Radio Taiwan International
Date: 2018-05-29
The defense ministry says it respects the decision of the United States on whether
Defense ministry spokesperson Chen Chung-chi appears in this CNA photo.
Taiwan may be invited to take part in the Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC). That’s the word from defense ministry spokesperson Chen Chung-chi on Tuesday. RIMPAC is the world’s largest international maritime warfare exercise that takes place in June and July of even numbered years.
Chen was speaking in light of recent pro-Taiwan policies passed by the US Congress. Chen said the US recognizes Taiwan’s role in the region.
“It comes to show that the US recognizes Taiwan’s role in the region as a peacekeeper. It is also the direction that we’re working towards. Of course it doesn’t matter whether the condition is to strengthen our military or provide assistance to our self-defense capability, we are optimistic about the role that we play as a peacekeeper for national security or in the region,” said Chen.
However, while the US has extended friendly gestures, China continues to exert pressure with Taiwan. Chen confirmed that Chinese agents recently attempted to hack into Taiwan’s military hospital database. Chen said fortunately the department in charge of information security has taken measures to prevent leaks. [SOURCE]
