this year. LNY Taxi Surcharge in Taipei, New Taipei and Keelung to Begin February Taxis in Taipei, New Taipei and Keelung will begin adding a 30 N-T surcharge (附加費) over the Lunar New Year holiday. City officials say the additional 30 N-T surcharge will be automatically included in the taximeter reading from February 5 through 14. An additional surcharge of 20 N-T will be added from 11PM to 6AM during the holiday period. US Uvalde Report: Police Failure Cost Lives A US government report released Thursday details the "critical failures" in the delayed police response to a school shooting in the state of Texas. The Justice Department's investigation found children's lives could have been saved if law enforcement officers (警察) had acted sooner. In May 2022, a gunman opened fire at a primary school, killing 19 students and two teachers. Sally Patterson has more. AU, EU, UN, US Call for Dialoge in Sudan The African Union, European Union, United Nations and United States are calling for an immediate cease-fire and constructive dialogue between warring factions in Sudan. They're also calling for an end to tension (緊張關係、緊張局勢) between Somalia and Ethiopia over an agreement signed with Somalia’s breakaway region Somaliland. The groups say that the two issues are threatening regional stability in the Horn of Africa. The U.S. special envoy for the Horn of Africa, says the warring factions in Sudan should immediately end the fighting and adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian law and respect for human rights. 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 7-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 17,169 on turnover of 1.7-billion N-T. The Tai-Ex followed other regional markets and lost ground on Wednesday, as investors reacted to a decline on Wall Street overnight ahead of the release of earnings reports and potential moves by major global central banks. DPP and KMT Officials Discuss ROC-US-PRC Relations with USIP Representatives from the D-P-P and K-M-T discussed the significance of the weekend results as well as implications (影響) for peace and security in the Taiwan Strait. Talks were held under the auspices of the United States Institute of Peace. … I-C-R-T's Washington correspondent Matt Kaye has more. < [CLIP] Slug: > WHO says situation in Gaza is "catastrophic" The World Health Organisation warns that the health system in Gaza is on the brink of (瀕臨) collapse. A WHO health emergency officer described the dire nature of the health system saying the organisation desperately needs more aid and medical supplies to assist with the unfolding "catastrophe". Jody Jacobs reports from the United Nations in New York. **Italy's Foreign Minister proposes joint EU mission to protect Red Sea **shipping Italy's Foreign Minister says his country is working alongside France and Germany on a joint European military deployment (調動) to protect shipping in the Red Sea. Antonio Tajani was speaking at a press conference in the Italian capital, where he set out Italy's priorities for its G7 presidency this year. Giles Gibson has more from Rome. Britain Royals In Britain… King Charles III is scheduled to have a 'corrective (矯正的) procedure for his prostate and Catherine, Princess of Wales is in the hospital after having undergone planned surgery… Karen Chammas has details. 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 17,341 on turnover of 3.1-billion N-T. The Tai-Ex followed most other regional markets and lost ground on Tuesday - falling by 199-points - as investors lacked cues from Wall Street overnight due to U-S markets being closed on Monday. CDC Releases Medigen COVID-19 Vaccine Contract The Centers for Disease Control has released the contract used to purchase Medigen Vaccine Biologics' coronavirus vaccine. According to C-D-C Director General Zhuang Ren-xiang, the 58-page document was made public after Medigen's board of directors passed a resolution authorizing (授權) the government to release it. Zhuang says the contract had been reviewed by the Control Yuan, the National Audit Office, and the Legislature prior to its being made public and no evidence of illegal behavior was found. The contract was signed in May of 2021, and the government purchased 5-million doses of the Medigen vaccine, of which 200,000 were donations for the government's help in funding the vaccine's development. Former Professor Jailed for Fake Bridge Inspection Reports And, The Hsinchu District Court has sentenced a former university professor to six-months in prison for falsifying (偽造) documents relating to the safety inspection and assessment of three road bridges in Hsinchu County. Chen Ming-cheng owned an engineering consulting firm based in Taoyuan. Chen was found guilty of instructing a student employee to file fake reports indicating that the Tai-He, the Hou-Hu and the Rui-Guang bridges in Xin-Feng Township had all been inspected. The student employee was sentenced to 4 months imprisonment, suspended for two years. Both verdicts can be appealed. French president sets out new policies in marathon news conference The French president has set out new policies ranging from liberal market reforms to an overhaul (檢修) of parental leave. Emmanuel Macron made the announcements in a marathon news conference on Tuesday. Ross Cullen reports from Paris. Shell to Sell Business in Niger Delta Shell has reached an agreement with a consortium of companies to sell its onshore business in Nigeria's Niger Delta in a deal worth $2.4 billion. It is the latest move by the London-based energy major to limit its presence in the challenging Niger Delta environment, where it has faced decadeslong local pushbacks to its oil exploration. Activists want Shell to address environmental damage, such as compensation (賠償) for affected communities, as a condition for the government's approval of the deal. Shell says the deal is designed to preserve its commitments, including remediation where spills occurred in the past. Kenya Begins Rhino Relocation Program Kenya has embarked on its biggest rhino relocation project and has begun the difficult work of tracking, darting and moving 21 of the critically endangered beasts to a new home. A previous attempt at moving rhinos in the East African nation in 2018 was a disaster as all 11 of the animals died. The rhinos are being relocated to a conservancy because they need more space to roam and, hopefully, to breed. Rhinos are generally solitary (獨自的) animals and are at their happiest in large territories. There are just 6,487 wild rhinos left in the world, according to rhino conservation charity Save The Rhino, all of them in Africa. Kenyan authorities say they have relocated more than 150 rhinos in the last decade. 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 23-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 17,523 on turnover of $2.5-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed slightly higher Monday after investors rebuilt their positions with political uncertainties removed following the presidential election over the weekend. The bellwether electronics sector led the upturn as investors resumed buying after the election, while power development-related developers and biotech stocks also moved higher on expectations that the ruling DPP, which won the presidential vote, would continue to lend them support. 2 men indicted for signature buying in Pingtung County Two suspects, including a Pingtung ward chief, were indicted Monday by prosecutors for buying signatures for business tycoon Terry Gou to help him reach the level of endorsement (揹書) needed to run in Taiwan's Jan. 13-th presidential election. The Pingtung District Prosecutors Office says the ward chief, identified by his last name Chiu, was found to have paid his wife, and another man $200 NT apiece for their signatures late last year, Chiu and the other man then worked with four others to gather over 30 signatures. The two men are facing charges of "arranging bribes to compel a person to sign the candidacy petition of a specified individual." Iran Launches Strikes Against Iraq Iran says it launched strikes against a “spy headquarters and the gathering of anti-Iranian terrorist groups” shortly after missiles hit an area near the U.S. consulate in Irbil, the seat of Iraq’s semi-autonomous Kurdish region. Regional political figures said one of the strikes killed a prominent (著名的、重要的) local businessman with a portfolio that included real estate and security services companies, along with members of his family. Soon after, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said they had struck “terrorist operations,” including Islamic State targets in Syria “and destroyed them by firing a number of ballistic missiles.” Another statement said they had hit a headquarters of Mossad, the Israeli intelligence agency, in the Kurdish region of Iraq. Poland PM Announces Elections Poland’s new Prime Minister Donald Tusk said crucial elections to choose city mayors and provincial and county administration leaders would be held April 7, with a runoff April 21. The elections, announced Monday, will test the new pro-European Union coalition government’s popular support, just six months after it won parliamentary elections. Tusk and his Cabinet took office last month, vowing to restore the importance and powers of city mayors and local governments which the previous right-wing government sought to limit. Local administrations suffered slashed (削減) funding and stalled projects and investments. Tensions between the new government and the previously ruling Law and Justice party have escalated with the latter blocking proposed bills in parliament. Pope Not Planning on Retirement Pope Francis insists that he is not thinking about retiring at the moment. With the 87-year-old suffering from (遭受) a number of health issues last year, there has been speculation that he could step back from his role, as his predecessor Benedict the Sixteenth did in 2013. Giles Gibson has more from Rome. 