Economics Minister Kuo Jyh-huei resigns citing health

Taipei, Aug. 22 (CNA) Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) has approved the resignation of Minister of Economic Affairs Kuo Jyh-huei (郭智輝), Cabinet spokesperson Michelle Lee (李慧芝) said Friday.

Cho thanked Kuo for shaping forward-looking policies for Taiwan's industries during his tenure and expressed hope that Kuo would continue to collaborate with the government to advance Taiwan's economic development after leaving office, according to Lee.

Earlier Friday, Kuo confirmed in a statement sent to reporters that he has resigned, citing the toll on his personal health after 15 months in the job.

Kuo, 72, thanked President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) for trusting him to take up the job in the government to "serve Taiwan in a different role," the co-founder of high tech firm Topco Scientific Co. said in the statement.

The outgoing minister also thanked all the people for their views and criticisms, as well as those who work at the Ministry of Economic Affairs for braving the "enormous pressure" in pushing through key energy policies and promoting the adoption of artificial intelligence among the small- and medium-sized enterprises.

"Thank you for bearing with me and supporting me. It is impossible to achieve the current results without you," Kuo said to those working at the ministry.

Speaking of his reason to resign, Kuo said his body reminded him perhaps it is time to hand over the duty to the next person who can give it all to the job, adding that it is only the responsible decision to made to the country and his team.

Kuo also urged everyone to support the reforms mapped out by Lai, which could be challenging but important to Taiwan's future.