BEIJING: China has announced sanctions against US companies selling arms to Taiwan
According to the International News Agency, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Xiao Lijian told reporters at a press briefing on Monday that China would do more than just impose sanctions to protect its national interests.
He said sanctions would be imposed on Lockheed Martin, Boeing Defense, Raytheon and others, major arms suppliers to the US-Taiwan deal.
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He said Taiwan would also face “severe sanctions” on individuals involved with US arms sales. However, the spokesman did not elaborate on the sanctions.
The United States has approved a 8 1.8 billion deal to sell military equipment, including sensors, missile systems and ammunition, to Taiwan. Unlike many other countries, the United States does not have formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan. However, under the law, the United States is obliged to provide its defense needs.
China, on the other hand, not only considers Taiwan its share, but also legitimizes the use of force to gain control of it. The Trump administration has opened up several fronts, including the supply of defense equipment to Taiwan, the South China Sea, Hong Kong and human rights.
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When contacted by Boeing and Lockheed Martin, one of the companies banned by China, the international news agency said they were bound by US government regulations and had a limited presence in China. ۔ Raytheon did not immediately return a request for comment.
Earlier, outraged by the escalating tensions between Taiwan and the United States, the Chinese president had instructed his military to be ready for a possible war.