Source: Fortune.com
Summary
Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te emphasized the importance of US arms sales to the island, calling them the “most important deterrent” to regional conflict and instability. This comes after President Donald Trump questioned continued US support for Taiwan following his visit to China. Trump had previously approved a $11 billion arms package to Taiwan, but has not yet greenlit a new $14 billion package, which he says “depends on China”.
Our Reading
The numbers tell one story.
Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te is trying to reassure the public that US arms sales are still a priority, despite Trump’s comments. Trump’s statement that the new arms package “depends on China” has raised concerns on the island. The US has a long-standing policy of providing Taiwan with the means to defend itself, but Trump’s comments have introduced uncertainty. Lai’s statement is an attempt to calm nerves and reiterate Taiwan’s commitment to its sovereignty and democratic way of life.
One thing is clear: the Taiwan issue has become a bargaining chip in US-China relations.
Author: Evan Null
