Taiwan has thanked the United States for approving the sale of equipment and parts for F-16 fighter jets, saying it will help the island defend itself against China.
China claims Taiwan as part of its territory, and last month began military exercises around the self-governing island days after new President Lai Ching-te took office.
On June 5, the United States, a close partner of Taipei, approved two military sales to Taiwan totaling about $300 million, mostly of spare and repair parts for the island's F-16 fighter jets.
The sales approvals were announced in two statements by the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency, established to aid allies and partners of the United States.
In 1979, the United States changed its diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing, but remained Taiwan's most important partner and largest arms supplier, prompting repeated condemnations from China.
Taiwan's defense ministry expressed gratitude for the approval of the arms sale, which is expected to take effect in a month.
It said the sale would help Taiwan "meet the needs of defense operations“ and added: "Military intimidation will not contribute to regional peace, and we call on the Chinese Communist Party to stop all kinds of irrational behavior against Taiwan."
The foreign ministry also welcomed the divestment: it "demonstrates an unwavering commitment to our defense... Our dedication to maintaining peace and stability continues amid #China's escalating aggression."
China has said it will never give up using force to bring Taiwan under its control and maintains an almost daily military presence around the island - sending fighter jets, drones and warships.
Last month, China began massive military exercises around Taiwan, just three days after Lai's inauguration, during which he vowed to defend the island's sovereignty and democracy.
China pointed out that the speech amounted to a "recognition of Taiwan's independence," and described its military exercises around the island as "punishment." | BGNES
