Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense expressed gratitude for efforts to expand arms sales June 19, 2024, 08:35
Washington/Taipei – The US State Department has approved the possible sale of drones and missiles worth $360 million (€335 million) to Taiwan. This will “improve the recipient’s security and help maintain political stability, military balance and economic progress in the region,” the Pentagon said on Tuesday. The deal includes Switchblade-300 anti-personnel and anti-tank guided missiles worth $60.2 million and Altius-600M-V drones worth around $300 million. Reaction from the Taiwanese Ministry of Defense The Taiwanese Ministry of Defense expressed its gratitude for efforts to expand arms sales. “Given the frequent military operations of the Chinese communists around Taiwan, these US-approved arms sales will be able to detect and attack in real time and respond quickly to threats,” it said in a statement. Peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait require China’s goodwill, the ministry added. It is hoped that the People’s Liberation Army will stop its oppressive military operations around Taiwan and jointly contribute to regional stability. The US is legally obliged to provide Taiwan, which is claimed by China, with the means of self-defense despite the lack of formal diplomatic relations – a constant nuisance for Beijing. Taiwan’s president is determined One month after taking office, Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has reaffirmed his determined stance towards China. “Taiwan will not bow to pressure,” Lai said at a press conference on Wednesday, referring to Chinese attempts to force Taiwan into “submission.” “The Taiwanese people will resolutely defend their national sovereignty and uphold the democratic and free constitutional way of life.” Taiwan seceded from communist mainland China at the end of the civil war 75 years ago. Since then, Beijing has viewed the island as a breakaway province that should be reunited with the mainland – if necessary by military force. In recent years, China has increased military and political pressure. Most recently, it held maneuvers around the island three days after Lai’s inauguration. China sends fighter jets and warships near the island almost every day. In addition to military intimidation, Beijing is increasingly using “non-traditional methods of coercion,” Lai said on Wednesday. Despite everything, Taiwan will try to “avoid a conflict.” In this context, Lai also thanked the United States on Wednesday for its military support. He reiterated the need to develop “resilience” in Taiwan’s defense strategy. (APA, June 19, 2024)
Newsessentials Blog 
Posted on June 19, 2024
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