EZ News

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 81-points this morning from Friday's close, at 20,996 on turnover of 4.6-billion N-T. The market gained ground last Friday as it moved closer the challenging at 21,000-point mark. The rise after after the U-S Federal Reserve left its main interest rate unchanged overnight and as investors were pinning their hopes (把希望寄托在…上) on weekend trade talks between China and the U-S. Tsai talks Taiwan and Lithuania standing united in defending democracy Former President Tsai Ing-wen is expressed here gratitude to Lithuania over its support for Taiwan - saying that both countries are united as partners (合作夥伴) in defending democracy. Tsai arrived in Lithuania on Saturday and what is her first visit to the Baltic state Speaking at a reception organized by the Lithuania-Taiwan Parliamentary Friendship Group, Tsai said while she was Taiwan's president she received visits from many Lithuanian friends in Taiwan … …. and believes that Taiwan and Lithuania share similar fates as both are neighbors to authoritarian countries. Tsai will head to Denmark next to attend to the Copenhagen Democracy Summit. Taipei's Yongkang Street pedestrianized on weekends through June 10 A trial pedestrian zone has been launched in Taipei's Yongkang Street this past weekend. The trial will run on weekends through June 10 and sees the popular road closed to most vehicles. The Taipei City Government says the aim (目的) is to promote a more pedestrian-friendly environment. The campaign limits vehicle access from 2 to 8PM on Saturdays and Sundays and covers approximately 250 meters of Yongkang Street, and includes nearby alleys around the popular tourist destination. Hamas to Release US Hostage Hamas says the last living American hostage in Gaza will be released as part of efforts to establish a ceasefire, reopen crossings into the Israeli-blockaded territory and resume aid delivery. Two Hamas officials tell The Associated Press they expect the release of Edan Alexander in the next 48 hours. U.S. President Donald Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff is confirming in a message to the AP that Hamas has agreed to release Alexander as a good will gesture toward Trump. The announcement of the first hostage release since Israel shattered (擊毀) a ceasefire in March comes shortly before Trump visits the Middle East this week. Alexander is an Israeli-American soldier who grew up in the United States. Iran US in 4th Round of Nuclear Program Negotiations Iran and US conclude a fourth round of negotiations (談判) over Tehran's nuclear program in Oman AP correspondent Donna Warder reports Pope Leo Calls for Ceasefires and Peace Pope Leo XIV has called for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza with the release of hostages and delivery of humanitarian aid. In his first Sunday noon blessing as pontiff, Leo said, “Never again war!” from St. Peter’s Basilica to an estimated 100,000 people below. Recalling the end of World War II 80 years ago, Leo quoted Pope Francis in denouncing the number of conflicts ravaging (摧殘) the globe today, saying it was a “third world war in pieces.” The 69-year-old Chicago-born missionary was elected 267th pope on Thursday. He has a busy week of audiences before his formal installation Mass Sunday. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 147-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 20,691 on turnover of $4.8-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan saw earlier gains erased to close little changed Thursday as contract chipmaker TSMC suffered last-ditch selling amid lingering concerns over the possibility of tariffs threatened by U.S. President Donald Trump. Non-tech stocks largely moved in weakness, but so-called "military concept stocks continued to attract rotational buying as aircraft maintenance services provider Air Asia Co. soared 10 percent, the maximum daily increase. Analysts say caution about Trump's tariffs on semiconductors remain, prompting (推動) investors to lock in profits with TSMC as their major target. Taiwan and Estonia sign MOUs on aerospace and defense collaboration A Taiwanese business delegation has signed two memoranda of understanding with Estonia to facilitate collaboration between aerospace and defense industries. According to the Taipei Mission in the Republic of Latvia, the delegation signed the M-O-Us with the Estonian Defence and Aerospace Industry Association and the Estonia Aviation Cluster in Tallinn. Taiwan's top envoy to Estonia, Andrew Lee is describing the signing of the deals as an important step for collaboration (合作) between the two countries - and one that opens a new chapter for collaboration between the two countries on drones, aerospace and related industries. The delegation to Estonia was led by Hu Kai-hong of the Taiwan Excellence Drone International Business Opportunities Alliance. Israel Closes UNRWA Schools Israel has closed six U.N. schools in east Jerusalem, forcing students to leave early and throwing the education of more than 800 students into question. Last month, heavily armed Israeli police and Education Ministry officials ordered six schools in east Jerusalem to close within 30 days. The United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, called UNRWA, runs the six schools. UNRWA also runs schools in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, which continue to operate. Israel claims that UNRWA schools teach antisemitic content and anti-Israel sentiment (觀點), which UNRWA denies. US FEMA Head Dismissed The acting director of the US's Federal Emergency Management Agency is out of a job, a day after he told lawmakers he didn't support disbanding the disaster relief agency. US President Donald Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem have both recently suggested the agency known as FEMA should be eliminated (廢止). Ira Spitzer reports. Peru Elated on Election of Pope Peruvians are elated after a Catholic cardinal who spent years guiding the faithful in the South American country was elected pope. Pope Leo XIV, elected Thursday, is a dual citizen of the United States and Peru, where he first served as a missionary and then as an archbishop. That made him the first pope from each country. In Peru’s capital, Lima, the bells of the cathedral rang after Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was announced as Pope Francis’ successor. People outside the church quickly expressed their desire (希望，想要) for a papal visit at one point. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 20,559 on turnover of 1.8-billion N-T. The market closed slightly higher on Wednesday despite market sentiment turning cautious ahead of the outcome of the U-S Federal Reserve's two-day policymaking meeting. Market watchers say many investors preferred (寧可) to stay on the sidelines waiting for the results of the Fed's meeting, but Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing attracted last ditch buying to recoup its earlier losses. Ministry halts plan to open 6 jobs categories to foreign students The Ministry of Labor has paused a plan to revise regulations that would have allowed foreign students who have graduated from Taiwan universities to work in six types of intermediate-skilled jobs. The pause comes after the ministry in March first introduced the plan to tackle (處理) labor shortages. The plan covered amendments to regulation allowing such foreign students to take employment as assistant nurses, intercity and city bus drivers and safety management system personnel, inventory clerks, cargo vehicle drivers and cargo vehicle driving assistants. The amended regulations do not include those provisions. Government says data shows pedestrian traffic accident-related fatalities dropping The Ministry of Transport says Taiwan's roads are becoming significantly safer for pedestrians - as it recorded the lowest traffic fatality rate in over six years between January and February. According to the ministry, there 469 fatalities in the first two months of this year, representing the lowest 30-day death toll since 2019. Of that number, there were 62 pedestrian-related deaths - and that's a record low since the government began tracking that specific category of traffic fatalities (死亡) in 2008. Government data terms of counties and cities, shows that Tainan saw the greatest increase in traffic-related deaths compared with last year, while Yunlin County recorded the highest increase in the number of pedestrian deaths. India-Pakistan on edge as their militaries exchange gunfire Indian army says at least one soldiers has died as gunfire and bombing continue on India Pakistan border. The region remains tense (繃緊的) a day after India fired missiles into Pakistani territory - aimed it says at terrorist infrastructure. Islamabad has now asked its army to carry out corresponding action. Ishan Garg tells us more. Venezuela Acknowledges Opposition Leaving Argentine Diplomatic Compound Venezuela’s government has acknowledged for the first time that members of the country’s opposition left the Argentine diplomatic compound where they had sheltered for over a year. But it has denied that their arrival to the United States occurred under an international rescue operation as characterized by the political faction and the U.S. State Department. Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello on Wednesday said the group’s movements were negotiated with the government and further alleged that one of the six people who entered the Argentine ambassador’s residence in March left the compound in August, contradicting (（與…）相矛盾) earlier statements from the opposition. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 52-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 20,575 on turnover of 5.7-billion N-T. The market closed slightly lower on Tuesday as investors remained concerned over possible American tariffs on semiconductor imports. The main board rallied early in the session, but selling set in and escalated late in the trading day, with large cap semiconductor stocks in focus, to push the Tai-Ex into negative territory. Central bank to inspect banks to prevent forex market speculation The central bank says it will begin inspections into the local banking sector to discourage speculators from targeting the foreign exchange market and to ease volatility. The move comes as the New Taiwan dollar rapidly appreciated against the U-S dollar earlier this week. Foreign media reports have said the central bank has suffered losses of 2-trillion N-T since the beginning of May due to the alleged speculating (做投機買賣). However, Foreign Exchange Department head Tsai Jiong-min says the bottom line remained sound so the volatility in the forex market will not affect the bank's ability to pay its profits to the national treasury. KMT referendum bills placed on agenda at Legislature Friday Two K-M-T proposed referendums have been placed on the agenda of the legislative plenary session scheduled for Friday for discussion before being put to a vote. One of the proposals calls for a national referendum against the abolition of the death penalty, while the other asks for a vote in opposition to martial law in Taiwan after President Lai Ching-te in March proposed reinstating (恢復) military trials. The push for the two proposals comes after the expiration of the one-month negotiation period required for bills involving interparty disputes before proceeding to a second reading. India Airstrikes in Pakistan Days after 26 people were killed in a terror attack in Indian administered Kashmir, New Delhi says it has hit 'terrorist infrastructure' in Pakistan. India has defended the strikes, targeting nine locations across Pakistan and Pakistan administered Kashmir, calling its response 'measured (慎重的), responsible and designed to be non-escalatory in nature' Neha Poonia has more. Venezuela Opposition Leaves Argentina Diplomatic Compound Five members of Venezuela’s political opposition have left the Argentine diplomatic compound in their country’s capital, Caracas, where they had sheltered for more than a year to avoid arrest. and were in the United States on Tuesday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio says the group is now in the United States. Rubio did not provide details of the group’s movements to reach the U.S., but he described the event as a rescue operation. The official states that “The U.S. welcomes the successful rescue of all hostages (人質) held by the Maduro regime at the Argentinian Embassy in Caracas,” The government of Argentine President Javier Milei allowed the five people into the ambassador’s residence in March 2024. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 179-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 20,353 on turnover of 3.7-billion N-T. The market closed sharply lower on Monday with export-oriented tech stocks in focus as the New Taiwan dollar continued its rapid appreciation (上漲) against the U-S dollar, which raised concerns over large foreign exchange losses. FDA defends unchanged policy on ractopamine checks The Food and Drug Administration is defending its decision to not strengthen random inspections for ractopamine in pork products despite detecting residues of the leanness-enhancer in imported pork from Australia It's the first time that ractopamine has been found in imported pork since the ban on it was lifted in 2021. According to the F-D-A, a shipment of 22.99 metric tons of pork items from Australia tested positive for 0.001-parts per million of ractopamine - and that figure is well within the F-D-A's standards for ractopamine limits. The F-D-A says random inspections for qualified products will not be strengthened - as all products that qualify for importation will not harm human health even they are consumed (吃，喝) every day or for a lifetime. Magnitude 5.9 earthquake in Hualien the 'main shock' The Central Weather Administration's Seismological Center says Monday evening's magnitude 5.9 earthquake that struck about 33-kilometers off the coast of Hualien City was the "main shock" in a series of quakes in the area. The magnitude 5.9 earthquake that struck at 6:53PM and was felt across much of the island. However, prior to that, six other earthquakes of greater than magnitude of 4 occurred in the same area. Seismological Center director Wu Jien-fu says the quakes were all part of the same series (系列) and that a magnitude 5.5 temblor that struck at 6:09PM was a "foreshock" to 5.9 magnitude quake. According to Wu, aftershocks in the magnitudes of between 5 and 5.5 range could occur in the coming three days. US Opponents Blast Trump's Plans for Alcatraz US president Donald Trump says he plans to reopen the notorious Alcatraz prison in the San Francisco Bay to house what he called "America's most ruthless and violent Offenders." Local officials immediately criticized the plan as unfeasible (不可行的). Ira Spitzer reports from San Francisco. Canada Alberta Referendum on Separation The premier of Alberta says she will hold a referendum next year on the energy rich province separating from Canada if citizens gather the required number of signatures on a petition. Speaking on a livestream address, Danielle Smith said she personally does not support the province leaving Canada and expressed hope of a “path forward” for a strong and sovereign Alberta within a united Canada. Smith accused previous federal Liberal governments of introducing different legislations that hamstring Alberta’s ability to produce and export oil, which she said has cost the province billions of dollars. The announcement comes just one week after Prime Minister Mark Carney led the Liberal Party to a fourth consecutive (連續的) federal government. It also comes as U.S. President Donald Trump continues to threaten Canada with tariffs and talk of the country becoming the 51st state. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 51-points this morning from Friday's close, at 20,839 on turnover of 6.8-billion N-T. The market closed up more than 500 points on Friday, led by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, after strong earnings from two major U-S tech giants overnight eased concerns about A-I demand despite U-S tariff disruptions. Inspection rules unchanged despite 1st ractopamine pork import: The Food and Drug Administration says it will keep current pork import inspection procedures in place. The statement comes despite the agency detecting ractopamine in imported pork for the first time since the ban on the leanness-enhancer was lifted in 2021. According to the F-D-A, pork imports will continue to undergo between 2 and 10-per cent batch inspections. The F-D-A says a 22.99-metric-ton shipment from Australia on April 29 tested positive for 0.001 parts per million of ractopamine -- well below the legal threshold (界限，水準). MOFA names chief secretary as new envoy to Ireland The secretary general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been named as the Lai administration's new top envoy to Ireland. According to a Cabinet personnel announcement, Daniel Tang will fill the vacancy (空缺) left by his immediate predecessor, Yang Zi-bao - whose resignation has been approved by the Presidential Office. Yang had served as Taiwan's representative to the European country since 2018. Tang has served as the foreign ministry's secretary general since February 2023 and was previously Taiwan's top envoy to South Korea and ambassador to the Marshall Islands. US Trump Iffy on Due Process US President Donald Trump says he doesn't see everyone in the the country getting due process (正當法律程序), as the Constitution states. AP correspondent Donna Warder reports. Nicaragua Withdraws from UNESCO Nicaragua has withdrawn from the U.N. cultural and educational body UNESCO because it awarded a prize celebrating press freedom to a Nicaraguan newspaper, La Prensa. UNESCO’s director general announced she had received a letter Sunday morning from the Nicaraguan government announcing its withdrawal because of the attribution (歸屬) of the UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize. The 2025 award was attributed Saturday to La Prensa on the recommendation (推薦) of an international jury of media professionals. The prize jury hailed the newspaper's work in the face of “severe repression” and reporting from exile to "keep press freedom alive" in the Central American country. Nicaragua’s government, led by President Daniel Ortega and his wife and co-president, Rosario Murillo, has been cracking down on dissent since it violently repressed protests in 2018, claiming they were backed by foreign powers that sought his overthrow. