TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's People Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je addressed the complexities of managing Taiwan's role in U.S.-China relations on Friday (Jan. 5), acknowledging the challenge as a "daunting task." This statement came in response to Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te's scrutiny of Ko's strategy for navigating the geopolitical landscape.
Earlier this week, Ko raised questions about Kuomintang (KMT) candidate Hou Yu-ih's relationship with China, asking, "Why is China so favorable toward Hou?" In a countermove, Lai questioned on Thursday why China has never criticized Ko, suggesting that both Hou and Ko might be leaning towards China's "one-China" principle.
In response, Ko emphasized the need for a balanced approach in Taiwan's foreign policy, particularly in relation to the Sino-American dynamic. He cautioned against unrealistic expectations of gaining favor with both China and the U.S., stating, "If you believe it possible to make both China and the U.S. fond of you, I'm advising you straight, don't harbor impractical expectations."