Cheng Li-wen: Washington Reception Followed Normal Procedures; No Special Treatment Expected

Following reports by U.S. political news site Politico suggesting a 'cold reception' in Washington D.C., KMT Chairperson Cheng Li-wen stated today that she never harbored naive expectations of overnight changes to long-standing perceptions. She clarified that Washington followed standard diplomatic procedures and she did not anticipate or seek unprecedented special treatment.

Politico's 'National Security Daily' reported on the 17th that Cheng faced a cool response from U.S. officials due to her party's stance on blocking substantial increases in Taiwan's defense spending. In response, Cheng emphasized during interviews with local media that the United States is a diverse and complex nation where communication requires persistent effort rather than seeking immediate applause.

Cheng noted that despite significant lobbying efforts aimed at preventing U.S. lawmakers from meeting with her, she successfully met or held phone consultations with ten members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. She refuted media claims that she was unable to access congressional figures, describing the visit as a successful 'ice-breaking journey' that garnered rare attention from mainstream international media.

Regarding the integrity of her diplomatic engagements, Cheng asserted that she maintained trust by not leaking meeting contents or using deceptive means to enter Congress. She concluded that effective communication is a long-term process and views this visit as a significant first step in building mutual understanding with U.S. stakeholders.