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 17,541 on turnover of $3.2-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan continued to feel the pinch as a result of uncertainties created by the presidential election, giving up earlier gains. Large cap tech stocks came under pressure, driving the broader market lower as a whole, while buying rotated to "military concept stocks" amid worries over cross-strait ties as well as shipping stocks which were boosted by hopes of growing freight rates (海運運費率) in the wake of the crisis in the Red Sea. Former DPP Chairman Shih Ming-teh dies at age 83 Democracy movement leader and activist Shih Ming-teh has died at the age of 83, The Taipei Veterans General Hospital says Shih passed away early this morning, and his family confirms that today was also his birthday. Shih was jailed for years in the 60s and 70s for sedition, after calling for Taiwan's independence from China, and again between 1980 and 1990 for his role in the Formosa Incident, in which the then authoritarian Kuomintang regime (政府，政權) cracked down on pro-democracy demonstrations in Kaohsiung. He was also the founder of the Shih Ming-Te Foundation, a nongovernmental organization based in New Taipei's Xizhi District aimed at promoting the advancement of ethnic reconciliation, national freedom, equality, democracy and human rights. India Opposition Party Begins March Ahead of National Vote Thousands of members of India’s main opposition Congress party and its supporters have begun a 2-month cross-country march ahead of a crucial national vote this year. The march is led by Rahul Gandhi, scion (繼乘人) of the influential Gandhi family. This is the second time the Congress party has hit the road in the last two years to rally support for elections. India is expected to vote in a national election in April or May, and the opposition is scrambling to put up a fight against Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party. Modi and his party remain popular after nearly a decade in power and many surveys suggest he will win a third consecutive term this year. US Texas Officials Accused of Blocking Migrant Rescue The Department of Homeland Security is accusing Texas officials of blocking federal agents who were trying to save a migrant woman and two children who drowned. AP correspondent Jackie Quinn reports. Russia Former Mayor to Fight Russian local media say a disgraced (蒙羞) former mayor convicted over bribery has had his prison sentence cut short after signing a contract to fight with Russia’s military in Ukraine. Oleg Gumenyuk, who served as mayor of the far eastern city of Vladivostok between 2018 and 2021, was convicted last year of accepting bribes worth over $400-thousand US dollars and sentenced to 12 years imprisonment. However, his lawyers say he was released after agreeing to fight in Ukraine. He said that the politician’s whereabouts were unknown, but that the former mayor was instructed to report to his military unit on Dec. 22nd. 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 9.3-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 17,536 on turnover of $2.4-billion N-T. The market gained ground on Thursday after Wall Street climb to a near-record high overnight and as investors are watching for a U-S inflation report, which was released after the close of trading on the local main board. Taiwan Passport Ranks 35th in Global Index R-O-C passport holders have visa-free access to 143 countries and territories around the world, ranking it 35th in the latest Henley Passport Index. The passport fell four places from 31st in the previous survey issued by the London-based consulting firm Henley & Partners in July 2023. The rankings are slightly deceptive in that place rankings do not account for (核算、考慮) ties. As although Taiwan's passport ranked 35th, 69 countries had passports with more visa-free access. Singapore tops the rankings in the latest index, sharing first place with France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and Spain. Afghanistan remained at the bottom with only 28 destinations offering visa-free travel to its passport holders. Those holding these passports enjoy visa-free access to 194 nations. The Henley Passport Index compares the visa-free access of 199 different passports to 227 travel destinations. Its first index was issued in 2006. Iran Seizes Oil Tanker Iran’s navy has seized an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman that once was at the center of a major crisis between Tehran and Washington, a seizure that further escalates tensions in the Mideast waterways. The vessel was once known as the Suez Rajan and was involved in a yearlong dispute that ultimately (最終) saw the U.S. Justice Department seize 1 million barrels of Iranian crude oil on it. Iran’s state-run television acknowledged the seizure late Thursday afternoon, hours after armed men boarded it. The seizure also comes after weeks of attacks by Yemen’s Iranian-backed Houthi rebels on shipping in the Red Sea. SAfrica Accuses Israel of Genocide at ICJ Hearing South African lawyers speaking at the International Court of Justice say Israel planned to "destroy" Gaza. Lawyers are demanding Israel stop what they say is a "genocidal" (種族滅絕的) military operation against the residents of Gaza - to which Israel will respond on Friday. From outside the International Court of Justice in The Netherlands, Ishan Garg reports. Argentina Annual Inflation Rate Highest Ever Argentina's statistics agency says the country has registered a monthly inflation rate of 25.5% in December and closed 2023 with an annual inflation of 211.4%. That's the highest rate in 32 years. The data reflects the strong impact (影響) of a series of shock measures, including a 50% devaluation of the nation’s currency, implemented by right-wing President Javier Milei in hopes of eventually taming the country's roaring inflation. 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 12-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 17,478 on turnover of $2.2 billion N-T. The market continued to lose ground and turnover slipped once again on Wednesday as investors awaited the release of U-S consumer price index data for December later this week, as turnover slipped once again. Analysts say this week's continuing downward trend and low turnover also reflect how this weekend's presidential and legislative elections are weighing on market sentiment. Over 50 Listed as Suspects in Alleged Subsidized China Trip Case The Yilan District Prosecutors' Office says 53 people have been listed as suspects in an ongoing investigation into violations of the anti-infiltration (反滲透) and election laws. They were listed as suspects after being questioned and include several village and neighborhood chiefs. All of them allegedly traveled to China on trips subsidized by the Chinese government in December of last year. According to the prosecutors' office, they were invited by Chinese officials in Changzhou City, Jiangsu Province and Hebei Province and traveled on schedules arranged by officials from China's Taiwan Affairs Office. The suspects were were allegedly asked to state that they "support the parties that boost cross-strait relations," and "oppose Taiwan independence" during the trips and some reportedly joined Chinese officials in chanting pro-unification slogans. Japan Begins Building US Military Base on Okinawa Japan’s government is beginning construction (建造) on a new US military base in the country’s Okinawa islands, overriding the objections of local officials. Tokyo approved landfill works to