TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan is bolstering its resilience and defense to prevent a cross-strait conflict, Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) said in an interview with Lithuania National Radio and Television (LRT) published on Monday.

Taiwan also seeks to continue garnering global support to help safeguard its democracy, Hsiao said. She said the Taiwanese aspire to be part of a peaceful international community and strengthen bilateral exchanges, per the Presidential Office.

The vice president reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering public trust in the military as Chinese disinformation attempts to undermine it. “These disinformation campaigns are a common tactic of authoritarian states and are not limited to Taiwan—they extend across the globe,” she said.

Hsiao said there is much work to be done in this regard. “Deepening partnerships with international allies are also a crucial aspect of building this confidence and ensuring the resilience of our society,” she added.

On Taiwan-Lithuania relations, Hsiao said the two countries share commonalities including fighting for freedom and democracy. Amid expanding authoritarianism, it is essential for countries like Taiwan and Lithuania to work together to protect these cherished values, she said.

Hsiao believes cultural exchanges, particularly in sports and art, could foster mutual understanding between the two peoples and an appreciation for each other’s history and diversity. She also said they could collaborate on drone technology.

Taiwan established a representative office in Vilnius in 2021, while Lithuania opened one in Taipei in 2022.