As disputes over primaries are causing a stir in the DPP, a more harmonious relationship seems to exist among KMT's political stars. Liao Liou-yi, formerly a mayor hopeful for the Greater Taichung area, has shown no sign of discomfort sitting with Jason Hu, KMT's official Greater Taichung candidate, during President Ma's recent visit to Taichung, which helps to boost the KMT's morale for the year end elections.

President Ma Ying-jeou was accompanied by a group of high-ranking government officials on a recent trip to Taichung to meet with representatives of industries that will benefit from ECFA.

During the conference, Ma was seated between Presidential Secretary-General Liao Liou-yi and industry leaders.

At the next stop on their itinerary, which was a presentation on major infrastructure projects in Greater Taichung, Ma sat with Liao and the KMT's Greater Taichung mayor candidate, Jason Hu.

Although Ma and Hu did not have time to discuss election issues, both attended a private luncheon with the party's city councilor and borough chief candidates.

Hu thanked Liao for his support in recent weeks, and later attended a campaign rally in Taichung County.