relocate the Futenma airbase to the Henoko region by proxy after Okinawa’s government refused to green-light the project, saying it will destroy local ecosystems and attract war. Chris Gilbert reports from Tokyo. Somalia AlShabab Fighters Attack UN Helicopter Officials in Somalia say fighters with al-Qaida’s East Africa affiliate al-Shabab have attacked a United Nations helicopter that made an emergency landing in territory controlled by the extremists, killing one passenger and abducting (綁架) five others. One official told the Associated Press that the helicopter landed due to engine failure. He said six foreigners and one Somali national were on board and one was shot dead while trying to escape. One was missing. The United Nations confirmed the incident but didn't give details for the safety of those on board. Al-Shabab has not immediately claimed responsibility. Greece PM to Submit Legislation for SameSex Marriage Greece’s center-right prime minister says his government will soon submit legislation allowing civil marriage for same-sex couples. That's despite reservations from some of his party's own lawmakers and the country’s powerful church. But Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis says the proposed (提出的) law will not extend the right to parenthood through surrogate mothers to same-sex couples — an issue that has divided Greek society. Mitsotakis said Wednesday he is confident the law can be approved in parliament with cross-party support, even though he won't force those of his lawmakers who are against it to back it. 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 39-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 17,495 on turnover of 2.6-billion N-T. The market closed slightly lower on Tuesday, as the main board gave up its early gains ahead of Saturday's elections. Selling sent old economy and financial stocks lower, while the bellwether electronics sector remained above the previous day's closing level, despite coming off an initial upturn - and that was led by large semiconductor stocks. Lai Urges Beijing to Engage in Talks with Taiwan D-P-P presidential candidate Lai Ching-te is calling on China's leadership to assume responsibility for regional stability and engage in dialogue with Taiwan. Speaking at at a press conference in Taipei, Lai said the "door will always be open to engagements (互動) with Beijing on the principles of equality and dignity." Lai said if elected he will continue President Tsai Ing-wen's policies, including efforts to maintain the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and expand links with democratic nations. Lai went on to say that believes his being elected "will be helpful for creating a new situation in the Indo-Pacific region" that will contribute to the "stability of the Taiwan Strait." Air Force Plays Down T-34C Trainer Replacement Plan The Ministry of National Defense is stressing that it has not made any final decision on whether to choose locally designed and built jet trainers to replace the Air Force's aging fleet of Beechcraft T-34Cs. The statement comes after the Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation earlier this week announced that it had completed the first stage of design for a military trainer aircraft to replace the T-34Cs. A-I-D-C said a prototype is expected to be completed by 2028, and mass production could begin in 2031. However, the defense ministry says it is "still considering (考慮) whether to "choose locally-made trainers, trainers that are the results of local and international cooperation, or simply rent new trainers instead of buying them." Yemen Houthi Rebels Fire at Red Sea Ships Yemen’s Houthi rebels have unleashed a barrage of drones and missiles targeting shipping in the Red Sea, though no damage was initially apparent (明顯的). That's according to a private intelligence firm and the British military. The assault late Tuesday happened off the Yemeni port cities of Hodeida and Mokha. In the Hodeida incident, the intelligence firm said ships described over radio seeing missiles and drones, with U.S.-allied warships in the area urging “vessels to proceed at maximum speed.” Off Mokha, ships saw missiles fired, a drone in the air and small vessels trailing them. A Houthi official acknowledged the attack in comments reported by Al Jazeera. Japan Moves to Clarify Runway Instructions After Haneda Crash Officials in Japan are implementing emergency steps to avoid collisions at Tokyo’s Haneda airport after two aircraft crashed on the tarmac last week. Investigators believe vague updates from the control tower may have led a pilot to mistakenly (錯誤地) believe he had clearance to enter the runway while another aircraft was landing. 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 12-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 17,585 on turnover of 2.7-billion N-T. The market saw a technical rebound on Monday on the back of gains seen by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing. However, the upturn was limited amid investor caution ahead of the release of more U-S economic data later in the week, which could influence how the Federal Reserve will seek to handle monetary policy in the future. Tsai Talks Next-Gen IDF In news from and about Taiwan this morning, President Tsai Ing-wen says the government is preparing to develop the next generation of indigenous jet fighters. According to Tsai, the move is aimed at "ensuring continuity of her administration's national defense policy." She made the announcement during an interview with ERA News, in which she highlighted the government's resolve to build Taiwan's autonomy in the area of defense systems and the government's "defense autonomy" plan. Tsai went on to say "if the plan is interrupted, it will be difficult to resume" - and expressed her hope that the next president will maintain support for the development of the island's defense industry. Ministry of Culture Announces Rollout of Pop Promotion Subsidies The Ministry of Culture has announced that it will begin accepting applications for the government's pop music promotion subsidy program from tomorrow. According to the ministry, the program has been developed to promote the production of pop music programs aimed at international markets. The program has been granted funding of 10-billion N-T from now through 2027. The ministry says popular music programs that will be considered for subsidies need to include at least 10 episodes and have a production cost of at least 6-million N-T per episode. Approved applications can receive a subsidy of up to 40-per cent of the total estimated production costs. US Blinken: ArabNations Turkey Agree to PostWar Planning for Gaza U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken says four key Arab nations and Turkey have agreed to begin planning for the reconstruction and governance of Gaza once Israel・s war against Hamas ends. Blinken spoke Monday after meeting with the Saudi crown prince. He is on an urgent Mideast mission that also took him to Jordan, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Turkey. Arab countries had previously resisted U.S. calls for post-war planning to begin, insisting that there must first be a cease-fire and a sharp reduction in civilian suffering caused by Israel's military offensive. Blinken said he would bring the Arab commitments to Israel's prime minister and the Palestinian leader before presenting them to the Egyptian president. OpenAI Responds to NYT Lawsuit Chat GPT creator Open AI has responded to a lawsuit from the New York Times accusing it of copyright infringement. In a statement, Open AI said it rejects the claim that it doesn't have a legal right to use publicly available materials to train its large language model. Ira Spitzer reports from San Francisco. 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

