TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) reiterated Taiwan’s commitment to continued national defense reforms and improving societal defense and resilience on Wednesday (Nov. 13).

Lai welcomed a Center for a New American Security delegation led by the former commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command John Aquilino. 

In the face of expanding authoritarianism, Taiwan believes in peace through strength, Lai said, according to the Presidential Office. “Only when we unite are we able to overcome all challenges,” he added. The president pledged to bolster cooperation with democratic partners to preserve freedom and democracy.

Lai pointed out that continued US arms sales demonstrate the importance that the US attaches to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. He thanked the Biden administration for supporting Taiwan’s efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities and looked forward to working closely with the Trump administration to promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.

Aquilino stressed the importance of the US maintaining regional partnerships to ensure peace and stability. Exchanges build critical relationships, he said.

In March, the former commander warned that China wanted to have the ability to annex Taiwan by 2027. "Despite a failing economy, there is a conscious decision to fund military capability," he said.