TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said he hopes Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜) will work to improve cooperation between political parties when he returns from leading Taiwan’s delegation to the US presidential inauguration.
Lai met the delegation at the Presidential Office on Thursday and as per CNA, asked its members to perform three tasks when in the US:
- Congratulate the new president on behalf of Taiwan
- Work to improve US-Taiwan relations
- And convey Taiwan’s commitment to democracy
Lai presented Han with a thermos, hand warmers, and other souvenirs for Donald Trump and his new administration.
Lai said he hoped the KMT’s Han would help foster cross-party cooperation when he returns. The KMT’s legislative majority has challenged the DPP's ability to pass legislation over the past year.
Lai added the cross-party delegation of lawmakers had been formed despite political competition at home. He said they were united by a common interest in external affairs and a mutual interest in improving Taiwan-US relations.

“In Formosa, there is no hatred that cannot be overcome,” Lai said. He said all delegation members share the common goal of “defending democracy and freedom“ and “promoting peace and prosperity.”
Lai noted that the 45th anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act was last year. He said a bi-partisan delegation of US lawmakers attended his inauguration, and that Han will convey the heartfelt blessings of the Taiwanese to Trump and Vice President-elect J.D. Vance on their election.
The US House of Representatives passed a bill to reduce double taxation between Taiwan and the US on Thursday morning, which Lai said represented progress in the US-Taiwan relationship. He said he expects Han to create a basis for deeper cooperation between the two sides after Trump takes office.