Taiwan’s National Security Council Chairman Joseph Wu said that China, instead of economic reforms, is focused on military expansion and is threatening regional stability.
Joseph Wu: China has chosen expansion instead of solving its own crises
China is increasingly focused on expansion, not on solving its own economic and social problems, Taiwan’s National Security Council Chairman Joseph Wu said during a speech at a forum in Taipei on Tuesday.
According to him, democratic Taiwan faces constant military and diplomatic pressure from Beijing, which considers the island its territory. The Taiwanese government, in turn, rejects China’s sovereign claims.
“Instead of reforms, purges of generals”
Wu noted that despite concerns about the state of the Chinese economy, the Chinese leadership is currently focused not on stimulating growth but on internal purges in the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
“Instead of large anti-crisis packages, we only hear about new arrests and resignations in the military leadership,” he said.
Last week, Beijing announced the expulsion of two high-ranking generals from the party, which became the next stage of an anti-corruption campaign that has been ongoing since 2023.
A parade of strength instead of stability
Wu also recalled the military parade in Beijing on September 3, which, according to him, became another signal of China’s foreign policy ambitions:
“The footage from the parade gives the impression that China seeks global dominance, rather than solving domestic socio-economic problems. This looks illogical,” the official stressed.
Taiwan is ready for defense
The head of the National Security Council stressed that President Lai Ching-de remains a supporter of the status quo in relations with China, but maintaining peace is possible only with a strong defense capability.
“We do not seek provocations, but peace is based on strength. Taiwan is determined to defend itself,” Wu said.
Context: Escalation around the Taiwan Strait
China continues regular military exercises near the island, using pressure and diplomatic isolation to undermine Taiwan’s positions. Beijing calls Lai’s government “separatist” and refuses any negotiations.
Analysts say China’s current political course – from “purges at the top” to demonstrations of military force – indicates internal instability and an attempt to divert attention from the economic downturn.
Taipei, for its part, is increasing defense spending and expanding cooperation with the United States and allies, betting on deterring Beijing’s aggression by strengthening its own capabilities.
