TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA, 外交部) planed to increase its classified budget by NT$634.669 million for 2025, setting a six-year high. The Legislative Yuan's Budget Center (立法院預算中心) suggested clarifying the budget's expenditure items to promote transparency and accountability, ensuring the funds align with actual needs.
The ministry allocated the budget according to the Budget Act (預算法) and the Classified National Security Information Protection Act (國家機密保護法). It aims to strengthen ties with allies and support their socio-economic development while enhancing bilateral relations with friendly nations. In response to China's increasing pressure, the MOFA emphasizes using the budget prudently to defend Taiwan's sovereignty and protect national interests.
Concerns arise over the previous administration's loss of 10 diplomatic allies in eight years, highlighting the need for new strategies. Opposition legislators question the effectiveness of this increased expenditure. Kuomintang (KMT, 國民黨) Legislator Niu Hsu-ting (牛煦庭) criticized the budget's lack of transparency.
Democratic Progressive Party (DPP, 民進黨) caucus whip Rosalia Wu (吳思瑤) argued that Taiwan should seize the opportunity to expand its diplomacy amid China's pressure and support from democratic allies, claiming the budget increase reflects current policy and deserves backing.