Taipei, Taiwan – On the second anniversary of his inauguration, Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te affirmed on Wednesday that his country looks forward to continued US arms sales to bolster its defense capabilities. He emphasized that these supplies are a crucial pillar for maintaining lasting peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.
A direct message to Trump and a commitment to the status quo.
When asked at a press conference what he would say if given the opportunity to speak directly with US President Donald Trump, Lai explained that he would tell Trump that Taiwan is fully committed to maintaining the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. He indicated that Taiwan will continue to strengthen its military capabilities for self-defense. This comes in response to increasing pressure and persistent threats from China, according to Taiwan’s Central News Agency (CNA).
The Taiwanese president added firmly, “Peace through strength is the best and most ideal way to maintain stability in the Taiwan Strait,” continuing, “We hope that this military procurement process will continue,” in a clear reference to the pending $14 billion arms package from the United States, which Washington is also considering selling to Taipei.
Trump’s statements raise doubts about the $14 billion package.
The decades-long historical assurance of U.S. military support for Taiwan has faced a wave of doubt and questioning following remarks made by President Trump after his recent summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Trump described arms sales to Taiwan as a “very good bargaining chip” in the diplomatic arena.
When asked whether he would ultimately approve the $14 billion arms package, Trump replied that “it’s still up in the air right now.” He explicitly stated that the decision “will depend on China’s behavior and attitude.”
Beijing accused of destabilizing the region and asserting its sovereignty.
In his direct response to those remarks on Wednesday, President Lai leveled sharp accusations against China, describing it as “the main destabilizing force in the entire region.” He noted that Beijing continues to actively expand its extensive military presence in the East and South China Seas, while simultaneously conducting large-scale military exercises extending into the western Pacific Ocean.
In response, Lai emphasized that Taiwan is a “guardian of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait,” reiterating that Taiwan is a fully sovereign and independent country. He also stated that its democratic way of life should in no way be viewed as a provocative act. He concluded, “No country has the right to annex Taiwan.”
In a previous address marking the midpoint of his term, Lai had explained that preventing external forces from altering the status quo remains his country’s top strategic objective.
