Taichung Mayor's Europe Trip Sparks Debate: Councilor Questions Stance on China and Democratic Allies

Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen is set to embark on a 10-day trip to Germany, the Czech Republic, and Austria, aiming to engage in discussions about democracy and connect with democratic allies. The mayor's office stated the trip, beginning June 6, will involve visiting democratic friends, friendly cities, and exploring international markets, with planned meetings at the German Parliament and the Czech Senate. However, the announcement has drawn criticism from city councilor Chiang Chao-kuo. Chiang questioned the timing of the trip, occurring just seven months before Lu's term ends, and suggested it was an attempt to gain international political experience. He specifically pointed to the mayor's silence regarding China's alleged "malicious刁難" (malicious obstruction/difficulty) towards Czech Senate President Vratislav Mynář during his recent visit to Taiwan. Chiang challenged Lu, asking if she would condemn China and support democratic allies during her upcoming visit to the Czech Senate. He also sarcastically suggested she should first discuss military purchases and democratic issues with her own party chair.