News: Taiwan Typhoon Claims 500, Government Faces Criticism for Response

The death toll from the typhoon that recently hit Taiwan could reach 500, according to Ma Ying-jeou, the island's president. Australia's The Age reports that thousands are still trapped, with as many as 50,000 troops taking part in the rescue efforts.

The government has come under criticism for its response, which some say has not been fast enough. The government has promised to get the job done, and it has expressed gratitude for the millions of dollars worth of assistance from other countries, including the United States and mainland China.

Nearly US$20 million dollars came from mainland China and Hong Kong, notes Xinhua, the official Chinese news agency. China is also sending disaster teams to help with the recovery.

Bay Area residents will get an opportunity to hear from a high government official from Taiwan next month, and the recent natural disaster is sure to be a topic. On Wednesday, September 23, Taiwan's deputy foreign minister, Andrew Li-Yan Hsia (pictured), will speak to The Commonwealth Club's Asia-Pacific Affairs Member-Led Forum at 6:00 p.m. You can get more information or reserve your spot for the event here. The program is in association with the Truman National Security Project Education Institute.