Taiwan reaffirmed its commitment to defense self-reliance as Defense Minister Wellington Koo addressed questions about U.S. support following recent remarks by columnist Thomas Friedman. This defense self-reliance message dominated Koo’s comments during a legislative meeting in Taipei, where he emphasized the shared strategic direction between Taipei and Washington.
Koo said Taiwan and the United States maintain a clear consensus on the need to strengthen the island’s deterrence. He explained that Washington continues assisting Taipei through military cooperation and wider coordination with Indo-Pacific partners. He also noted that both sides uphold a long-term policy of achieving peace through strength.
Koo also commented on Friedman’s suggestion that Taiwan should avoid provocative actions amid uncertainties about future U.S. leadership. He agreed that Taiwan must keep building global economic importance through advanced technologies and resilient supply chains. He described this approach as essential for enhancing national security and economic competitiveness.
Friedman delivered his remarks during a leadership forum this week. He argued that Taiwan should adopt a cautious posture while reinforcing its critical economic role. He warned that future U.S. administrations may not guarantee the same level of commitment as in past decades. Moreover, h suggested that Taiwan expand its porcupine strategy to complicate any potential military action from China.
Friedman said China’s leadership should not feel pressured into military escalation. He urged Taiwan to strengthen its global economic position, noting that the island’s semiconductor sector remains irreplaceable. He also said that any conflict would disrupt global technology supply chains and undermine Taiwan’s own leading industries.
In response to public discussion surrounding Friedman’s views, the American Institute in Taiwan restated Washington’s policy position. Officials said the United States continues supporting peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. They also stressed opposition to any unilateral change to the status quo by force or coercion.
U.S. leaders, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, also reiterated Washington’s strategic commitments. They highlighted the importance of maintaining a regional balance of power and addressing China’s actions in surrounding waters. They further emphasized that longstanding U.S. policy toward Taiwan remains consistent.
Analysts noted that Koo’s remarks align closely with Taiwan’s ongoing defense investments. They said the government continues modernizing military capabilities while deepening international cooperation. They also believe Taiwan’s emphasis on defense self-reliance will shape future strategic planning across defense, diplomacy and industrial development.
Looking ahead, officials expect Taiwan to expand military readiness, upgrade asymmetric systems and reinforce economic security measures. They also anticipate greater clarification from Washington on regional commitments as political transitions continue. Through these efforts, Taiwan intends to strengthen its overall resilience and advance a broader defense self-reliance strategy.