Taiwan shares rose slightly Newly unveiled carbon pricing formula gets mixed industry response Number of days off work from public holidays to total 11 in 2024 Japan Earthquake update NYC sues bus companies over migrants row -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 15-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 17,574 on turnover of $2.8-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan took a beating Wednesday, tumbling nearly 300 points, as investors took their cue from heavy losses suffered by tech stocks on U.S. markets overnight by trimming holdings in large electronics stocks on the local main board. Contract chipmaker TSMC led the downtrend as it failed to withstand stiff selling and fell below the nearest technical support at around its 20-day moving average by the end of the trading session. Over 30% vegetables fail pesticide residue tests: Foundation Testing conducted by an NPO finds that over 30-percent of fresh vegetables failed checks for pesticide residue (殘留物). The Consumer's Foundation says it purchased 12 randomly chosen vegetables in August 2023 at wet markets and traditional night markets in Taipei, New Taipei and Taichung, and pesticide residue testing resulted in a failure of 33-percent. And 67 percent of produce labeled or advertised as "organic" were found to contain large amounts of pesticide residue. The foundation says it used a rapid pesticide screening method recommended by the Ministry of Health and Welfare. It noted that suppliers of farm produce incorrectly labeled as organic can face fines up to $300-thousand NT according to government regulations. The foundation urged consumers to check whether vendors selling organic vegetables have a certificate indicating they have been certified to sell such produce and that it contains the name of the certification body and a registration number. Japan Earthquake Rescue Continues Amid Rough Weather Rescuers in Japan are braving the cold in a race against time as they search for survivors along the country's western coastline after a powerful earthquake earlier in the week left at least 77 people dead and 35 missing. A downpour (傾盆大雨) and possible snow are expected, raising the risk of landslides. A list of those officially missing grew from 15 to 35 people, including a 13-year-old boy. Ishikawa prefecture and nearby areas were shaken by more aftershocks, adding to the dozens that followed Monday’s magnitude 7.6 temblor. Nearly 33-thousand people are staying at evacuation centers, and local officials are encouraging everyone ot use masks and take precautions against the spread of infectious diseases. Uganda Gay Rights Activist Stabbed A well-known gay rights activist in Uganda has been stabbed by unknown assailants, and police say he has been hospitalized in critical condition (病危). A police spokesperson says two attackers who arrived on motorcycle attacked Kabuye, and nearby residents found him after the attack. According to a fellow activist, Kabuye had claimed the attackers had been following him for several days, and intended to kill him. Ugandan rights activists have expressed fears that a new law against homosexuality enacted in May would increase attacks against the gay community. US SF Installs Nets on Golden Gate Bridge San Francisco finally has installed (安裝) nets to stop suicides off the Golden Gate Bridge. The AP's Ed Donahue 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

Taiwan congratulates new Marshall Islands President Hilda Heine Kaohsiung MRT rider gets 3 months in jail for attacking station master Israel Palestine latest Russia Ukraine war update Mickey Mouse Horror movies -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 9-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 17,939.8 on turnover of $2.3-billion N-T. Taiwanese to enjoy 115 days off work in 2024 Workers in Taiwan are expected to have a total of 115 days off this year, including public holidays and weekends. The next significant (重要的) public holiday is the week-long Lunar New Year holiday from February 8th to 14th. Other public holidays include Peace Memorial Day on February 28th, a four-day holiday in April for Children's Day and Tomb Sweeping Day, and the Dragon Boat Festival long weekend on June 8th to 10th. In the second half of the year, there are two public holidays: the Mid-Autumn Festival on September 17th and National Day on October 10th. Note that Labor Day on May 1st and Armed Forces Day on September 3rd are not included in this list. (CNA-JI) Japan Earthquake Rescue Continues A series of powerful earthquakes has hit western Japan, leaving at least four people dead and damaging buildings, vehicles and boats. Officials are warning people in some areas today to stay away from their homes because of a continuing risk of major quakes. Aftershocks continued to shake Ishikawa prefecture and nearby areas a day after a magnitude 7.6 temblor slammed the area on Monday afternoon. Officials say four people are confirmed dead in Ishikawa and police are investigating two other reported deaths. On Monday, the Japan Meteorological Agency issued a major tsunami warning for Ishikawa and lower-level tsunami warnings or advisories for the rest of the western coast of Japan’s main island of Honshu, as well as for the northern island of Hokkaido. The warning was downgraded (降級) several hours later, and all tsunami warnings were lifted as of early Tuesday. Waves measuring more than one meter hit some places. The agency warned that more major quakes could hit the area over the next few days. Epstein Documents to be Unsealed This Week Several court documents regarding Jeffrey Epstein's associates are to be unsealed this week with Former President Bill Clinton and Prince Andrew expected to be named. In 2019 Epstein committed suicide in his jail cell in Manhattan while facing charges of child sex-trafficking and conspiracy (陰謀). Jody Jacobs reports from New York… Ethiopia Somalia Sign Agreement for Coastline Access Landlocked Ethiopia has taken the first steps toward gaining access to the sea, signing an agreement in the capital of Addis Ababa with the breakaway (獲得獨立的) Somali region of Somaliland to access the Somaliland coastline. The memorandum of understanding was signed Monday by leaders on both sides. As part of the deal, Somaliland plans to lease a 20-km stretch of land along its coastline to Ethiopia to establish a marine force base. And Somaliland's president said the agreement included a statement that Ethiopia would recognize Somaliland as an independent country in the near 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

Tai-Ex opening down Candidates Slam China for Allegedly Pressuring Mayday Taiwan auto show opens in Taipei Oil prices falling Britain storm inflicted destructions Blender recall for unsafe blades World population to surpass 8 billion -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

MND Confirms 5,000 Military Personnel will be Unable to Vote Culture Points Cash to be Available for 16-22-Year-Olds from January 20 North Korean leader Kim Jong Un called for bolstered war readiness NYT sues OpenAI and Microsoft Oil prices retreat -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

First Indictment Handed Down for Organizing Election Related China Tours CDC Urges People to get XBB Vaccine Amid Rise in COVID-19 Cases Israel's war against Hamas deepens Police are investigating incidents involving Colorado justices North Korean leader touts achievements -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

EVA Airway Vows to Hike Wages and Give Year-End Bonuses Yang Yung-wei Nabs Sports Elite Award for Best Male Athlete of 2023 Israel-Palestinians war with no end in sight Ukraine has celebrated Christmas and continues its battles with Russian forces Plane Grounded in France -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Environmental Groups Rally in Taichung Survey Finds Over 88% of Employers to Give Year-End Bonuses Czech shooting memorial Ukraine moves Christmas to Dec. 25 and Russian attacks Billionaire bought part of Premier League -- 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 17,586 on turnover of $3.8-billion N-T. Snow falls on Mt. Taiping in northeast Taiwan Snow fell for the first time this winter on Tai-ping-shan, located in Yilan County, northeastern Taiwan, before Thursday midnight as the temperature there plunged (驟然下降) to minus 6 degrees Celsius. The Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area management center says the owl sculpture on the Taiping Villa plaza in the 2,000-meter-high mountain was seen covered in a thin layer of snow. Around 1-thousand visitors were urged to leave as early as possible due to concerns that slippery icy roads could hinder their descent from the mountain. Today, officials say the recreation area is open as usual, but motorists are advised to drive carefully, although no snow chains were required for their vehicles. They say as of early morning, about 1 centimeter of snow covered the villa and Cueifong Lake area. UN Warning on Famine in Gaza A report from the U.N. finds that more than half a million people in Gaza are starving because of not enough food entering the territory since the outbreak of war more than 10 weeks ago. The World Food Program's chief economist says “it is a situation where pretty much everybody in Gaza is hungry.” He warned that if the war between Israel and Hamas continues at the same levels, and food deliveries are not restored, the population could face “a full-fledged (完全的) famine within the next six months.” Israel says it is in the final stages of clearing out Hamas militants from northern Gaza, but that months of fighting lie ahead in the south. Canada to Offer Temp Visas to Gaza Civilian with Canadian Relatives Canada’s immigration minister says people in the Gaza Strip who have Canadian relatives will now be able to apply for temporary visas to Canada. The minister says the government will start accepting applications for people with extended family (不同世代的親戚) connections to Canada, including parents, grandparents, siblings and grandchildren. He said people will be offered three-year visas if they meet eligibility and admissibility criteria. The minister expects the program to be up and running by Jan. 9-th, but says the federal government cannot guarantee them safe passage out of the besieged Palestinian territory. Until now, the government has focused on getting 660 Canadians, permanent residents, and their spouses and children out of the Gaza Strip. US Federal Judge Blocks California Law Restricting Guns A federal judge has blocked a California law that would have banned guns in most public places on the grounds that it is unconstitutional. The ruling is a blow for gun control advocates, but the state says it plans to appeal (上訴) the decision. 