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 299-points this morning from Wednesday's close, at 20,534 on turnover of $8.4-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed little changed Wednesday, as investors remained concerned by U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff threats, especially with a possible tariff on semiconductors expected to be unveiled next week. Contract chipmaker Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing bucked the downturn in the bellwether electronics index, with the company pledging (諾言;保證) to invest an additional $100 billion US dollars in the United States. And the financial sector attracted buying to lend support to the broader market. Cabinet passed draft of Youth Basic Law The Cabinet has approved a draft bill aimed at establishing a foundation in to facilitate (促進) youth development and encourage greater youth participation in public affairs. The draft of the Youth Basic Law seeks to provide a general legal framework and establish fundamental principles for the public sector at both central and local-levels to take a "youth perspective" into account and "facilitate youth development." The bill mandates central and local governments establish mechanisms for the participation of young people aged 18 to 35 when developing various policies, regulations and programs. And it states that the central government is required to launch a "youth policy white paper" and update it every four years based on national development goals and societal (社會的) needs. Approval of the draft Youth Basic Law comes after the Youth Development Administration announced that it will be releasing its first "youth policy white paper" as early as February of next year. UN Urges Israel to Lift Gaza Blockade The United Nations’ emergency relief coordinator is urging Israel to lift its blockade of aid into the Gaza Strip. Tom Fletcher said Thursday that the halting of humanitarian aid amounts to “cruel collective punishment (連坐處罰).” Israel has blocked any humanitarian aid from entering the territory since the end of a ceasefire two months ago. That has thrown Gaza into what is believed to be the worst humanitarian crisis in nearly 19 months of war. Israel has said the blockade and its renewed military campaign are intended to pressure Hamas to release the remaining hostages it still holds and to disarm. Trump-appointed judge bars the White House from using war-time law to deport Venezuelans A Trump- appointed judge has barred the White House from using the centuries-old Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelans it claims are members of a violent gang. At least 137 people have been deported using the Act - sent to a notorious prison in El Salvador. Toni Waterman has more from Texas. Brazil World's Oldest Person Obit Sister Inah Canabarro, a Brazilian woman who was the world’s oldest person, has died at age 116. Her nun congregation (教徒) said Canabarro died at home Wednesday of natural causes. The wake will take place on Thursday in Porto Alegre, the capital of southern state of Rio Grande do Sul. Canabarro was confirmed in January as the world’s oldest person by LongeviQuest, an organization that tracks supercentenarians (超百歲老人（指110歲以上的人）). She was born in 1908 and would have turned 117 on May 27. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 17-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 20,215on turnover of 4.1-billion N-T. The market moved higher on Tuesday, extending momentum from a session earlier as a technical rebound continued. Buying focused on non-tech stocks, while the electronics sector saw its gains capped after reports that Huawei Technologies is ready to test its newest artificial intelligence chip to rival Nvidia. Narwhal faces sea trial testing delay Navy Chief of Staff Qiu Chun-rong has admitted the first domestically built submarine prototype willl likely miss the date that sea trials were scheduled to begin. The Ministry of National Defense's timeline for the Narwhal to carry out sea trials was supposed to begin in April month and be completed by late September. However, Qiu says the Navy is currently still working on improvements and focusing on reaching the "technology readiness level" required for the vessel (船隻) to carry out sea trials. That statement followed reports of potential testing delays due to voltage surges from a land-based power supply used in testing causing some components in the submarine to fail. CDC warning of rise in COVID cases The Centers for Disease Control is warning in a rise in the number of COVID infections. According to the C-D-C, infections have now risen for three consecutive (連續的) weeks and are likely to peak between May and June. Figures show the number of people visiting hospitals with COVID symptoms increased by 19-per cent last week from the previous (前) week. While 21 cases of severe COVID and seven deaths have been confirmed over the past seven days. C-D-C Deputy Director-General Philip Luo is advising people to get vaccinated and more than 3-million doses of government-funded COVID vaccines are currently available. Canada PM Warning on Trump Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who has just won re-election to officially replace former leader Justin Trudeau has warned that the US president is trying to break Canada. Kate Fisher reports from Washington EU Urges Serbia Reforms The European Union’s enlargement commissioner has urged Serbia’s new government to push forward democratic reforms (改革，改進) needed for membership in the bloc, saying that the Balkan nation’s protesting citizens have been seeking similar changes. Marta Kos says the EU wants to embrace Serbia and other candidate countries in the Western Balkans. But she said Serbia must first reform the judiciary in order to fight corruption, ensure freedom of the press and free and fair elections. Marta Kos spoke after meeting Serbia’s new prime minister who has taken over the government earlier this month facing monthslong anti-corruption demonstrations triggered by a train station concrete canopy collapse that killed 16 people in November. Many in Serbia blamed the crash in the northern city of Novi Sad on alleged rampant (猖獗) corruption in the government’s infrastructure deals with China, staging almost daily street protests demanding justice for the victims. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened marginally lower this morning from yesterday's close, at 20,018 on turnover of 2.7-billion N-T. The market moved higher on Monday led by a tech rally on Wall Street at the end of last - and the main board returned to above the 20,000-point mark for the first time since April 2. Market watchers say buying on the Tai-Ex Monday reflected a continued rally on U-S markets, which showed signs of stabilizing after the tariff shocks .. and it's being suggested that the worst result from the tariff impact is now over. CIER calls on government to seek tariff exemption for ICT products The Chung-Hua Institution for Economic Research says the government should seek a tariff exemption for the island's information and communications technology products during negotiations with the United States. The statement comes after Washington and Taipei held their first negotiations on April 11 - as the government is seeking to ensure that Taiwan will not face a 32-per cent import duty .. as was announced by the U-S on April 2 .. … before a 90-day pause on that was announced on April 9. Washington and Taipei held their first negotiations on April 11 - as the government seeks to ensure that Taiwan will not face hefty tariffs on exports to the U-S market. Centenarian shuttler to compete in World Masters Games The Taipei City Department of Information and Tourism has annouced that a centenarian badminton player will be representing Taiwan at the upcoming World Masters Games. According to city government, 104-year old Lin Yu-mao is one of more than 2,000 athletes aged 65 and above who will be competing in the games. Lin is the Guinness World Records-certified oldest badminton player. Fifteen World Masters Games participants are aged 90 and over, including eight from Taiwan. The oldest participant at this year's quadrennial (四年一次) athletics event is a Thai track and field athlete who is 105 years old. The 2025 World Masters Games is taking place in Taipei and New Taipei from May 17 through 31. Canada Polls Open in National Election Polls are open in Canada's national election, with the ruling Liberal Party favored to win by a narrow margin. The vote comes as Canadians grapple with high living costs, and tensions (緊張局勢) with a confrontational US President, who has made controversial comments about Canada's future. Mitch McCann reports: Brazil Supreme Court Order on Illegal Seizing of Land A justice on Brazil’s Supreme Court has ordered the federal government to seize private properties when owners are found responsible for illegal wildfires or deforestation. In addition, authorities must seek compensation from landowners responsible for illegal and intentional (故意的) destruction. The ruling also directed the government to block regularization, a process by which illegally-acquired land becomes legal. The expectation of regularization has been one of the main drivers of deforestation in the Amazon. Land-grabbers clear land in the hope that it will eventually be titled thanks to lax land laws or government amnesties. The court's decision could be appealed. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 99-points this morning from Friday's close, at 19,972 on turnover of 4.3-billion N-T. The market gained nearly 400-points on Friday as investors were buoyed following a third consecutive rally on Wall Street overnight, driven by hopes for the U-S Federal Reserve to cut interest rates. Chen Chien-jen hope for Lai Ching-te can attend new pope's inauguration Former Vice President Chen Chien-jen has attended the funeral of Pope Francis' and is expressing his hope President Lai Ching-te will be invited to the new pope's inauguration ceremony. Speaking to reporters, Chen said he spoke with former U-S President Joe Biden, Japan's Foreign Minister and the delegation (代表團) heads from Paraguay and Guatemala following the funeral. Chen also says he believes he had completed his mission as Lai's special envoy to Pope Francis' funeral service. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says Chen was seated next to Thailand's representative, as delegations at the funeral were arranged in alphabetical order according to French, the official language of diplomacy. FM wraps up Eswatini trip with rhino conservation donation Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung has wrapped-up his trip to Eswatini with a pledged donation to support local rhinoceros conservation efforts. Lin returned to Taiwan on Sunday after a five-day visit to the African kingdom to attend King Mswati III's 57th birthday celebration as President Lai Ching-te's special envoy. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says Lin pledged a 55,000 U-S dollar donation to the Eswatini-based nonprofit trust that manages four game parks in the country, on the final day of the visit. According to the ministry, Lin also named a new baby rhino recently born in one of the parks under the Big Game Parks "Formosa" to symbolize (象徵) friendship between the two countries. Iran President Visits Port Explosion Victims Iran's president visits those injured in port explosion that killed at least 28 people AP correspondent Julie Walker reports Greenland PM on US New Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen says that the U.S. isn’t showing Greenlanders proper respect. Nielsen said Sunday that the mineral-rich Arctic island “will never, ever be a piece of property that can be bought by just anyone.” Nielsen made the remarks in defiance of U.S. President Donald Trump’s interest in taking control of the strategic (有戰略優勢的、關鍵的) territory as he stood side by side with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen on the second day of a three-day official visit. Greenland is a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark. SKorea Liberal Party Chooses Former Leader as Presidential Candidate South Korea’s main liberal opposition party has tapped its former leader Lee Jae-myung as presidential candidate in the June 3 vote. The Democratic Party said Sunday that Lee has won nearly 90% of the votes cast during the party’s primary. He defeated two competitors. Lee is a liberal who wants greater economic parity in South Korea and warmer ties with North Korea. He has solidified his position as front-runner to succeed recently ousted (罷免，逐出) conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol. A Gallup Korea poll released Friday said 38% of respondents preferred Lee while all other aspirants (有志者) obtained single-digit ratings. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 382-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 19,861 on turnover of $8.6-billion N-T. The market ended the day down on Thursday, as the market fell into consolidation mode amid lingering concerns by investors about the impact of U-S tariffs on Taiwan's semiconductor industry. Taiwan FM and King unveil oil reserve facility project in Eswatini Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung and Eswatini's King Mswati III have jointly presided over an unveiling ceremony for an oil reserve facility project Taiwan will build to enhance the energy resilience of its ally. Lin attended the ceremony marking The Strategic Oil Reserve Facility project as part of his ongoing visit to Eswatini. According to Taiwan's embassy in Eswatini, the oil reserve facility project is expected to be completed in three years and will ensure a 60-day fuel reserve for the kingdom. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says prior to (之前) attending the oil reserve facility project ceremony, Lin presented a letter from Lai and cows as gifts while meeting the king and queen mother. The foreign minister in the kingdom this week as a special envoy for President Lai Ching-te to pariticpate in the king's 57th birthday celebrations. Vegetation in Yangmingshan fire could take 1 year to recover The Ministry of the Interior says a fire that destroyed some 4.5 hectares of vegetation in Taipei's Yangmingshan could take about a year to recover. The fire broke out on April 14 near the Xiao-You-Keng Recreation Area and burned for about five hours - destroying silvergrass and portions of the Yangmingshan National Park's arrow bamboo forest. No deaths or injuries were reported. Authorities have said the fire was likely caused by air quality monitoring equipment belonging to the National Science and Technology Council installed at the site. Besides the vegetation, the fire also damaged various amenities (設施), including ropes, sand-filled barriers and several wooden posts along the forest trail. Total estimated damage caused by the fire is being put at between 1.7 and 1.8-million N-T. NATO chief in Washington for talks Nato secretary-general Mark Rutte is in Washington for talks with senior members of the Trump administration as Ukraine peace talks are stalling (停滯). He'll meet Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz at the state department on Thursday. Kate Fisher reports. Vatican Keeps Basilica Open Overnight for Mourners The Vatican kept the doors St. Peter's Basilica open overnight, as lines of mourners waited to pay their last respects (致敬) to the pope. Officials closed the basilica for just an hour and a half Thursday morning for cleaning, and by the evening that day, the Vatican says more than 90,000 people had paid their respects. After three days of public viewing, a funeral Mass including heads of state will be held Saturday in St. Peter's Square. The pope will then be buried in St. Mary Major Basilica, near his favorite Madonna icon. Namibia New President Announces Free Education Changes New Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has announced that her government will introduce free education at state universities and technical colleges starting next year. Nandi-Ndaitwah was sworn in as Namibia’s first female leader last month. Namibia already provides free education in public elementary and high schools, though parents still typically have to pay for school uniforms, stationery, books, and hostel fees. There have been calls for years for all levels of education to be subsidized (補貼的) by the government in the country of around 3 million people in southern Africa. Two of Namibia's seven universities are state run and will offer free education under the policy. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 113-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 19,752 on turnover of 7.3-billion N-T. The market recorded its second highest daily point gain in history on Wednesday, as the main board soared more than 800-points, amid the possible easing of trade tensions between the United States and China. Market watchers say the upturn was completely driven by news that encouraged investors to think trade friction between Washington and Beijing is easing. Sea acceptance tests for indigenous submarine prototype not scheduled Defense Minister Wellington Koo says no dates have yet been confirmed as to when the Narwhal, or "Hai Kun" indigenous submarine prototype will begin its sea acceptance tests. The statement comes as sea acceptance testing was initially reported to begin sometime this month. According to Koo, shipbuilder C-S-B-C is still working to correct some issues and the tests will only begin once all safety requirements are met. The defense minister says although there is currently no definitive (確定的) schedule for the seas acceptance tests to begin, the vessel is still slated to be delivered to the Navy in November as scheduled. Taiwan Railway Corporation announces new fares Taiwan Railway Corporation has published its new ticket prices on its website. Publication of the updated prices comes as fares (票價) are set to rise on June 23. Ticket prices are set to increase by an average of 26.8-per cent. The railway corporation's passed a motion to increase fares across all of its services on February 5 - citing a need to reduce the company's deficit - which hit 13.79-billion N-T last year. The new fares were calculated at a profit of 0.36-per cent, which translates into an average price of 1.82 N-T per kilometer, up from the current 1.46 N-T. UN warns of dangerously low aid in Gaza The United Nations says the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached unprecedented levels, even as Arab mediators (調解者) are working on a proposal to end the war with Hamas that would include a five-to-seven year truce and the release of all remaining hostages. Jody Jacobs reports from the United Nations in New York. Congo Gov and Insurgents Commit to Truce A joint statement from Congo's government and a coalition of insurgents in the country’s east including the M23 rebels says the two sides have agreed to work toward a truce (休戰) following peace talks in Qatar. The statement was posted online by an M23 spokesperson and confirmed by the government, said the parties had agreed to “work towards concluding a truce” and that they were reaffirming their commitment to “an immediate end to hostilities.” M23 is one of about 100 armed groups that have been vying for a foothold in mineral-rich eastern Congo near the border with Rwanda, in a conflict that has created one of the world’s most significant humanitarian crises. More than 7 million people have been displaced (流離失所). Previous commitments to a ceasefire have not held. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 370-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 19,163 on turnover of 6.4-billion N-T. The market extended its losses from a session earlier on Tuesday to close down by more than 300-points. However, investors this morning reacted positively to rise on Wall Street overnight - where indexes made up for the sharp declines seen during the previous session. Lai touts safety and social consensus as prerequisites for any nuclear policy shift President Lai Ching-te has been meeting with environmental groups and is seeking to assure them that his administration's position on nuclear power remains unchanged. Speaking a closed-door meeting with representatives from a dozen environmental groups, Lai said any changes to the government's nuclear policy must meet "three prerequisites." Those prerequisites (玡矗兵ン) include ensuring nuclear safety, achieving proper nuclear waste management and securing social consensus on the issue. Lai also stressed that the government "maintains an open attitude toward new and advanced nuclear technologies" as it works to provide stable energy supply and meet its goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. Civil servants to receive pay raise starting in May And, Premier Cho Jung-tai has announced that civil servants, military personnel and public school teachers will have a 3-per cent pay raise issued beginning in May. The pay rise was approved by the Cabinet in July of last year. Cho says the pay hike was delayed because the Cabinet believed it was inappropriate to allocate the funds before its efforts to overturn ( 崩陆) the 3.1-trillion central government budget plan approved by the Legislature were resolved. He he went on to say that a decision was finally made Tuesday morning to start dispensing the 3-per cent salary raise for civil servants starting next month. UN Appoints Head of Review of UNRWA The United Nations chief has appointed a British human rights activist to carry out a strategic review of the U.N. agency helping Palestinian refugees. U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric announced the review on Tuesday. He said Ian Martin, a former head of Amnesty International, will also be looking at the ¨consequences and risks for Palestinian refugees〃 of UNRWAˇs operations. The purpose is to assess its impact under the "present political, financial, security and other constraints (兵ン).〃 Israel has banned the agency, known as UNRWA, from operating on its territory. But its Palestinian staff have still been key to delivering aid and running medical clinics in Gaza, even though Israel has cut off all humanitarian deliveries since March 2. IMF Slashes US Growth Forecast The International Monetary Fund has slashed the United States' growth forecast for this year, warning that tariffs are creating a "major negative shock ( 侥阑)" worldwide. Nick Harper reports from Washington. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 115-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 18,990 on turnover of 3-billion N-T. The market fell by almost 300 points on Monday due to lake of investor interest in semiconductor heavyweights as U-S tariff polices continue to impact market sentiment. Large-cap semiconductor stocks led the broader market lower once again sending the electronics index down by 1.6-per cent by the close of the day's trading. Premier approves NT$88 billion U.S. tariff support package Premier Cho Jung-tai has approved the Cabinet's 88-billion N-T support package aimed at mitigating (減輕) the impact of higher U-S tariffs on Taiwan's economy. However, details on what the plan contains remain relatively vague. Cabinet Secretary-General Kung Ming-hsin says the plan will offer Taiwan companies various forms of financial support and will serve as a sort of "umbrella on a rainy day." Departments responsible for administering the 20 measures contained in the package are slated to explain them in more detail in the coming days. Foreign minister to attend Eswatini king's birthday celebration Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung will lead a delegation to Eswatini King Mswati III's 57th birthday celebration as President Lai Ching-te's special envoy. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says Lin will be heading a delegation of government officials and a group of business representatives to Eswatini from today through Saturday. The delegation will attend festivities (慶祝活動) and the main celebration, which is scheduled on Friday. Lin will present a letter from Lai and cows as gifts to Eswatini's king and Queen According to the ministry, the foreign minister will also hold meetings with Eswatini's Prime Minister Russell Dlamini and the kingdom's foreign minister on bilateral ties and projects. Pope Francis World leaders are paying tribute to Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88, as the Vatican declares (宣稱) nine days of mourning. AP correspondent Trisha Thomas reports. UN Sounds Warning on Haiti Gang Violence The top U.N. official in Haiti is sounding an alarm to the U.N. Security Council that escalating (不斷升級) gang violence is liable (很可能會發生的) to lead the Caribbean nation to “a point of no return.” Maria Isabel Salvador is warning that “Haiti could face total chaos” without increased funding and support for the operation of the Kenya-led multinational force helping Haiti’s police to tackle the gangs’ expanding violence. She spoke to the Security Council on Monday. The gangs have grown in power since the 2021 assassination of the president and are now estimated to control 85% of the capital and are moving into surrounding areas. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 Friday's close, at 19,321 on turnover of 1.6-billion N-T. The market ended slightly higher on Friday, despite a rather bumpy ride for Wall Street last Thursday as Nvidia helped pull down the tech-heavy Nasdaq. Measures to curb stock market short selling to continue Meanwhile, The Financial Supervisory Commission says measures to curb (抑制) short selling on the Tai-Ex will continue this week amid ongoing uncertainties about U-S tariff policies. The measures were first put in place during the week of April 7 after U-S President Donald Trump unveiled "reciprocal" tariffs on Taiwan of 32-per cent and were then extended into last week. Unlike its previous two announcements, the F-S-C this time has not specified the duration (持續時間) of the extension of measures to curb short selling. The local main board last week ended 0.68-per cent lower after falling 8.31-per cent the week before. Cannabis decriminalization campaigners rally for end to 'war on weed' The Taiwan Weed Safety Education Association has held a rally outside the Legislative Yuan calling on the government to end its "war" on marijuana. The event was titled "2025 Green Sensation" and the group and its supporters used the rally to call on lawmakers and President Lai Ching-te to "eliminate the stigma (（尤指不公正的）惡名) against marijuana and discriminatory policies against the marijuana community." Participants also urged the government to relax allowable levels of T-H-C, align cannabis policy with international norms, and remove cannabis from government-led anti-drug campaigns. The Ministry of Justice has responded to the rally by reiterating that it remains illegal to possess or use cannabis and warned that such offenses are prosecuted as serious crimes. Israeli probe into the killings of 15 Palestinian medics in Gaza finds 'professional failures' The Israeli military has wrapped up its investigation into the killings of 15 Palestinian medics in the Gaza Strip last month . AP correspondent Joe Federman reports Yemen US Airstrikes Leave Dead and Wounded Houthi rebels say U.S. airstrikes targeting Yemen’s capital killed 12 people and wounded 30 others. The deaths mark the latest in America’s intensified campaign of strikes targeting (攻擊) the rebels. The Houthis described the strike as hitting the Farwa neighborhood market in Sanaa’s Shuub district. That area has been targeted before by the Americans. The U.S. military’s Central Command did not immediately acknowledge the strikes. Strikes overnight into today also hit other areas of the country. Zurich Zoo Asian Elephant Born The Zurich Zoo says a 19-year-old Asian elephant has given birth to a male calf. Its name starting with the letter Z will be announced later this week. A light-sensitive monitoring camera picked up the birth and the calf's earliest wobbly (搖搖晃晃的) steps before dawn on Saturday at the zoo’s elephant park. The Asian elephant is a critically endangered species with about 50,000 estimated in the wild, and their numbers are declining. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 85-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 19,424 on turnover of $2.4-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan extended their losses Thursday from a session earlier, falling more than 120 points, as market sentiment remained cautious ahead of an investor conference scheduled by contract chipmaker TSMC to start after the market closes. Stocks outside the tech sector also largely moved in the doldrums (低迷) amid uncertainties caused by tariff threats by Washington. Lai calls for more trade cooperation with NZ amid global challenges President Lai Ching-te is urging New Zealand to expand trade and business opportunities with Taiwan. Speaking during a meeting with a visiting New Zealand parliamentary delegation, Lai said both sides can work together to "explore even more diverse markets" - such as smart agriculture, food manufacturing, biomedicine, the digital economy and clean energy. Lai also called for Taiwan and New Zealand should deepen cooperation and jointly advance their economies and industrial development in the face of global challenges. There have recently been calls for the government to seek market diversification (多樣化) for Taiwan products in the wake of levies imposed by the United States on Taiwanese goods earlier this month. Pro Go player Lin Chun-yen claims long-awaited HaiFong title Nine-dan Go player Lin Chun-yen has captured his first Hai-Fong Tournament title after 16 years on the professional-circuit. He beat 6-dan Hsu Ching-en in the final match of a best-of-three series held at Taipei's Hai-Fong Go Association. It marked Hsu's third consecutive runner-up finish at the annual tournament, which is one of eight major titles in Taiwan and the season opener for the domestic pro Go circuit. The victory was the 27-year-old's first major pro title in Taiwan in nearly three and a half years. Lin's next target is the Taiwan Mei-Jin title, where he faces 8-dan pro Chen Qi-rui in a best-of-three semifinal series. US Judge Rules Google Broke Antitrust Laws A federal judge has ruled that Google broke antitrust laws by maintaining an illegal monopoly in the digital advertising space. The decision could force major changes to one of the tech giant's biggest revenue streams. Ira Spitzer reports. Italy Cable Car Accident Leaves Four Dead Officials in southern Italy say that a cable car carrying tourists south of Naples has crashed after the cable snapped, killing at least four people and critically injuring one. Italy’s alpine rescue was responding to the accident on Monte Faito on Thursday. The cable car accident happened just a week after the destination (目的地) reopened for the season. The cable car at Castellammare di Stabia is popular for its views of the Mount Vesuvius volcano and the Bay of Naples. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni expressed her condolences for the victims and their families and said she was in touch with rescuers. She was in Washington, where she met with U.S. President Donald Trump. Researchers Find Possible Chemical Signs of Life on Faraway Planet Astronomers have detected possible chemical signs of life on a faraway planet. But they caution much more work is needed to confirm their findings. The research, led by scientists at the University of Cambridge, found evidence of compounds (化合物) that on Earth are only produced by living organisms on the planet known as K2-18b. The planet is 124 light-years away. One light year is equivalent to about 9.5-trillion kilometers. Scientists not involved in the research describe the findings as interesting, but not nearly enough to show the existence (存在) of life on another planet That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 78-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 19,389 on turnover of 5-billion N-T. The market lost ground again on Wednesday - tumbling nearly 400-points - as the trade war between the United States and China escalated after Washington imposed a fresh round of export controls on Nvidia and A-M-D selling to Chinese buyers. NDC to focus on silicon photonics, build new economic shield National Development Council Minister Paul Liu says the government plans to prioritize the development of silicon photonics. According to Liu, that will be carried out by taking advantage of the island's strength in the semiconductor and artificial intelligence industries to build another shield to protect the local economy. The N-D-C head says over the longer term, government is determined to focus on potential segments as silicon photonics to boost its competitive edge (競爭優勢) and take a larger share of the global market. In addition to silicon photonics, Liu says the government has also listed quantum and autonomous robot development as additional potential economic shields. US congressional group visits Taiwan to meet with President Lai Ching-te A U-S Congressional delegation is visiting Taiwan this week. The delegation is being led by U-S Senator Pete Ricketts, the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee's Subcommittee on East Asia, and is slated to meet with President Lai Ching-te and other top government officials. The bipartisan delegation includes Senators Chris Coons and Ted Budd. The American Institute in Taiwan says the talks will focus on bilateral relations, regional security, trade and investment, and other issues of mutual (共同的) interest. NKorea Threatens Retaliation After US Bombers Fly Over South North Korea has threatened retaliation after the U.S. flew long-range bombers over South Korea during training with its forces. The U.S. flew the B-1B bombers Tuesday during an aerial drill that Seoul said was meant to show the two countries’ deterrence (威懾) capability. North Korea views such drills as an invasion rehearsal and is particularly sensitive to the U.S. mobilization of strategic assets such as long-range bombers, aircraft carriers and nuclear-powered submarines. North Korea’s Defense Ministry was quoted as saying the U.S. action would inevitably hurt U.S. security and North Korea “will deter by dint of powerful force" the U.S. aggression. North Korea often test-launches missiles in response to U.S. flyovers of B-1B bombers. US judge threatens contempt inquiry for Trump administration over deportations A US judge has threatened to start criminal contempt proceedings against the Trump administration for defying (違抗) his order to stop the deportation of more than 200 migrants to El Salvador. Nick Harper reports from Washington. Bolide Seen Over Mexico A bright object, initially appearing to be a meteorite, lit up the skies over Mexico’s capital at 3am local time. Videos of a ball of fire shooting over the country and dissolving in a burst of light over Mexico City quickly became the fuel for memes circulating on social media. But scientists were quick to note that the object was a bolide (火流星). Bolides, defined by NASA as fireballs, are exceptionally bright meteors that are spectacular enough to be seen over a very wide area. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 120-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 19,737 on turnover of 4.1-billion N-T. The market moved sharply higher on Tuesday as buying was sparked by a rally on Wall Street overnight. Analysts says the rebound largely reflected the gains on the U-S markets overnight on tariff exemptions for electronics products, which resulted in Taiwanese manufacturers in the Apple supply chain staging a rally to push up the broader market. KMT offices in New Taipei searched as part of recall fraud investigation Prosecutors has searched 30 locations in New Taipei as part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of signature forgery (偽造簽名) and fraud related to recall efforts against D-P-P lawmakers. The locations searched included the K-M-T's Banqiao and Sanchong offices. The searches came after the Taipei District Prosecutors' Office released six people on bail after questioning them as part of the investigation The investigation was launched following complaints about the petitions. Those complaints allege that the petitions had over 1,700 signatures of voters who had died, while some voters have said their names had appeared on the petitions without their consent. Prosecutors say the investigation is focusing on allegations of violations of the Criminal Code and the Personal Data Protection Act. Kaitlyn Chen becomes 1st player of Taiwanese descent drafted by WNBA And, U-S college basketballer Kaitlyn Chen has become the first female player of Taiwanese descent to be drafted by a W-N-B-A team. She was selected by the Golden State Valkyries in the third and final round of the league's draft. The point guard played her first three seasons in college for Princeton University before transferring to the University of Connecticut for her final season, which culminated in a national championship in April. While at Princeton, Chen was named the Ivy League tournament's most outstanding (傑出的) player three times from 2022 to 2024. Prior to the draft, E-S-P-N described Chen as a highly underrated player, praising her for her poise, leadership and playmaking abilities. ProPalestinian Student Arrested at US Citizenship Interview A pro-Palestinian protester who organized demonstrations (遊行，示威) at Columbia University in New York has been arrested by immigration officials. Mohsen Mahdawi, a green card holder, was detained as he attended an interview to apply for US citizenship. Nick Harper reports from Washington. Canada Academic Uni Association Warning on US Travel The association that represents academic staff at Canadian universities is warning its members against non-essential travel to the United States. The Canadian Association of University Teachers released updated travel advice Tuesday due to the “political landscape” created by President Donald Trump’s administration and reports of some Canadians encountering difficulties crossing the border. The association says academics who are from countries that have tense diplomatic relations with the United States, or who have themselves expressed negative views about the Trump administration, should be particularly cautious (謹慎) about U.S. travel. In addition, the association says academics should carefully consider what information they have, or need to have, on their electronic devices when crossing the border, and take actions to protect sensitive information. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 96-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 19,609 on turnover of 4.4-billion N-T. The market bucked a regional upward trend on Monday and closed marginally lower after early gains eroded amid lingering investor concerns over the Trump administration's tariffs on semiconductors. MOFA slams Cambodia for sending Taiwan fraud suspects to China The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has lodged a protest with the Cambodia government after it deported a group of recently arrested Taiwanese telecoms fraud suspects to China. According to the ministry, some of a group of 180 recently arrested Taiwanese fraud suspects were deported to China late Sunday and early Monday in three groups along with arrested Chinese fraud suspects. The ministry says it doesn't know how many were sent to China over the past two days because the Cambodian government has refused to provide a full list of those who were deported. The foreign ministry is accusing the Cambodian government of bowing to Chinese pressure (壓力) by not providing that information and calling on Phnom Penh to released a list of all the deportees as soon as possible. Housing prices fell in foruth quarter of last year Housing prices declined in the fourth quarter of last year. According to Chinatrust Real Estate, the decline came after the housing market was hit hard following the central bank;s seventh round (輪) of credit controls - which were introduced in September. Data from the Ministry of the Interior's real estate information platform shows that averages housing prices fell to 338,600 N-T per ping in the fourth quarter and that was a 6.6-per cent decline from the third quarter. All six special municipalities registered falling housing prices in the September to December period. Kaohsiung's housing market saw the steepest decline at 10.4-per cent - while housing prices in Taipei City were down by 3-per cent in the fourth quarter. US Trump Bukele Rule Out Releasing Man MIstakenly Sent to Prison US President Donald Trump and El Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele have ruled out (排除…的可能性) releasing a man mistakenly sent to a maximum security prison in the Central American country. Nick Harper reports from Washington. Algeria Expels French Officials Algeria on Monday announced the expulsion of 12 French officials, shattering recent hopes of a diplomatic thaw and plunging relations between the two nations to a new low. The country’s foreign affairs ministry said in a statement that French consular agents had been given 48 hours to leave the country, in response to the arrest of an Algerian consular official in France. French counterterrorism prosecutors said three Algerians were arrested Friday on preliminary charges of “kidnapping or arbitrary detention … in connection with a terrorist undertaking (任務),” including one that French media has said was an Algerian consular official. The group is allegedly involved in the April 2024 kidnapping of an Algerian influencer, Amir Boukhors, or Amir DZ, a known critic of the Algerian government with 1.1 million followers on TikTok. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 157-points this morning from Friday's close, at 19,686 on turnover of 11-billion N-T. The market closed up on Friday, despite Wall Street slumping overnight as investors remained concerned about Donald Trump's trade war - as the local main board ended a rollarcoaster ride of a trading week in positive territory. The Financial Supervisory Commission has said measures to curb short selling on the local stock market have been extended (延伸) into this week as global financial indexes still face uncertainties resulting from the latest round of the Trump administration's tariff actions. Cabinet delays release of NT$88 billion US tariff support package details The Cabinet has postponed the release of details of its planned 88-billion N-T support package aimed at mitigating (緩解) the impact of higher U-S tariffs. According to Premier Cho Jung-tai, the delay is due to uncertainty surrounding the U-S position as ministries and agencies need more time to finalize (敲定) the package's details, including how subsidies will be allocated across various industries. The statement comes after officials in Taipei and Washington began talks via video conferencing last Friday regarding the "reciprocal tariffs" announced by U-S President Donald Trump earlier this month. DPP expels ex-aide of foreign minister at center of China spying case The D-P-P has expelled a former assistant of Joseph Wu over allegations he was involved in a Chinese espionage case. The D-P-P's Yilan County headquarters announced the expulsion of Ho Jen-chieh - who worked for Wu during his tenure as foreign minister between 2018 and 2024. According to Qiu Jia-jin, the head of the D-P-P's Yilan headquarters, he decision was unanimous, due to Ho's alleged actions that severely damaged to the party's reputation and "run counter to (違反，背道而馳) the D-P-P's core values of freedom, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law." Ho was detained by prosecutors in Taipei last Thursday after law enforcement authorities searched his residence. Israel Strikes Across Gaza Leave Two Dozen Dead A new wave of Israeli strikes across Gaza has hit the last major hospital providing critical health care in the territory's north. At least 21 people were killed Sunday including children. The predawn strike on Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza City was the latest of several attacks on the facility. The emergency room is badly damaged, and staffers said patients were evacuated after an Israeli warning and slept in the streets. The war started when Hamas-led militants killed 1,200 people during a 2023, attack on southern Israel and took 250 people captive. Many were eventually freed in ceasefire deals, and Israeli authorities have vowed to pressure Hamas to release the remaining 59 hostages, 24 believed to be alive. It cut off all supplies to Gaza over a month ago, with more than 50-thousand Palestinians killed in Israel’s retaliatory offensive, according to Gaza's Health Ministry Osaka Expo The Expo 2025 has opened in Osaka with participants from more than 160 countries, regions and organizations showcasing their futuristic (超前新奇的) exhibits inside about 80 pavillons of unique architecture. AP correspondent Julie Walker reports That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 228-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 18,773 on turnover of 11-billion N-T. Taiwan stocks finished up 9.25 percent Thursday, surging more than 1,600 points at the market's opening after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 90-day pause on his steep "reciprocal" tariffs on most countries. Three heavyweight stocks -- Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC), Hon Hai (Foxconn) and MediaTek -- hit their limit-up prices. The market subsequently (隨後) flattened out, with many stocks hitting their daily 10 percent limit-up prices, which also kept turnover relatively low. Taiwan and Cambodia in talks over sending of 179 fraud suspects to China Criminal Investigation Bureau says Taiwan is continuing talks with Cambodia to prevent 179 Taiwan fraud suspects from being deported to China. According to a member of bureau's liaison officer in Ho Chi Minh City, negotiations are on going in order that the suspects are sent to Taiwan instead to face legal consequences. The statement comes after media reports out of Cambodia haven suggesting that the Taiwan suspects were to be handed over to China as a goodwill (善意) gesture to Beijing. The Taiwanese suspects were all arrested on March 31 during raids of an online telecommunication fraud center in Phnom Penh. Reports say they are currently scheduled to be deported to China on Sunday along with over 300 Chinese nationals. Israel Frees 10 Palestinian Prisoners Israel has freed 10 Palestinians detained from Gaza, the latest in periodic releases from the thousands of people troops have seized during the military campaign in the territory. The men returned to the Gaza Strip and said they had suffered frequent abuse while imprisoned, including beatings. They were welcomed by family members at a hospital in central Gaza. There was no immediate comment by the military. Israeli officials have said that they abide by (遵守) the letter of the law in the treatment of prisoners and investigate violations. But there have been widespread reports of abuse of Palestinian detainees in military prison camps and civilian prisons. US Stocks Fall as Trump Confirms 145Percent China Tariffs U.S. stocks fell on Thursday as President Trump clarified that he had raised tariffs on Chinese goods by a total of 145 percent. It comes as new inflation data shows that U.S. inflation eased more than expected in March but economists suggest this is likely to be a temporary reprieve (暫時緩解) before tariffs take effect. Kate Fisher reports from Washington Canada Mounties Bust BC Drug Labs Canadian police have dismantled three drug labs in the Pacific-coast province of British Columbia. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police also arrested two suspects, including someone described as a “chemist,” but no charges have yet been laid as the police probe continues. The Mounties say they executed “numerous (許多的)” search warrants in late March and found the three labs, which were equipped with sophisticated equipment that is also used in “academic and professional research facilities.” Police say two of the illicit drug labs are believed to have been used to produce fentanyl, but the purpose of the third lab remains “undetermined.” That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 864-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 18,256 on turnover of 15-billion N-T. The market saw heavy losses for the third consecutive trading day on Wednesday - as the main board tumbled more than 1,000-points after America slapped a 32-per cent "reciprocal tariff" on Taiwan at noon yesterday. Although the National Financial Stabilization Fund started its market intervention yesterday, the decline was still the third steepest (最急劇的)in history. 10,000 Chinese spouses face loss of residency in Taiwan over missing proof The National Immigration Agency says about 10,000 Chinese spouses granted "settlement residency" in Taiwan are at risk of losing that status for failing to submit proof they renounced their Chinese household registration. According to agency deputy director-general Chen Chieh-cheng, some 130,000 other Chinese spouses granted "settlement residency" have already provided the required documentation (文件). Chen says the reasons being cited for the delay by the some 10,000 individuals include health issues and challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Fifty questioned over Taichung Shin Kong Mitsukoshi explosion The Taichung District Prosecutors' Office says 50 people have so far been questioned as part of its on-going investigation into February's deadly explosion at the city's Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store. According to the prosecutors' office, is has questioned on-site workers, as well as representatives from the Shin Chung Natural Gas Company and the department store chain to clarify the cause of the gas explosion. Prosecutors says some of have been listed as witnesses, while others have already been listed as defendants and investigations are continuing regarding possible criminal liability (責任). The statement follows reports that although a gas meter had been removed, a gas valve had not been turned off as renovation work was on-going at the site. The prosecutors' office has not commented on that report. Trump pauses tariffs, increases China tariffs US President Donald Trump has reversed course (逆轉政策) and paused global tariffs on countries around the world for 90-days. A 10% baseline duty will stay in place against all countries while the US tries to do deals with individual countries. However, tariffs against China have increased to 125%. Nick Harper reports from Washington. Pope Meets with UK King and Queen Pope Francis met privately with King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the Vatican during the royal couple’s four-day state visit to Italy and on the occasion of their 20th wedding anniversary. It was the first confirmed meeting since the pope’s return to the Vatican after five weeks in the hospital for life-threatening double pneumonia. Francis had planned to have an audience with Charles, but that was officially postponed due to the pope’s health. The pope issued (發布) a new invitation for a private audience, but it was only confirmed on Wednesday morning. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 122-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 18,337 on turnover of 12.5-billion N-T. The market extended its losses from the previous session on Tuesday - declining more than 700 points - but the downturn was capped as some investors appeared willing to move to the buy side. Analysts say the lower declines came as bargain hunters chose to jump into the trading floor due to the U-S markets showing signs of stabilizing overnight. NSB majority of espionage cases involve active, ex-military personnel The National Security Bureau says prosecutors have indicted 159 people suspected of spying for China since 2020 and of that total 60-per cent of them were active-duty or retired military personnel. The statement comes after the bureau released its latest report on intelligence operations to the legislature. According to the report, China is actively recruiting retired miltary personnel and using them to approach active members, recruiting through the internet, enticing (引誘) them with payments, and targeting indebted service members. National Security Bureau Director-General Tsai Ming-yen is scheduled to explain further details of the report during a legislative hearing later today. CDC reporting three new measles cases The Centers for Disease Control has confirmed three new measles cases. The cases include two imported from Vietnam and one domestic infection involving a man living in Taoyuan. The C-D-C says the domestic case involves a man in his 20s, who developed symptoms last Tuesday and he was not a direct contact of any previously confirmed case, but his housemate had been listed as a contact (接觸過的人) of an imported case from Vietnam. The exact source of the local infection remains under investigation. As of Monday, the C-D-C had recorded 22 confirmed measles cases since the start of the year. They include eight domestic infections and 14 imported cases -- all from Vietnam. UN SecGen Calls on Israel to Allow Aid into Gaza The United Nations Secretary General has appealed to Israel to rescind its decision to block aid into Gaza. Israel stopped aid convoys from entering the strip last month -accusing Hamas of diverting aid. Antonio Guterres says aid is now running extremely low and that Israel has a duty of ensuring (確保) food and medical supplies enter Gaza. Jody Jacobs has more from the United Nations in New York. Argentina Reaches IMF Deal for Bailout The International Monetary Fund says it's reached a preliminary agreement with cash-strapped Argentina on a $20 billion bailout package. The IMF says the loan is a 48-month arrangement, and "builds on the authorities’ impressive early progress in stabilizing the economy”. As a staff-level agreement, the deal announced Tuesday still requires final approval from the IMF’s executive board. The deal delivers a lifeline to President Javier Milei, who has slashed inflation and stabilized the economy after years of turmoil with a harsh austerity program. But without cash from the international lender, he has been unable to rebuild the scarce (幾乎沒有，稀有的) foreign exchange reserves he inherited, which he needs to repay debts and lift Argentina’s strict currency controls. