Taipei: Taiwan President Lai Ching te has urged the country's future military officers to remain loyal to Taiwan and resist growing pressure from China, saying the island's security depends on the commitment, discipline and courage of its armed forces. Addressing graduating cadets at a military academy in Taipei on Tuesday, Lai warned that Beijing continues to use espionage, influence campaigns and other tactics to weaken Taiwan from within. He called on the young officers to stand firm in protecting the country's democracy and sovereignty as tensions across the Taiwan Strait continue to rise.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of Fu Hsing Kang College, part of Taiwan's National Defence University, Lai said every military officer has a responsibility to defend the nation not only against military threats but also against attempts to infiltrate the armed forces. He urged the cadets to clearly recognise the challenges facing Taiwan and to reject any efforts by outside forces to influence or recruit them. According to Lai, safeguarding national security begins with loyalty to the country and a strong sense of duty.
The president said China has stepped up efforts in recent years to gather intelligence from within Taiwan's military. He warned that espionage and influence operations are designed to undermine trust, weaken defence capabilities and create divisions in society. Lai said military personnel must stay alert and protect confidential information while remaining committed to the values of freedom and democracy that Taiwan has built over the years.
Taiwanese authorities have reported a steady rise in cases involving alleged Chinese espionage. Several investigations have focused on serving and retired military officers accused of leaking sensitive information or helping Beijing recruit informants. In response, the government has strengthened counter intelligence measures, tightened security checks and introduced tougher laws aimed at protecting national secrets and preventing foreign interference.
Lai's speech comes at a time when relations between Taiwan and China remain tense. Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory and has repeatedly said it will seek reunification with the island. China has not ruled out the use of force to achieve that goal and has continued to increase military activities around Taiwan. Almost every day, Chinese fighter jets, drones and naval vessels are detected operating near the island, forcing Taiwan's armed forces to remain on constant alert.
Taiwan, however, rejects Beijing's claims over the island and insists that only its people have the right to decide their future. Lai has repeatedly said his government is committed to maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait but will not compromise on Taiwan's democratic system or sovereignty. His administration has also increased investment in defence, expanded military training and strengthened cooperation with friendly countries.
The military academy where Lai addressed the graduates also carries historical significance. Established in the early 1950s after the Chinese civil war, the institution was created to train military officers during a period of intense confrontation between the Republic of China government in Taiwan and the Communist government in Beijing. Although Taiwan has changed dramatically since then, becoming one of Asia's strongest democracies, the academy continues to play an important role in preparing future military leaders.
In recent weeks, Taiwan has conducted several military readiness exercises, including simulations of a possible Chinese blockade and emergency response drills. Defence officials have warned that China's military has become increasingly capable of launching rapid operations, reducing the amount of warning time Taiwan may receive before any potential attack. These developments have prompted the government to focus not only on strengthening military equipment but also on improving the preparedness of its personnel.
The graduation ceremony was attended by diplomats from several countries that maintain official diplomatic relations with Taiwan, reflecting continued international support for the island despite growing pressure from Beijing to isolate it diplomatically. While only a small number of countries formally recognise Taiwan, many nations continue to maintain close unofficial ties and support efforts to preserve peace and stability in the region.
Concluding his address, Lai reminded the graduates that the responsibility of defending Taiwan extends beyond the battlefield. He said protecting democracy, resisting foreign interference and maintaining public trust are equally important duties for every member of the armed forces. As uncertainty continues across the Taiwan Strait, his message underscored Taiwan's determination to remain vigilant, strengthen its national defence and preserve its democratic way of life in the face of increasing challenges.