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 down 104-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 17,531 on turnover of $4-billion N-T. The market moved higher on Wednesday as investors reacted positively to the gains posted on Wall Street overnight, as artificial intelligence development-related stock led the upturn. The main board opened marginally (稍微地，略微地) higher, but continued to gain ground throughout the session, as buying was sparked by increases on the Dow Jones and the Nasdaq indexes overnight. Cheaper Intercity Bus Travel for New Year's Day Holiday The Highway Bureau says ticket prices on all 88 intercity bus routes will cheaper during the December 30 to January 1 New Year's Day holiday. According to the bureau, passengers will have their bus fare either calculated based on the weekday price or be offered a 15-per cent discount in anticipation of (預計) heavy traffic. Passengers taking selected bus routes in the east will also be able to choose between two preferential packages limited to the area. The Highway Bureau is warning that traffic congestion is expected to be worse on provincial highways No. 1, No. 9, and No. 61, as well as others roads connecting to freeways and tourist spots during the long weekend holiday. NKorea: Launches Show Intent to Attack if Provoked North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un says he won’t hesitate (猶豫) to attack in the event of a ‘nuclear provocation’ by the US or South Korea. Chris Gilbert reports. UN on Afghanistan Girls in Religious Schools The United Nations says it's seeking to verify reports that Afghanistan’s Taliban rulers are allowing girls of all ages to study at Islamic religious schools that are traditionally boys-only. The U.N.’s top official in the country told the Security Council on Wednesday that the U.N. is receiving “more and more anecdotal (傳聞的) evidence” that girls can study at these schools known as madrassas. She says it's not clear "what constitutes a madrassa, if there is a standardized curriculum that allows modern education subjects, and how many girls are able to study in madrassas.” The Taliban have been globally condemned for banning girls and women from secondary school and university, and allowing girls to study only through the sixth grade. Switzerland Moves to Ban Use of Hate Symbols Switzerland’s upper house of parliament has taken steps toward banning the use of racist symbols that excuse violent or extremist behavior, including speech, gestures and the display of flags that stir hatred, as well as the public wearing of symbols reminiscent (引人聯想) of Nazi tyranny in Europe. The Council of States voted 23-16 with three abstentions on a proposal that would criminalize displays of such symbols and gestures in the public space. The measure now moves on to the lower house, the National Council. Such a measure, if passed, would put Switzerland on track to join several of its European neighbors that have similar bans against incitement to hatred. 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 32-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 17,608 on turnover of $3.1-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed lower Tuesday after U.S. Federal Reserve officials made hawkish remarks which slashed hopes that the American central bank would cut rates next year. Selling was seen almost across the whole board but losses were capped after bargain-hunters began buying up select tech heavyweights after the main board dipped below the 17,500-point mark. Cases of new COVID-19 variant remain low in Taiwan: CDC The Centers for Disease Control say the number of JN.1 COVID-19 variant cases recorded in Taiwan remains relatively low in Taiwan, currently making up only 3 percent of COVID cases detected in the last four weeks. CDC spokesperson Lo Yi-chun says the JN.1 variant had been detected in over 40 nations around the world as of Dec. 18-th. Lo says JN.1 is the fastest-spreading variant in Western nations, but cases have remained relatively (相對地) low in countries close to Taiwan, with the variant being detected in less than 10 percent of COVID-19 cases reported in Japan. Lo explained that while JN.1 is equipped with immune avoidance capabilities that enable it to spread easily, there has been no significant increase in the number of severe cases from the variant, meaning it has a relatively low public health risk factor. China Earthquake Search Continues as Death Toll Rises Chinese media now say at least 131 people have been killed, after a magnitude 6.2 earthquake in the country’s northwest. State broadcaster CCTV says 113 died in the province of Gansu and another 18 in neighboring Qinghai province. The quake struck just before midnight on Monday. More than 700 people have been injured. Emergency workers are still searching for the missing in collapsed buildings and at least one landslide. At least 4,000 firefighters, soldiers and police officers were dispatched in the rescue effort, and the People's Liberation Army Western Theatre set up a command post (指揮所) to direct its work. But authorities in Gansu issued an appeal for 300 additional workers for search and rescue operations. US Colorado Supreme Court Disqualifies Trump from Ballot The Supreme Court in the US state of Colorado has ruled that Donald Trump can't appear on the state's presidential primary ballot due to his role in the January 6th riot at the US Capitol. The former president says he plans to appeal (上訴) the decision to the federal Supreme Court. Ira Spitzer reports. Colombia Guinea Children Abandoned in Airport Colombian authorities say two children from the West African nation of Guinea were abandoned in Bogota’s airport and taken into government custody this week after spending several days on their own in the international departures terminal. Colombia’s national immigration department said the children, aged 10 and 13, had been travelling with separate groups and were left in the airport by their relatives earlier this month for reasons that have not been clarified (澄清、說明). The discovery of the children comes as migrants from Africa increasingly use South American and Central American airports as stepping stones on the long route to the United States. 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 passes law to tighten security at military facilities Taiwan is moving to tighten security at military bases around Taiwan. Under the bill, people inside a military facility taking unauthorized pictures or video or engaging in any other reconnaissance activities with an intent to endanger national security shall be subject to up to three years in jail. And individuals caught entering restricted military areas will be subject to a fine of up to $200-thousand NT for trespassing (違法、 擅自進入、侵入). Defense officials say the new law will not apply to military aficionados taking pictures or filming fighter jets landing and taking off from a military base, if such actions did not endanger the safety of military activities or national security. Centuries-old poetry to illuminate celebration of Arabic language in Taipei The National Central Library will host a 13-day exhibition centered around a centuries-old poetry collection, in celebration of World Arabic Language Day on Dec. 18. The libary says the exhibition is set to display how the Arabic language has inspired creativity in poetry and art for centuries, and is in line with the theme "Arabic -- the Language of Poetry and Arts," chosen by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. In addition to showcasing traditional attire (服裝), cultural artifacts and literature in the Arabic-speaking world, the exhibition spotlights "The