How does China view US defence assistance to Taiwan as a threat to its sovereignty?

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China Perceives US Defence Assistance to Taiwan as Infringement on Sovereignty

China views United States defence assistance to Taiwan as a direct infringement upon its sovereignty and security interests. This perspective stems from Beijing's long-standing claim over Taiwan, which it considers a renegade province. The approval of defence aid, including US$571.3 million in articles, services, and training, is seen by China as a violation of its territorial integrity and a bolstering of forces that Beijing considers secessionist.
Defence Assistance Package and Sovereignty Concerns

The US$571.3 million defence assistance package, authorised by President Joe Biden, includes defence articles, services, military education, and training for Taiwan. Beijing's foreign ministry articulated that this specific action "gravely infringes on China's sovereignty and security interests." While the White House statement did not detail the exact contents of this particular package, it follows a similar US$567 million authorisation less than three months prior. China's firm opposition is rooted in the belief that such military support empowers Taiwan and solidifies its de facto independence, thereby challenging Beijing's claim of ultimate authority over the island.
Historical and Political Context of US-Taiwan Relations

The United States, despite not maintaining official diplomatic recognition of Taiwan, has consistently served as the self-ruled island's most significant supplier of weapons and its strategic ally. This complex relationship is underpinned by various US legislative commitments, notably the Taiwan Relations Act, which guides unofficial relations and provides for Taiwan's defence needs. China, however, views any military cooperation or arms sales between the US and Taiwan as a direct challenge to its One China principle and its stated objective of eventual unification, by force if necessary.
China's Stance and Diplomatic Actions

In response to the latest defence assistance approval, China has not only publicly declared its firm opposition but has also taken diplomatic action. Beijing stated that it "has lodged stern representations with the US at the earliest opportunity." This indicates that China has formally communicated its strong disapproval and objections to the US government through established diplomatic channels. This pattern of strong verbal condemnation coupled with diplomatic protests has become a recurring feature of China's response to US arms sales and security cooperation with Taiwan.
Broader Geopolitical Implications and Military Pressure

China has significantly intensified its political and military pressure on Taiwan in recent years, including increased air and naval incursions into Taiwan's air defence identification zone. The ongoing supply of advanced military hardware, such as the recent delivery of 38 Abrams battle tanks to Taiwan, is perceived by Beijing within this broader context of escalating tensions. From China's vantage point, these actions by the US collectively undermine its strategic objectives and contribute to regional instability, further solidifying its view that US defence assistance to Taiwan poses a direct threat to its sovereignty.

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How does China view US defence assistance to Taiwan as a threat to its sovereignty?

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