Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has said that maintaining peace across the Taiwan Strait requires strength, as Taiwan marked the 68th anniversary of a major 1958 confrontation with Chinese forces.
Lai made the remarks on Sunday during a visit to Kinmen, a Taiwan-controlled island located less than 2 kilometres from the Chinese coast. He attended a memorial ceremony honouring those who fought during the Second Taiwan Strait Crisis.
The 1958 conflict began when Chinese forces launched a prolonged bombardment of Kinmen and the nearby Matsu islands. Taiwan resisted the attacks with support from the United States, and the confrontation eventually ended in a stalemate.
Lai said Taiwan must remain united in defending its sovereignty and protecting peace, stressing that peace should not be taken for granted. He also called for continued investment in Taiwan's defence capabilities.
China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has repeatedly criticised Lai as a separatist. Lai rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims but has said Taiwan's future should be decided by its people.
Tensions have remained high in the Taiwan Strait, with China carrying out regular coast guard patrols around Kinmen since early 2024. Taiwan says such activities have increased concerns about China's intentions in the region.
Taiwan's government has announced that planned defence spending for next year will exceed T$1 trillion ($30 billion) for the first time. Lai urged lawmakers to support the proposed budget.
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