The UK Defense Secretary, John Healey, recently expressed strong UK support for Taiwan amid rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait. In an interview with The Telegraph, Healey said the UK would stand ready to defend Taiwan if conflict occurs. Moreover, he stressed that Australia and the UK have a long history of fighting together. “If we have to fight, as we have done in the past, Australia and the UK are nations that will fight together,” Healey said.
Additionally, Healey highlighted that the UK and Australia conduct regular joint military exercises. These exercises, in turn, improve their readiness to fight alongside one another. He added that being more prepared helps deter aggression. “By exercising together and being more ready to fight, we deter better together,” he explained.
In response, Taiwan’s Defense Minister Wellington Koo welcomed Healey’s remarks. He said the comments show the UK’s concern for regional peace. Furthermore, Koo said they reflect the UK’s opposition to China’s authoritarian expansionism. In addition, he noted the UK’s stance supports Taiwan’s efforts to boost combat readiness. Koo stressed that deepening ties with like-minded democracies is vital. This cooperation, therefore, helps build deterrence and prevents Chinese military aggression.
However, Healey also stressed the UK’s preference for peaceful solutions. He said diplomacy remains the main goal for resolving disputes. “We prefer to see any regional disputes resolved peacefully and diplomatically,” Healey said. He added that the UK’s strength comes from its allies. Consequently, this strength helps secure peace.
Just last week, the UK and Australia released a joint statement. It called for dialogue to resolve cross-strait tensions without using force. This aligns with Healey’s message. It also shows the UK’s commitment to peace in the Asia-Pacific region. Throughout the interview, Healey reaffirmed the importance of UK support for Taiwan. His words clearly show a commitment to regional security and democratic values.
In summary, Healey’s remarks emphasize UK support for Taiwan through military cooperation and diplomacy. Overall, the message is clear: the UK stands with Taiwan to defend peace and stability in the region.
