In response to the opposition party's call for President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) to visit Taiping Island, Foreign Minister Joseph Wu (吳釗燮) gave a definitive answer at a legislative hearing on Wednesday saying now is not the right time.
The Taiping Island visit issue came about after the Coast Guard Administration recently completed a wharf renovation on the island, prompting Kuomintang legislators to urge the president to visit before the end of her term and reaffirm Taiwan’s sovereignty over the territory.
Wu explains that the timing for a presidential visit to Taiping Island is not appropriate now. Wu points out that the disputes between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea have escalated. China has also militarized three islands in the South China Sea namely Mischief Reef, Subi Reef, and Fiery Cross, with 20 warships patrolling the area daily. Wu emphasizes given the rising tensions, Taiwan must consider how to peacefully resolve the situation rather than be seen as creating more difficulties.
Wu adds that government agencies plan on implementing the right actions at the right time, which is measured by the overall interests of the country. Wu stresses Taiwan's role in maintaining regional stability and highlights Taiwan's longstanding South China Sea policy, which underscores the commitment to resolving disputes peacefully and promoting resource development in the region.