On Thursday, Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) defended the upcoming Taipei-Shanghai Twin City Forum amid political tensions, emphasizing the importance of continued communication between Taiwan and China. The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) has conditionally approved the forum, allowing the Shanghai delegation to visit, but reserves the right to postpone the event if cross-strait pressure escalates.
The mayor requested further clarification on what constitutes "escalation," stating that the Taipei City Government will maintain close communication with the MAC with the understanding that cross-strait exchanges are even more crucial during difficult times.
Responding to criticism from DPP Legislator Hung Chien-yi (洪健益), who suggested suspending the forum to protect Taiwan’s sovereignty, Mayor Chiang stressed that the MAC essentially supports the city government’s approach to the situation. He argued that increased exchange prevents misunderstandings and that the forum should proceed as planned on December 17, with the delegation receiving respectful and equal treatment.
MAC Deputy Minister Liang Wen-chieh (梁文傑) emphasized that the government would carefully consider national interests, assuring that any decision to postpone the forum would be made by the central government. He noted the long-established understanding between both sides about diplomatic protocols and expressed hope that the Shanghai delegation would adhere to proper guest etiquette. While most of the 102 delegators have been approved, some still need to complete their documentation.