China has strongly condemned the United States' decision to approve further arms sales to Taiwan, urging Washington to halt all official interactions with Taipei and cease military support for the island.
In a statement released by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Beijing expressed its deep dissatisfaction with the US move, characterizing it as a dangerous provocation that undermines bilateral relations and threatens regional peace. The ministry emphasized that such arms sales send a clear message of encouragement to Taiwanese separatist forces seeking independence from mainland China.
"The US arms sale to Taiwan sends a wrong signal to the island's Taiwan independence forces and undermines US-China relations," the statement read. "China will closely follow developments and take resolute and strong measures to defend our nation's sovereignty and territorial integrity."
This latest development comes amidst heightened tensions in the Taiwan Strait, fueled by increasing US military engagement with Taiwan and China's assertive actions in the region. The Chinese government maintains its stance on a "One-China" policy, which asserts that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China.
The recent arms sales package approved by the US reportedly includes spare parts for F-16 fighter jets and mobile subscriber equipment, aimed at bolstering Taiwan's defense capabilities and enhancing its air defense resilience. Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen is currently on a tour of several South Pacific allies, seeking to strengthen diplomatic ties and demonstrate Taiwan's commitment to global partnerships.
The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged the US to adhere to the "One-China" principle and previous agreements between the two countries. Beijing has repeatedly warned against any official interactions between the US and Taiwan, including visits by Taiwanese leaders to the US.
Meanwhile, experts in Taiwan believe these additional military supplies will enhance the island's preparedness for potential conflict. Su Tzu-yun, Director of the Institute for National Defense and Security Research, stated that the new equipment will strengthen Taiwan's wartime capabilities and contribute to its defense posture.
The situation remains tense as China continues to assert its claims over Taiwan, while the US maintains a policy of strategic ambiguity regarding its commitment to defending the island in the event of an attack. The ongoing arms sales and diplomatic maneuvering underscore the complex and delicate balance between these major powers in the Asia-Pacific region.
