Taiwan President Lai Ching-te on Friday appointed a U.S.-educated senior security official as a new vice defence minister, reinforcing efforts to oversee military reforms amid plans for an additional $40 billion in defence spending.
Hsu Szu-chien, currently an advisor to Taiwan’s National Security Council, brings extensive experience in international affairs and is fluent in English, the presidential office said in a statement.
“The president hopes to draw on Dr. Hsu’s strong professional background and practical experience in national security and international affairs to assist Defence Minister Wellington Koo in injecting new momentum into reform and strengthening our national defence,” presidential spokesperson Karen Kuo said.
Hsu has led delegations in key talks with the United States and maintains “close and well-established interactions with U.S. political and defence circles,” Kuo added. He also holds a doctorate from Columbia University and has participated in international forums such as the Halifax International Security Forum.
Taiwan’s defence ministry currently has two vice ministers and two deputy ministers. The appointment comes as the government prepares to implement a supplementary $40 billion defence budget, with preliminary discussions already held with the United States on potential arms purchases.
Taiwan continues to reject Beijing’s sovereignty claims over the island, asserting that only its people can determine their future, while China frequently conducts military exercises around the island. The United States remains Taiwan’s most significant international supporter and arms supplier despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties.
