In an exclusive interview with Wealth Magazine published this Wednesday, President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said he had no choice but to define China as a foreign hostile force according to the Anti-Infiltration Act; the act defines countries or political entities that are at war or engaging in a military standoff with Taiwan as such.
Lai had defined China as a foreign hostile force in March and announced 17 strategies to respond to national security and united front threats facing Taiwan. He explained that although Taiwan and China have a close economic relationship, he was obliged to make this designation to ensure national security, social stability, and long-term peace for the people of Taiwan. China remains open to the idea of taking Taiwan by force, Lai said, and their intimidation tactics and united front efforts against Taiwan are intensifying.
Regarding American tariffs, Lai said that as U.S. President Donald Trump cares most about the trade deficit, they will prioritize this issue in negotiations. He explained that Taiwan is prepared to resolve the deficit through procurement and investment projects in areas such as oil, natural gas, industrial equipment, aircraft, and armaments.
As for Taiwan’s energy resources, Lai said Taiwan lacks green electricity and that it will be important to develop various green energy sources moving forward. The government has not ruled out the implementation of advanced nuclear energy in the future, should the technology become demonstrably safer and more efficient.