TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) appeared via video at a conference sponsored by the US Special Competitive Studies Project on Tuesday.
Hsiao addressed China's provocative behavior toward Taiwan, which she said is becoming more frequent. She said the country needs to strengthen defense capabilities to deter potential conflict, per CNA.
The format of the event was a fireside chat, which included questions from the host, SCSP President and CEO Ylli Bajraktari. Responding to how Taiwan can protect its business ecosystem from malicious attacks, Hsiao said the economy is an important part of national security, and technology and innovation are crucial to continued development.
Hsiao said economic coercion has always been a very challenging issue as Taiwan's economic and trade relations are often manipulated by China, which uses them to pressure society and influence political outcomes. This has forced Taiwan to become more resilient.
According to Hsiao, diversification is the key to strengthening resilience, as Taiwan has undertaken various measures to protect its science and technology, including the establishment of a more robust export control system. This involves close cooperation with international partners and other democratic countries.
For example, Hsiao said Taiwan has even enacted a response mechanism for China's industrial overcapacity, partly derived from intellectual property theft, state subsidies, and other non-market forces. This includes promoting anti-dumping measures to ensure the integrity of the supply chain.
Hsiao also responded to US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's comments at the Shangri-La Dialogue that China's actions around Taiwan pose an imminent threat, agreeing that the geopolitical situation has become increasingly complex. Hsiao said China's actions not only threaten the Taiwan Strait but also the South China Sea and areas north of Taiwan.
Hsiao thanked international partners for addressing Taiwan's security at global summits, including the nation's contribution to continued global prosperity. Hsiao said cooperation with international partners is essential to preventing conflicts, and diplomacy means maintaining regional peace and stability.
When asked if Taiwan is satisfied with the speed of military modernization and adoption of new technologies, Hsiao said no amount of preparation is enough. She said the military is pushing forward several reforms and modernization efforts, including command and control and strengthening the training mechanism for reservists.
Hsiao said that throughout its history, Taiwan has faced many challenges, such as colonial rule, one of the world’s longest periods of martial law at 37 years, and a transition leading to a multi-party democracy. She said this made Taiwanese society resilient to various internal and external challenges.
Hsiao concluded her comments by saying the people of Taiwan hope to be a force for good and will always stand at the front lines to defend freedom and democracy, as well as share the benefits brought about by science and technology.