President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) is backing a NT$410 billion (US$13.7 billion) bill to strengthen Taiwan’s coast guard. Taiwan is facing continuous gray-zone intrusions from China, according to the president, who emphasized that it cannot rely on determination alone and must continue to invest resources.
Lai made the statements on National Ocean Day this Sunday during his visit to the Kaohsiung Port, where he personally oversaw the “Coastal Number 12” (海安12號) exercise. Taking place at piers No. 16 and No. 17, it featured three major military displays: maritime interception and capture, aerial rappelling rescue, and a sea-air display.
Lai emphasized Taiwan’s island geography, noting that its surrounding ocean has shaped the culture and lifestyle of its people. In addition to deeply cultivating ocean awareness, he advocated for an NT$410 billion (US$13.7 billion) special budget that would allow for the coast guard’s more comprehensive protection of Taiwan. He stated that he hopes the Legislature will support the Cabinet’s bill, regardless of party affiliation.
The bill, compiled by the Cabinet, would use the government’s annual surplus, and includes plans to construct marine vessels, supervise drones and island-wide monitoring systems, train personnel, and upgrade equipment. Lai highlighted the most urgent problem that it would address: better infrared thermal imaging systems so the Coast Guard can accurately grasp the dynamics of the sea at night.
Lai called on all parties in the Legislature to back the coast guard by supporting the bill, allowing them to have the most advanced equipment and technology to protect every inch of Taiwan and ensure the safety and dignity of the Taiwanese people. According to Lai, as long as the spirit of the people and sea can be united, the democratic ark of Taiwan can sail tenaciously on the blue ocean, and the flag of freedom and democracy can fly on the world’s waterways.