PINGTUNG (TVBS News) — Lai Ching-te, the Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) Presidential candidate, announced at his rally in Pingtung on Thursday (Dec. 21) his intention to construct a Taiwan High-Speed Rail line and two expressways in Pingtung.
Lai emphasized his commitment to balancing Taiwan's national development projects. He pledged that his future efforts would bring more support and assistance to Pingtung, transforming it into a "beautiful new homeland."
Among the promises made by Lai was the extension of the high-speed rail to Chaozhou Township in Pingtung, reducing the travel time from Taipei to less than two hours without the need for transfers.
Lai also expressed his intention to attract more high-tech industries to Pingtung. He plans to introduce agricultural technology to the area and invest in the export competitiveness of local farm produce.
Tourism in Pingtung stands to benefit from Lai’s commitments. He stated that Pingtung, lying at Taiwan's southern boundary with its beautiful mountains, seas, and tropical charm, would have its tourism service quality thoroughly uplifted.
Lai announced plans to transform Kenting into a destination similar to Bali and develop Dapeng Bay into a Hawaii-like getaway. Additionally, he has set his sights on reinvigorating Hengchun historic castle town and showcasing Pingtung's cultural history.
At the event, Lai stressed Pingtung's importance in the implementation of the New Southbound Policy. He pointed out that Pingtung would contribute significantly to Taiwan’s development in collaboration with other counties and cities, particularly in the south.
Lai also recounted his contributions to developments in Pingtung during his tenure as the Premier, including the Pingtung Veterans General Hospital. He credited the achievements to the efforts of former Pingtung County Commissioner Pan Men-an, current commissioner Chou Chun-mi, and legislators, hoping for local residents’ support for his policies to make Pingtung glorious again.
