Taiwan seeks $14 billion US arms deal 'as soon as possible': President

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Taipei: Lai Ching-te said that Taiwan plans to move forward with a potential US$14 billion arms purchase from the US ‘as soon as possible,’ highlighting the island's desire to reinforce its defence capabilities in the face of growing military pressure from China.

Lai stated in a speech on Thursday that the planned purchase will strengthen Taiwan's ability to defend itself and show its commitment to preserving peace and stability throughout the Taiwan Strait. In order to strengthen Taiwan's warning against potential threats, the proposed package will likely include advanced weapons and military hardware.

The statement comes amid Taiwan-US security cooperation deepens, despite Beijing's strong warnings. China regards Taiwan as part of its territory and has regularly criticised US weaponry sales to the island, arguing that such transactions weaken regional stability and violate the "One China" concept.

While the United States maintains unofficial relations with Taiwan, the Taiwan Relations Act mandates it to provide the island with defensive weapons and equipment. Every major arms package would still require clearance from the US government before it could proceed.