TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Former Vice President Annette Lu (呂秀蓮) called 2027 a pivotal year for Taiwan's fate Monday (Dec. 1), responding to President Lai Ching-te's (賴清德) proposal for an additional defense budget of approximately NT$1.25 trillion (around US$40 billion). Lu analyzed the situation in her Facebook post amid escalating internal political conflicts and cross-strait tensions, tensions between Taiwan and China. President Lai plans to increase defense spending to 5% of Taiwan's GDP by 2030.
Lu questioned why the defense budget extends eight years beyond the four-year presidential terms mandated by Taiwan's Constitution, the island's supreme law. She noted the new defense budget spanning until 2034 exemplifies presidents making decisions that extend beyond their presidency. Lu emphasized major national policies involving significant debt should follow democratic procedures to build a national consensus.
Lu urged the government to prioritize internal stability and develop Taiwan into a global hub of culture and technology. She warned against Taiwan becoming a powder keg in Asia or another nation's frontline battlefield. Lu stated peace requires strength and preparing for war can prevent war, stressing the importance of strength for peace.
Lu called on individuals of insight to transcend partisan interests and harness Taiwan's capabilities to ensure the island's long-term stability and security. She encouraged the government to listen to diverse opinions from across the political spectrum and actively pursue new comprehensive strategies for Taiwan's peaceful future amid rising regional tensions. Lu emphasized the importance of building consensus on national defense policies that extend beyond single presidential terms. ◼ (At time of reporting, US$1 equals approximately NT$31.4)