Taiwan's Lai pledges bigger defence spending amid China pressure
Taiwan's president said on Saturday that raising defence outlays aims to deter war, as he rejected giving up the island's freedom.
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What happened
In his National Day speech in Taipei on Saturday, Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te said increasing defence spending aims to deter war while Taiwan cherishes peace. He accused China of changing the status quo and said the island will not give up its freedom. He also called on Indo-Pacific democracies to take a clear stance against China's threats and join forces to help preserve regional peace.
Why it matters
Lai said China is using military pressure to assert its territorial claims, and he vowed not to tolerate aggression in the Taiwan Strait. He also welcomed dialogue between China and the U.S. to manage competition.
Timeline
- Oct 10, 12:19 AM ET: Lai urged a defence boost and accused China of changing the status quo
- Oct 10, 1:48 AM ET: Lai called on Indo-Pacific democracies to take a clear stance against China's threats during his National Day speech in Taipei
- Oct 10, 6:01 PM ET: Lai called for stronger defence capabilities and cooperation among Indo-Pacific democracies
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