Mu'allaqat," a collection of works by renowned classical Arab poets from the sixth or seventh century. The exhibition opens today, and will run through the end of the year. Force to Protect Transiting Ships in Red Sea The U.S. and a host of other nations are creating a new force to protect ships transiting the Red Sea that have come under attack by drones and ballistic missiles fired from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced the force in Bahrain early today. Under the new initiative, dubbed Prosperity Guardian, countries including the UK, Canada, and the Netherlands will protect transiting (通過) ships. Some will conduct joint patrols while others provide support in the southern Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. This comes after US officials say another commercial vessel has been attacked in the Red Sea. U.S. correspondent William Denselow reports. Iceland Volcano Eruption A volcanic eruption started Monday night on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula, prompting the country’s civil defense to be on high alert. Officials say the eruption appears to have occurred about four kilometers from the town of Grindavik, and local webcam video showed the moment of the eruption as a flash of light illuminating the sky at 10:17pm local time. Iceland’s foreign minister says there are no disruptions (中斷、擾亂) to flights to and from Iceland and that international flight corridors remain open. He says a coast guard helicopter will attempt to confirm the exact location — and size — of the eruption, and will also measure gas emissions. 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 37-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 17,638 on turnover of $4.1-billion N-T. Oil tanker cabin washing suspected as source of east coast oil waste The Ocean Affairs Council (OAC) suggests that waste oil discovered along the coast of eastern Taiwan could be runoff waste from the washing of oil tanker cabins. Despite no reported leaks from oil tankers passing through waters off eastern Taiwan, the source of the waste oil remains unknown. Officials collected on-site samples and utilized simulation and tracking (追蹤) technologies but found no leaks. Waste oil collected in Keelung and New Taipei, while harder to analyze due to volatilization, is likely to belong to the same category as that found on Green Island. The OAC urges ship crews to keep waste oil on board and hand it to certified companies for disposal upon arrival at the next harbor. Vessels caught leaking waste oil face a maximum fine of 30 million NT for violating the Marine Pollution Control Act. US Defense Secretary Heads to Israel US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin is heading to Tel Aviv as part of a multi day tour of the middle east. While in Israel he is expected to call for a narrower (有侷限性的) military operation in Gaza in order to avoid triggering regional tensions. Jagruti Dave reports from Washington. Colombia Rebels Agree to Stop Using Kidnappings to Raise Funds Rebels from Colombia’s leftist National Liberation Army have agreed to stop using kidnapping as a fund-raising tactic, if the current cease-fire with the government is extended. The pledge came at the end of a round of talks between the two sides over the weekend. Colombians have grown angry at kidnappings by the guerrillas. That anger mounted in October when the rebels abducted (綁架) the father of soccer star Luis Diaz, and held him for 12 days before he was released. It is not clear if the rebels will release an estimated 38 Colombians they currently hold in captivity, often pending a ransom demand Greece Gov Budget Approved with Debt at Investment Grade The Greek parliament has approved the government’s 2024 budget, the first in 14 years with Greek debt listed at investment grade. The budget passed Sunday evening on a 158-142 vote in the 300-member body, with only lawmakers from the governing conservative New Democracy party voting for it. In a separate vote, the defense budget was approved 249-51. The budget forecasts economic growth of 2.9% in 2024, up from 2.4% in 2023. It predicts (預測) inflation will average a higher-than-expected 2.8%, but investments are expected to grow 15.1%. 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 40-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 17,693 on turnover of $4.5-billion N-T. The Tai-Ex gained more than 180 points on Thursday to close above the 17,600-point mark and hit its highest level since March of 2022 - as investors reacted positively to a decision by the U-S Federal Reserve on interest rates. Large-cap stocks, in particular those in the bellwether electronics sector, led the main board higher, while buying also spread to the non-tech sector -- with financial heavyweights posting strong gains and helping to boost the wider market. Quarantine Agency to Increase Inspections on Custard Apple Exports The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency says it is stepping-up quarantine sampling of custard apple exports to China. The move comes amid reports that pests have being detected (檢測到) in a recent container of custard apples exported to China. It was the first since Beijing resumed allowing the import of Taiwan custard apple after suspending imports of one variety (種類) of the fruits in September of 2021 due to pest concerns. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency says it is currently unable to confirm what type of pests were detected, as China has not issued any official documentation about the incident. Putin Not Giving Up on Ukraine War Russian President Vladimir Putin says Russia will not give up its fight in Ukraine. AP Washington correspondent Sagar Meghani reports. EU to Open Accession to Ukraine and Moldova In related news…. The European Union has decided to open accession (加入) negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova. European Council President Charles Michel called it “a clear signal of hope for their people and our continent.” The decision was announced at a summit of the leaders of the 27 EU countries Thursday. Although the process between opening negotiations and Ukraine finally becoming a member could take many years, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the agreement as “a victory for Ukraine. A victory for all of Europe.” Left on the summit agenda now is a promise to give Ukraine $50-billion euros in financial aid to stave off Russia's invasion. Japanese Satellite Launch from NZ California-based Rocket Lab plans to launch a Japanese satellite today from the space company's complex on New Zealand’s Mahia Peninsula. The mission was initially scheduled for Wednesday but was postponed due to forecast strong winds until today. Rocket Lab says the Electron rocket will carry a TSUKUYOMI-I satellite into orbit on behalf of a Japanese start-up Institute for Q-shu Pioneers of Space Inc. The synthetic-aperture radar satellite will collect (收集) images of the Earth. The mission would be Rocket Lab’s 10th for 2023, exceeding its annual record of nine set last year. 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 13-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 17,482 on turnover of $3.7-billion N-T. The market closed marginally higher on Wednesday, as early gains shrank amid cautious investor sentiment ahead of the conclusion of the U-S Federal Reserve's final policy making meeting of this year. But the bellwether electronics sector still managed to lead the main board to its highest level so far this year, as buying rotated to highly priced stocks, in particular in those in the semiconductor sector. MOFA Hoping Guatemala's Election Turmoil has been Resolved The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is expressing its hope that Guatemala's ongoing controversy over its newly elected leader will be resolved peacefully. The call comes days after prosecutors in Guatemala took steps to block President-elect Bernardo Arevalo from taking office next month. Prosecutors sought to annul the election results amid accusations of an "attempted coup," however, Guatemala's electoral court has insisted the results are "unchangeable." According to head of the ministry Department of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs, the government here in Taiwan is hoping that Guatemala can have a "smooth government transition (轉變，過渡期)" on January 14 when the new president is sworn in. However, officials refuse to say whether President Tsai Ing-wen or Vice President Lai Ching-te will attend Arevalo's inauguration ceremony - saying only the government will make an announcement "in due time." US House Votes to Formally Open Biden Impeachment Inquiry The US House of Representatives has voted to formally open an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. Republicans