Cheng Li-chun: Hopes for Direct Defense Communication with U.S.

(Central News Agency reporter Hou Tzu-ying, Washington, 12th exclusive) KMT Chairperson Cheng Li-chun visited the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Washington headquarters today. She told the media earlier that the KMT supports defense self-reliance and is considering formulating its own version of policies regarding Taiwan's domestic defense industry development. She also expressed hope for establishing direct communication channels with the United States on defense matters.

Cheng is currently visiting the U.S. and will conclude her Washington itinerary tonight. This morning, she first attended a closed-door seminar with experts and scholars at the Washington-based think tank Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). In the afternoon, she held a press conference for Chinese-language media before visiting the AIT Washington headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, to exchange views with U.S. officials. AIT plays a liaison role between Taiwan's representative office in the U.S. and various U.S. government agencies.

During her Washington visit, Cheng met with staff at the offices of eight U.S. lawmakers, including Republican Senators Dan Sullivan, and Republican Representatives Don Bacon, Young Kim, and Brian Mast, as well as Democratic Representative Thomas Suozzi. Sullivan is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Bacon of the House Armed Services Committee; Mast chairs the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Kim chairs the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific.

At the press conference, Cheng said most of the lawmakers she met strongly support Taiwan and are concerned about its defense issues. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to communicate directly with them. She explained to the lawmakers that Taiwan's pursuit of peaceful relations with mainland China does not mean sacrificing or abandoning its alliance with the U.S. Security cooperation and broader friendship with the U.S. are crucial for the Republic of China.

Regarding defense budget issues, Cheng stated that the KMT does not oppose strengthening Taiwan's defense capabilities and has prioritized reviewing U.S. arms procurement. She noted that many are now concerned about the development and investment in Taiwan's domestic defense industry, particularly in drone manufacturing, and that the KMT supports defense self-reliance. However, she criticized the DPP's proposals as having many problems, saying, "The KMT cannot support them," and mentioned that think tank associates have suggested the KMT develop its own alternative.

Cheng said the party is now seriously considering this issue, adding, "After returning to Taiwan, we also hope to begin seriously studying this matter." During this visit, she also expressed the hope for direct communication and exchange opportunities with U.S. officials.

The Executive Yuan proposed an 8-year, NT$1.25 trillion special defense budget, but it was blocked by the KMT and Taiwan People's Party (TPP) and stalled in the legislature for a long time. The version passed in May set a budget cap of only NT$780 billion, excluded commercial purchases and commissioned production projects, and significantly cut drone-related funding. The Executive Yuan stated that there must be no defense gap and that relevant agencies are currently planning options, including incorporating funds into annual budgets, supplementary budgets, or proposing a new special act.

Regarding the 2028 presidential election in Taiwan, when asked if she would run, Cheng responded, "So far, I have not been thinking about this issue."

When asked about China's intensifying gray-zone incursions against Taiwan, including the first intrusion into Taiping Island's prohibited waters, Cheng said, "This is precisely why cross-strait dialogue is necessary, especially on the most sensitive military and security issues."

On May 11, a Chinese government vessel openly intruded into Taiping Island's waters, challenging Taiwan's sovereignty. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly condemned the act and called on the international community to jointly counter China's illegal actions.

Bonnie Glaser, Director of the Indo-Pacific Program at the Washington think tank The German Marshall Fund, who attended the closed-door seminar, replied via email to a CNA reporter, saying she found it helpful to hear Cheng's detailed vision for cross-strait relations. She noted that many in Washington have gained a deeper understanding of Cheng's views through this visit.

After leaving Washington tonight, Cheng's delegation will head to Los Angeles, the final stop of their trip. (Editor: Chou Yung-chieh) 1150613