Lee Hsiang-chou was appointed to be the new spy chief of Taiwan after serving as the deputy minister of national defense, reported the Central News Agency.

Lee was appointed as the National Security Bureau's deputy general and would take over the post of Tsai De-sheng, who resigned from office citing health reasons.

Like Us on Facebook

A political analyst said that the appointment of Lee might have been planned in February after King Pu-tsung was named the new chief security adviser of Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou.

George Tsai Wei, a political science professor at the Chinese Culture University, said that the reshuffle was arranged by the chief presidential adviser to afford an increase in communication and cooperation within Taiwan's national and homeland security as well as intelligence networks.

The appointment of Lee and other officials at the National Security Bureau was seen to be part of a re-organization plan headed by King with the support of Taiwan's president, reported a local media.

Lee is a part of a military family and started his career as a junior military officer. His appointment would affect the intelligence and national security departments of Taiwan.

President Ma also named Kao Hua-chu as Taiwan's national policy adviser. The Central News Agency also reported that the president has appointed Wang Chung-yi to replace Wang Fu-lin as the Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau's director general.

The National Immigration Agency also has a new head after Mo Tien-fu was appointed into office. Mo took over Hsieh Li-kung as the latter would be joining the National Security Council.

The National Security Bureau is responsible in carrying out intelligence work at home and abroad and is responsible for the protection of the country's president.

Wang and Hsieh would both become members of Taiwan's National Security Council and would advise President Ma on issues concerning security.

TagsLee Hsian-chou, Taiwan, King Pu-tsung, President Ma Ying-jeou, Hsieh Li-kung