EVOTL/Drone Autonomous Vehicle / UGV Education & Research
Lai says Taiwan won't 'relinquish freedom,' vows new drone budgets
Original from Nikkei.com: Lai says Taiwan won't 'relinquish freedom,' vows new drone budgets

Lai says Taiwan won't 'relinquish freedom,' vows new drone budgets

On May 20, 2026, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te delivered a speech at the presidential building in Taipei, commemorating the two-year mark of his administration. In his address, Lai emphasized that the future of Taiwan will be determined solely by its citizens, rejecting any influence from foreign powers. He reiterated Taiwan's commitment to maintaining its freedom and announced plans to increase the budget for drone defense capabilities. Lai's remarks come amid rising tensions with China and concerns regarding U.S.-China relations, particularly in light of recent discussions between former U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The president stated that Taiwan aims to prevent conflict rather than provoke it, highlighting the delicate geopolitical landscape that Taiwan navigates.

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