“Establishing a volunteer force is a core component of the government’s defense and deterrence strategy,” Ma said. “By recruiting professional soldiers committed to serving long term, we can change the shape of the military while boosting operational capabilities.”
The president made the remarks during an inspection of the ROC marine corps 66th brigade based in Taoyuan City, northern Taiwan.
According to Ma, several complementary measures are already in place to ensure the successful implementation of the initiative. These include better benefits and more opportunities for advanced training.
“Such efforts are paying handsome dividends,” Ma said, adding that voluntary enlistment topped 15,000 in 2014—exceeding the annual target by 4,000—and the number of service extensions shot up 19 percentage points to 61 percent. Both figures have seen further growth this year, reaching over 5,000 and 63.8 percent, respectively, by mid-May.
The Cabinet will continue coordinating interminsterial efforts to boost recruitment and strengthen restructuring through such incentives as supplementary pay for combat troops and service extensions, the president said.
“The armed forces play an invaluable role in protecting and advancing the development of Taiwan,” Ma said. “Its mission has been updated to include a frontline role in delivering humanitarian aid and carrying out relief operations.”
In urging members of the military to embrace transformation, the president said he also expects them to continue enriching professional skills, demonstrating loyalty and performing their duties with honor.
“This deep commitment plays a vital role in safeguarding the nation’s security, as well as its economic prosperity and social stability.” (YHC-JSM)
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