‘Claims of surrender are false’: Taiwan updates security handbook wary of China threat

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The bright red-orange handbook features cartoon characters representing Taiwan’s population on the cover and across its 29 pages.

PHOTO: REUTERS

TAIPEI – Taiwan will issue new security guidelines next week in an updated civil defence handbook that, for the first time, will instruct citizens on what to do if they see enemy soldiers and clarifies that any claims of Taiwan’s surrender should be considered false.

The handbook represents democratic Taiwan’s latest effort to prepare its population for potential emergencies in the face of escalating military pressure from China, which views the island as its own territory.

The bright red-orange handbook, designed for people of all ages, features cartoon characters representing Taiwan’s population on the cover and across its 29 pages, and tells Taiwanese people to “protect each other and safeguard our beloved home”. Reuters reviewed a copy before publication.

“Whether it be natural disasters, epidemics, extreme weather, or the threat of Chinese invasion, the challenges we face have never ceased,” the handbook says, offering guidance on how to find bomb shelters via smartphone apps and tips for preparing emergency kits for family members, including pets.

Mr Lin Fei-fan, deputy secretary-general of Taiwan’s National Security Council who oversaw the updated handbook, said Taipei has taken inspiration from survival guides planned by fellow democracies including the Czech Republic and France.

“China’s ambitions for authoritarian expansion are being felt by countries around the world,” Mr Lin said, adding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has also lent new urgency.

“The global situation – whether in Europe or