China warns US side against military support to Taiwan

By JIANG CHENGLONG 

China’s Defense Ministry is firmly opposed to and strongly condemned the latest United States military aid and arms sales to China’s Taiwan region, a spokesman said on Monday.

The ministry spokesman Wu Qian made the remarks in response to the recent approval by the US government to provide approximately $571.3 million in military assistance to Taiwan, along with the approval of $295 million in arms sales to the island.

Wu said China has lodged solemn representations with the US regarding this matter.

He emphasized that the US’ actions have seriously violated the one-China principle and the three Sino-US joint communiques, especially the August 17 Communique.

The US’ actions have grossly interfered in China’s internal affairs, sent the wrong signals to the separatist forces advocating for “Taiwan independence” and seriously disrupted peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, Wu said.

The Taiwan question is the first uncrossable red line in China-US relations, he stressed, highlighting that the one-China principle and the three Sino-US joint communiques are the political foundation of China-US ties.

The spokesman described the US’ actions as “extremely irresponsible, dangerous and malicious”, adding that the US is reneging on its solemn political commitments not to support “Taiwan independence” and is attempting to create a turbulent situation in the Taiwan Strait, pushing Taiwan into a dangerous situation of conflict and crisis.

“We urge the US to immediately stop military assistance and arms sales to Taiwan, and cease military contacts with the region of China,” he said.

China will take resolute and powerful measures to thwart the separatist activities of “Taiwan independence”, counter external interference from the US and steadfastly defend national reunification and peace in the Taiwan Strait, Wu warned.

chinadaily.com.cn