Good Morning World: Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim to Visit Palau on First Official Trip

Presidential Office spokesperson Kuo Ya-hui announced on June 1 that President Lai Ching-te has appointed Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim to lead a delegation to Palau from June 6 to 10, at the invitation of President Surangel Whipps Jr. The trip aims to deepen diplomatic ties, promote sustainable tourism, and witness the results of Taiwan-Palau cooperation projects. This marks Hsiao's first official visit to a diplomatic ally since taking office. Regarding potential pressure from China, Kuo stated that national security teams are closely monitoring the situation. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the trip will utilize direct flights, prioritizing safety and dignity.

Czech Senate President Miloš Vystrčil visited Taiwan from June 1 to 4, his second visit since August 2020. Legislative Yuan President Han Kuo-yu hosted a banquet, expressing hopes for continued friendship. Vystrčil emphasized that the bond between Taiwan and the Czech Republic transcends party lines. In response to criticism from the Chinese embassy, Vystrčil stated that some countries promote a 'One China' policy, but that does not mean 'we must comply.'

NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang delivered a keynote at the GPU Technology Conference in Taipei on June 1, announcing that the next-generation 'Vera Rubin' platform for AI agents is in full production. He redefined NVIDIA as an 'infrastructure company.' Huang also introduced the 'N1X' chip, developed with MediaTek using TSMC's 3nm process, for the RTX Spark laptop series. He expressed gratitude to 150 Taiwanese supply chain partners.

Taiwan's stock market reached a new historical high on June 1. Yuanta Securities Investment Trust announced that the assets of the 'Yuanta Taiwan 50 (0050)' ETF have surpassed NT$2 trillion. The total number of stock trading accounts in Taiwan reached 14.33 million in May.

The Chung-Hua Institution for Economic Research reported that the May Manufacturing PMI rose to 61.4%, the fastest expansion since September 2021, driven by AI demand.

The Labor Pension Fund reported a record-high return of NT$1.15 trillion as of the end of April, with a yield of 20.21%.

Police reported 581 cases of drug-impaired driving between May 24 and 29. The Ministry of Transportation is planning to amend the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act to impose stricter penalties. The Ministry of Education is also considering saliva testing to combat emerging drug use in schools.

Typhoon Maliksi caused flight cancellations in Okinawa. The Central Weather Administration stated there is no direct impact on Taiwan.

The indigenous submarine 'Hai Kun' resumed sea trials. Defense Minister Wellington Koo emphasized that safety and quality remain the top priorities.

Author Yang Shuang-zi held a media session in Seoul, expressing her desire to use literature to help the world understand Taiwan's unique identity.