Commemorating the August 23rd Battle, Lai Ching-te vows to strengthen defenses against China's expansionist ambitions

President Lai Ching-te marked the 68th anniversary of the pivotal August 23rd Artillery Battle in Kinmen by urging vigilance and a robust defense strategy. Speaking amidst heavy rain at the Wuqiu Mountain Cemetery, Lai invoked the spirit of the battle, where soldiers bravely fought and sacrificed to repel communist aggression, securing 68 years of peace across the Taiwan Strait. He cautioned that "even in times of peace, forgetting war invites danger," and asserted that only by "holding firm to the spirit of 'not yielding an inch of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu'" and continuously strengthening national defense can peace be guaranteed. Lai pointed to the battle's victory as the best proof of "ensuring peace through strength."

The president highlighted Taiwan's commitment to bolstering its military capabilities, announcing that the defense budget will surpass one trillion New Taiwan dollars for the first time in the upcoming year, exceeding 3% of GDP. This significant investment underscores Taiwan's determination to enhance its self-defense. Beyond military hardware, Lai detailed ongoing efforts to improve the welfare and benefits for military personnel. He mentioned successive increases in various allowances for volunteer soldiers, combat troops, and specialized units, including a new combat troop allowance and adjustments to professional and supervisory allowances. Furthermore, he noted that military, civil servant, and public school personnel will receive a 4% salary increase starting January next year, marking the fifth such raise in a decade.

Lai also touched upon infrastructure improvements, citing the "Xing'an Project" which aims to modernize outdated barracks. He specifically mentioned the completion of a medical supply complex at the Shenfenggang military base in Kinmen, providing modern living quarters. He emphasized that these comprehensive measures, from increased defense resources to improved benefits and living conditions, are all aimed at supporting the nation's service members. Lai concluded by drawing a parallel between the difficult conditions faced 68 years ago and the present, calling for continued unity and support for the armed forces and national defense to safeguard the country, protect democracy, and pursue lasting peace and prosperity.