The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says the government will continue to take
concrete steps to strengthen the island's self-defense capabilities.

The statement was a response to comments made by US Indo-Pacific Commander
Admiral John Aquilino in Japan... he said China aims to have the capability
to invade Taiwan by 2027.

That comment also echoes previous warnings by senior American military
officials.

Aquilino said the timeline is based on Xi Jinping asking "his military to be
prepared if tasked to execute in 2027."

Foreign ministry spokesman Jeff Liu said the government will "not speculate
or comment on whether or when China could attack Taiwan" - as its main task
is to work to "maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait."

Liu further added that democratic countries have reiterated the importance of
cross-strait peace and stability.... they've also opposed any unilateral
changes to the cross-strait status quo in recent years.

As such, the government believes the "concerns and support from the
international community can help deter China's aggression"

However, Liu stressed that Taiwan will "strengthen its self-defense
capabilities to prepare for any possible situation."