China criticizes US military aid to Taiwan worth $571 mln
Photo: China has called Taiwan a “red line” that must not be crossed (Getty Images)
On Friday, December 20, the United States allocated $571 million in military aid. China, in turn, criticized the decision, reports Reuters.
China stated today that the new aid package seriously violates the "one China principle" and the provisions of the joint communiqués between China and the United States.
The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson added that the country would take "all necessary measures" to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The statement also referred to Taiwan as a "red line that must not be crossed" in China-US relations.
Reuters reminded that Beijing considers democratically governed Taiwan to be part of its territory, though the government in Taipei rejects this claim.
Notably, US President Joe Biden made the latest decision to provide aid to Taiwan. As part of this package, the country will receive $571 million.
The White House website states that, in addition to allocating funds, Biden will delegate the authority over how they will be used to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
"I hereby delegate to the Secretary of State the authority under section 506(a)(3) of the FAA to direct the drawdown of up to $571.3 million in defense articles and services of the Department of Defense, and military education and training, to provide assistance to Taiwan," the White House website states.
