Beijing blasts US‑Taiwan missile deal, vows defence steps
Authorities in Beijing issued a stern statement regarding a transaction planned by Washington and Taipei. The Americans agreed to sell Taiwan a missile system worth $1.16 billion. In response, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the transaction "seriously violates China's sovereignty." On the day of the agreement's announcement, the Chinese army conducted a "combat readiness test" around Taiwan.
9:59 AM EDT, October 27, 2024
Taiwan's defence ministry announced that the American system "will enhance Taiwan's capabilities in surveillance, fire conduct, command and control, and intelligence data integration, which proved effective during the war in Ukraine."
These explanations irritated the Chinese authorities, who perceived the strengthening of the defence of a state not recognized by Beijing as a threat to their own interests. Chinese authorities announced they would take "all necessary measures to firmly defend sovereignty."
In a communiqué issued by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was stated that the transaction "seriously violates China's sovereignty," "significantly harms Sino-American relations," and "threatens peace" in the Taiwan Strait.
Anger in China after USA's decision. Beijing ordered a show of force
Taipei's Ministry of National Defense reported on Sunday that 19 military aircraft of the Chinese army were operating around Taiwan, including Su-30 fighters. Chinese navy ships' increased activity was also observed nearby. The Chinese army said it was conducting a "combat readiness test."
According to the terms of the agreement between the United States and Taiwan, the island will receive three advanced NASAMS missile systems, 123 medium-range missiles, and two radar systems.
Source: PAP
