TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said Tuesday that Taiwan stands on the frontline of democracy and that strength is essential to maintaining peace, CNA reported.

Speaking while receiving a delegation from the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Lai said Taiwan faces authoritarian pressure daily. He said Taiwan’s security is closely linked to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and across the democratic world.

Lai said the government is continuing to strengthen national defense and build resilience across society. He said defense spending has exceeded 3% of GDP, comparable to NATO benchmarks. He added that it is planned to reach 5% by 2030.

He also said an eight-year special defense budget of US$40 billion (NT$1.25 trillion) has been proposed to accelerate military procurement and modernization. Lai said these efforts demonstrate Taiwan’s determination to defend itself and contribute to regional stability.

Lai said Taiwan believes that “peace relies on strength.” He said a strong defense serves as a safeguard against conflict and helps deter aggression.

The president also expressed hope to deepen cooperation with the US across multiple sectors. He pointed to the sixth Taiwan-US Economic Prosperity Partnership Dialogue held recently, which covered issues such as supply chain security and critical minerals and produced new joint statements to expand cooperation, per UDN.

CSIS President John Hamre said Taiwan has made significant progress in strengthening its self-defense capabilities in recent years. He said increased commitment to defense, including equipment purchases and civil resilience, has improved deterrence, but added that further progress is still needed, per Liberty Times.