Taiwan’s military announced plans on Sunday to engage in discussions with the United States regarding the allocation of funding for Taipei included in a $95 billion legislative package. While primarily aimed at providing assistance to Ukraine and Israel, the package holds significance for Taiwan amid heightened military tensions with China, especially as Chinese warplanes once again approached the island.
Despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties, the United States remains Taiwan’s most crucial international supporter and arms supplier. Taiwan has been grappling with increased military pressure from China, which asserts its sovereignty over the island. However, Taiwan’s government firmly rejects these claims.
Gratitude for US Support
Taiwan’s defense ministry expressed gratitude to the US House of Representatives for passing the legislative package, interpreting it as a demonstration of unwavering US support for Taiwan. The ministry pledged to coordinate the utilization of the allocated budget with the United States through existing exchange mechanisms to enhance combat readiness capabilities and ensure national security and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
Escalating Military Tensions
Highlighting the mounting pressure faced by Taiwan, the defense ministry reported that over the previous 24 hours, 14 Chinese military aircraft had crossed the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait. This action underscores China’s increasingly assertive stance toward Taiwan, as it continues to disregard the previously observed unofficial border between the two sides.
Taiwan’s Response
Taiwan’s territorial integrity remains a top priority, with the island’s armed forces prepared to respond to provocative actions by China. While Taiwan’s military capabilities are dwarfed by those of China, the country is equipped to defend its airspace and territorial waters. However, Taiwan condemns China’s actions as provocative and irresponsible, further exacerbating tensions in the region.
SOURCE: Ref Image from The Times
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