DPP’s Lai kicks off ‘project of hope’ policy presentations

DPP’s Lai kicks off ‘project of hope’ policy presentations

2023-09-06

DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te has kicked off a series of policy presentations. At the inaugural session on Wednesday, he gave a broad introduction to the "National Project of Hope," his blueprint for building a better Taiwan. More details will be unveiled in the coming weeks. During Wednesday’s event, Lai was joined by former culture minister Cheng Li-chiun. Her presence fueled rumors about her being Lai’s running mate, but she firmly denied any plans to enter the election.

DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te held his first national policy briefing on Wednesday. He said his blueprint for the country addresses three key issues: democracy and peace, innovation and prosperity, and justice and sustainability. Campaigning is on.

Lai Ching-te
DPP presidential candidate
To promote Taiwan’s balanced development, I will establish a mechanism that deepens cooperation between the central government and local governments. That way, we can leverage the power of the central government to resolve all sorts of infrastructure problems. We have to be bold with investing in innovation for future generations. And we must provide opportunities for everyone. Only then can our society and our country progress.

Lai added that he would reform child subsidies for young families and long-term care for older adults.

Lai Ching-te
DPP presidential candidate
The Tsai administration launched a policy where the government helps families with children aged 0 to 6. I want to upgrade that policy to version 2.0. I have also proposed three key strategies for housing justice. My administration will also continue work to implement long-term care 3.0, boosting the government’s investment in society.

The event was held in collaboration with New Frontier Foundation Vice President Chiou I-jen, Foundation for Future Generations Chair Cheng Li-chiun, and Taiwan Thinktank Honorary Chair Chen Bor-chih. In addition, more than 60 specialists have endorsed his proposals. Cheng is rumored to be a potential pick for Lai’s running mate or premier.

Cheng Li-chiun
Foundation for Future Generations
I do not have any political ambitions or plans to run for election. As a think tank, we hope to contribute by making suggestions for our vision for the future of our country. I have not engaged in discussions about whether I’ll be on the party list. I’ve told you all. I have no plans to run in the election, none at all.

Cheng denied that she was considering a government role, either as running mate, premier, or a legislator-at-large. The guessing game continues on who will join Lai’s ticket for 2024.