TAIPEI (TVBS News) — President Tsai Ing-wen recognized the hard work of Taiwan's military ahead of the Armed Forces Day on Sept. 3 in an awards ceremony for soldiers held on Thursday and addressed continuous provocations from mainland China.
Tsai emphasized Taiwan's dedication to safeguarding its borders, with the air force ready for immediate action against invading aircraft and the navy continually on alert to respond to emergencies.
On Wednesday, the U.S. government announced the provision of US＄80 million in Foreign Military Financing (FMF) to Taiwan, equivalent to NT＄25.4 billion, marking the first time the U.S. has offered military aid to Taiwan in this manner.
The Ministry of National Defense expressed gratitude for the U.S. decision, although no specific details of the assistance were disclosed. The Associated Press pointed out that this decision is the first approved by the Biden administration for Taiwan. Since the program is typically reserved for sovereign countries, it implies significant support for Taiwan.
The last FMF funds given to non-state entities was the African Union, which is essentially a sovereign state organization.
While the U.S. and Taiwan have not disclosed what equipment will be bought with the aid, estimations suggest it might include land, sea, and air defense equipment and even funds for Taiwanese military training. However, U.S. officials stress this does not indicate a shift in the One-China policy.