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 167-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 19,064 on turnover of 6.9-billion N-T The market registered its steepest ever daily decline on Monday - as the main board tumbled 2,065 points due to a downturn in investor sentiment following U-S President Donald Trump's tariff actions. It was the first time the index had closed below the 20,000-point mark since August 5 of last year - and out of 1,034 stocks traded on the Tai-Ex a total of 945 fell by the maximum 10-per cent amid concerns that the tariffs could undermine global trade. Stabilization fund could hold special meeting to ease volatility Meanwhile, The Ministry of Finance says the National Financial Stabilization Fund has not ruled out the possibility of convening a special meeting to discuss measures to ease market volatility after U-S tariffs rattled financial markets. According to the finance ministry, the stabilization fund is closely monitoring (監控) market conditions worldwide and could hold a special meeting in a bid to shore up investor confidence and stabilize the local capital market. The stabilization fund is already slated to hold its regular meeting next Monday. The 500-billion N-T stabilization fund was established by the government in 2000 to serve as a buffer against unexpected external factors that might disrupt the local bourse. Presidential citation awarded to late Taiwanese poet Li Kuei-hsien And, A presidential citation has been awarded posthumously to late Taiwanese poet Li Kuei-hsien. Li died on January 15 in Taipei at the age of 85. The award was presented to the poet's son, Li Shih-fei by Culture Minister Li Yuan during a memorial ceremony for his father. The culture minister said Li used poetry, a universal language, to lift the visibility (能見度) of Taiwan literature in the world. Li Kuei-hsien was born in Taipei in 1937 and began writing poems in junior high school. His first published poem was titled "Sakura" and appeared in the magazine Wild Wind in 1953. China Threatens Tariff Countermeasures China has threatened to “resolutely take countermeasures” in response to U.S. President Donald Trump's threat of an additional 50% tariff. The Commerce Ministry statement issued earlier today said the U.S.‘s imposition of “so-called ‘reciprocal tariffs’” on China is “completely groundless (毫無根據的)". China has taken retaliatory tariffs and the ministry hinted more many be coming. US Trump Admin Fights Return of Mistakenly Deported Man The Trump administration has asked the Supreme Court to block a court order requiring it to return a man who was mistakenly deported to a notorious (惡名的) prison in El Salvador. A District Court Judge has given the administration until just before midnight Monday to facilitate (讓…順利進行) Kilmar Abrego Garcia's return to the US. Ira Spitzer reports. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 1,144-points this morning from last Wednesday's close, at 20,153 on turnover of 15-billion N-T as investors reacted to U-S President Donald Trump's 32-per cent tariff on goods from Taiwan. The market closed slightly higher last Wednesday when investors appeared reluctant to chase prices amid lingering concerns over the fresh round of tariffs - that were pending announcement the Trump administration at the time. First Luxembourg parliamentarian group since 2019 visits Taiwan The first group of parliamentarians from Luxembourg to visit Taiwan since 2019 has arrived in Taipei. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the delegation is being led by Stephanie Weydert and includes three fellow members of the Chamber of Deputies. The foreign ministry says the delegation will be holding talks this week with Vice Premier Cheng Li-chun, Deputy Legislative Speaker Johnny Chiang, and Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-ji. They will also meet several NGOs representatives before departing on Friday. The talks are expected to focus on enhancing bilateral relations, and issues related to cross-strait relations, education, culture, and gender equality (性別平等). Three-day music festival in Kenting attracts over 1-million visitors And, Organizers of the Taiwan Music Festival in Kenting say this year's three day event attracted over 1-million visitors. The festival took place from last Thursday to Saturday. County government officials say data provided by telecom operators shows that attendance (參加) over the three-day period had exceeded 1-million. The county government says it was the third consecutive year that the total number of visitors has surpassed that number. Japan Helicopter Crash Leaves 3 Dead The Japan coast guard says a medical transport helicopter carrying a patient fell into the sea in southwestern Japan, leaving three of the six people aboard dead. The pilot, a helicopter mechanic and a nurse were rescued by the coast guard earlier in the day after they were found Sunday in the waters clinging (抓緊) to inflatable lifesavers. The bodies of the medical doctor, the patient, and her caretaker were later recovered by a Japan Air Self-Defense Force helicopter. The cause of the accident remains under investigation. US Texas 2nd Child Death from Measles A second child has died from measles-related causes in West Texas, where cases are nearing 500. AP correspondent Marcela Sanchez reports….. Pope Speaks at Sunday Mass Pope Francis has made a surprise entrance to St. Peter’s Square during a special Jubilee Mass for the sick and medical workers in his first public appearance at the Vatican since leaving the hospital. The pontiff on Sunday lifted his hands to wave at the crowd that stood and applauded (鼓掌) as he was rolled unannounced to the front of the altar (聖壇) in the square. He addressed the crowd of faithful and shared his experience of being ill, and he also offered prayers for doctors, nurses and health care workers. The pope was released from Gemelli hospital March 23rd, after battling life-threatening pneumonia during a five-week hospital stay. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Taiwan remains on US annual report on foreign trade barriers Illegal entry of Chinese national ahead of PLA drills probed by prosecutors Putin begins biggest Russian military call-up Trump floats outreach to North Korean leader Iceland volcano's eruption -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 188-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 20,884 on turnover of 5.2-billion N-T. The market plunged more than 4-per cent on Monday on the back of investor concerns over U-S President Donald Trump's tariff threats that could become reality later this week. Monday's decline was the fourth steepest in terms of points in the Tai-Ex's history. Lai urges steps to stabilize Taiwan's economy as U.S. tariffs loom President Lai Ching-te has told Premier Cho Jung-tai to take steps to guarantee Taiwan's economic stability ahead of the expected imposition of "reciprocal tariffs" by the United States tomorrow. According to Presidential Office spokeswoman Karen Kuo, Lai made the call after hearing a presentation by Cho and members of the government's "Taiwan-U.S. trade work group." Kuo says the report included assessments (評估) of possible U-S tariff levels, modeling and estimates of their economic impact, and various potential response plans. The Cabinet's Office of Trade Negotiations has said it's been preparing for the tariffs and has already developed "multifaceted response plans." Interior Minister disbands standby rescue team to help Myanmar after Earthquake Interior Minister Liu Shyh-fang says the government has disbanded a rescue team that was on standby to travel to Myanmar following last Friday's magnitude 7.7 earthquake. According to Liu, her office made the decision after considering the continuing military conflict between Myanmar's military junta and local rebel groups over the past few days despite the strong earthquake. Liu told reporters the government would be unable to guarantee the safety of rescue team members once they arrive there and decided to take team members off standby (支援) and allow them to return to their regular operations in Taiwan. The rescue teams had been on standby since late Friday. Trump administration sanctions six Chinese officials over Hong Kong Crackdown The US has announced sanctions against six officials from China and Hong Kong over the Chinese government's crackdown on the city's pro-democracy movement. Washington and its allies have accused (指控) Beijing of not honoring a commitment to allow the formerly British territory a high degree of autonomy. Ira Spitzer reports. Lithuania 3 Missing Soldiers Bodies Recovered The U.S. Army says three of the soldiers who went missing in Lithuania have been found dead in an armored vehicle that was pulled from a swampy area in Lithuania early Monday. Another soldier is still missing. The bodies of the three were recovered after a massive (大量的) six-day effort by U.S., Polish and Lithuanian armed forces and authorities to dig the M88 Hercules vehicle out of a peat bog at the training ground. The Army says the soldiers were on a tactical training exercise when they and their vehicle were reported missing early Tuesday. Hundreds of Lithuanian and U.S. soldiers and rescuers had joined the search through the thick forests and swampy terrain. The Navy dive team is now searching the area using radar for the fourth soldier who is still missing. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Taiwan Stock Exchange's main index opened down 348.26 points at 21,254.63 on turnover of NT$8.79 billion. US and Japan defense chiefs take note of China's activates around Taiwan The defense ministers of the United States and Japan says they "took note" of military activities by China around Taiwan and reiterated their long-held support for maintaining peace across Taiwan Strait. The minister's comments come as U-S Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visited Japan on Sunday as part of his first trip to Asia since taking office During his meeting with Japan's Defense Minister Gen Nakatani, the two sides pledged (承諾的) to enhance their alliance and discussed China's growing military threats. An English-language press release issued by Japan's defense ministry said "the ministers confirmed their opposition to any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion including in the East and South China Seas." Kenting guesthouse to be fined for exceeding price rise limit A guesthouse in Kenting National Park will be fined for violating price control rules. Local authorities found it had increased its room rate by almost 900-per cent for dates covering this week's long weekend Tomb Sweeping Day holiday. The guesthouse was found not only to be engaging in price gouging but also operating more rooms than permitted, with 15 rooms in use instead of the nine registered (注冊). The Pingtung County Bureau of Transport says the guesthouse faces fines of between 10,000 and 50,000 for price gouging and a fine of 40,000 for exceeding the allowed room count. The guesthouse has also been ordered to stop operations. Tonga quake A 7.0 magnitude earthquake has caused slight damage in Tonga and brief evacuations (疏散) before the threat of a tsunami passed. The temblor hit around 100km (62 miles) northeast of the main island early today… Julie Walker reports. Mideast Gaza The U.N. says Gaza’s bakeries will run out of flour for bread within a week. Agencies have cut food distributions to families in half. Markets are empty of most vegetables. Many aid workers cannot move around because of Israeli bombardment (轟擊). Aid groups are trying to stretch out what little supplies they have as Israel's blockade of all food, medicine, fuel and other supplies into Gaza enters its fifth week. Palestinians are crowding free kitchens for prepared meals, amid fears of a catastrophic rise in hunger. Fuel and medicine will last some weeks longer before hitting zero. Pope Improvement Pope Francis has shown ‘’a truly surprising improvement’’ since returning to the Vatican to convalesce… This… after surviving (倖存下來) a life-threatening bout with double-pneumonia. Trisha Thomas reports from Rome. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 116-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 21,836 on turnover of $5.7-billion N-T. Cabinet to establish agency for strengthening personal data protection The Cabinet has approved a proposal paving the way (（為…）創造條件) for the establishment of an independent agency tasked with strengthening personal data protection in Taiwan. According to the Cabinet, the proposed bill and amendments will provide the legal basis for the planned Personal Data Protection Commission. Under the proposal, each government agency should also appoint a "personal data protection officer" to coordinate and oversee efforts to strengthen data protection and promote awareness of its importance. The head of the planned agency's preparatory office, says the commission will include five to seven commissioners serving for renewable four-year terms .. .. and it will primarily be tasked with handling cases of personal data breaches in both government agencies and private enterprises that "do not have a specific competent authority. Full-length photo of Taiwan's tallest tree The Taiwan Forestry Research Institute has unveiled a full-length photo of Taiwan's tallest tree. The tree is a Taiwania nicknamed "Heaven Sword" and measures 84.1-meters in height. The forestry research institute says photo was made possible thanks to its collaboration with a National Cheng Kung University team nicknamed "Taiwan champion trees," and Steven Pearce, the leader of Australia's The Tree Project. According to the institute, the full photographing of the tree was completed in January of 2023. Institute Deputy Director Wu Meng-ling says the research team spent six days climbing mountains and trekking up the Da'an River to reach the tree before they could begin photographing it. The tree was located using airborne light detection and ranging technology - which can obtain (獲得) three-dimensional information over a large area in a short time, which in turn helps to measure the height of trees. US Rubio on Signalgate "Big Mistake" US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says someone made a big mistake (錯誤) by adding a journalist to a group chat of top US officials ahead of US airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen. Kate Fisher reports from Washington Canada PM and Trump Schedule Phone Call Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney says he will talk to U.S. President Donald Trump soon after Trump announced 25% tariffs on auto imports. Carney said Thursday that Trump reached out Wednesday night to schedule a call, and the two leaders would speak "in the course of the next day or two." Carney was sworn in (宣誓就職) as Canada’s new prime minister on March 14th, but he hasn’t spoken with Trump since taking office. Trump has declared a trade war on Canada and continues to call for the United States' northern neighbor to become the 51st U.S. state, a position that has infuriated Canadians. King Charles Hospitalized for Treatment Side Effects Buckingham Palace says King Charles III was hospitalized for observation on Thursday after experiencing “temporary side effects,’’ related to a scheduled cancer treatment. His engagements for Thursday afternoon and Friday were cancelled. The palace says the move is a "precautionary (預防性的) measure" The 76-year-old king has been undergoing treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer for more than a year. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 167-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,093 on turnover of 5.4-billion N-T. The market closed little changed on Wednesday, as many investors opted to stay on the sidelines amid lingering concerns over tariff threats from the Trump administration. The slump came after tech stocks took hit on Wall Street overnight - as the Nasdaq lost 2-per cent. Turnover stood at 214-billion N-T and market watchers say the low turnover was evidence that investors are reluctant to chase prices for now before the White House announces its reciprocal tariff policy - which is expected by April 2. Analysts say the local main board is expected to continue to move in a narrow range at around the 240-day moving average of 22,330 points before those reciprocal tariff actions are launched. Four former-servicemen found guilty of selling documents to China operative The Taipei District Court has sentenced four former military personnel to prison terms after finding them guilty of selling documents to a middleman for the Chinese intelligence services. Three of those sentenced were members of the 211th Military Police Battalion, which guards the Presidential Office, while the fourth served in the ministry's Information, Communications and Electronic Force Command. The four were convicted for breaching (違反) national security laws and accepting bribes and given sentences of between five and seven years. The sentences can be appealed. Academics slam Lai's populism, freedom of speech erosion Some 75 academics are accusing President Lai Ching-te of using populism to rally supporters, leading to the rapid erosion of free speech in Taiwan .. .. and have all co-signed a statement titled "Defending Taiwan's Democracy, Rule of Law, and Peace." They're calling on the government to the government to halt its actions and avoid (避免) further harming Taiwan's democracy and rule of law for the sake of short-term political gain. They're also arguing that "in order to defend" Taiwan's "democracy, rule of law, peace and security," the government should "adhere to the constitutional system and take immediate and effective measures to improve cross-strait relations." NKorea Kim Observes Drone Tests North Korea says leader Kim Jong Un observed tests of newly developed reconnaissance and attack drones this week and called for their increased production. Photos released by state media Thursday showed Kim observing what appeared to be a large reconnaissance (偵察) drone roughly resembling Boeing’s E-7 Wedgetail airborne warning and control aircraft. Other images showed exploding drones crashing into targets. The report said the exploding drones feature unspecified artificial intelligence capabilities. State media said Kim expressed satisfaction with the drones’ performance and approved plans to expand production, emphasizing that drones and AI should be top priorities in efforts to advance his military and adapt it to modern warfare. Trump 25Percent Tariffs on Auto Imports Donald Trump has announced a 25% tariff on all automobiles imported into the United States. The US president says the move is intended to boost (增強；推動) domestic manufacturing but it's expected to raise prices for US car buyers. Ira Spitzer has more. