Taiwan's president used Armed Forces Day to promise better pay and living conditions for the military, a positive signal for troops and a message of resolve toward Beijing.

• President Lai Ching-te laid flowers at Taipei's Martyrs' Shrine, which honors the half a million soldiers who died fighting in World War II.
• He said his government has already raised combat and professional allowances for service members this year.
• Military personnel, civil servants, and teachers all get a 4% pay raise starting next year.
• The government also promised better housing, training facilities, and childcare for military families.
• Taiwan holds Armed Forces Day every Sept. 3 to mark the victory over Japan in World War II.

Outlook: Expect Taiwan to keep raising military pay and benefits as it works to recruit and retain troops under growing pressure from China.