China has expressed strong opposition to the recent US arms sales to Taiwan, urging Washington to withdraw the deal immediately. This development was confirmed by China's defence ministry on Friday, which stated that a formal complaint had been filed with the United States regarding the matter.

In a statement, the ministry highlighted China's commitment to defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity. "(China's military) will continue to strengthen its military training and exercises, and resolutely defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity," a statement from the ministry.

US Arms Sales to Taiwan
Image Source: www.spf.org

The U.S. The State Department approved the sale of spare and repair parts for F-16 fighter jets to Taiwan, estimated to cost at $80 million. The Pentagon's Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced this approval on Wednesday. According to the Pentagon, this sale aims to enhance Taiwan's security, maintain political stability, and support the military balance and economic concerns in the region.

Taiwan has welcomed the arms sale, saying that it will significantly boost the combat and defence capabilities of its air force. The sale is expected to be finalised in July.

The arms deal comes at a time of increased tensions between China and Taiwan. China considers Taiwan a breakaway province and has consistently opposed any form of military support to Taiwan from other nations, particularly from the United States. Such action is viewed by the Chinese government as a direct challenge to its sovereignty over Taiwan.

The U.S., on the other hand, maintains that its arms sales to Taiwan are in line with the Taiwan Relations Act, which obliges the U.S. to provide Taiwan with the necessary means to defend itself. The U.S. claims that these arm sales are important for maintaining stability and security in the Taiwan Strait which is a region of strategic importance.

In response to the U.S. approval, Chinese officials put emphasis on their stance that such actions undermine peace and stability in the region..

This recent development is likely to further weaken the U.S.-China relations, which includes disagreements over a range of issues including trade, human rights, and territorial disputes in the South Sea. The arms sale to Taiwan adds another layer to their bilateral relationship.

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