TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Wu Chih-chung (吳志中) expressed Taiwan's unwavering resolve to defend its sovereignty and security amid rising threats from China during an interview with Slovakia's Pravda on Thursday (Dec. 12). Wu highlighted China's increasing hostility, citing the dispatch of of military aircraft into Taiwan's air defense identification zone, with over 150 jets spotted in a single day.
Wu emphasized Taiwan's strategy to bolster its defense capabilities to signal its preparedness to China. He noted Taiwan's willingness to engage in dialogue with Beijing, though China's precondition of the One China principle remains unacceptable to Taiwan. Wu remarked on Hong Kong's situation as evidence of Beijing's unreliable promises but maintained Taiwan's openness to communication channels with China, despite Beijing's insincerity.
Addressing the Ukraine war, Wu warned that Western failure to curb Russian expansion could challenge Taiwan's protection. He stressed that Taiwan supports Ukraine by collaborating with Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Lithuania to provide aid, emphasizing the importance of enhancing Taiwan's military capabilities and garnering international support, noting an 80% increase in the military budget.
Wu highlighted Taiwan's critical role in the semiconductor industry, producing 60% of the world's semiconductors. He expressed optimism about the incoming U.S. President Trump, urging him to prioritize Taiwan to achieve his goals. Wu also discussed Taiwan's respect for Slovakia's choice of allies and its hope to strengthen bilateral cooperation. Taiwan, Wu emphasized, will not stand isolated, continuing to fortify its self-defense and actively seeking global partnerships.
