On Lai's 2nd Anniversary, Chen Chi-mai Urges Bipartisan Focus on National Security and Economy

(CNA, Kaohsiung, May 20, by reporter Lin Chaolien) On the second anniversary of President Lai Ching-te's inauguration, Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai said today that Taiwan is facing challenges such as geopolitics and global supply chain restructuring. He expressed hope that both the ruling and opposition parties can put aside their 'blue-green glasses' and focus on issues like national defense and economic development to work together for the nation's progress. During a media interview at the Kaohsiung City Council today, Chen Chi-mai stated that Taiwan is facing severe challenges from geopolitics and global supply chain restructuring. In response, President Lai has not only enhanced Taiwan's national defense but also led the country's industrial transformation into an AI powerhouse, efforts that are reflected in economic indicators like the stock market. Chen pointed out that China's continuous military exercises and arms buildup in recent years not only affect Taiwan's security but also create regional security pressure for neighboring countries, prompting nations like Japan and the Philippines to strengthen their defense capabilities. Chen said that the president's two years in office can be seen as a 'midterm exam,' and he hopes for greater harmony between the ruling and opposition parties in the next two years, especially on issues like the national budget, national security, and economic development, where 'there should be no distinction between blue and green.' He argued that national defense construction should not be opposed based on party lines and hoped that all sectors would set aside political confrontation and prioritize national interests, which is the common expectation of the people. Regarding KMT's Kaohsiung mayoral candidate Ko Chih-en's statement that casting an impeachment vote against President Lai is a 'positive declaration against the arrogance of power,' Chen responded that after the 'Act Governing the Allocation of Government Revenues and Expenditures' and the central government's budget were set, Kaohsiung's general and project-based subsidies decreased by a total of NT$17.4 billion. He stressed that the local government is more concerned with development and people's livelihoods than with political hype. Chen stated that Kaohsiung is a major hub for military and traditional industries. If funds for drones, submarines, and other related projects are cut, it could impact local industries and employment. 'Without subsidies, we can't get anything done,' he said. Additionally, regarding DPP City Councilor Li Chiao-ju calling him the 'Gong Yoo Mayor' and expressing optimism about his future in the central government, Chen laughed and said, 'I'm not good at answering this kind of question, but whatever you do, you should look the part. Gong Yoo or Chu Ke-liang are both OK.' He added that the most important thing now is to do his job as mayor well and fully, and to continue promoting Kaohsiung's construction and urban development. Responding to a social media fan page that recently spread a message that 'Kaohsiung already has 18 to 20 cases of Hantavirus syndrome, 5 times more than Taipei and New Taipei,' Chen once again clarified that Kaohsiung has had zero Hantavirus cases in the past two years. He emphasized that the city government values truth and clarification, and if the spread of false information affects disease prevention efforts, the city will pursue legal responsibility in accordance with the 'Communicable Disease Control Act.' (Editor: Hsiao Po-wen) 1150520 Choose to stand with the facts.