US lawmakers visiting Taipei issued a strong call for Taiwan’s parliament to pass a significant $40 billion defense budget that has been delayed due to political contention. Senators, including Jeanne Shaheen and John Curtis, attended meetings with Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te to discuss the pressing need for Taiwan to bolster its military in the face of increasing Chinese aggression.

The proposed budget aims to enhance Taiwan's defense capabilities, which include the construction of an advanced missile defense system known as the "T-Dome" and supporting the indigenous defense industry. Currently, the proposal faces opposition from parties within Taiwan, specifically the Kuomintang (KMT), which has favored smaller defense allocations that do not encompass the full extent of Lai’s ambitions.

During the press briefing, Curtis remarked, "The threat posed by the People's Republic of China against Taiwan has never been greater." He emphasized the importance of timely congressional support, noting that "the seriousness is noticed in Washington D.C."

The US has adopted a proactive stance in supporting Taiwan amid China's growing military presence around the island, which has involved war games and threats of retaliation. As part of this engagement, a second arms sale package, valued at approximately $14 billion, is also in the pipeline, with the US looking to expedite these deliveries to Taiwan.

Deputy Minister Hsu Szu-chien echoed the sentiments of the US lawmakers, expressing hope that the US could accelerate the process of arms sales to facilitate the passage of the defense budget in Taiwan's legislative body.

The discussions underscore the vital US-Taiwan relationship, particularly as the island navigates pressure from Beijing, which insists on its claim over Taiwan and prohibits any form of official exchanges between the US and Taiwan. As the situation develops, Taiwan's ability to fortify its defense budget will be crucial in ensuring its security and resilience against external threats.