Defense budget approval topped President William Lai’s agenda as he urged lawmakers to swiftly pass key spending bills. Lai called for immediate action on both the special defense package and the central government’s general budget. He framed defense budget approval as essential for safeguarding national security and sustaining economic momentum.
Lai delivered his remarks at Longshan Temple in Taipei’s Wanhua District during Lunar New Year prayers. He attended the event alongside Democratic Progressive Party Secretary-General Hsu Kuo-yung and several party lawmakers. Moreover, he distributed red envelopes and extended holiday wishes to members of the public.
The president emphasized that economic development would remain the administration’s top priority this year. He noted that Taiwan recorded strong growth last year, while the stock market also posted solid gains. However, he argued that economic progress requires stable public finances and consistent legislative support.
Consequently, Lai urged the Legislative Yuan to pass the central government’s general budget without delay. He also stressed that economic achievements lose meaning without credible national defense capabilities. Therefore, he linked prosperity directly to defense budget approval and long-term security planning.
The Executive Yuan proposed a NT$1.25 trillion special defense budget covering this year through 2033. Officials designed the package to strengthen defense resilience and expand asymmetric capabilities amid rising regional tensions. Nevertheless, the opposition-dominated legislature has repeatedly postponed formal review since November.
Opposition lawmakers have demanded that Lai personally brief legislators and answer questions about the proposal. However, the administration maintains that subjecting the president to questioning would violate constitutional boundaries. This procedural dispute has intensified partisan divisions over defense budget approval.
Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu and Deputy Speaker Johnny Chiang, both from the Kuomintang, said the defense package would become a priority once lawmakers reconvene. Meanwhile, Premier Cho Jung-tai is expected to deliver a policy address at the opening of the new legislative session. He will later brief lawmakers on the outcomes and implications of Taiwan-US tariff negotiations.
The Taiwan People’s Party also weighed in on the debate over defense spending levels. Chairman Huang Kuo-chang reiterated his party’s position that defense expenditures should reach three percent of GDP. Former chairman Ko Wen-je suggested that parties submit competing defense proposals to legislative committees for faster consensus.
As lawmakers prepare to resume deliberations, political leaders face mounting pressure to compromise. Business groups and security analysts will closely monitor developments affecting fiscal stability and defense procurement planning. Ultimately, defense budget approval will signal Taiwan’s readiness to balance economic growth with strategic security commitments.
