TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Lai Ching-te (賴清德) reaffirmed his commitment to bolstering Taiwan’s defense during talks with a visiting US lawmaker delegation on Monday.

Lai said Taiwan understands that only strength can ensure peace, per the Presidential Office. The core principle of Taiwan’s national security policy is to strengthen self-defense capabilities, deepen security cooperation with the US and other allies, and maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, he said.

To demonstrate its determination, Taiwan is steadily increasing defense spending. This year’s defense budget will exceed 3% of GDP based on NATO standards and is expected to reach 5% by 2030, Lai said.

The president pointed out that he announced an eight-year, NT$1.25 trillion (US$40 billion) special defense budget plan in November. Its main goal is to build a comprehensive “T-Dome” air defense system and a layered defense that integrates artificial intelligence. It will also boost development of the domestic defense industry, he said.

Lai said the senators’ visit symbolizes strong support for Taiwan and highlights the close friendship between the two countries. Taiwan is determined to enhance its self-defense capabilities and will not be intimidated by threats, the president said.

The delegation comprises four senators, including Jeanne Shaheen, John Curtis, Thom Tillis, and Jacky Rosen. The lawmakers arrived early Monday for a two-day visit and “engage in a series of high-level meetings with senior Taiwan leaders to discuss U.S.-Taiwan relations, regional security, trade and investment, and other significant issues of mutual interest,” according to the American Institute in Taiwan. The trip is part of a broader visit to the Indo-Pacific, AIT said.