TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan will strengthen its defenses and help keep the Taiwan Strait open as China increases military pressure, Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi (陳明祺) said Wednesday.
In an interview with CNN Chief National Security Analyst Jim Sciutto, Chen said the threat from China extends beyond a possible invasion. Beijing also applies daily pressure through military drills around Taiwan and coast guard operations in waters east of Taiwan, he said.
Chen said such actions are dangerous and threaten freedom of navigation in the Taiwan Strait. Any closure of the strait would seriously affect global security and trade, he added.
Taiwan urgently needs stronger defenses because China is rapidly expanding its military, Chen said. He added that Taiwan respects the US review process for arms sales.
Taiwan has approved part of a special defense budget to improve its ability to protect itself, Chen said. He described the move as evidence of the government’s determination to maintain peace and stability in the strait.
Chen said defending Taiwan is the responsibility of all Taiwanese. The government will continue defense reforms, develop weapons and tactics designed to counter a larger force, and deepen cooperation with like-minded partners.
Taiwan will also continue to support freedom of navigation and overflight under international rules, Chen said. Stronger defenses and public resolve will help maintain peace and stability in the strait, he added.
