U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, who serves as Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, has expressed support for Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s recent proposal to increase defense spending through a special budget. The announcement comes amid ongoing tensions and threats from China.
In a statement released Tuesday, Wicker said, “President Lai’s announcement of a new special (defense) budget is yet another demonstration of Taiwan’s resolve and commitment to its self-defense. This proposed increase in defense spending shows Taiwan to be a determined partner that is capable and willing to share the burden of deterring aggression in its region. We encourage our colleagues in Taiwan’s parliament to work with the Lai Administration on a bipartisan basis to swiftly enact this special budget into law. Doing so can demonstrate that legitimate political differences will be set aside when it comes to matters related to the urgent needs associated with the defense of Taiwan.”
The call for increased defense funding follows heightened concerns over regional security as China continues to assert its claims over Taiwan. Wicker’s comments highlight ongoing U.S. interest in supporting Taiwan’s efforts to strengthen its military capabilities.