TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — TPP Chair Huang Kuo-chang (黃國昌) said Wednesday a joint policy platform with the KMT is expected by mid-March, with a formal cooperation pact likely weeks later.
Huang said cooperation between the two parties will proceed in three stages, beginning with the joint platform, per CNA. A planned Tuesday announcement was delayed to allow the KMT more time for internal consultations, per Newtalk.
A new press conference had been set for March 5 but may conflict with other KMT events. Huang said he was informed it will likely be rescheduled to March 14 or 15, with the first-stage platform to be unveiled by mid-March.
The second stage will involve signing a written cooperation agreement after establishing shared policy values and vision. Huang said the pact would outline how the parties implement policies and support each other in elections, and could be signed as early as late March.
Under the third stage, the parties would compete within a cooperative framework if necessary, based on agreed rules. Huang said political parties can cooperate and compete without resorting to smear tactics.
Speaking in an interview on Pop Radio, Huang said competition should reflect vision and rational debate. He added that candidates can learn from one another and incorporate strong policy ideas.
Regarding the New Taipei mayoral race, Huang said he hopes to engage in fair competition with Taipei Deputy Mayor Lee Shu-chuan (李四川). He said he wants to avoid the kind of factional infighting seen in some parties.
