TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) acknowledged there was close defense “collaboration” with the US in an interview published on Wednesday (Oct. 9). 

“We are grateful to the US for treating us as a reliable partner,” Lin told National Review. US arms sales to Taiwan are “guided by the Taiwan Relations Act,” he said, adding that the president cannot abandon the US’ commitments to Taiwan’s defense.

The foreign minister emphasized that America’s arms deliveries to Taiwan are not charity, saying, “China is the decisive enabler.” The Chinese military threat is directed “not only to Taiwan but also the world,” Lin said. China and Russia are “forming a coalition,” and the only way to counter it is to establish a defensive alliance similar to NATO in the Pacific.

Creating a network in which Taiwan plays a key role is one of this government’s primary strategic objectives, Lin said. However, Taipei’s alliance with Washington is “vital for Taiwan’s survival,” he said.

Lin said Taiwan increased its defense budget by 80% over the last eight years, from NT$330 billion NTD (US$10.5 billion) to NT$660 billion.

China’s People’s Liberation Army's Eastern Theater Command announced a series of military drills around Taiwan on Monday (Oct. 14). The joint exercises involve naval ships and military aircraft “in close proximity from different directions” focused on “sea-air combat-readiness patrol, blockade on key ports and areas, assault on maritime and ground targets,” the command said.

Taiwan’s Presidential Office condemned the drills and called on Beijing to “cease military provocations that undermine regional peace and stability, and stop threatening Taiwan's democracy and freedom.”