Taiwan’s Defence Minister Wellington Koo said the Taiwan–U.S. military relationship is far closer than many realize, signaling deepening exchanges with the U.S. Pacific Command as Taiwan strengthens its defense amid pressure from Beijing.

Taiwan views the U.S. Pacific Command as a central pillar of stability in the Indo-Pacific and highlights its strategic position along the First Island Chain as a key factor in regional security.

Taiwan regards the United States as its most important international backer and arms supplier, despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties.

The available remarks focus on closer cooperation and the First Island Chain, with no additional policy actions, dates, or quotes provided beyond Koo’s points.

Koo argues that a Chinese blockade would carry heavy economic and political risks for Beijing, given China’s dependence on global trade and shipping routes, and could trigger international sanctions and domestic instability in China.

He notes that Beijing would have to weigh domestic political risks for Xi Jinping and regime stability if a blockade were attempted, which could deter such an action.

Koo contends that Beijing would face severe sanctions and political risks if it tried a blockade, making it a very challenging option for China.

The remarks sit within a broader context of U.S.–China strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific, with Taiwan and the United States signaling tighter security coordination to deter China and maintain regional stability.