Taiwan minister's 'secret' European trip sparks outrage over cost and classified desserts

Taiwan's Taiwan People's Party (TPP) has sharply criticized Overseas Community Affairs Council Minister Hsu Chih-chun over her recent European trip, alleging it was a personal vacation disguised as official business. The party revealed that Hsu's 26-day solo journey in late April and early May cost over 1.15 million New Taiwan dollars (approximately $35,000 USD).

During a press conference, TPP caucus whip Chen Chien-yu presented the trip's report, deeming its content "hollow" and lacking concrete achievements. He questioned the justification for classifying activities like "eating French presidential-level desserts" and watching the Taiwanese film "The Great Wave" as confidential. Chen argued that such mundane details should not be hidden from the public, especially when the report itself was uploaded to the public information network, contradicting the claim of secrecy.

Chen further accused Hsu of misusing taxpayer money for personal travel and demanded transparency regarding her accommodation and meal expenses. He cited regulations suggesting that classified reports require official approval from a department head, questioning Hsu's claim of secrecy while uploading a nearly complete report. The TPP leader urged Premier Cho Jung-tai to dismiss Hsu, calling her a "lying official" and suggesting she resign.

Responding to Hsu's earlier remarks about teaching lawmakers how to be effective, TPP caucus secretary-general Chiu Hui-ju retorted that Hsu, with zero legislative experience, was unqualified to lecture TPP lawmakers who have served for six months. Chiu emphasized the TPP's commitment to diligent oversight and lawful information requests, asserting Hsu lacked the standing to offer such advice.