President Tsai Ing-wen (second left) is all ears as a servicewoman briefs her on the mission capabilities of a navy vessel March 8 in Keelung City, northern Taiwan. (Courtesy of Presidential Office)
 

President Tsai Ing-wen said March 8 that the government is improving the ROC (Taiwan) armed forces joint operational capabilities and advancing the concept of an all-out defense to better safeguard the country and its people.

This approach enables a variety of response options to contingencies in multiple domains, Tsai said. This is critical in maintaining peace, stability and prosperity throughout the Indo-Pacific, she added.

Tsai made the remarks while inspecting navy facilities and vessels, as well as meeting with service members, in the northern Taiwan port city of Keelung.

According to Tsai, the government and people are deeply grateful for the selfless sacrifice of the country’s fighting men and women. Such commitment is instrumental in defending the country’s freedom, democracy and sovereignty, she said.

Tsai also praised personnel for braving tough ocean conditions 24/7 as they carried out a variety of missions such as escorting and replenishing ships, monitoring territorial incursions and rescuing seafarers in distress. These efforts are instrumental in keeping authoritarian threats at bay while protecting the public, she added.

As commander in chief, Tsai said it is her responsibility to provide members of the military with the latest equipment and dignified accommodation befitting their crucial contributions to society. Great progress is being made in this regard through regular upgrades of core inventory, refurbishment of dormitories and development of the national defense industry, she added.

Tsai also took the opportunity to salute Taiwan’s servicewomen on International Women’s Day for consistently demonstrating the highest standards of professionalism. Gender must never be a barrier to shouldering the responsibility of safeguarding the country and its people she said. (DL-E)