President William Lai (賴清德) yesterday called for the swift passage of a special defense budget during an inspection of the Army Infantry Training Command in Kaohsiung, stressing the need to strengthen Taiwan’s military preparedness.
The NT$1.25 trillion (US$39.6 billion) budget, which the Cabinet submitted to the legislature in November last year, is under committee review.
The bill would fund weapons systems approved by the US for sale to Taiwan in December last year, arms sale packages that have not yet been notified to the US Congress, and initiatives involving local manufacturers.
Staff writer, with CNA
The Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) and Taiwan People’s Party have submitted their own versions of the budget bill due to disagreements over the scope and cost.
Lai said at the army command that the budget should be approved without cuts to support the acquisition of highly mobile and precision weapons.
"Only through constant preparedness can threats be deterred," Lai said, reiterating that Taiwan’s strategy is to avoid war through readiness and stop war through strength.
Lai said that the proposed budget, based on professional assessment, is both necessary and affordable amid Taiwan’s economic growth.
He described it as a key investment in safeguarding democracy, strengthening defense capabilities and supporting service members.
Amid a complex regional security environment, Lai said the funding would enhance the military’s ability to respond to modern warfare and send a clear signal internationally of Taiwan’s resolve to defend itself.
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