TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's foreign minister clarified Taiwan's stance on Tuesday (Nov. 7) amid rising tensions with China.
Speaking at Riga Stradins University in Latvia, Minister Joseph Wu stated that Taiwan is determined to achieve peace with China through open dialogue but emphasized pragmatism and preparedness against potential risks.
Wu praised the diplomatic relations between Taiwan and Latvia, highlighting the shared values of freedom, human rights, and the rule of law, which both nations strive to protect.
However, he acknowledged the unprecedented security challenges that both countries face and attributed the rising global conflict to the clash between democracy and autocracy.
Wu urged established democracies to take action and prevent the expansion of authoritarianism from undermining the rules-based international order.
Wu also recognized the importance of Taiwan's military defense, particularly in light of President Tsai's announcement to restore a one-year military service in December last year.
The minister stressed that these changes must be enforced to ensure Taiwan is fully equipped to defend its freedom against potential threats. "The cost of losing freedom is unbearable for a democratic society," he concluded.
