Stories from Taiwan

Taiwan's Republic of China budget law permits the government to pre-spend funds if the allocated amount is the same as the previous year, even before the total budget is approved. This measure aims to streamline public spending processes.

A Taiwanese parliamentarian demanded that the full budget of over one trillion NT dollars be approved, stating that no funds would be executed otherwise.

The Kuomintang (KMT) party in Taiwan advocates for a traditional policy of maintaining balance and improving relations with both the United States and mainland China. This approach is seen as a potential advantage over the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which is accused of leading Taiwan towards war through confrontation with China. The KMT believes this balanced strategy will be a benefit in upcoming elections, particularly if local elections in 2026 are framed as a choice between war and peace. The representative argued the DPP's policies are leading Taiwan toward the brink of war.

The Kuomintang party is working to support its candidates, with a blue-white cooperation mechanism established between party chairmen in just three months.

Kaohsiung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen has been actively campaigning, appearing at events in New Taipei and Kaohsiung to support Ko Chih-en. Kaohsiung Mayor Hou Yu-ih has increased her political activities, campaigning for Ko Chih-en in Kaohsiung. She has also visited New Taipei, Kaohsiung, and Hsinchu. Hou Yu-ih is demonstrating her ambition for re-election in 2026. The KMT and TPP are coordinating in other areas. A commentator named Fang Lun believes that current legislators from across Taiwan are merely pretending to be active in politics. The ruling party, DPP, is accused of misinterpreting and misusing constitutional articles. The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in Taiwan has nominated Shen Po-yang to the top position on its non-constituent legislator list.

The anti-China stance is seen as a continuation of President Lai Ching-te's policy. President Tsai Ing-wen's administration maintains its anti-China policy, aligning with figures like Shen Po-yang. Taiwan's President maintains a stance against China, with political alliances forming around this position.

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen's social media team is working hard to maintain her image. Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen is reportedly maintaining a high level of public engagement and online popularity, which some observers find given her term is nearing its end.

A figure named Li Jialong is discussing Taiwan's successful model, but questions are being raised about the need for greater caution.

Taiwan's government has stated it cannot lie about the existence of a deal. They assert that if no deal exists, the other party has consistently denied it. The government did not explain a aspect of the deal during a pre-trip meeting, and a Chinese subtitle later stated the deal existed but the other party reneged.

Taiwan's diplomatic space is limited with only 12 allied nations. Taiwan's Foreign Minister has drawn attention for making statements before President Lai Ching-te's visit abroad. Questions are being raised about their public engagements and their impact on international relations. The minister's actions are under close observation. This was noted in a recent report. President Tsai Ing-wen's administration maintains its anti-China policy, aligning with figures like Shen Po-yang. Separately, Taiwan is expecting rain from an approaching front. Taiwan's President has reiterated a firm stance against China amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions. The president's position remains unchanged despite concerns related to weather conditions. This continued policy signals a persistent approach to cross-strait relations.