Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate Tsai Ing-wen said she would strengthen ties with Southeast Asia and India if she were elected. She was speaking on her foreign policy on Tuesday at a 29th anniversary celebration for the DPP.
She said Taiwan must have strong global ties to give it a good foundation for national security. Promoting a diversity of trade partners is key. She also said she would strengthen ties with allies.
Tsai introduced her New Go South Policy that would encourage Taiwan companies to invest in Southeast Asia. The DPP will set up a committee to study how to strengthen ties with ASEAN countries and India.
Tsai said, "ASEAN and India are poised to become two of the world’s largest economic bodies. Strengthening of overall relations is a natural choice for Taiwan as we diversify our economic and trade ties."
Tsai also said that the DPP would try to ease tensions in the region and works towards dialogue to prevent any conflicts.
In response to Tsai’s comments on foreign policy, Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hung Hsiu-chu said it is imperative that Taiwan maintain its sovereignty in the South China Sea. Hung said the South China Sea is a very serious issue and Taiwan cannot forfeit its sovereignty there.