TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) on Tuesday (Nov. 5) denied allegations that the government funded cannabis-related projects overseas, asserting its focus on aiding livestock and fruit tree technology development. Lin's remarks came after Kuomintang (KMT, 國民黨) Legislator Lai Shyh-bao (賴士葆) questioned him about a recent visit to Central America and the Caribbean.
Lai raised concerns in the Legislative Yuan about the International Cooperation and Development Fund's (國際合作發展基金會) financial support for a biotech firm in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. He specifically pointed out "Orange Hill" company's (橘山生技中心) primary involvement in the cannabis industry, questioning the fund's allocation of resources.
Lin, however, refuted the claims, stating that it was not the case. He stressed that it's about providing technical assistance, including livestock and fruit trees, and it has nothing to do with marijuana, and the government is not going to invest in marijuana-related issues.
On Oct. 26, Lin attended the independence anniversary celebrations in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and visited "Orange Hill" company, a facility with an NT$130 million investment.
Premier Cho Jung-tai emphasized the illegality of cannabis domestically, underscoring the government's need for caution in maintaining diplomatic relations. Cho emphasized that the government remains committed to aligning its international cooperation efforts with national interests and legal standards.