“Necessary Countermeasures”: China Threatens Action Opposing Biden’s US$1.1 Billion Arms Deal With Taiwan
Chinese embassy spokesman Liu Pengyu asserted the mainland’s sovereignty over Taiwan on Saturday as it called out the United States for its proposed US$1.1 billion arms sale to the self-governing island.
“The United States interferes in #China’s internal affairs and undermines China’s sovereignty and security interests by selling arms to the Taiwan region,” Liu said on Twitter.
The spokesperson added that the proposed deal counters “international law and basic principles in international relations,” as well as violates the People’s Republic of China’s view of a one-China policy.
“China will resolutely take legitimate and necessary counter-measures in light of the development of the situation,” Liu added.
Beijing calls on the US to stop the arms sales and “revoke relevant arms sales to Taiwan,” as the spokesperson reiterated demands for Washington DC to “honor its commitment” and abide by “the three China-US joint communiques.” Failure to do so might “cause more damages to China-US relations and peace and stability across the #TaiwanStrait.”
A week ago, US President Joe Biden was reportedly planning to formally ask Congress to approve the proposed over US$1-billion arms deal, which includes providing 60 anti-ship missiles and 100 air-to-air missiles to Taiwan, according to what sources familiar with the matter told Politico.
Taipei responded by saying it “highly welcomes” the deal and thanked the US administration for “continuing to implement its security commitments to Taiwan.”
“This batch of arms sales includes a large number of various types of missiles that are needed to strengthen Taiwan’s self-defense, which fully demonstrates that the great importance the US government attaches to Taiwan’s defense needs,” its Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.
The ministry added that Taiwan’s “determination to defend itself is extremely firm” in response to China’s increasing encroachment.
Beijing installed a temporary blockade on the Taiwan Strait, the latest move in the increasingly tension-filled grandstanding between the two territories. The long-standing animosity has been intensified by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s recent state visit to Taiwan, pushing China to impose sanctions on the Congress leader and cut cooperation ties with Washington DC.
Taiwan also gave China an ultimatum last week, warning the mainland that it would “shoot down intruding Chinese drones that fail to heed warnings.”
Information for this briefing was found via Politico, Zero Hedge, and the sources mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to this organization. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
