Soong, who was born in Hunan, China, was ambitious and readily agreed to the alliance.

CNN: ASIANOW - Asiaweek | From Our Correspondent | Lee Teng-hui

If anything, the statement might damage the hopes of James Soong, a conservative from Mr Lee's party.

ECONOMIST: Yet another confrontation is brewing in the Taiwan Strait

Mr Chen is vying for second place with Mr Lien in the polls, some way behind Mr Soong.

ECONOMIST: Uncertainty in Taiwan

"You have to be careful, though, " warned assistant general manager Susan Soong.

BBC: Sustainable travel in Malaysia