TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi (陳明祺) reiterated Taiwan’s defense goals during a dinner banquet with US Senator Jim Banks on Tuesday. 

Chen said that in the face of escalating military threats from China, Taiwan is committed to strengthening its self-defense capabilities, per the foreign ministry. This is reflected in increased defense spending and efforts to enhance whole-of-society resilience, he said.

Chen said that Taiwan continues to deepen its economic and strategic partnership with the US in the AI era. The two countries are working together to build secure, resilient, and competitive global supply chains, strengthening bilateral economic and trade ties and fostering shared prosperity, he added.

The deputy foreign minister thanked Banks for his long-standing support of the Taiwan–US security partnership.

In his remarks, Banks reaffirmed bipartisan congressional support for Taiwan and expressed support for Taiwan’s special defense budget, emphasizing its importance for Taiwan’s security and the bilateral partnership.

The foreign ministry said that Banks’ visit demonstrates the importance the US Congress places on Taiwan. The ministry added that Taiwan would continue to deepen cooperation with the US to maintain regional peace and prosperity.