Taiwan’s Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim Calls for Stronger Defenses Against China

Taipei [Taiwan], June 23: Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim has stressed that Taiwan needs to strengthen its defenses as long as China continues its coercive tactics and does not rule out the use of force to annex Taiwan. Speaking at an event hosted by British think tank Chatham House, Hsiao responded to questions about Beijing’s perception of President Lai’s inaugural speech, stating that Beijing is the provocateur in the cross-strait relationship. She urged China to renounce the use of force to assure Taiwan.

Hsiao highlighted the regression of human and civil rights in Hong Kong and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as reminders that Taiwan cannot take its freedom and peace for granted. She emphasized that dialogue is the only way forward, asserting that Taiwan’s doors will remain open to dialogue based on parity and respect. Hsiao reiterated that the Lai administration’s policy is to not provoke but also not submit to coercion.

During her address, Hsiao discussed President Lai Ching-te’s Four Pillars of Peace, which include strengthening Taiwan’s defensive capabilities, economic resilience, international partnerships, and stable cross-strait relations. She noted that Taiwan faces significant challenges from authoritarian regimes that undermine democracy and human rights through various means. Hsiao called for unified and strong measures from democratic nations to protect freedom and uphold democratic principles.

Hsiao also highlighted Taiwan’s democratic progress since 1996, with multiple presidential elections and peaceful transfers of power. She reaffirmed the new government’s commitment to democracy, peace, and prosperity, outlining the Four Pillars of Peace action plan to guide Taiwan’s policies and actions in the coming years.