Key facts
- Taiwan President Lai Ching-te will state that boosting defenses and military spending is not a provocation.
- Lai will say these efforts reflect the hope to maintain Taiwan's democratic and free way of life through strength.
- Taiwan is increasing defense spending and modernizing its armed forces.
- Taiwan's defense ministry flagged a Chinese "joint combat readiness patrol" near the island with 19 aircraft.
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te will state in his national day speech that boosting defenses and military spending is not a provocation but a reflection of the Taiwanese people's hope to maintain peace and freedom, an official said.
Democratically governed Taiwan has faced increased military and political pressure from China, which views the island as its own territory over the objections of the government in Taipei. Taiwan is increasing defense spending and modernizing its armed forces.