Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) president John Hamre yesterday praised Taiwan’s significant strides in self-defense, saying that the nation’s growing preparedness serves as a powerful deterrent against authoritarian threats.
Speaking during a meeting with President William Lai (賴清德) at the Presidential Office in Taipei, Hamre talked about his previous visit to Taiwan, three years ago, during Lai’s presidential campaign.
At every meeting during that visit, the Taiwanese side would always ask: “Will the US help defend Taiwan?” while the US side would ask: “Will Taiwan be prepared to defend itself?” he said.
Photo courtesy of the Presidential Office
Hamre said he was pleased today to witness the remarkable progress Taiwan has made under Lai’s leadership, especially the nation’s commitment to its own defense.
The efforts extend beyond merely acquiring essential military equipment, to strengthening the civil defense resilience of the entire population, he added.
Hamre said that US Indo-Pacific Commander Admiral Samuel Paparo recognizes Taiwan as a vital partner and is advancing bilateral cooperation in numerous critical domains.
While acknowledging that there is still work to be done — specifically passing the special defense budget awaiting approval in the Legislative Yuan — Hamre remained optimistic.
He expressed confidence that the budget would eventually pass, saying that Taiwanese understand the importance of self-defense.
The more prepared you are, the greater the deterrent power, Hamre added.
Making his final international trip as CSIS president before handing leadership to former US chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, retired Marine general Joseph Dunford, Hamre reaffirmed his deep personal connection to Taiwan.
Describing Taiwan as his “second home,” he said that seeing the nation’s flag reminds him that it stands as a “symbol of freedom in Asia,” and reaffirms his commitment to Taiwan’s long-term security and prosperity.
Lai thanked the outgoing think tank leader for his steadfast support over the years.
Lai described CSIS as a “powerful searchlight” that illuminates the crucial importance of cross-strait peace and stability for global prosperity, ensuring that Taiwan is not isolated while making authoritarian regimes hesitate before acting.
Taiwanese firmly believe “strength is the moat of peace,” Lai said.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to boosting the nation’s defense capabilities, saying that Taiwan’s defense budget, calculated by NATO standards, has already surpassed 3 percent of GDP, with a target of 5 percent by 2030 to further secure the Indo-Pacific region.
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