Despite the easing of tensions across the Taiwan Strait in recent years, Taiwan's security cannot depend on the goodwill of China, Taiwan's defense minister, Kao Kuang-chi, said Friday, adding that the ROC military must remain on guard.
"Although cross-strait ties have improved, it doesn't mean that our security can depend on goodwill extended by others," Kao said at a military personnel promotion ceremony.
The Taiwanese military must continue its efforts to maintain combat readiness and defense capabilities to ensure the security of the country and peace across the strait, he said, calling on the military to "stay highly vigilant."
Strong national defense is the firm backing Taiwan beeds to engage with China and is key to maintaining peace and stability across the strait and in the region, Kao said, citing remarks repeated by President Ma Ying-jeou.
Tensions across the strait have been reduced since Ma took office in 2008.
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