Taiwan President Lai Ching-te on Thursday expressed hope that the United States would approve a proposed $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan at the earliest, saying the package was essential for safeguarding the island's security and democratic way of life. Speaking to reporters in Taipei, Lai reiterated Taiwan's opposition to unification with China and stressed the importance of strengthening its defence capabilities amid growing regional tensions.

Taiwan relies heavily on security cooperation with the United States as it faces increasing military and political pressure from China. Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory and has repeatedly stated that it reserves the right to bring the self-governed island under its control by force if necessary. The issue remains one of the most sensitive flashpoints in East Asia.

"We hope that the arms purchases can be approved as soon as possible," Lai said, underscoring the significance of the proposed defence package. He argued that Taiwan's efforts to enhance its military preparedness were aimed at protecting its people and democratic institutions rather than provoking conflict in the region.

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The Taiwanese president also rejected suggestions that Taipei's security measures contribute to instability. He said Taiwan's commitment to defending its sovereignty, maintaining its democratic freedoms and resisting rule by the Chinese Communist Party should not be viewed as an act of provocation or as behaviour that undermines regional peace.

The United States does not maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan and officially recognises the government in Beijing as the sole legal government of China. However, Washington remains Taiwan's most important international supporter and is obligated under US law to provide the island with the means to defend itself against potential threats.

Arms sales to Taiwan have long been a source of friction between Washington and Beijing, with China routinely condemning such deals as interference in its internal affairs. Despite these objections, successive US administrations have continued to approve defence packages for Taiwan, citing the need to preserve peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

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