China condemns, opposes US arms sales to Taiwan
China has condemned the recent U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, calling for Washington to reverse its decision, which it claims violates the one-China principle and undermines regional stability. A spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of National Defense warned that "Taiwan independence" equates to war and criticized the U.S. for its perceived double standards regarding Taiwan.
- Asia
- Anadolu Agency
- Published Date: 02:15 | 10 October 2024
- Modified Date: 02:17 | 10 October 2024
China has strongly condemned a recent U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, calling on Washington to reverse the decision, state-run media reported.
Opposing the move, Chinese Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Wu Qian said late Wednesday that the U.S. step violated the one-China principle, the three China-U.S. joint communiques, and China's sovereignty and security interests.
"The decision severely undermines China-U.S. relations, destabilizes peace and security across the Taiwan Straits, and sends a dangerous, incorrect message to separatist forces advocating for Taiwan independence," Wu said.
Wu further urged the U.S. to abandon its "two-faced" approach toward China and the Taiwan issue, as well as to halt arms provisions to the island.
"It must be emphasized that 'Taiwan independence' means war, and efforts to use Taiwan to contain China will ultimately cause harm to those who pursue this strategy," Wu warned.
China's response follows U.S. President Joe Biden's approval of $567 million in defense aid to Taiwan, a move announced around China's National Day on Oct. 1.