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 54-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,327 on turnover of 2.7-billion N-T. The market rebounded from a slump the previous session on Tuesday - as large cap electronics stocks were in focus following gains on Wall Street overnight after U-S news media reports said the Trump administration may implement more measured trade actions. Power plants scale back operations as smog envelops northern Taiwan The Ministry of Environment says power plants have temporarily been scaling back operations after air pollution in the north reached unhealthy levels. According to the ministry, "red warnings" - indicating air that is unhealthy for all groups - were triggered at monitoring stations in Taipei, New Taipei, Keelung and Taoyuan Tuesday afternoon .. .. and it coordinated with Tai-Power to implement load reduction (減少) and emissions controls at power plants in Keelung, Yunlin County, Taichung and Kaohsiung in order to mitigate the effects of the pollution. The environment ministry says the total reduced power generation amounted to 132.52-million kilowatt-hours as of 6PM. Ex-captain charged with corruption sent back to Taiwan A former army captain charged with corruption has been repatriated in a joint mission by Taiwanese and Filipino authorities. According to the Ministry of Justice's Investigation Bureau, Lee Chen-yu was detained in the Philippines for over a year after he was arrested by Filipino authorities in Cebu in February 2024 based on information from Taiwan that he was a fugitive. The bureau says Filipino authorities refused to deport Lee to Taiwan, because they mistook him for another fugitive (逃犯) with the same name and needed to investigate whether he was involved in other cases. However, he was finally returned to Taiwan yesterday following talks between Taiwan and Philippine officials. Lee was formally arrested on his arrival at Taoyuan International Airport. Ukraine Russia to Halt Black Sea Attacks Ukraine and Russia have agreed to halt military strikes in the Black Sea and to allow safe passage of commercial shipping vessels. The move comes after U.S. officials held several days of talks with representatives from Moscow and Kyiv in Saudi Arabia. But major questions remain over whether this agreement will be able to be effectively (有效地) implemented. William Denselow reports from Kyiv. King Charles Visit to Vatican Postponed King Charles III’s scheduled audience with Pope Francis at the Vatican next month has been postponed by mutual agreement after medical advice suggested the pontiff would be better off with more rest. Buckingham Palace made the announcement in a statement Tuesday. The tentative audience was among details of the British monarch’s visit to the Vatican and Italy last week by the palace. The royal visit to Italy, which is scheduled to start on April 7, will continue. The Pope was released from hospital Sunday after 38 days of treatment (治療) for double pneumonia and is under doctors orders to observe two months of rest during which he should avoid large gatherings. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

900 to participate in military-free Tainan civil defense drill Tainan presents MRT Blue Line plan U.S. airstrikes targeting Yemen’s Houthi rebels Turkey protests saw journalists arrested Judge ruled to restrict DOGE access -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 139-points this morning from Friday's close, at 22,348 on turnover of 3.4-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Friday, following a lackluster session on Wall Street overnight, as investors remain uneasy over uncertainty over U-S President Donald Trump policies. Investors also opted to shun (避開，躲避) tech shares following recent fluctuations. Labor rights groups to stage hunger strike in push for more days off A coalition of labor rights groups has announced plans to launch a hunger strike next month to demand the reinstatement of the seven days off scrapped (取消) in 2016. The announcement comes as lawmakers are slated to review bills on "anniversaries and national holidays enforcement." According to the "Work with Dignity" alliance, its calling on people to join its 200-hour April 11 to 19 hunger strike, which will take place outside the Legislative Yuan. The alliance is also urging employers to pay more into employee pension pots and for the establishment of a similar system for foreign workers. Related bills are set to be reviewed in the coming week. The 1st World Bird Fair--News Taiwan's rich avian diversity attracts bird enthusiasts from around the globe, positioning Taiwan as a key birdwatching hub. Sponsored by the World Birdfairs Council, Taiwan's 1st World Bird Fair will be co-hosted by the Taiwan Tourism Administration and National Park Service from September 19th to 23rd 2025. There'll be an exhibition open to the public for free on the 20th and 21st. Organizers say they've also invited experts, tour operators and conservation groups from home and abroad (國外) to join two forums focusing on the World Bird Ecotourism Experience. The event aims to promote bird conservation and birdwatching ecotourism. The fair will take place at Taichung City's Civic Plaza, attracting birders from around the world. SKorea Overturns PM Impeachment South Korea’s Constitutional Court overturned parliament’s impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, reinstating him as acting president. Han, South Korea’s No. 2 official, had become acting leader after President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached by the opposition-controlled National Assembly over his Dec. 3 imposition (實施) of martial law that triggered a massive political crisis. But Han was impeached by the assembly as well in late December following political strife with opposition lawmakers. The Constitutional Court says today it has decided to overturn Han’s impeachment. The court has yet to issue a ruling on Yoon’s impeachment. Yoon has been separately arrested and charged with rebellion in connection with his martial law decree. If convicted of that charge, he would face the death penalty or a life sentence. And if the court rules against him, South Korea must hold a national election to find a new president. Pope Returns to Vatican from Hospital The Pope has arrived home at Vatican after 5-week hospital stay to beat life-threatening bout of pneumonia (肺炎). AP correspondent Trisha Thomas reports That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 15-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,362 on turnover of $4.2-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan staged a significant technical rebound, soaring more than 400 points Thursday led by the electronics sector, as buying was triggered by a U.S. rally following a Federal Reserve decision described by the market as dovish. Artificial intelligence-related stocks also bounced back from a recent slump with iPhone assembler and AI server maker Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. both ending up, and buying was seen across the board, although the gains posted by nontech stocks were largely capped. Labor ministry mulls opening up six types of jobs to foreign students The Ministry of Labor is planning to amend regulations that will allow foreign students who have graduated from a Taiwan university to work six types of jobs categorized by the ministry as "intermediate-skilled" jobs. According to the labor ministry, revisions represent an interdepartmental (跨部門的) effort to tackle a growing labor shortage. The six types of jobs covered by the amended regulations include assistant nurses, intercity and city bus drivers and cargo vehicle drivers. The amendments will be made to employment qualifications, skill requirements, and regulations on changing employers. Officials say they will enter a public review period by the end of this month at the earliest, to solicit input from the public before they go into effect. The labor ministry's Cross-Border Workforce Management Division says the positions will be open to graduated students from Hong Kong and Macau, but not to those from China. MH370 Search to Resume A robotics company in Texas has been given the green light to resume a search for Malaysian Airlines flight MH370 - 11 years after the plane disappeared without a trace (無影無蹤) over the Indian Ocean. Toni Waterman has more. Turkey Protests Against Istanbul Mayor Arrest Thousands of people have gathered outside Istanbul’s city hall for a second consecutive night to rally against the arrest of the city’s popular mayor. Ekrem Imamoglu was arrested Wednesday as part of investigations into alleged corruption and terror links. Many view the arrest of a prominent contender against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan as a politically driven attempt to eliminate a key rival from the next presidential race. The government strongly rejects the claim insisting that the courts operate independently. On Thursday authorities detained 37 people for allegedly sharing “provocative (煽動的)” content on social media following Imamoglu's arrest. World Happiness Report Finland Top A new global report says that people in Finland are the happiest in the world. The northern European country is leading the world in happiness for the eighth year in a row. The World Happiness Report released on Thursday says the top 20 happiest countries include 14 Western industrial countries, two countries from Latin America and one from the Middle East. The United States has fallen to its lowest-ever position at 24, having previously peaked at 11th place in 2012. Afghanistan is again ranked (排名) as the unhappiest country in the world. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 210-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,171 on turnover of $6.7-billion N-T. The market took a beating on Wednesday as the bellwether electronics sector was in investor focus after tech stocks saw heavy losses on Wall Street overnight ahead of the conclusion of the U-S Federal Reserve's two-day policymaking meeting. Market watchers say foreign institutional investors stayed on the sell side during the session and the local main board could see further unpredictability (不可預測性) as volatility on U-S markets is continuing to dictate large-cap electronics stocks here in Taiwan. Taipei animal protection office seeks new owner for bitey pit bull Authorities in Taipei are seeking a new owner for a pit bull named "Lucky," who was confiscated from it owner after biting people on two separate occasions this month. The Taipei City Animal Protection Office says "Lucky" is currently being kept alone to minimize (使降到最低) stress and is looking for owners who have experience with pit bulls. "Lucky" mauled people on two separate occasions, prompting the Taipei City government to fine the owner 200,000 N-T for violating the Animal Protection Act by allowing an aggressive animal out in public place without proper supervision and precautions. The authorities confiscated the dog on Tuesday. The Taipei City government's Department of Economic Development says the original owner is no longer allowed to look after Lucky due to his lack of control over the animal. Russia Ukraine Prisoner Swap Russia and Ukraine say they have each swapped 175 prisoners in one of the largest exchanges of the war began. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Wednesday the exchange included severely (嚴重地) wounded fighters whom Russia had prosecuted on fabricated (編造的) charges. He says all those who returned will receive immediate medical and psychological assistance. Russia's Defense Ministry said it had released an additional 22 severely wounded Ukraine captives as a goodwill gesture. Originally, Russian President Vladimir Putin had promised to release 23 prisoners when he spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump about a potential partial ceasefire. There was no immediate comment on the reason the number changed. Reknowned Pianist to Boycott US Over Trump Presidency The concert pianist Andras Schiff has become the latest performer to announce that he will boycott the United States over Donald Trump's presidency. Mr. Schiff is widely considered (被視為) one of the world's leading performers of music by Bach and Mozart, and has announced he is cancelling plans to tour the country later this year. From Washington, Simon Marks reports. Pope Condition Continues to Improve Pope Francis’s condition has continued to improve and he no longer needs to use noninvasive mechanical ventilation to help him breathe at night. The Vatican said 88-year-old pontiff is also reducing his reliance on high-flow supplemental oxygen during the day. The Holy See press office says his double pneumonia infection, while not completely eliminated, is under control. Francis celebrated Mass on Wednesday, on the anniversary of his installation as pope 12 years ago. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 26-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,245 on turnover of 4.1-billion N-T. The market closed up on Tuesday, as buying was sparked by a rally on Wall Street overnight on hopes that the U-S Federal Reserve will cut interest rates after the release of worse-than-expected retail (零售) sales data in February. MND send Quadrennial Defense Review to LY for review Defense Minister Wellington Koo is slated to meet with members of the Legislative National Defense Committee later today to answer quesitons about the Quadrennial Defense Report. The report was sent to the Legislative Yuan yesterday for review. This report focuses on the need to building strong defenses and a multilayered deterrence (威懾), while also elaborating on military cooperation with the United States. The report has to be submitted to the the Legislative Yuan within 10 months of the presidential inauguration. CDC seeing an end to flu epidemic The Centers for Disease Control says the ongoing influenza epidemic is expected to end in late March. According to the C-D-C, a total of around 108,000 outpatient and emergency visits due to flu-like illness were reported from March 9 through 15 .. .. and that figure indicate (顯示) a downward trend, but still an ongoing epidemic. The C-D-C says the most common respiratory pathogen in the community is the flu virus, with the majority being influenza type A. C-D-C Deputy Director-General Tseng Shu-hui says that the flu epidemic remains at a "critical point" and "still requires continued monitoring." UN Guterres Shocked at Israel's Gaza Strikes The United Nations Secretary General has expressed shock at the overnight Israeli attacks on Gaza. Israel launched a series of air strikes on the enclave (飛地) on Monday night ending an almost two month ceasefire. Jody Jacobs reports from New York where the Security Council ismeeting on the matter. Mali Withdraws from FrenchSpeakingCountry Alliance Mali has withdrawn from a global alliance of French-speaking countries, days after two of its neighbors took the same step. In a letter seen by The Associated Press on Tuesday, Mali’s foreign ministry accused its French counterpart of “selective application of sanctions” and “contempt for Mali’s sovereignty.” On Monday, the alliance's spokeswoman said Burkina Faso and Niger had also decided to remove their countries from the organization, which had already suspended the membership of the three countries over military coups in recent years. Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso are now all ruled by military juntas that have severed diplomatic ties with France and expelled (驅逐) French troops while building security partnerships with Russia instead. The three will have six months to discuss the terms of their withdrawal from the alliance before it becomes final. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 85-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,204 on turnover of 4.8-billion N-T. The market closed higher on Monday led by artificial intelligence related stocks ahead off the start of Nvidia's annual G-P-U technology conference - at which its hoped the company will be showcasing positive leads. Chinese 'military unification' influencer 'in theory' must go by 24th Interior Minister Liu Shi-fang says a Chinese national who advocated for China's annexation of Taiwan through military force should, "in theory," leave the country within 10 days of receiving her deportation order. According to Liu, the woman received that deportation order on Saturday. Speaking during a legislative hearing, the interior minister said the deportation order is "somewhat similar (相似的)" to registered mail - where the time starts from the day after the recipient receives the letter. .. and if "it was delivered to your house but you didn't receive it until the next day, then counting would start from the third day, which means there is some wiggle room." The statement comes after the National Immigration Agency this past weekend announced that a deportation order had been sent to a woman identified by a public social media account known as "Yaya in Taiwan." St. Kitts and Nevis foreign minister visits Taiwan The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says Saint Kitts and Nevis' foreign minister is visiting Taiwan this week. According to the ministry, it's the third time that Denzil Douglas has visited Taiwan is his capacity (職位) as foreign minister and he will be meeting with senior government officials during his five-day stay. Douglas and his delegation were welcomed on arriving at Taoyuan International Airport by Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi. Douglas is scheduled to meet with President Lai Ching-te and Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung this week. The delegation will also visit the Ministry of Economic Affairs. Israel Launches New Strikes Against Hamas Israel launched new strikes against Hamas and promised ‘increasing military force’ after talks on on further hostage releases stalled. Early Friday morning, Israel’s Prime Minister’s office said it instructed the army to strike Hamas across Gaza. The statement said it was because of Hamas’ repeated refusals to release its hostages and its rejection (拒絕) of all offers it received from the U.S. presidential envoy Steve Witkoff and mediators. The strikes come after nearly two months of a ceasefire to pause the 17-month long war where dozens of hostages were released for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. Hamas is believed to have 24 living hostages and the bodies of 35 others. Sweden Gives Uganda Funds for Ebola Sweden has announced new funding of $2 million to support Uganda's response to the ongoing Sudan Ebola Virus Outbreak. The funding will strengthen efforts in the affected districts of Kampala, Mbale, and Jinja – focusing on risk communication, infection prevention (預防), and critical health services. Michael Baleke reports. Pope Shows Slight Improvement Pope Francis is registering new slight improvements in his monthlong treatment for double pneumonia. The 88-year-old pope is now able to spend some time during the day off high flows of oxygen and use just ordinary supplemental oxygen delivered by a nasal tube. Doctors are also trying to cut back on the amount of time he uses a noninvasive (非侵入性的) mechanical ventilation mask at night, to force his lungs to work more. The Vatican press office also provided some details Monday on the first photo of the pope released since his hospitalization. