Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Legislator Mark Chen (
"The top representative will have a great impact on Taiwan-US relations. The person must be one who is able to reach consensus with American officials," he said.
The DPP's Mainstream Faction, a loose alliance of the Formosa Faction and the Welfare Nation Faction, threw a farewell party yesterday to mark Chen's departure from the Legislative Yuan and celebrate his new posting.
PHOTO: YEH CHI-MING, TAIPEI TIMES
Chen, blacklisted from Taiwan for his pro-independence activities two decades ago, recalled his life in exile during a moment at the party.
He also vowed to work hard on Taiwan's bid to enter the World Health Organization and the UN.
He talked reservedly about who might succeed Chen Chien-jen (
"I have not formally taken over the ministry yet, and am still a legislator. It is inconvenient to express my views [on who may be the top representative]," Mark Chen said.
He had said in Tainan late Sunday night that President Chen Shui-bian (
Tsai was the president's "first choice" to take over the Washington job, according to Mark Chen.
One of Tsai's subordinates said late Sunday night Tsai has no intention of staying on in any government position after the presidential inauguration on May 20.
Asked by reporters whether she would go to Washington, Tsai responded icily: "I am still in possession of my senses."
Last year, Tsai undertook several trips to Washington in an effort to cool down strained Taiwan-US ties by explaining President Chen's policies, including his proposals to hold a referendum and write new constitution.
In related news, Mark Chen also said yesterday that he hoped Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Michael Kau (
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