TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan People's Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je expressed openness to a conversation with other political party leaders, implying an overhaul of old frameworks in favor of new consensus on Wednesday (Aug. 23).
On the 65th anniversary of the August 23rd Artillery Bombardment, Ko advocated for gradually reducing cross-strait animosity and initiating dialogue.
Ko pointed out Kinmen's need for the central government's assistance in accessing water, electricity, internet, transportation, and health care. He added that improving residents' living standards and offering more development opportunities on Kinmen is also a priority.
The presidential candidate also hopes to foster unity among Taiwan, Penghu, and Kinmen.
As Ko's popularity has declined recently, especially among younger demographics, he promised to foster economic growth, boost tourism, create negotiation conditions, plan military training content, and achieve a defense budget representing 3% of the nation's GDP.
Furthermore, he intends to cultivate a nationwide defense consciousness to prepare civilians and military personnel for combat readiness.
Ko highlighted the potentially significant impact of modern warfare on Taiwan, including its outlying inhabitants.
He asserted that democracy and freedom should be understood reciprocally and consensually within Taiwan, Penghu, and Kinmen.
This way, Taiwan's sovereignty can be preserved as a guard against external invasion and division.
Ko hoped to stimulate Kinman's economic evolution and called for national unity to achieve cross-strait peace.