Beijing asks US to end $120m deal with Taiwan, and cut all military ties to the island
China “Strongly condemned” Washington’s approval of a new multi-million dollar arms deal with Taiwan and urges for it to be canceled, Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said on Thursday.
The Pentagon’s Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) approved the $120 million package on Wednesday. The package includes ship parts as well as logistical support for Taiwan. This is the fourth round in sales since Joe Biden was elected president of the United States. China repeatedly warned America against any military cooperation with Taiwan, which Beijing regards as part of its territory.
Speaking at a regular briefing on Thursday, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesman said that the arms sales “You gravely violate the one China principle” undermine China’s sovereignty and security interests, and “severely harm China-US relations and peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.”
“China strongly opposes, and condemns, this.,” Lijian said.
He called on the US to cancel the plan and to cut “Military ties” with Taiwan.
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“China will take strong, resolute measures to protect its sovereignty and secure its security interests.,” he added.
Meanwhile, according to DSCA, the proposed sale “serves U.S. national, economic and security interests by supporting the recipient’s continuing efforts to maintain a credible defensive capability.”
“This sale will increase the security and stability of the receiver and help to maintain political stability, economic growth, and military balance in the region.,” the agency claimed.
It specified that the package includes “Unclassified spare parts and repairs for ships and systems; logistical technical support; U.S. Government representative technical and logistical assistance; and other elements of logistical or program support.”
In the past few years, tensions have risen between Washington DC and Beijing over US arms exports to Taiwan. Lloyd Austin, US Defense Secretary, recently announced that the US would increase its military support and training Taiwanese. This despite China’s warnings.
Since 1949, the island has been de facto governed by its own government. This was after the Chinese civil conflict ended. The administration that the loser side set up in Taiwan is now self-governing. Beijing regards Taiwanese authorities in Taiwan as separatists and insists that Taiwan is an integral part of China.
In recent years, top Chinese officials, including President Xi Jinping, have openly said that Beijing would not rule out the use of force to ensure the “reunification” of Taiwan with the mainland. Taipei authorities have also warned of their determination to defend Taiwan in case China invades.
