44 Groups Form Agricultural, Fishery, and Water Conservancy Support Alliance for Mayoral Candidate Lai Jui-lung

A formidable coalition of 44 agricultural, fishery, and water conservancy organizations has rallied behind Lai Jui-lung, the Democratic Progressive Party's candidate for Kaohsiung mayor. The newly formed "Agricultural, Fishery, and Water Conservancy Support Group" convened thousands of stakeholders, demonstrating significant backing for Lai's campaign.

Key figures from the agricultural sector, including former Council of Agriculture Minister Cao Chi-hung and current Ministry of Agriculture Political Deputy Minister Huang Chao-chin, were present to show their support. The group's leadership includes prominent figures like Yang Jung-nan, chairman of the Kaohsiung City Farmers' Association, heading the agricultural support, and Yang Ching-fu, chairman of the Hsiaokang District Fishermen's Association, leading the fishery support.

Lai Jui-lung addressed the gathering, emphasizing the critical role of agriculture, fisheries, and water management in industrial development and the livelihoods of many families. He acknowledged the challenges posed by extreme weather, labor shortages, rising costs, and international market competition, stressing the need for a robust government support system.

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Strengthen agriculture, revitalize fisheries, and enhance water conservancy.

Recalling his past experience as director of the Marine Bureau, Lai highlighted his understanding of Kaohsiung's distant-water and aquaculture industries. He cited his efforts as a legislator to secure NT$8.1 billion (approximately $250 million USD) for the comprehensive renovation of the Cijin Fishing Port, aiming to bolster Kaohsiung's competitiveness as a major international fishing hub.

Lai pledged to "strengthen agriculture, revitalize fisheries, and enhance water conservancy" if elected. He vowed to leverage his experience in city government and national legislature to boost industry competitiveness, protect the safety and income of frontline workers, and collaboratively usher in a new golden era for Kaohsiung.

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Protect the safety and income of frontline workers, and work side-by-side with everyone, doing our best to protect farmers and fishermen, and ensure their income, to jointly create Kaohsiung's next golden era.