1. In response to President Lai Ching-te’s May 20th pledge to invite opposition leaders for a “Genuine and Sincere Exchange on National Affairs,” the Taiwan People’s Party welcomed the initiative at the first opportunity. At a time when Taiwan faces major domestic and international challenges, direct dialogue between ruling and opposition parties is both necessary and well-perceived by the public. Such communication can help mend the political rift and fulfill former President Tsai Ing-wen’s call to TPP founding chairman Ko Wen-je for establishing a platform for inter-party dialogue.

2. However, what puzzles us is that after more than half a month of complete silence, the only notice we received was a “briefing limited to national security.” This falls far short of President Lai Ching-te’s stated commitment to invite opposition party leaders for a “genuine and sincere exchange of views and joint deliberation on national affairs,” and equally fails to meet the expectations of the public. Even more regrettable is the absence of direct and adequate communication in the organization of this meeting. The process has been marred by fragmented information and media leaks. Moreover, Deputy Secretary-General Hsu of the National Security Council—appointed by the Presidential Office to deliver the briefing—has cooperated with pro-DPP media outlets in deliberately distorting facts to discredit our party chairman. In addition, DPP spokesperson Mr. Wu, just two days before the meeting, disseminated false information to wage a disinformation campaign. Such crude and disgraceful political manipulation by the ruling party is truly disheartening.

3. Beyond the scope of the agenda and the format of the meeting, what is of even greater importance is the faithful implementation of constitutional democracy. Under Taiwan’s democratic constitutional framework, the transmission and discussion of sensitive national security information must be conducted in accordance with the law through procedures and conditions stipulated by statutes such as the Classified National Security Information Protection Act. It is inappropriate for any individual to arbitrarily create extralegal procedures based on personal will. This is the proper and prudent approach to safeguarding national security and classified information, and the only way to uphold the rule of law and values that a democratic society like Taiwan should embody. In addition, we must remind President Lai Ching-te that Secretary-General of the National Security Council, Mr. Joseph Wu, who has already caused a serious breach in Taiwan’s national security, is clearly unfit for the position and should be replaced immediately.

4. The Taiwan People’s Party deeply regrets the Lai administration’s rushed and politically calculated handling of this meeting, and as such, Chairman KC Huang will not be attending. Nevertheless, in line with the founding spirit set by former Chairman Ko Wen-je—putting national interest above party interest—the TPP remains committed to transparent and constructive dialogue. We stand ready at any time to engage with President Lai in a sincere and genuine exchange on matters that truly impact the well-being of the people, and to work together in seeking the best path forward for Taiwan. Our party remains steadfast in its founding mission to serve the country and its people. Undeterred by slander and defamation, we continue to fulfill our responsibilities —loyal to the nation, united in facing external challenges, and committed to safeguarding Taiwan. We sincerely hope that President Lai Ching-te, who also serves as Chairman of the Democratic Progressive Party, will demonstrate greater vision, magnanimity, and wisdom in leading the country and its people. It is our earnest expectation that, under his leadership, Taiwan can move toward broader consensus, heal social divisions, and resolve confrontation through concrete actions. With humility and responsibility, we call on the President to fully uphold the duties of his office, serve the public with devotion, and work toward enhancing the welfare of the people—living up to the trust of the citizens, fostering national prosperity, and promoting unity across Taiwan.