<h1>Taiwan Boosts Military Budget Amid Rising China Threats; Deepens U.S. Cooperation to Ensure Regional Stability</h1> Taiwan plans to increase its military spending due to escalating threats from China, which claims Taiwan as its territory. The defense minister indicated that the budget, currently 2.45% of GDP, will rise to address urgent readiness needs. Taiwan aims to deepen military cooperation with the U.S. and allies to maintain regional stability. China has been conducting military exercises near Taiwan, prompting condemnation from Taipei. The U.S. has urged Taiwan to increase defense spending significantly. China's actions have also caused concerns in the South China Sea and among neighboring countries like Australia and New Zealand.