On the 15th, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) invited Ambassador Harry Tseng, the representative to Canada, to share insights on the post-election situation in Taiwan. Tseng pointed out that Taiwan once again demonstrated to the world a healthy and mature democratic society. Regarding China taking away Taiwan's diplomatic ally Nauru, he considered it as retaliation against democratic values, emphasizing the need for the international community to remain vigilant.
In an interview with CBC's news program "Canada Tonight" hosted by Sarah Galashan, Tseng discussed various aspects, including the challenges facing the newly elected president of Taiwan, responses to China's security threats, and how international democratic allies can support Taiwan.
Tseng first highlighted the mature democratic literacy of the Taiwanese people. Candidates and supporters from different political parties gathered on the night before the election, displaying enthusiasm. However, after the election, they returned to calm and respect, with daily life resuming as usual, showcasing Taiwan as an exemplary democracy.
After the successful conclusion of the Taiwan elections, leaders from many countries congratulated Taiwan. However, Nauru abruptly announced a diplomatic shift towards China, and Tseng referred to this as China's retaliatory measure, urging continuous vigilance.
Galashan inquired about how President-elect Lai Ching-te would lead Taiwan to withstand Chinese threats and intimidation. Tseng mentioned that Lai Ching-te, winning the presidential election with about 40% of the vote, expressed a non-provocative stance towards China in a post-election international press conference, extending an olive branch and seeking dialogue on the premise of equal dignity.
Tseng called on China to interpret the Taiwan elections from a macro perspective. He noted that the election results showed partial victories for the three major parties, with the Democratic Progressive Party winning the presidential election, the Kuomintang having the most seats in parliament, and the People First Party holding 8 crucial legislative seats. China should see the election results as still having pro-China forces, and Beijing can strive to win the favor of the Taiwanese people. Excessive pressure on Taiwan could lead to further distancing.
Galashan concluded by asking how democratic allies could support Taiwan. Tseng expressed hope that international allies could understand the significance of the Taiwan elections for the democratic camp. Especially when Taiwan faces China's attempts to interfere and influence public opinion, holding open and fair elections showcases how to resist malicious foreign intervention, deserving recognition from like-minded countries.
CBC News is Canada's largest English-language professional news channel, and the "Canada Tonight" program airs on weekdays from 7 to 9 PM, focusing on international and domestic political and economic events during the prime news hours.
Tseng mentioned to the Central News Agency that Canada is about to launch a foreign interference election investigation hearing later in January. Despite China's interference attempts, Taiwan successfully concluded its elections, and Tseng is willing to provide the experience as a reference, hoping it can be helpful for Canada.
Watch the interview here.
