China has strongly rejected the recent arms sale by the United States to Taiwan, calling it a serious violation of the one-China principle and a direct threat to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. This statement comes in response to the approval by the US State Department of a transaction valued at $360 million, which includes drones and missiles destined for the island.
Lin Jian, spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, said at a press conference that this action not only undermines China’s sovereignty and security interests, but also seriously harms Sino-US relations. Furthermore, he warned that these sales send the wrong message to Taiwanese separatist forces, encouraging their independence aspirations.
The details of the US arms sale to Taiwan
The most recent sale is in addition to a previous one approved just two weeks ago, which contemplated the provision of spare parts and repair services for F-16 fighter aircraft worth $80 million. This series of military transactions has been interpreted by Beijing as Washington’s clear support for the authorities of the Democratic Progressive Party of Taiwan, whom it accuses of seeking independence through military strengthening.
The Chinese government has stressed that these actions contradict the agreements established in the three Sino-American joint communiqués, placing special emphasis on the Communiqué of August 17, 1982. This historic document laid the foundations for the normalization of relations between both powers and specifically addressed the issue of arms sales to Taiwan.
Lin Jian was categorical in stating that “the greatest threat to cross-Strait peace and stability, and the greatest source of damage to the status quo, is the separatist maneuvers for ‘Taiwan independence’ and the collusion and support for such maneuvers by external forces led by the US.” This statement highlights Beijing’s perception that Washington is playing an active role in destabilizing the region.
Taiwan is a “red line” for China
The Chinese spokesperson also recalled that the Taiwan issue represents the core of China’s fundamental interests and constitutes a “red line” in bilateral relations with the United States. In this sense, he warned that no one should underestimate China’s determination and ability to oppose any attempt at Taiwanese independence and defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Faced with this situation, the Chinese government has urged the United States to stop what it considers a “dangerous trend” of arming Taiwan. Beijing demands that Washington end its support for separatist forces and stop putting peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait at risk.
This episode is framed in a context of growing tensions between China and the United States, not only in relation to Taiwan but also in other areas such as trade and technology. China’s firm stance on its sovereignty over Taiwan clashes with the United States’ commitment to supporting the island’s self-defense capabilities, as set out in the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979.
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