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 169-points this morning from Friday's close, at 22,138 on turnover of $5.5-billion N-T. The market closed little changed on Friday after moving in consolidation mode throughout the session after Canada and the European Union both took retaliatory against measures against Donald Trump's tariffs. Analsysts say investors will be keeping a close eye on how the U-S government will impose reciprocal tariffs and the aftermath, which will affect global financial markets. MOFA protests rep office name change on South African gov't website The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it has lodged an official protest over the "unilateral" change to the name of Taiwan's representative office on a South African government website. The statement comes after an update to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation website listed the "Taipei Liaison Office" as the "Taipei Commercial Office." According to the foreign ministry, the South African government is seeking to "downgrade" the representative office and recategorize it as a "trade office" based in the commercial capital Johannesburg. South Africa has set a deadline of the end of this month for Taiwan to change the name of its representative office and relocate it. However, the foreign ministry is insisting that per an agreement signed the year before diplomatic relations with South Africa ended in 1998, Taiwan is permitted to operate a liaison office in Pretoria. Kaohsiung's Fengshan Marathon apologizes for PLA rifle trophies The organizers of Sunday's Fengshan Marathon in Kaohsiung have apologized for giving out trophies shaped like a Chinese military rifle. According to the Fengshan Road Running Association, it originally chose the design for the trophies because the 2025 edition of the annual marathon passed through three military academies. However, the association says it recognized the choice was "inconsiderate" and had apologized to those who received the trophies. The association also says it will contact all trophy recipients to replace the rifle-shaped trophies with alternatives. The statement was issued after one of the participants of Sunday's marathon posted a photograph of the trophy and joked about how it was shaped like Chinese rifle. Judge stalls Trump's order to speed deportations The U-S government is slamming a federal judge's decision to stop the administration from carrying out deportations under a sweeping (廣泛的) 18th century law. The A-P's Donna Warder has more. Mark Carney heading to Paris and London Canada's new Prime Minister Mark Carney is heading to Paris and London to seek alliances as he deals U-S President Donald Trump's attacks on Canada's sovereignty and economy. Carney is purposely making his first foreign trip to the capital cities of the two countries that shaped Canada's early existence. At his swearing-in ceremony on Friday, Carney noted the country was built on the bedrock (基礎) of three peoples, French, English and Indigenous. He said Canada is fundamentally a different country from America and will never, ever, in any way shape or form, be part of the United States. SpaceX capsule arrives at the International Space Station And finally, A SpaceX capsule has arrived at the International Space Station, delivering the replacements for NASA's two stuck astronauts. The new crew pulled up Sunday, just 29 hours after blasting off. The four newcomers will spend the next few days learning the station's ins and outs from Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams. Then it will be time for those two to end their nine-month stay and head home. They expected to be gone just a week when they launched on Boeing's first astronaut flight last June. The Starliner capsule had so many problems that NASA insisted it come back empty (空的). Wilmore and Williams will come back via SpaceX. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 125-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,403 on turnover of 6.5-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed higher on a technical rebound Wednesday from a slump a session earlier, led by large cap tech stocks. But analysts say parts of earlier gains were eroded amid uncertainties caused by U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff policies. With the rebound featuring tech stocks, old economy industries largely moved in weakness caused by tariff concerns. Taiwan Closed National Freeway Lane for Earliest Butterfly Protection in Decade Highway officials closed part of National Freeway 3 yesterday in Yunlin County, due to a large migration of purple crow butterflies. And according to local conservationists, this marked the earliest closure (關閉) before the usual peak around the Tomb Sweeping Festival in early April. Conservationists reported over 30-thousand purple crow butterflies migrated through the area in the morning, peaking at 690 per minute. The Freeway Bureau installed a 1,100-meter protective net and closed an outer lane once butterfly traffic exceeded 250 per minute. Experts say an early migration was triggered by a colder winter followed by recent warm weather, with butterfly numbers expected to surge from March 20th until the end of the month. EU Talks Ukraine and Security France's Defense Minister revealed that 15 countries are willing to contribute to a "new security architecture" in Ukraine. This comes at meeting of European defense ministers, as Moscow considers (考慮) an immediate 30-day ceasefire proposed by Washington and Kyiv. Stuart Smith has more from the French capital. Argentina Protests Against Austerity Measures Argentine retirees and fans of several soccer teams have clashed with police during a protest in front of Congress in the capital, Buenos Aires, against the economic policies implemented by the government of President Javier Milei. What started as a peaceful demonstration escalated into violent clashes as police deployed water cannons, tear gas, and pellets against stone-throwing protesters. For weeks, Buenos Aires retirees have held weekly protests demanding higher pensions, citing a precarious standard of living. The government of far-right President Javier Milei, who has championed a policy of public spending cuts since coming to power a year and a half ago, had warned of restrictions on entry to stadiums for those who cause disorder (動亂). Greenland Independence Party Surprise Victory in Parliamentary Elections A party that favors a gradual path to Greenland’s independence from Denmark has won a surprise victory in parliamentary elections. Tuesday's voting was held in the shadow of U.S. President Donald Trump’s stated goal of taking control of the island. The Demokraatit Party, a pro-business party that favors a slow path to independence, has pushed back against Trump’s rhetoric, saying it is for Greenlanders to decide the future of the strategically (在戰略上) important territory. The mineral-rich Arctic island is also home to a U.S. air base and straddles strategic air and sea routes in the North Atlantic. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

AIT offered funds to Kuma Academy Taiwan Police and Coast Guard Officers Named in Smuggling Investigation Britain congratulates Ukraine, US on deal Yemen's Houthi rebels warning of attack on ships Greenland votes in parliamentary elections. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Government bemoans artists' China propaganda posts Formosan black bear captured again, much thinner than before Ceasefire Talks to end Russia-Ukraine War Reports of MMR vaccines running low -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 27-points this morning from Friday's close, at 22,548 on turnover of 5.5-billion N-T. The market closed lower on Friday, as selling was sparked by losses on Wall Street overnight following the launch of a trade war by the Trump administration. Overall losses were capped by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, but market watchers are warning that the local stock market will continue to struggle as long as the impact of tariffs remains. National Human Rights Commission members attend Tibet uprising event Members of the National Human Rights Commission have attended an annual march in Taipei organized by civic groups to commemorate the 1959 Tibetan uprising. Speaking at the event, commission vice chair Wang Yu-ling said it's the first time members of the agency have attended the annual event since its founding in August 2020. According to Wang, what the Chinese government has done in Tibet since the 1950s could be considered (把…當作) an act of "ethnic cleansing and genocide," "human rights have no borders" and "today's Tibet could be the future of Taiwan." The march was attended by some 100 participants. India largest of 90 buyer countries at Taipei machinery show The External Trade Development Council says of the countries that made deals at the 2025 Taipei International Machine Tool Show, India was the biggest buyer. The show took place last week at the Nangang Exhibition Hall in Taipei under the main theme "AI and Robotics." The event attracted (吸引了) more than 4,160 buyers from 90 countries who made deals with over 1,000 participating exhibitors (參展商). The five countries that made the most deals during the trade show were India, Japan, China, South Korea and Malaysia. US Palestinian Activist Arrested US Immigration and Customs Enforcement has arrested a Palestinian activist who helped lead Columbia University protests. AP correspondent Julie Walker reports Argentina Flooding Leaves 15 Dead Officials in Argentina say heavy rains that flooded a city on the country's east coast have killed at least 15 people. Rescue teams on Sunday searched for dozens reported missing, after the floodwaters resulting from rains that began pelting (急降，猛落) the city of Bahia Blanca on Friday. Crews have evacuated more than 1,450 people from the city located south of the capital of Buenos Aires. Those evacuated include patients from a local hospital. Some 300 millimeters of rain have fallen in Bahia Blanca in recent days, when the historical monthly average is about 129 millimeters. No rain was forecast for the next 72 hours. Nepal Protests Supporting Former King Thousands of supporters have greeted Nepal’s former king in capital Kathmandu and demanded his abolished monarchy be reinstated and Hinduism brought back as a state religion. An estimated 10,000 supporters of Gyanendra Shah blocked the main entrance to Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport on Sunday as he arrived from a tour of western Nepal. Hundreds of riot police blocked the protesters from entering the airport and there was no violence (暴力行為). Massive street protests in 2006 forced Gyanendra to give up his authoritarian rule but many Nepalis have since grown frustrated with the republic and a struggling economy. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened opened down 19-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,696 on turnover of $7.2-billion N-T. Parent group calls for stop to publication of student test scores The Taiwan Parent Education Association is urged high schools cease publishing the scores of Taiwan's aptitude tests for high school and college admission. According to the association, some high schools publish the names of students who achieved (達到了) a perfect score on the General Scholastic Ability Test and this practice causes students stress over their test scores .. … and contradicts the Ministry of Education's direction to not use test scores as the only metric for being admitted to or applying to universities. The association says high schools should stop publishing students' test scores, and the media should stop reporting on the issue to allow more students to be vetted by universities based on their achievements in a range of areas, not just their test scores. Tai Tzu-ying career tribute exhibition opens in Taipei An exhibition honoring former world No. 1 badminton player Tai Tzu-ying is now taking place in Taipei is celebration of her career. Titled "Ying-credible Career -- Tai Tzu Ying Tribute Exhibition," the event has been organized by her long-time sponsor Victor. It's taking place until March 16 at the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park. The exhibition features many of Tai's player credentials (證書), along with game-used shuttlecocks, shoes, and medals-including 32 open titles. Tai is still recovering from knee injuries that plagued her throughout 2024. Tai previously stated that she plans to retire from competitive badminton at the end of last year, but she has not yet made any official announcements concerning her career. US Ukraine Talks in Saudi Arabia Next Week Officials from the U.S. and Ukraine are planning to meet in Saudi Arabia next week to work on a structure for a possible ceasefire with Russia. It comes after a week of turmoil (動盪) in relations, including arguments between the leaders of Ukraine and the US at the White House. Caroline Malone reports. Australia Underage Gunman Detained on Plane Police say a 17-year-old boy with a loaded shotgun boarded a plane in Australia before being restrained by a pilot and two passengers. Police and a passenger said the boy climbed through a hole in the airport fence and posed as (冒充為) a maintenance worker to board the plane Thursday. The boy was disarmed (拿走武器) and detained before police arrived on the scene at Avalon Airport in Victoria state. Police said Friday the boy had been charged with unlawfully taking control of an aircraft, possessing a firearm and other crimes. Mexico Monarch Butterfly Numbers Rebound The number of monarch butterflies wintering in the mountains west of Mexico City, rebounded this year, doubling the area they covered in 2024 despite the stresses of climate change. Mexico’s Commission for National Protected Areas said that this year, butterflies covered 1.79 hectares compared to only 0.9 hectares the year before. Last year’s figure represented a 59% drop from 2023, the second lowest level since record keeping began. The annual butterfly count doesn’t calculate the individual (個) number of butterflies, but rather the area they cover as they gather on tree branches in the mountain forests. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 58-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,930 on turnover of $5.9-billion N-T. The market moved sharply higher on Wednesday following a significant rebound for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing - which closed the session with a rise of 2-per cent .. .. and that contributed about 160 points to the Tai-Ex's overall gains and sent the electronics index up by 1.43-per cent. FDA proposes relaxation of rules on Japanese beef imports The Food and Drug Administration has released a draft revision to regulations regarding Japanese bovine imports that, if implemented, would allow the importation (輸入) of beef from cattle of any age. Under current regulations, beef from Japan must meet several conditions, including being derived from cattle under 30 months of age, inspected by a veterinary officer, and produced by an officially-recognized factory. F-D-A Deputy Director-General Lin Jin-fu says the government is seeking to update the "Import regulations for Japanese beef and its products" to remove the age limit for Japanese cattle - similar to regulatory practices in the United States and Canada. However, Lin says each batch of cattle products from Japan will still require official veterinary certificates and be produced by "approved factories" to be allowed to enter Taiwan. US Supreme Court rejects Trump administration request to freeze foreign aid The US Supreme Court has rejected (拒絕) an emergency request by the Trump administration to freeze nearly 2 billion dollars in foreign aid. The order requires the government to release the funds to aid groups for work already completed. Ira Spitzer reports. Greece Protests Outside Parliament Protesters have launched gasoline bombs and fireworks in clashes with police outside Greece's parliament. The protest Wednesday in central Athens is part of a nationwide wave of demonstrations calling for politicians to be held accountable for a 2023 rail disaster that claimed 57 lives. Scores of youths set fire to trash bins and police in riot gear (防暴裝備) responded with tear gas and baton charges. There have been no immediate reports of injuries or arrests. The fierce clashes erupted hours after opposition parties challenged Greece’s center-right government with a no-confidence motion in parliament. Victims' relatives want politicians to be held accountable for failures that led to the head-on collision in February 2023. Only rail officials have been charged. Canada on Trump Tariffs A senior Canadian government official says Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is not willing to lift Canada’s retaliatory tariffs if Trump leaves any tariffs on Canada. The official was not authorized to speak publicly on the matter, only saying Trump and Trudeau spoke by phone around midday. Other Canadian officials publicly echoed (附和) Trudeau's position. Canada's commerce secretary has said there might be carveouts (從整體中獲取一些東西) coming to the 25% tariffs placed on Canada and Mexico by President Donald Trump, a softening of the U.S. position after Tuesday’s tax hike hurt the stock market, worried consumers and started a trade war. