Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs François Chih-chung Wu said Taiwan is committed to enhancing its self-defense capabilities and deepening security cooperation with the U.S. while urging like-minded partners to continue monitoring the cross-strait situation.
Wu made the remarks during an interview with Cagan Koc for an article titled “Taiwan is ‘Praying’ for Stronger U.S. Ties After Ukraine Fallout” published March 5 by New York City-based Bloomberg News.
Taiwan will continue procuring military equipment from the U.S. and strengthening the bilateral relationship, Wu said. He cited President Lai Ching-te’s announcement that the country would raise its defense spending to more than 3 percent of its gross domestic product, demonstrating its determination to safeguard sovereignty.
The deputy minister went on to suggest that the two sides could strengthen their security partnerships through unofficial channels, which will convey to China that attacking Taiwan would not be so easy.
According to Wu, Taiwan’s strength is its “silicon shield” given the critical role its semiconductor industry plays in global supply chains. With the high international demand for Taiwan’s chips, maintaining regional peace and stability is in the interest of countries worldwide, he said, adding that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.’s recent decision to increase investment in the U.S. will not weaken Taiwan’s strategic importance but rather secure the country’s leading position in the global sector.
Wu concluded by emphasizing Taiwan’s “not today policy.” Moves such as deploying missile defense systems and launching indigenously built submarine and warship programs aim to deter China, he said, adding that the government will avoid giving it any excuse to attack Taiwan. (YCH-E)
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