2022-06-01
DPP Urges KMT Chairman Eric Chu to Explain his Previous Anti-U.S. Position before his U.S. Trip
Regarding KMT Chairman Eric Chu's upcoming U.S. visit, DPP Spokesperson Peifen Hsieh stated today that Taiwan values the support of its U.S. ally. Upon taking office, the DPP aspired to strengthen Taiwan's diplomatic ties with the U.S. Such measures include furthering economic, trade, and national security cooperation. The DPP has also worked to promote democratic values-based foreign policy.
The DPP appreciates Chu's willingness to repair KMT relations with the U.S. and counter his party's "pro-China, anti-U.S." position. Meanwhile, we call for Chu to stop KMT's double-dealing practices, in which it acts "anti-U.S." at home but "pro-U.S." in Washington. The KMT should also explain its false narrative of the U.S. and its relations with Taiwan to reassure the U.S. that Taiwan is an ally worthy of trust and confidence.
Spokesperson Hsieh recalled that upon receiving news of U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi's planned visit to Taiwan, the KMT expressed its welcome via Twitter. The party, however, also exploited pro-China media to claim that Pelosi's expected visit was without substance and not indicative of U.S. support for Taiwanese national security. Such a hypocritical approach is harmful to the future of Taiwan-U.S. ties. The DPP hopes Chu will not repeat similar blunders during his upcoming trip.
The DDP believes that, whether the ruling party or opposition parties, Taiwan's political parties should share the common goal of advancing the development and stability of Taiwan-U.S. relations. The DPP has consistently supported democracy and freedom and has resisted pressure from China. Hence, the party encourages the KMT to join the DPP's efforts and promote Taiwan-U.S. relations. Additionally, the DPP calls upon Chu to reflect on the KMT's past approach to the U.S. and address the following questions:
First, when U.S. officials and dignitaries visited Taiwan in the past, KMT was often doubtful about the intention of our visitors. For instance, Alexandar Huang, head of the KMT's Department of International Affairs, stated that Speaker Pelosi's planned visit had no direct impact on Taiwan's national security. Is Chu willing to correct KMT's misguided assumptions and show support for the continued strengthening of exchanges between Taiwan and the U.S.?
In addition, as the DPP participates in TIFA negotiations and strives to strengthen Taiwan-U.S. trade relations, is Chu willing to apologize for slandering U.S. pork as "deranged pork"? Will he apologize for manipulating the issue of trade for his political interests and disturbing economic ties between Taiwan and the U.S.?
Further, U.S.-China-Taiwan relations have changed significantly in recent years. Indeed, the U.S. reaffirms its support for Taiwan and actively supports the country regarding regional security. Meanwhile, the KMT still invokes the "1992 Consensus," based on Xi Jinping's "One Country, Two Systems" arrangement, to direct Taiwan's safety and security decision-making. Will Chu, domestically and internationally, clarify which side the KMT takes between authoritarianism and democracy?
Finally, despite U.S. support of Taiwan and its counter to China's increasing military intimidation of the country, the KMT persists in misrepresenting Taiwan-U.S. relations. The party misconstrues U.S. intentions regarding arms sales to Taiwan and suggests that the U.S. does not protect its allies. Will Chu defy his party and support Taiwan-U.S. military exchanges, the development of asymmetric defense capabilities, and reforms for national defense autonomy?
Spokesperson Hsieh said that the above issues concern the people of Taiwan and are also imperative to U.S.-facilitated exchanges with the country. The KMT and Chairman Chu should explain this clearly and respond appropriately.
The DPP will continue its efforts to strengthen Taiwan-U.S. relations, deepen cooperation with Taiwan's foreign allies, and garner more support from the international community. This is in contrast to the KMT's machiavellian approach to foreign policy. The DPP urges the KMT to support Taiwan's democratic allies and maintain a consistent political stance.