have accused Biden of corruption (腐敗), but have yet to produce much evidence. Ira Spitzer has more. EU Grants Hungary Access to Frozen Funds The European Union says it will grant Hungary access to billions of euros in frozen funds. The announcement comes just as Prime Minister Viktor Orban appears ready to defy his EU partners and veto decisions on the opening of membership talks and vital financial aid for Ukraine. The money was frozen a year ago over concerns that democratic backsliding (倒退) in Hungary was putting the EU budget at risk. But the European Commission ruled Wednesday that Orban’s government has addressed some of its concerns, notably on justice reforms. It’s willing to grant access to $11 billion to reimburse money that Hungary spends on infrastructure and other projects. Netherlands SKorea Stepping Up Semiconductor Cooperation The Dutch caretaker prime minister says the Netherlands and South Korea are stepping up cooperation in the field of semiconductor chips as part of a deepening “strategic partnership.” Mark Rutte spoke after a meeting with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol during his two-day state visit. Their meeting came a day after Yoon visited the headquarters of semiconductor chip machine maker ASML in the Netherlands. As part of the visit, South Korean nuclear power company KHNP signed a contract to carry out a feasibility study (可行性研究) into the construction of two new nuclear power plants in a Dutch town. 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 3-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 17,448 on turnover of $3.4-billion N-T. The Tai-Ex made marginal gains on Tuesday, but still managed to close at its highest level of the year so far - as investors await the outcome of this week's final 2023 meeting of America's central bank. Market watchers say the gains were driven mainly by small and mid-cap electronics companies and there's expectations that the main board could continue to climb in the coming days, depending on the results of the U-S Federal Reserve's policy making meeting. Taiwan and Japan Sign Customs Issues MOU Taiwan and Japan have signed a memorandum of understanding on customs cooperation. The agreement is aimed at promoting (玃秈) cooperation on customs issues between the customs offices of the port of Keelung and Yokohama. According to the head of the Keelung Customs Office, the agreement will facilitate customs cooperation between the two sides and streamline customs clearance processes. The the two sides also agreed in the M-O-U to cooperate in combating trafficking and smuggling, sharing intelligence, and taking on tariff issues. UN Votes to Demand Ceasefire in Gaza The U.N. General Assembly has voted overwhelmingly to demand a humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza in a strong demonstration of global support for ending the Israel-Hamas war. The vote in the 193-member world body was 153 in favor, 10 against and 23 abstentions. The support was higher than for an Oct. 27 resolution that called for a ¨humanitarian truce〃 leading to a cessation (氨ゎ) of hostilities. Unlike Security Council resolutions, General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding. But the assemblyˇs messages are important barometers of world opinion. Biden Urges Aid or Ukraine US President Joe Biden has urged Congress to approve billions of dollars for Ukraine, warning that not to do so would be a "Christmas gift" for Russia's leader. Biden met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House on Tuesday, amid a funding fight which has seen Republicans refuse (┶荡) to support extra assistance for Kyiv. Nick Harper report from Washington. ELECTION PANEL PROMO As Taiwan prepares for its 2024 presidential elections, ICRT and TVBS World Taiwan present "Taiwan Goes to the Polls." Its an English language roundtable discussion featuring a group of academics and journalists, disussin the latest polling data, the campaigns, and possible outcomes. The event takes place at the International Conference Hall 202 at the National Taiwan Normal University Campus, at Taipei's Heping Campus from 7 to 9pm December 13. The event will also be live-streamed on T-V-B-S' New YouTube Channel and T-V-B-S World Taiwan YouTube Channel. Admission is free. Please check I-C-R-T's social media pages and its website for more information. 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 11-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 17,429 on turnover of 2.6-billion N-T. The market closed higher on Monday, as investors were buoyed by Wall Street reaching a 20-month high at the end of last week ahead of the release of U-S inflation data and a final rate decision of the year by America's central bank. Chinese Aircraft Carrier Transits Taiwan Strait The Ministry of National Defense says China's "Shandong aircraft carrier has transited the Taiwan for first time in a month. According to the ministry, the carrier strike group conducted (進行) the southbound transit through the Strait on the Chinese side of the median line. Defense officials say the transit was closely monitored through joint intelligence and surveillance systems. The Shandong was last detected transiting through the Taiwan Strait on November 9, when it was traveling northbound after concluding drills in the South China Sea. Taoyuan International Airport E-Gates to be Upgraded The National Immigration Agency says electronic immigration gates at Taoyuan International Airport will be fully upgraded before the Lunar New Year holiday. According the agency, the upgraded e-gates will see improved recognition rates and speeds - which means faster biometric (生物識別) identification with a clearer graphical interface. The agency says the changes will speed up e-gate process. The National Immigration Agency began upgrading the e-gate systems at terminals 1 and 2 last month as part of efforts to phase out older versions. It says both of the airport's terminals will be fully equipped with fourth generation e-gate machines by 2025. COP28 Close to Reaching Final Deal Countries at United Nations-led climate talks in Dubai moved closer to reaching a final deal on Monday, but critics condemned (譴責) a draft agreement as a watered-down document that won't stop dangerous climate change. More than 100 countries have called to phase out planet-warming fossil fuels. Instead, the draft called for countries to reduce “consumption and production of fossil fuels, in a just, orderly and equitable manner.” The Bangladeshi envoy said a revised text would be presented this morning that takes into account the many comments on the draft. The talks are supposed to end Tuesday, but the annual conference often runs beyond its appointed end date. US Special Council Asks SCOTUS to Rule on Presidential Immunity Special counsel Jack Smith who is investigating former US president Donald Trump has asked the country's highest court to decide whether Trump has any immunity (免疫) from criminal prosecution for alleged crimes he committed while in office. AP Washington correspondent Sagar Meghani reports WHO Warning on Anthrax Outbreak in Africa The World Health Organization says five countries in East and southern Africa are in the middle of outbreaks of the anthrax disease with more than 1,100 suspected cases and 20 deaths this year. A total of 1,166 suspected cases have been reported in Kenya, Malawi, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Thirty-seven cases have been confirmed by laboratory tests. Anthrax usually affects livestock like cattle, sheep and goats as well as wild herbivores. Humans can be infected if they are exposed to the animals or contaminated (污染) animal products. 