TAIPEI, Taiwan: Taiwan’s newly appointed Foreign Minister, Lin Chia-lung, emphasized the island’s need for self-reliance in defense following comments by US presidential candidate Donald Trump, who suggested that Taiwan should financially contribute to its defense if conflict arises with China.
China views Taiwan as part of its territory and has intensified its military posture and aggressive rhetoric towards the democratic island in recent years. The United States has responded with increased military aid and weapon sales to Taiwan to help counter China’s assertiveness. However, Trump’s recent remarks have stirred concerns about the nature of US-Taiwan relations. In a Bloomberg Businessweek interview, Trump criticized Taiwan for not contributing financially to its defense, likening the US role to that of an insurance company.
In his first briefing since joining President Lai Ching-te’s cabinet, Lin Chia-lung took Trump’s comments seriously but underscored Taiwan’s commitment to self-defense. He highlighted Taiwan’s increase in military spending from 2 percent to 2.5 percent of its GDP over the past eight years, with plans for further increases. This budget expansion will support not only weapon purchases but also essential military reforms.
Lin dismissed speculation about Chinese President Xi Jinping having a set timetable for an invasion of Taiwan, describing such talk as psychological warfare. He expressed hope that even if Xi has a plan, he would delay action, stressing Taiwan’s determination and capability to defend itself.
The situation underscores the complex dynamics of US-Taiwan relations amid growing tensions with China, emphasizing Taiwan’s strategy of enhancing self-reliance while navigating its relationship with major allies.
