Taiwan's defense spending is set to rise to 5% of GDP; the Taiwan Affairs Office criticizes it for harming livelihoods
Taiwan's defense budget rising to 5% of GDP has drawn attention. Zhu Fenglian said it will increase the burden on the public To better understand the cross-strait situation and its impact on people's livelihoods, click to learn about the latest response from the Taiwan Affairs Office
At a regular press briefing held in Beijing on September 16, the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council responded to reports related to Taiwan's defense budget. Spokesperson Zhu Fenglian said that if defense spending were further raised to account for 5% of GDP, it would be seen by people on the island as an added burden and would squeeze spending on livelihoods and social welfare.
Zhu Fenglian pointed out that the DPP authorities are promoting the relevant arrangements in order to serve their political goals and continue ramping up military investment. She said this approach would push Taiwan into a more dangerous situation and would also expose the public to greater risks.
In response to the issue of cybersecurity force development mentioned by Taiwan media, Zhu Fenglian also said that the mainland side will safeguard national security and the lawful rights and interests of enterprises and the public in accordance with the law, and will take measures against relevant illegal and criminal activities.