TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) vowed to continue strengthening Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities on Monday, emphasizing that peace can only be achieved through strength.

During a meeting with former US Deputy National Security Adviser Matt Pottinger and former US Navy Rear Admiral Mark Montgomery, Lai stressed the importance of building an “impenetrable” defense system to deter threats and maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and beyond.

Lai also highlighted Taiwan’s commitment to deepening cooperation with the US in key and emerging technologies to develop a secure and resilient "non-red supply chain." He expressed confidence that closer Taiwan-US exchanges would not only bolster both nations’ security and economic interests but also contribute to global stability.

The president welcomed Pottinger and Montgomery’s visit, calling it a sign of strong US support for Taiwan and its defense efforts.

Pottinger praised Lai’s pledge to raise Taiwan’s defense budget to over 3% of GDP, bringing it in line with US defense spending levels. He called the move a promising step toward enhancing deterrence for both countries.

Agreeing with Lai’s stance on peace through strength, Pottinger said he looked forward to further discussions with the president