TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) said Wednesday the government will allocate NT$196.5 billion (US$6 billion) for its science and technology budget next year, an increase of NT$7.7 billion from this year.

Speaking at the 12th National Science and Technology Conference hosted by the Cabinet, Cho said the funds will be used for science research, per CNA. He called for more discussions on technology and investment in AI.

Cho explained that to create a “balanced Taiwan,” the government will promote six major regional development plans, including the Taoyuan-Hsinchu-Miaoli Silicon Valley. He added he would promote interdisciplinary innovation and talent cultivation to support government policies.

The government will also assist small and medium-sized enterprises, pkis traditional industries, to strengthen Taiwan’s vertical supply chain, Cho added.

National Science and Technology Council Minister Wu Cheng-wen (吳誠文) said the new budget was discussed by several departments. He said as technology minister, he will strive to implement the budget.