Radio Taiwan International
Date: 2018-05-08

The defense ministry has expressed thanks to the United States for adding a clause

Defense ministry spokesperson Chen Chung-chi appears in this CNA file photo.

related to Taiwan in its 2019 National Defense Authorization draft bill. The clause states the need to help Taiwan in its defense capability and to enhance exchanges between the two sides. Defense ministry spokesperson Chen Chung-chi was speaking on Tuesday.

“We have expressed gratitude and optimism for US aid in regional peace and stability. Of course, the draft bill has to be reviewed by the State Department and the Trump administration, but I believe it is what everybody anticipates every year,” said Chen. “We hope that exchanges between the two sides through various channels can become more steady.”

The bill also includes a ban on the use of Chinese brand cellphones on US military bases around the world. Chen said Taiwan’s military bases have long had a similar policy. Chen said the issue is not so much the brand of the cellphone but the importance that the military places on security protection.    [FULL  STORY]