TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) reaffirmed his commitment to bolstering Taiwan’s defense in a meeting with former US Indo-Pacific Command Commander Admiral John Aquilino on Tuesday.

Aquilino is leading a delegation from the National Bureau of Asian Research in Taiwan to exchange views on Taiwan-US relations and regional developments. 

Lai said Taiwan stands at the forefront of defending democracy, given its position along the first island chain, per the Presidential Office. The nation continues to strengthen its defense capabilities and stands with the global democratic community to enhance regional deterrence and maintain peace and stability, he said.

Lai said Taiwan will also continue to implement defense reforms and embrace self-reliance, adding that ensuring the defense budget exceeds 3% of GDP is a priority.

The president thanked the US for its arms sales to Taiwan and for strengthening the Taiwan-US partnership. He believed the two countries could serve as key pillars of regional security.

Aquilino pointed out that this was his second visit to Taiwan in five months, and he has been deeply impressed. He praised Lai’s leadership and actions in protecting Taiwan and its people.

The former commander emphasized that Taiwan’s efforts to promote whole-of-society defense resilience and strengthen its deterrence capabilities have left a strong impression on him. He said that Taiwan’s vibrant democracy is crucial to peace and stability across the entire region. 

He pledged to work with NBR to continue supporting Taiwan and maintaining close Taiwan-US relations to ensure regional peace and stability.