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China gives another Taiwan warning to US — Analysis

A trip by Nancy Pelosi to Taipei would have “grave impact” on Beijing’s ties with Washington, Foreign Ministry has said

Beijing warned Washington that it would take “Strong and resolute” measures should US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visit Taiwan, China’s Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday.

Commenting on reports regarding Pelosi’s anticipated trip, apparently scheduled for next month, Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said that it would have a “Grave impact” on Sino-American ties. The spokesman also said that if Pelosi visited Taipei, she would violate the ‘One China’ policy and existing agreements between Washington and Beijing.

China strongly opposes it as this will negatively impact bilateral relations’ political foundations,” Zhao pointed out. “China will protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity if the US insists on continuing down the wrong track. US shall bear the full consequences..”

Earlier on Tuesday, Financial Times reported, citing persons “Get to know the facts,” that the US House speaker plans to visit Taiwan in a show of support amid the pressure Beijing is putting on the island. Pelosi will be the US’s most senior lawmaker to have ever set foot on Taiwanese territory in over 20 years, should the trip occur. Republican Newt Greenrich, the US House Speaker, was the last to go there. He went there in 1997.

Zhao Lijian said that China was determined to oppose any official relations between Taiwan and America. “The US state apparatus includes Congress. This means that it must stand fast by the ‘One China’ policy pursued by the United States,” he said.

Financial Times reported that Pelosi’s visit has been criticized by the White House, partly in light of China’s sensitive timing. Pelosi’s trip, in particular, will coincide with the 95th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army on August 1.

Chinese military issues warning to US

China’s response comes amid simmering tension around the island. Taiwan was self-governed in 1949 after the Chinese civil war. Beijing views the province as part its territory within the One China policy.

While Washington may be a supporter of the One China strategy on paper, it maintains close unofficial relations with Taipei. It sells weapons to Taiwan and encourages its quest for independence. Beijing has repeatedly decried such contacts as provocations and as meddling in China’s internal affairs.

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