Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng says the military will strengthen its preparedness amid increased tensions across the Taiwan Strait. Chiu was speaking Tuesday at the legislature.
Chiu’s comments came following recent remarks made by Chinese officials that the “two sides must and will eventually unify and that China does not forgo the plan to attack Taiwan by force.”
In response to China’s provocative rhetoric, Chiu said the military will strengthen preparedness and take preemptive measures to cope with the situation.
Under a plan submitted to the legislature, the armed forces will focus on asymmetric warfare, boosting defensive capabilities, and curbing the spread of misinformation, among other things.
Meanwhile, the defense ministry is planning to recruit over 18,000 soldiers this year.