Ma said that the military is the most stable foundation of national security and democratic development and the most important backbone of national survival and economic development.

"We cannot afford to relax our defenses. Only with strong defense can we keep the country stable and prosperous, " Ma said while addressing a promotion ceremony for military personnel.

According to the president, in promoting military reforms, Taiwan must make sure such reforms are in line with global trends.

On the one hand, Taiwan will pursue reconciliation and peace with China, and on the other, it will continue to promote and strengthen its defense cooperation with its diplomatic allies, Ma said.

He instructed the military to make preparations in advance for changes that are likely to take place across the strait and build up the armed forces based on the concepts of innovation and asymmetry -- using the least resources to produce the highest efficiency.

Also, Ma said he expects the military to be "streamlined yet strong" and demanded that physical training for military personnel be increased.