Taiwan's National Day: A Celebration Amid Tensions

Taiwan celebrated its National Day amid ongoing tensions with China, which claims the island as its territory. President Lai Ching-te addressed security and regional stability, calling for cooperation from China. Taiwan's defense enhancements and economic threats from China were highlighted, along with US military support.

On Thursday, Taiwan marked its National Day celebrations under the looming threat of Chinese aggression, as Beijing continues to assert ownership over the self-governing island. Despite the tense backdrop, the day's events featured military parades but notably excluded the heavier artillery commonly displayed in the past.

In his address, Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te struck a balance between firmness and diplomacy. He urged China to collaborate on global issues such as curbing infectious diseases and ending conflicts like Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Lai emphasized Taiwan's readiness to enhance its defense capabilities and economic resilience in the wake of ongoing threats from Beijing.

The US, showing its support for Taiwan, recently announced a military aid package worth USD 567 million. Meanwhile, China's military continues to pressure Taiwan, as seen with increased aerial incursions across the Taiwan Strait. Further complicating matters, public opinion in the US shows limited support for deploying troops to Taiwan, yet favors logistical and armament assistance.

(With inputs from agencies.)