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 32-points this morning from Friday's close, at 17,416 on turnover of 4.2-billion N-T. The market rebounded on Friday to close up more 100-points, as investors were buoyed ahead of a U-S jobs report after Wall Street rose overnight to snap its first three-day losing streak since the end of October. Hou Proposes Starting with 'Low-Level, Stable Cross-Strait Exchanges K-M-T presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih says he believes exchanges between Taiwan and China should start in less sensitive areas before official interactions begin. Speaking at a campaign event in New Taipei's Zhonghe District, Hou said if elected he will first seek (要求, 設法) cross-strait interaction in a "low-level and stable" way. According to Hou, along with prioritizing efforts to strengthen Taiwan's self-defense capabilities, he will also propose that the two sides start with educational, religious, cultural and economic exchanges before launching an official mode of interaction. Chinese Rocket Passes over Taiwan The Ministry of National Defense says a carrier rocket launched by China has passed directly over Taiwan before entering orbit. According to defense officials, it's the first rocket to take that path following four other launchers earlier in the month. Defense officials say the Long March-2D carrier rocked blasted off Sunday morning from the Xi-Chang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan Province and its takeoff trajectory (軌道) saw it pass over southwestern Taiwan. The defense ministry says its intelligence systems closely tracked (追蹤) the launch. It was the fifth such rocket to be launched by China this month and the second one in as many days. However, none of the other rockets passed directly over Taiwan. Osprey Crash Remains Recovered Divers have recovered the remains of the seventh of the eight crew members from a U.S. military Osprey aircraft that crashed off southern Japan during a training mission. The Air Force CV-22 Osprey went down Nov. 29 just off Yakushima Island in southwestern Japan while on its way to Okinawa. The bodies of six of the crew had since been recovered, including five from the sunken wreckage (殘骸) of the aircraft. The U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command said in a statement Sunday that the body recovered by Air Force divers was one of the two crew still missing. The U.S. military has grounded all its Osprey helicopters after a preliminary investigation indicated something went wrong with the aircraft that was not a human error. US Trump Won't Testify Again at Fraud Trial From the US….. Donald Trump says he won't testify again at his fraud trial, where he's facing charges of inflating (誇大, 抬高) the value of his properties. It's a change of course for the former president who earlier had planned to appear in the New York court on Monday as the trial nears its conclusion 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 31-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 17,309 on turnover of $2.98-billion N-T. The Tai-Ex joined other regional markets and lost ground on Thursday, following a slump on Wall Street overnight after crude oil prices slipped on expectations that supply might outpace demand. CDC Says Over 6-million Doses of Seasonal Flu Vaccine Administered The Centers for Disease Control says more than 6-million doses of this year's publicly-funded flu vaccine have been administered. According to the C-D-C that total includes nearly half the island's population aged 65 and over. C-D-C Deputy Director General Philip Luo says since its rollout on October 2, 6.018-million doses of the flu vaccine have been administered, and 49.8-per cent of people aged 65 and above have been vaccinated, which is just shy of the government's goal of 55-per cent. As of Thursday, 561,000 doses of the flu vaccine purchased by the government remained unused and the C-D-C says it will consider purchasing additional doses of the vaccine based on demand. This year's flu vaccines were purchased from suppliers Adimmune, T-T-Y Biopharm and Medigen Vaccine Biologics as well as from France's Sanofi. Free flu vaccines are available at contracted clinics and hospitals islandwide. IFJ on Media Worker Deaths This Year The International Federation of Journalists says 2023 has been an unprecedented year for the number of media workers killed on the job. The organization that represents journalists worldwide says today that 94 media workers have been killed so far this year and almost 400 others are in jail. Deaths in Israel’s war with Hamas surpass those of any conflict in three decades. The group says that 68 journalists have been killed since Hamas' Oct. 7 attack on Israel, averaging more than one a day. They account for 72% of all media deaths worldwide this year. The group says Ukraine also “remains a dangerous country for journalists” almost two years after Russian troops invaded. US Texas Grants Woman's Abortion Request A judge in Texas has granted an emergency request allowing a woman whose fetus has a fatal diagnosis to receive an abortion despite the state's near-total ban on the procedure. Texas is among the states that have enacted (實行) strict abortion laws since the Supreme Court ruled last year that abortion access would no longer be protected by the constitution. Ira Spitzer reports. Mexico Env Watchdogs Sound Alarm on Totoaba Startup Environmental watchdogs have accused a Mexico-based startup of violating international trade law that protects the endangered totoaba fish. A health company called The Blue Formula sells a powder containing collagen (膠原蛋白) taken from the fish online to countries including the U.S. and China. The powder is designed to be mixed into a health supplement drink. But on Thursday a coalition of environmental groups said exporting totoaba or its parts violates an international convention on trading endangered species. Totoaba fish bladders are worth their weight in gold as a delicacy in China. Advocates are also concerned the startup could be selling totoaba that has been illegally caught in the wild. 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 down this morning from yesterday's close, at 17,356 on turnover of 1.6-billion N-T. The market retreated from an early rise to end the day slightly higher on Wednesday - as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing saw its gains eroded ( 削弱) ahead of the release of its November sales data. Investor sentiment also turned cautious ahead of the release of U-S nonfarm payroll data tomorrow, as many are waiting for more guidance on the Federal Reserve's monetary policy. Environment Minister in Dubai for COP28 Environment Minister Xue Fu-sheng is in Dubai for the COP28 meeting. According to Ministry of Environment, Xue is leading a delegation of other government officials to the two-week United Nations's annual climate change conference. Taiwan hasn't been formally invited to attend the conference, but officials are attending peripheral (週邊) meetings and holding talks on the sidelines of the event. The environment minister says he's been highlighting Taiwan's plans to reach climate goals and showcasing the government's resolution to pursue efforts to limit the average global temperature rise during those meetings in Dubai. Pufferfish that Killed 1 and Hospitalized 8 Others was "Inedible" And, The Food and Drug Administration says a poisonous pufferfish that was served by a restaurant owner in Nantou County last month has been identified as an lunartail puffer. The meal left one person dead and resulted in eight other people being hospitalized. According to the F-D-A, samples of the fish were sent for testing immediately following the man's death and D-N-A samples identified it as a lunartail puffer - which is an inedible (不可食用的) variety of the fish. The F-D-A says the lunartail puffer can be easily confused with species in the same genus that are edible when properly prepared. The sale, processing and producing of food stuffs made with pufferfish are illegal under the Act Governing Food Safety and Sanitation. US Ukraine Funding Stalls in Senate US President Joe Biden's push to pass tens of billions of dollars in new aid for Ukraine has stalled in the Senate. Republican lawmakers blocked the funding - which also includes help for Israel - in a protest over a dispute (爭議) about border security policy. Kate Fisher reports from Washington France Charges for Man Who Killed Tourist Near Eiffel Tower Prosecutors say a man accused of fatally stabbing a tourist and injuring two other people over the weekend near the Eiffel Tower has been placed under investigation on charges of murder and attempted murder in connection with a terrorist organization. The suspect went before an investigating magistrate Wednesday who ultimately decides preliminary charges. The stabbing over the weekend killed a German-Filipino tourist at a bridge near the tower. It has drawn special concern from French authorities less than a year before the 2024 Paris Olympics, whose opening ceremony is planned along the Seine river. The man had been under surveillance for suspected Islamic radicalization. Mexico Supreme Court Overturns Bullfighting Ban Mexico's Supreme Court has overturned (推翻) a 2022 ban on bullfighting in Mexico City, opening the way for events to resume, possibly as soon as this month. A panel of justices voted to overturn a May 2022 injunction that said bull fights violated city resident’s rights to a healthy environment free from violence. The panel did not explain their arguments for overturning the ban, but fight organizers claimed it violated their right to continue the tradition. The capital had a history of almost 500 years of bullfighting, but there had been no fights since the 2022 injunction. 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