Men can expect the extension of military service to increase from four months to one year. The update is being made due to the increase in threats from China.
According to a statement by Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen at a press conference on Tuesday, “China’s expansion continues to impact the international order, threatens regional peace and stability, and affects cross-strait relations.”
As reported by the BBC, President Tsai also stated, “This is an extremely difficult decision, but as President, as the head of military forces, it is my unavoidable duty to defend national interests and our democratic way of life.”
December 29, 2022
She continued, “No one wants war. Taiwan and Taiwanese people are the same, and the international community is the same. China’s military aggression has become increasingly obvious after its war game in August.”
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Before the military service update, men 18 and over were required to serve for four months, including basic training for five weeks. In 2024, the requirement will be for one year of service and basic training for eight weeks, according to The Guardian.
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Conscription soldiers will receive an increase in salary under the new service plan. The increase goes from the current monthly payment of $211 to $856.
In August, China held joint military drills in the waters around Taiwan with the Russian military. The military exercises are based on Chinese President Xi Jinping’s vowing that Taiwan will be reunited with Communist China. Admiral Mike Gilday, Chief of U.S. Naval Operations, warned in October that China might invade the self-governing island nation of Taiwan within months.
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In August, U.S. Speaker of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, visited Taiwan. After the visit, tensions between China and Taiwan escalated.
President Tsai stated, “Only by preparing for war can we avoid war.”
According to the BBC report, tensions increased on Monday when the Chinese military sent 71 air force planes, including drones and fighter jets, into Taiwan’s air defense identification zone. Taiwan reported the incursion as one of the largest gatherings of Chinese military presence that had been around the small island.
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