Beijing: Amid heightened tensions, China has announced the suspension of arms control consultations with the United States in response to the American administration’s recent sale of weapons to Taiwan.
Firm Opposition
The decision, rooted in Beijing’s unwavering opposition despite extensive negotiations, was confirmed by China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Lin Jian, during a briefing in Beijing, as reported by TASS.
“For a period of time, the United States has persisted in selling arms to the Taiwan administration, despite China’s firm opposition and numerous discussions. Consequently, China has opted to suspend the latest round of consultations on arms control and non-proliferation with the United States,” Lin stated.
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US Responsibility
Lin squarely placed responsibility on the American side and emphasized Beijing’s readiness to maintain appropriate contacts with Washington “based on mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and mutually beneficial cooperation.” Lin called on the United States to “respect China’s core interests and create the necessary conditions for dialogue and consultations between the two sides.”
Since 1949, Taiwan has been governed by its own administration, established when remnants of the Kuomintang forces led by Chiang Kai-shek fled there after losing the Chinese Civil War. Beijing views Taiwan as a province of China.
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In 1979, the United States severed diplomatic ties with Taiwan to establish relations with China, adhering to the “One China” policy. Despite this policy, Washington maintains regular contacts with Taiwan’s administration. The U.S. remains Taiwan’s principal arms supplier, with estimates from China suggesting that American military sales to the island have exceeded $70 billion in recent years.
