TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan is ready to assume a greater role in the Indo-Pacific, Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) said on Wednesday (Nov. 13).

Speaking to a visiting Taiwanese Association of America delegation, Cho said the nation is prepared to boost its defense capabilities and stand with democratic partners in maintaining regional peace and stability, per CNA. Given Taiwan's strategic location and economic importance, especially in the democratic supply chain, any disruption to the nation would have global repercussions, Cho said.

The premier said Taiwan must provide secure energy policies and foster an environment conducive to investment, work, and growth. He underscored the importance of advancing Taiwan’s semiconductor industry while facilitating talent development.

Cho said that as President-elect Donald Trump forms a new administration, Taiwan is taking proactive steps to prepare for what may come. Deputy Premier Cheng Li-chun (鄭麗君) has formed a task force to strengthen US-Taiwan cooperation in trade, defense, technology, and people-to-people exchanges. 

The task force plans to present new strategies within a month that enhance engagement with the US following Trump’s inauguration.

Trump is reportedly considering Marco Rubio as secretary of state and Mike Waltz for White House national security advisor. Both are staunch supporters of Taiwan.