Hsiao defends U.S. diplomacy effort amid KMT criticism

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) vice presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim said on Wednesday (Dec. 6) that her diplomatic efforts in the United States in recent years have bolstered "Taiwanese dignity."

Responding to accusations from KMT's legislator candidate Hsu Chiao-hsin, who earlier today questioned the sincerity of Hsiao's "battle cat diplomacy," suggesting it might be obsequious flattery, Hsiao defended her approach during an interview on YahooTV.

She emphasized that due to Taiwan's unique predicament, diplomacy requires agility, sometimes necessitating a softer touch and sometimes a firmer stance.

Hsiao reflected on the setbacks and challenges she has faced in foreign affairs. Through perseverance, she asserted, Taiwan has gained more support, trust, and respect from the international community, despite these challenges.

Hsiao further underscored the importance of leveraging Taiwan's attractive offerings to advance its diplomatic objectives. She pointed to the island's robust democracy, the kindness of its people, and its economic achievements as tools to amplify international backing for Taiwan.