TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's top representative in Washington pressed American lawmakers Wednesday (June 11) to accelerate military aid and reduce tax barriers during a high-stakes closed-door meeting with U.S. House members. Ambassador Alexander Yu (俞大㵢) delivered an urgent appeal for expedited arms sales to bolster Taiwan's defense capabilities as tensions escalate across the Taiwan Strait. The private luncheon underscored Taiwan's growing concerns about regional security threats and economic cooperation challenges with its most crucial ally.
Fox News coverage revealed Yu's emphasis on the critical need for accelerated weapons deliveries to Taiwan's military while addressing persistent bilateral investment barriers that hinder economic cooperation. Yu highlighted American commitment to prioritizing Taiwan's strategic concerns and supporting faster delivery of previously purchased defense equipment. The ambassador specifically urged Senate action on the stalled United States-Taiwan Expedited Double-Tax Relief Act (美台快速雙重稅收減免法案), which successfully passed the House but faces legislative gridlock in the upper chamber.
Yu voiced alarm about China's escalating provocations throughout the Taiwan Strait and broader Indo-Pacific region, emphasizing Taiwan's commitment to strengthening defense capabilities while maintaining peaceful intentions. Republican Representative August Pfluger responded with strong support for Taiwan's democratic government, sharply criticizing China's authoritarian regime and its existential threats against Taiwan. Pfluger acknowledged Taiwan's significant defense spending increase to 3% of GDP and stressed the strategic importance of ongoing U.S. military restructuring efforts.
Pfluger stopped short of promising additional military aid but expressed strong support for enhanced defense readiness cooperation between American and Taiwanese forces. The congressman delivered the Senate's message of unwavering solidarity with Taiwan, emphasizing the island's vital role as both a strategic ally and important trade partner. The high-level diplomatic meeting signals sustained American commitment to Taiwan's security architecture and economic partnership, with observers anticipating significant developments in defense cooperation and legislative support measures. ◼