US approves $2 billion arms package for Taiwan, China reacts strongly

China said it would take countermeasures to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity as the US greenlighted a $2 billion arms sale to Taiwan.

In a statement issued on October 26, China's Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the US's $2 billion arms sale to Taiwan and lodged "solemn representations" with the US. According to Reuters, citing the statement, China urged the US to immediately stop supplying arms to the island and stop dangerous moves that undermine peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

"We will take resolute countermeasures and take all necessary measures to firmly safeguard national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity," China's Foreign Ministry said.

NASA Advanced Air Defense Missile System (NASAMS)

Earlier, the Pentagon said on October 25 that it had approved a $2 billion arms sale to Taiwan, including the first transfer to the island of an advanced air defense missile system (NASAMS).

According to the US State Department's Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, the weapons package includes three NASAMS systems and other related equipment worth up to $1.16 billion. According to Reuters, NASAMS is a relatively new weapon for Taiwan. In the region, only Australia and Indonesia are operating this complex.

The package also includes a radar system worth an estimated $828 million. "The proposed sale will improve the security of the recipient and support the maintenance of political stability, military balance, and economic progress in the region," the Pentagon stressed.

Trump threatens to raise tariffs if China 'enters Taiwan'

Taiwan's presidential office thanked the United States on October 26 for giving the green light to potential arms sales. According to the South China Morning Post, this is the 17th arms deal by the Biden administration for the island.

"Strengthening Taiwan's self-defense capabilities is fundamental to maintaining regional stability," said Taiwan's presidential spokeswoman Karen Kuo. Taiwan said the NASAMS system has been combat-tested in Ukraine and will help strengthen the air defense capabilities of Taiwan's defense forces.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/my-duyet-goi-vu-khi-2-ti-usd-cho-dai-loan-trung-quoc-phan-ung-manh-185241027084035421.htm