Beijing Firmly Opposes New US Arms Sales to Taiwan, Cites ‘Internal Affair’

According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has unequivocally stated its strong opposition to the United States selling new weapons to Taiwan. Guo Jiayun, spokesperson for the ministry, responded to published reports concerning the delivery of F-16 Viper fighter jets to Taiwan, emphasizing Beijing’s clear stance against such arms sales to the island.

In remarks to Xinhua News Agency, Guo Jiayun addressed media reports indicating that Taiwan has received two F-16 Viper fighter jets and is scheduled to receive 64 more this year, stating that Beijing strongly opposes any actions in this regard. He reminded the U.S. of its obligation to adhere to previous agreements, stressing that the American side must implement the significant understandings reached during meetings between the leaders of the two countries and act cautiously on the Taiwan issue, adhering to the ‘One China’ principle and the three joint communiques.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson underscored that the Taiwan issue is an “internal affair” for China, noting that its resolution exclusively concerns the Chinese people and that Beijing will not tolerate any external interference. Previously, media reports had indicated that Taiwan received two of the 66 F-16 Viper fighter jets ordered from the United States after a long delay in equipment delivery. With the full delivery of these aircraft, the island’s F-16 fighter fleet is expected to increase to over 200.

It is noteworthy that Taiwanese officials had previously expressed concern and complaints regarding recurrent delays and technical issues in the delivery process of these weapons by American companies, including Lockheed Martin.