TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Legislators underscored the importance of national security during a meeting with a visiting delegation from the US-based Center for Strategic and International Studies on Wednesday.
National security is a key concern shared by all lawmakers across party lines, Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜) said, according to the Legislative Yuan. He pledged to help build consensus among parties and ensure the Legislative Yuan fulfills its responsibilities to advance deliberations on the special defense budget bill.
KMT Legislator Chen Yeong-kang (陳永康) said that despite differing positions, all parties support the defense budget. He stressed that Taiwan should strengthen equipment procurement and enhance professional training, command systems, communications resilience, and overall operational integration. He added that AI-related education and institutional development should also advance in parallel.
DPP Legislator Wang Ting-yu (王定宇) said Taiwan must take responsibility for its own security. As China’s threat continues to grow, lawmakers across party lines should support defense spending, Wang said.
Wang also outlined the progress of the 2026 budget and the special defense bill, emphasizing that despite differing views, all parties will fulfill their legislative duties and complete the necessary procedures. He expressed hope that the delegation would continue to use its influence in the US to support Taiwan’s defense security.
TPP Legislator Wang An-hsiang (王安祥) shared his party’s position on defense spending, emphasizing support for necessary measures to safeguard national security. Wang said he hoped that a second round of cross-party negotiations on the special arms procurement bill would proceed smoothly. He also called for continued Taiwan-US exchanges in military cooperation and supply chains.
CSIS delegation member Victor Cha (車維德) thanked Han and the other legislators for hosting the group. He said the visit provided a deeper understanding of the Legislative Yuan’s important role and influence within Taiwan’s constitutional system. He also praised the diversity and inclusiveness of Taiwan’s democracy.
