TAIPEI (TVBS News) — New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) officially opened Zhonghuan Park (中環公園) to the public Monday (Aug. 11), unveiling the first completed recreational space in the ambitious Wenzizun (塭仔圳) redevelopment district. The Land Administration Bureau (地政局) Taiwan's municipal land management agency reported that the park celebrates regional heritage through carefully planned environmental features and distinctive landscape sculptures. Hou conducted a comprehensive inspection of the facilities before declaring the park ready for public use.
KMT Taiwan's main opposition party Legislator Hung Meng-kai (洪孟楷) and several New Taipei City councilors joined Hou during his thorough assessment of the park's environmental features and recreational facilities. Reporters questioned Hou about potential ambitions for KMT party leadership, prompting the mayor to stress his commitment to current municipal duties. Hou urged everyone to focus on immediate responsibilities and work with dedication rather than pursuing political advancement.
Media representatives questioned Hou about Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen's (盧秀燕) recent public remarks delivered during her Australia visit. The New Taipei mayor responded that political leaders must accept responsibility for preventing conflicts while ensuring cross-strait relations between Taiwan and China proceed with mutual respect and dignity. Hou referenced the approaching recall election scheduled for Saturday (Aug. 23), acknowledging citizens face mounting pressures from trade tariffs, severe flooding, and broader economic difficulties that require unified responses. ◼
