MILPLEX
Chen Defends Taiwan's Controversial Arms Package
 Taipei, Taiwan (AFP) Sep 26, 2004
 Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian said Sunday a controversial arms deal was part of the government's attempts to deter any attempt by rival China to invade the island.

"Only by engaging in arms build-up and preparing for war can wars be avoided," Chen said in a speech during an extraordinary plenary session of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which he serves as chairman.

"Peace could by no means be obtained through disarmament," Chen said.

The statement came a day after thousands of people took to Taipei's streets to protest against the arms deal which they say will lead to an arms race with China.

The arms package - offered by US President George W. Bush in April 2002 - calls for the acquisition of eight diesel-powered submarines, a modified version of the Patriot anti-missile system and a fleet of anti-submarine aircraft.

Taiwan's cabinet on June 2 approved the special budget of 610.8 billion Taiwan dollars (18.02 billion US) to buy weaponry from the United States. It needs final approval by parliament.

Critics of the deal, including about 170 retired generals, warn the hefty military spending would further provoke China. Others say the government would be forced to incur more debts or cut social welfare and education budgets.

A new political row erupted after Premier Yu Shyi-kun issued a provocative statement at the weekend vowing to retaliate should China launch missile attacks against the island.

"You (China) have the capability to destroy me and Taiwan should have the capability to counter. You strike me with 100 missiles and I should at least strike back with 50," Yu told a gathering of government officials.

"You strike Taipei and Kaohsiung and I shall strike Shanghai. This way Taiwan will be safe," he added.

Opposition leader Lien Chan blasted the remarks saying they could further fuel tensions across the Taiwan Strait.

In order to win parliament's approval, Chen said he was willing to deliver an unprecedented "State of the Union" at the parliament controlled by the opposition. But his proposal was rejected by the opposition.

China has strengthened its vow to take Taiwan by force after Chen from the pro-independence DPP won the March re-election.

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