China condemned the US decision to approve the sale of military aircraft and maintenance services totaling $330 million to Taiwan, with which it is in a sovereign dispute.
Chinese Foreign Ministry Speaker Lin Jian responded to a question on the matter at a regular press conference in Beijing.
Speaker Lin noted that US military sales to Taiwan violate the “One China” principle and the “Three Joint Statements” which form the basis of political relations between the two countries, adding that China opposes and condemns such actions.
Stressing that the Taiwan issue is the “first red line that cannot be crossed” in Sino-US relations, Lin called on the US to uphold the “one China” principle and the commitments of its leaders on Taiwan-related issues, and not to provide “aid and assistance” to separatists seeking Taiwanese independence through military means development.
Lin stressed that China will do whatever is necessary to protect its sovereignty, security and territorial integrity.
First military deal approved during Trump’s second term
The US Department of Defense on November 13 approved the sale to Taiwan of F-16 fighter jets, C-130 Hercules transport aircraft and IDF multi-role combat aircraft, as well as custom components, spare parts, consumables and accessories, including their servicing and return, worth $330 million.
This is the first military deal with Taiwan approved during the second term of US President Donald Trump.
Taiwan, which China considers part of its territory, has been a de facto independent state since 1949. The division between mainland China and Taiwan, which arose after the civil war, continues to this day.
Beijing, emphasizing the principle of “one China,” opposes the establishment of military relations with Taiwan and the sale of weapons to it by countries that recognize it.
In recent years, China has increased military pressure on Taiwan and has not ruled out the use of force to reunite the island with the mainland if necessary.