TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) announced a planned 3% pay raise for all government employees during a visit to Pingtung County on Monday (July 22).

Cho said the increase reflects Taiwan's growing economy and expressed hope it would encourage similar raises in the private sector. He stressed that everyone should benefit from Taiwan's strong economic performance last year, per CNA.

When questioned about the potential impact of President Biden not seeking re-election on Taiwan-U.S. relations, Cho emphasized the steady development of the bilateral relationship. He highlighted shared interests and responsibilities in maintaining peace across the Indo-Pacific region, particularly the Taiwan Strait.

Cho expressed confidence in the United States' democratic process and the American people's ability to choose the best leader.

Journalists also inquired about comments by Minister without Portfolio Chen Shih-chung (陳時中) regarding a proposed NT$50 billion (US$1.52 billion) baby bonus program offering NT$30,000 (US$913) per child monthly. Cho said the government is continuing to invest in solutions to address the low birthrate.

He clarified that he had tasked Chen to conduct relevant calculations, not to prematurely propose specific figures. Cho’s visit included a stop at an elderly care center in Pingtung County.