In response to the letter from Members of the United States Senate and House of Representatives concerning Taiwan’s defense budget addressed to myself and the leaders of Taiwan’s major political parties, I, as President of the Legislative Yuan of the Republic of China (Taiwan), sincerely thank our friends in the U.S. Congress for their longstanding support for and attention to Taiwan’s security and democratic resilience. Together with Vice President Johnny Chiang (江啟臣) of the Legislative Yuan, we issue the following statement:
The Taiwan–U.S. partnership is founded on shared democratic values and a common commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. This enduring, values-based partnership is a cornerstone of our relationship. The Legislative Yuan deeply values the close cooperation between Taiwan and the United States and appreciates the steadfast support of the U.S. Congress.
Taiwan faces a complex geopolitical environment. Vice President Chiang and I have consistently paid close attention to Taiwan’s national defense, diplomacy, and overseas community affairs, and place strong emphasis on defense, security, and economic cooperation. Through Taiwan’s own efforts and collaboration with partner countries, we seek to jointly safeguard peace, stability, and prosperity across the Taiwan Strait and the broader Indo-Pacific region.
As President and Vice President of the Legislative Yuan, we represent a pluralistic parliament composed of members from the Kuomintang (KMT), Taiwan People’s Party (TPP), Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), and independent legislators. The presence of differing views and the pursuit of consensus through rational deliberation reflect the maturity of a democratic system. We also wish to convey to our friends in the U.S. Congress that Taiwan’s legislators, like you, are deeply devoted to our country and guided by a strong sense of responsibility. Regardless of party affiliation, our determination to defend the nation, strengthen self-defense capabilities, safeguard national security, maintain social stability, and promote economic prosperity is united and unwavering.
The Republic of China (Taiwan) is a vibrant democracy. As the nation’s highest representative body, the Legislative Yuan reviews legislation through open, transparent, and rule-of-law procedures, and seeks cross-party consensus. Rational deliberation and parliamentary participation further strengthen public support for national defense policy.
Regarding the special defense budget, we will actively facilitate communication and coordination among party caucuses and foster an environment for constructive dialogue. The Legislative Yuan will conduct thorough deliberations and prudent review of the relevant proposals in accordance with national defense needs and public expectations. Such a process not only upholds democratic procedures but also helps consolidate societal consensus on defense spending.
Once the Legislative Yuan convenes, the special defense budget will be treated as a top legislative priority. We believe progress can be achieved through the collective efforts of all political parties.
Taiwan has the determination to defend itself and has long been committed to maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and in the region. Entrusted with the will of 23 million people, the Legislative Yuan will faithfully fulfill its responsibilities to safeguard the nation’s security, development, and prosperity.
We value the open, candid, and sincere exchanges between the Legislative Yuan and the U.S. Congress and take your views seriously. Taiwan will continue to act with seriousness and resolve to make responsible contributions to its own security and to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. (20260215)
