Taiwan Eyes Quick US Arms Deal, Says President

Taiwan’s leader, Lai Ching‑te, voiced optimism that a fresh package of weapons from the United States will soon receive approval. He emphasized that Taiwan’s drive to strengthen its own defence and resist Beijing’s influence should not be mistaken for aggression. The island, governed as a democracy, faces relentless military and diplomatic pressure from China, which insists it is an integral part of its territory. Last month, U. S. President Donald Trump hinted that he was still weighing the possibility of new arms sales to Taiwan, describing them as a useful bargaining tool in talks with China. Despite this uncertainty, Lai reassured that the United States remains committed to Taiwan’s security. He urged his country not to slow its progress in building defence capabilities and pledged continued close contact with Washington.China labels Lai a “separatist” and has rejected several of his proposals for dialogue. Nevertheless, he insists that any future talks must be grounded in equality and respect. Lai maintains that Taiwan’s right to decide its own fate rests solely with its people, who value democracy and freedom over unification under the Chinese Communist Party. In short, Lai hopes for a swift green light on U. S. arms sales and stresses that Taiwan’s self‑defence efforts are defensive, not provocative.