Reported 9 months ago
Allegations of Taiwan's representative to the U.S., You Chin-Lung, misusing public funds continue as Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung personally explained the numbers, emphasizing that nearly 8 million NT was incorrect. The expenditure for the first half of the year at the U.S. embassy and residence totaled around 350,000 USD, with deductions for backup generators and hardware facilities amounting to 280,000 USD. Other items disbursed include 70,000 USD for the representative office and residence. Lin stated that the reported cost for a sofa was not over 900,000 NT but around 600,000 NT and the total procurement for the office and residence in the first half of the year was approximately 2.5 million NT. Regarding the rumored Cadillac car swap request by You, Lin clarified that it was a request for an official vehicle, not a personal one, and it was not approved in the end. Opposition lawmakers questioned why the list of items purchased using public funds by You was marked as classified with a decryption date set for December 31, 2025, prompting concerns about diplomatic secrecy. The Foreign Affairs and National Defense Committee of the Legislative Yuan requested You to explain in writing about the use of public funds and whether overseas personnel faced inappropriate treatment within two weeks. Lin reassured that he has preliminary clarification with You and will not suspend him for investigation at this point, as matters of foreign missions fall under the President's jurisdiction who reports to the government. The news site also reported on accusations of lavish spending by You, with the Blue Party criticizing the hurried layout of the U.S. administration due to the lack of experience in dealing with the U.S.
Source: YAHOO