Vice President-elect Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) has led DPP staff on a two-day trip to Hualien to support the local tourism industry. Hsiao, who served for over a decade in the area as a legislator, spearheaded the tour that visited local attractions and experienced cultural activities from Monday to Tuesday.
The recent Hualien earthquake severely damaged the local economy and tourism industry. Hsiao said that even though the central government has invested NT$28.5 billion (over US$886 million) in post-disaster recovery assistance, she calls on everyone to support Hualien with actions and choices in travel.
The tour group visited the Qixingtan area for sustainable fishing practice education, wore ethnic costumes to experience the life and culture of the local aboriginal people at the Cidal Hunter School, participated in water activities at Liyu Lake, and learned about polishing Hualien's unique jade. After the two-day trip, Hsiao said that everyone expressed interest in visiting again. She welcomes more friends to travel to the area to revitalize Hualien's future industry.