Taiwan's Labor Minister to attend APEC meeting in Nanjing, stresses equal participation

Labor Minister Hung Sun-han told reporters that he will attend the APEC Human Resources Development Ministerial Meeting in Nanjing on Sept. 21, reaffirming Taiwan's commitment to equal participation and reciprocal dignity within the multilateral forum. He reminded that Taiwan participates in APEC as 'Chinese Taipei' and that these principles have historically underpinned its involvement. The Mainland Affairs Council deputy head Liang Wen-chieh said the trip's risks are controllable, citing the incident-free attendance of Yang Jen-ni at the May APEC trade ministers' meeting in Suzhou.

Hung, who entered the cabinet after serving as a Democratic Progressive Party lawmaker and vocalizing on Hong Kong and Tibet issues, did not answer questions about a possible Taiwan compatriot permit or his ability to return. He indicated that a review of the minimum wage is a priority after the APEC session, and therefore he will not proceed to Shanghai for the WorldSkills Competition. President Lai Ching-te presented flags to Taiwan's 53-person WorldSkills delegation, praising the event as the 'Olympics of skills' but did not discuss the upcoming China visit. Taiwan last placed fourth overall at the 2024 WorldSkills in Lyon, winning multiple medals.