Wu Qian Photo:mod.gov.cn

Wu Qian, a spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, stated on Monday that US military assistance and arms sales to Taiwan seriously violate the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués, particularly the August 17 Communiqué. These actions constitute blatant interference in China's internal affairs and send incorrect signals to the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, severely undermining peace and stability in the Taiwan Straits. 

"We express our firm opposition and strong condemnation of this, and we have lodged a solemn representation to the US," Wu said.

US President Joe Biden approved $571.3 million in defense assistance for the island of Taiwan, the White House confirmed on Friday. On the same day, the US also announced the potential sales of upgraded tactical data link systems and gun mounts for ships to the island, valued at around $295 million.

The Taiwan question is the first and foremost red line in China-US relations, and the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués are the political foundation of China-US relations, Wu said, adding that the US has violated its political commitment of not supporting "Taiwan independence," attempting to create a turbulent situation in the Taiwan Straits and pushing the island of Taiwan into a perilous state of military conflict. This is extremely irresponsible, highly dangerous, and utterly reprehensible.

"We urge the US side to immediately stop military assistance and arms sales to Taiwan, cease military contacts with the Taiwan region, and stop fanning the flames and adding fuel to the fire in the Taiwan Straits", according to Wu.

China will take resolute and effective measures to thwart the "Taiwan independence" separatist agenda, counter external interference from the US and others, and firmly defend national unity and peace in the Taiwan Straits, said Wu.

Global Times