Taiwan's President-elect announces new appointments

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
25 Apr 2024 05:55

Lai Ching-te reveals changes including Wellington Koo as defense minister and Joseph Wu as head of National Security Council in reshuffle of Taiwan's security and diplomacy leadership.

Former Taiwanese Vice President Lai Ching-te, also known as William Lai celebrates his victory in Taipei, Taiwan, Saturday, January 13, 2024. (AP)

Taiwan's President-elect Lai Ching-te has announced new appointments to his security and diplomacy teams.

National Security Council Secretary-General Wellington Koo is set to become defense minister. Current Foreign Minister Joseph Wu will take over as head of the National Security Council.

Additionally, Lin Chia-lung, currently serving as secretary-general at the Presidential Office, will assume the role of foreign minister, according to Lai's statement on Wednesday.

Furthermore, the President-elect emphasized that China ought to have the confidence to confront the legitimately elected government of Taiwan, instead of solely interacting with opposition parties with preconditions.

Earlier in January, Lai vowed to defend the island from what he called "intimidation" by China.

In that context, on Tuesday, April 23, the US Congress approved a legislative package that includes security assistance for Ukraine, "Israel", and Taiwan.

In turn, China expressed opposition to including "Taiwan-related content" in a four-bill package passed by the US Congress that included military aid to Taipei, its Taiwan Affairs Office said on Wednesday.

The country urged the US to fulfill its commitment to not interfere with Taiwan and stop arming it in any way, its spokesperson said.