Marchers Call for Stronger Defense Amid China Tensions
Taipei saw thousands take to the streets as more than 60 civic groups rallied in support of increased military spending and arms purchases, amid growing pressure from China.
PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH
Civic Groups Demand Higher Defense Spending
REPORTER:
Around three thousand people flock the streets of Taipei, calling for more military spending in the face of increasing threats from China.
BITE-1
Looking at examples like the Russia-Ukraine War and the US-Iran conflict, without self-sufficient national defense capabilities, there's really no hope of defending yourself.
BITE-2
I feel military purchases are very important and we must prioritize national defense. We can't keep [blocking arms procurement bills]. Facing pressure from China, we have to stand up.
REPORTER:
This comes after months of legislative debate over how to allocate extra funding for Taiwan’s defense.
Earlier this month, lawmakers approved a $25 billion US dollar package for arms purchases from the US, but left out items President Lai Ching-te had proposed, including a missile defense system and a drone procurement plan.
REPORTER:
Opposition lawmakers who backed the reduced plan say they do support defense spending, but want it to be transparent and properly overseen by the government.
BITE-3
Weng Hsiao-ling (LEGISLATOR, KMT):
Some of these domestic defense industries appear to be linked to pro-Democratic Progressive Party circles. They also lack the necessary expertise. So when it comes to self-reliant defense, we support it, but it should be strictly reviewed.
REPORTER:
It all comes after US President Donald Trump’s meeting with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping. Although US officials have promised no changes to the US-Taiwan relationship, recent comments by Trump have raised concern over whether a pending $14 billion dollar arms deal to Taiwan will be delayed.
BITE-4
Huang Kuo-chang (LEGISLATOR, TPP):
We’ve kept waiting and waiting but still have not received public notice from the US. They’ve only told us in private that the second arms package is not a problem and asked us to include it in the special defense bill.
REPORTER:
But on the streets of Taipei, many remain optimistic about US commitments to Taipei.
BITE-5
I trust the United States very much and lately we have been paying close attention to the actions of the US and Trump.
BITE-6
I think everyone should trust themselves first. Only then can self-help lead to mutual help. So as for the US side, I think we still have to wait and see.
REPORTER:
All this, as Taiwan’s top security council official warns of growing Chinese presence in the region. And as protests continue, the Cabinet says additional defense spending bills, focused on domestic research, development, and manufacturing, could still possible.
