Taiwan names new prime minister

By Caroline Gluck
BBC, Taiwan

Mr Hsieh is known as a skilful negotiator

Taiwan's president Chen Shui-bian has named a senior member of his Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), Frank Hsieh, as the island's new prime minister.

The appointment came a day after the cabinet resigned in the wake of the DPP's disappointing results in legislative elections last month.

The appointment of Mr Hsieh had been widely anticipated.

But he will face a tough task trying to push through government policy in the opposition-controlled legislature.

In his acceptance speech Mr Hsieh, the mayor of Taiwan's second-largest city, Kaohsiung, spoke of the importance of co-operation and dialogue.

He said his new cabinet would focus on seeking political and social stability and better cross-strait relations with the Chinese mainland.

He also promised a stable investment environment.

After consulting with the president, the prime minister will announce a new cabinet in the next few days, before the new legislature convenes on 1 February.

Analysts believe it will only be a partial reshuffle, with many key ministers, including those responsible for defence, foreign affairs and relations with China, likely to retain their posts.

The main opposition nationalist or KMT party had nominated its own candidate for prime minister, saying that its legislative majority should be reflected in the make-up of the new cabinet.

After the December elections, President Chen had promised to build more political consensus and consult with the opposition alliance. However, no formal talks have taken place.