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex rebounded from recent losing sessions this morning - opening up 181-points yesterday's close, at 22,778 on turnover of 8.9-billion N-T. The market closed down by 0.7-per cent on Tuesday, but managed to recoup some of its early losses, as investor sentiment remained cautious in the wake of volatility on Wall Street overnight … .. which was sparked by U-S President Donald Trump confirming that tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico would go into effect later in the day. Premier touts TSMC's expanded US plan Premier Cho Jung-tai is voicing his support for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing's new investment in the United States. According to Cho, government sees T-S-M-C's expanded investment positively, because it will boost Taiwan's competitive edge (競爭力) inthe global market, and "making Taiwan stronger is the common stance of the government and industry." Cho says the government has long been encouraging domestic industries to expand worldwide and is providing necessary assistance for such expansions. The premier also says he hopes T-S-M-C's investments will continue to create mutual benefits and a win-win situation with Taiwan's allies. Cabinet spokeswoman Michelle Lee says the U-S has become the top destination of Taiwanese investors, as local companies seek to extend their global reach and the U-S accounted for 30-per cent of Taiwan's total overseas investment last year. CPBL head reacts to WBC fine Chinese Professional Baseball League President Tsai Chi-chang is vowing to reflect on the reasons the national team was find 20,000 U-S dollars for violating regulations during last month's World Baseball Classic qualifiers at the Taipei Dome. The team was fined by tournament organizes - Major League Baseball - for violating a rule regarding the use of electronic devices. The M-L-B says movers were found to have used their phones in an office where equipment was stored - in violations of (違反) a rule banning players or team staff member from using electronic devices in all areas considered to be part of the competition. Tsai is admitted that mistakes were made, but stressing that he wasn't in the dugout during the qualifying games and that the C-P-B-L will accept the fine in accordance with the rules. US Investors to Buy Panama Canal Ports A consortium of US investors has agreed to buy majority stakes in two ports on the Panama canal from a Hong Kong-based company for nearly 20 billion dollars. The deal comes in the wake of allegations by the Trump administration that Chinese influence (影響) over the waterway poses a security risk to the US. Ira Spitzer reports. China Keeps 5Percent Growth Target Meanwhile… China is keeping its economic growth target at “around 5%” for 2025 despite a looming trade war with the United States and other headwinds (阻力，逆風). Premier Li Qiang announced the target in a report presented at the opening session of the National People's Congress today. The report says a target of around 5% is well aligned with the country's mid- and long-term development goals. The IMF has projected that China’s economy will grow 4.6% this year, down from 5% in 2024, according to Chinese government statistics. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 247-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,508 on turnover of 10-billion N-T. The market tumbled nearly 300 points on Monday as investor sentiment took a hit follow comments by U-S President Donald Trump that his 25-per cent tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico will take effect on March 4 as planned. FM believes Taiwan see more opportunities than threats in Trump's China policy Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung says he believes the confrontational policy being seen in Donald Trump's second U-S presidency toward China is more of an opportunity for Taiwan than a threat. According to Lin, the main focus of Trump's second term is in countering China … … and although countering China does not necessarily mean supporting Taiwan, the Trump administration's stance (立場) gives the island the opportunity to find common interests. Speaking during an interview with an online media outlet, Lin said for Taiwan's national interests, the government is finding interests shared with Washington and focusing on pushing policies where the interests of both countries are aligned. CDC reporting decline in flu case clinic visits The Centers for Disease Control says its been seeing a decline in the number of people seeking medical treatment for influenza-like symptoms. According to the C-D-C, there were 105,436 flu-like outpatient and emergency visits from between February 23 and March 1 -- a 24-per cent decline from the previous week. C-D-C Deputy Director General Philip Luo says the disease entered its epidemic phase (階段) before the 228 Peace Memorial Day holiday and continued to decline during the long weekend holiday, indicating it has entered a "cooling phase." Luo says the influenza is now expected to exit the epidemic phase by mid-March. US Trump Suspends Military Aide to Ukraine US President Donald Trump has ordered an immediate suspension of American military support for Ukraine, just days after his on-camera argument with the Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky. The White House says the suspension will remain (保持) in force until the Ukrainians demonstrate a "good faith commitment to peace". Our Washington Correspondent Simon Marks reports. Japan Fighting Forest Fire Japan is fighting a forest fire that has damaged dozens of homes and forced hundreds of residents to evacuate in a northeastern coastal city. Officials say fire has burned about 2,100 hectares of forest in Ofunato since it started Wednesday. The northeastern regions have had their driest winter since 1946, when the Japan Meteorological Agency started collecting data. More than 2,000 troops and and firefighters have been deployed (部署) from across the country. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 319-points this morning from Thursday's close, at 22,734 on turnover of 13-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Thursday - the final trading day of the week due to the 228 holiday. The main board tumbled nearly 350-points during that session, despite Wall Street closing little changed overnight and Nvidia reporting strong profits for the last quarter. USAID funding cuts could impact Taiwan's health system A doctor at the Taipei City Hospital's Zhongxing Branch is warning that cuts to the U-S Agency for International Development could impact Taiwan's public health system, which "relies"(依賴) on internationally collected data. It comes after the U-S last month announced plans to eliminate more than 90-per cent of US-AID's foreign aid contracts, totaling more than 58-billion dollars. According Chiang Guan-yu, US-AID cuts will reduce (減少) information sharing between American health agencies and international organizations such as the World Health Organization - which in turn could negatively impact Taiwan. The Centers for Disease Control says although Taiwan is not a member of the W-H-O, there are other "friendly countries" besides the U-S that are willing to exchange epidemic prevention information. Another cold front to arrive tomorrow The Central Weather Administration is warning that another cold front will begin affecting (影響) the island from tomorrow - pushing the mercury down once again into the mid-teens. The cold front will see temperatures dropping by about 15-degrees from the highs seen in recent days and the cold weather is forecast to last into the coming weekend. It's expected to bring rain to much of the island from Wednesday - when highs of between 18 and 20 degrees are forecast for much of the island. However, the mercury could drop to as low 13-degrees in the north and center and to 14-degrees in the south. Israel cuts off Gaza aid to pressure Hamas to accept new ceasefire proposal Israel has cut off the entry of all food and other goods into Gaza in an echo of the siege (圍城) it imposed in the earliest days of its war with Hamas. AP correspondent Julie Walker reports Canada PM to Meet with King Charles Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will meet with King Charles III today to discuss U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats to make Canada the 51st state. Trudeau says he will discuss matters of importance to Canadians and said “nothing seems more important to Canadians right now than standing up for our sovereignty and our independence as a nation.” Charles is the head of state in Canada, which is a member of the British Commonwealth of former colonies. The king has come under criticism in Canada after Buckingham Palace declined (拒絕) to comment on Trump’s threats to annex Canada. Charles, who met Sunday with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has invited Trump to come to Scotland for a state visit. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 44-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,446 on turnover of $4.5-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan broke a two-session falling streak Wednesday, as artificial intelligence stocks were boosted by expectations about an Nvidia Corp. investor conference later in the day. Analysts say after the index fell to the day's low of around 130 points, some bargain hunters jumped into the trading floor to pick up AI stocks, helping the broader market return to positive territory, and buying continued into the end of the session. Toddler hurt in Taichung blast discharged A 2 year-old girl from Macau, who sustained severe head injuries in the deadly gas explosion at a Taichung Shin Kong Mitsukoshi on February 13 has been discharged from China Medical University Hospital. She will be transported to Macau via a medical charter flight, according to the hospital. The girl's vital signs have stabilized after having been admitted in critical condition and a deep coma, though intracranial (顱內的) pressure remains a concern. The family was visiting Taiwan as a group of 7 when the explosion occurred. The girl's 85 year-old great-grandmother and 24 year-old uncle, who were both injured in the gas explosion and later transferred to the hospital for treatment, were also discharged Wednesday and are expected to return to Macau on the same flight. US registers first measles death in decade A child in the US state of Texas has died from measles (麻疹) amid a worsening outbreak. The death is the first in the country from the disease in more than a decade. Nick Harper has more. NZ Raises Concerns on China's LiveFire Exercises New Zealand’s foreign minister says China has agreed to consider concerns that its military did not give enough notice before staging live-fire exercises in the waters between New Zealand and Australia last week. Foreign Minister Winston Peters said Wednesday in Beijing that his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi took New Zealand's concerns on board. Last Friday, passenger flights between Australia and New Zealand hurriedly diverted (改變方向) after Chinese naval vessels warned pilots they were flying above a live-fire exercise. A Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson said the drills were in compliance with international law and did not affect aviation safety. Vatican Pope Shows Slight Improvement The Vatican says Pope Francis has shown further slight improvement as he battles double pneumonia, but doctors still say his prognosis (預後) is still guarded (警戒著的 ). A CT chest scan taken Tuesday evening showed the “normal evolution” of an infection as it is being treated. And the Vatican's latest update says tests have confirmed an improvement. The slight kidney insufficiency detected a few days ago has receded, and Francis is continuing to receive respiratory physiotherapy. It was the first time the Vatican has said Francis was receiving physiotherapy to help him expel (排出) fluid from his lungs. Francis resumed work in the afternoon, after receiving the Eucharist in the morning. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 64-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,222 on turnover of 5.8-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan extended their losses from a session earlier to close down by more than 270 points Tuesday, with the sell-off sparked by fears over future investments in artificial intelligence development, after Microsoft reportedly cancelled (取消) some leases for data center capacity. Analysts say investors rushed to cut their TSMC holdings as the company also faces uncertainty created by a tariff war launched by the Trump administration. Taiwan’s New Maritime Training Ship Sets Sail on Maiden Voyage to Japan A new maritime training ship is setting sail today on its maiden voyage to Tokyo, Japan. The Ministry of Education's "Yu-feng-lun"(御風輪), departed from Kaohsiung Harbor around noon today, with faculty and students from National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology on board. The 114-meter-long vessel accomodates up to 250 people, and includes state-of-the-art training facilities including simulation (模擬) systems and big data collection systems. The ship is scheduled to return to Kaohsiung on March 10-th, before departing on March 13-th for a second training voyage. A total of 10 trips are planned before August this year, with over 1,700 trainees expected to participate. (NS) Taiwan clinches WBC spot with 6-3 win over Spain Team Taiwan avoided missing the World Baseball Classic for the first time by defeating Spain 6-3 in a do-or-die game in Taipei on Tuesday. After narrowly escaping a mercy-rule loss to Spain in the WBC Qualifiers opener last Friday, the home team got its revenge (復仇) at Taipei Dome. The win-or-go-home game was a back-and-forth battle from the start, and Taiwan captain Chen Chieh-hsien thanked fans for standing by them and cheering even when WBC qualification at one point seemed out of reach. With the win, Taiwan joined Nicaragua in securing a spots in the WBC, set to take place in March 2026. US DOGE Employees Resign Twenty-one federal employees who had been working with the US's newly-named Department of Government of Efficiency - or DOGE - have resigned in protest. The anonymous employees wrote a letter blasting the Trump administration's controversial (有爭議的) cost-cutting initiative which is being led by Elon Musk. Ira Spitzer reports. Colombia "Narco Wig" Smuggler Busted Colombian police apprehended a 40-year-old man attempting to smuggle several bags of cocaine concealed beneath a meticulously (小心翼翼地) attached toupee (假髮). Police said the suspect was detained at Cartagena’s airport on Monday as he prepared to board a flight to Amsterdam. A scanner revealed the hidden cargo: 220 grams of cocaine packaged in small bags, strategically placed under the “narco wig.” Police estimate the street value of the drugs at over $10-thousand US dollars in European markets. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, 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 189-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,376 on turnover of $7.8-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan fell by more than 160 points Monday as investor sentiment was spooked by weaker-than-expected trading in the United States, which prompted fears of a U.S. slowdown. But select old economy stocks still attracted rotational buying, with shipping and steel stocks helping to prevent the Taiex from falling further." Two Receive Deferred Prosecution in Core Pacific City Case Prosecutors say two people involved in the Core Pacific City corruption case have received deferred prosecution. The Taipei District Prosecutor's Office says former Dingyue Development Corporation president Chu Yea-hu (朱亞虎) and Core Pacific Group legal affairs manager Chen Chun-yuan (陳俊源) admitted to the charges. Officials say the two must pay $3.3-million and $1.2-million NT respectively to the public treasury (國庫) within three months. The Taipei District Prosecutors Office previously indicted former Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je, Weijing Group Chairman Shen Qing-jing, and nine others for corruption, embezzlement, and other offenses. (NS) Macron Warns Trump not to "Surrender" Ukraine French President Emmanuel Macron has warned Donald Trump not to "surrender" (交出，放棄) Ukraine as he pushes for a peace deal with Russia. The two leaders met at the White House on Monday, on the third anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Nick Harper reports from Washington. Morocco Claims Dozens Arrested in Foiled IS Attack Moroccan authorities have arrested a dozen people they said were planning attacks on behalf of the Islamic State in the Sahel. The country's top investigator said Monday that the dismantling (拆解) of one of the group's terror cells reflected their growing regional ambitions. They did not provide details about what they called imminent (即將發生的) threats but released a series of videos and photographs showing officers raiding compounds they said were being used to plan attacks. In recent years, Morocco's security services claim to have dismantled 40 terrorist cells, including one as recently as January. Greece Santorini Quakes in Gradual Decline Scientists from the University of Athens monitoring an earthquake swarm near the island of Santorini say the phenomenon is in “gradual decline” nearly a month after the multiple tremors started. The undersea shocks — sometimes recorded only minutes apart — led thousands of residents and workers to flee the famed cliff-top towns of Santorini as well as the nearby islands of Ios, Amorgos and Anafi. Schools remain closed on those islands for a fourth week and many other restrictions are still in effect. But scientists said they are encouraged by the recent progression of the earthquake swarm, while local authorities say thousands of those fled have returned in recent days. Officials say from January 26th to February 22nd, they've recorded more than 20-thousand earthquakes of magnitude 1 or higher. The multiple earthquakes, attributed to natural tectonic (地殼構造的) processes as well as magma movements below the seabed, have measured up to magnitude 5.3 but have caused only minor damage. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn