Marchers rally for defense of Taiwan

A 25-year-old man surnamed Chang (張) and his girlfriend, surnamed Kang (康), were among a few younger marchers. Chang, who makes music for TV programs, said they attended the march because they don't want the nation to be unified with China, a country that has persistently been hostile to Taiwan.

"I support Taiwan's independence and I think Taiwan will be independent in the long run. But first and foremost, Taiwan has to have the power to protect itself," said Chang, who has taken part in pro-independence activities since college.

"Although I don't think every purchase listed in the arms sales bill is necessary, the reality is that the US will not assist in Taiwan's defense if we don't buy them," he said.

Kang, an elementary school teacher who is also 25, said that although yesterday's parade might not sway pan-blue lawmakers, through media reports of the event, the world would know that many Taiwanese are strongly committed to defending Taiwan.