TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Economic Minister J.W. Kuo (郭智輝) explained his absence on Tuesday (Nov. 5) from CPC Corporation's leadership (中油公司) handover ceremony a day earlier by citing a packed schedule with 10 engagements and visiting foreign guests. Kuo added that it was standard for Deputy Minister Lien Ching-chang (連錦漳) to attend on his behalf.
CPC Corporation held the ceremony to welcome new Chairman Fang Chen-jen (方振仁) and General Manager Chang Min (張敏). The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA, 經濟部) emphasized in a Monday statement that deputy ministers have represented the ministry at two of the last three CPC handovers, conveying the ministry's best wishes.
The ministry asserted the equal importance of Taipower and CPC, noting Kuo's absence was due to scheduling conflicts. Last month, Kuo personally attended the deep geothermal drilling event in Yilan, where he expressed gratitude to the drilling team by hosting a dinner at his own expense.
In its investment planning, the ministry advised CPC to heed local governments' carbon reduction demands and maintain effective communication with communities. Kuo also stressed the need for CPC to evaluate the feasibility of foreign investments, focusing on maintaining product competitiveness amid international challenges.
The ministry expressed gratitude to former Chairman Lee Shun-chin (李順欽) for his years of dedication and praised the new leadership's internal promotions as a testament to generational succession and professional recognition.
As CPC navigates future challenges, the ministry's guidance on sustainable practices and international competitiveness remains pivotal.