Taiwan has called for reason and self-restraint following reports that China would increase its military spending by 7.2 per cent in 2025. According to local media reports, the Mainland Affairs Council, MAC, of Taiwan stated that the Chinese Army continues to increase defence spending and aggressiveness with its combat preparedness patrols near Taiwan. The reports mentioned that the Chinese military drills in the seas off Taiwan, Vietnam, New Zealand, and Australia have compromised navigational safety and raised tension in the region, sparking international concern. The Council also stated the government would not bow to pressure and would maintain its firm resolve to defend national sovereignty and the security of Taiwan. The statement came hours after Chinese Premier Li Qiang said that China would firmly advance the push for so-called reunification while opposing external interference. According to a draft budget report submitted to the national legislature yesterday, the Chinese government is seeking a defence budget of 1.78 trillion yuan (246 billion dollars) for the 2025 fiscal year, a 7.2-per cent year-on-year increase. In February, Taiwanese Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim emphasised her nation’s commitment to defend itself and urged its allies and like-minded partners to uphold global peace and prosperity. She had said, Taiwan is indispensable to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.