China continues to develop its military and increase the number of ballistic missiles aimed at Taiwan. The missiles currently number 800 and are increasing at a rate of 100 a year.
However, Taiwan is not the only target threatened by China's military aspirations. Recently, the Singapore press reported that Beijing is building up its forces in the South China Sea, where China, the Philippines, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam all have territorial disputes. Beijing has already deployed 20 to 24 navy vessels in the South China Sea. Additionally, China has trespassed on Japanese territory in order to gather military intelligence.
The events mentioned above bear out the findings of the US' Quadrennial Defense Review, which indicated that China's development poses a threat to peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, despite the fact that China insists it is interested only in containing Taiwan.
Here in Taiwan, the arms procurement bill has been boycotted many times. This not only impedes the development of our defense forces, but also makes the US doubt our determination to defend our country.
To enhance our defensive capabilities is not to compete with China, but to maintain national security. We love freedom and peace, but they come at a cost. They are based on national security, which is the cornerstone of our country. Ensuring national security requires the will of the people, and it is up to all of us to give the government our full support in its efforts to enhance our ability to defend ourselves.
Winnie Hung
Taipei
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