US Lawmakers Urge Administration Not to Consult China on Arms Sales to Taiwan
Seven members of the U.S. Congress have sent a letter strongly urging the Biden administration not to consult with China regarding arms sales to Taiwan. The lawmakers argue that, in order to maintain Taiwan's security, U.S. decisions must not be influenced by China.
This move follows the U.S. government's approval last December of an arms sale package to Taiwan totaling approximately 11.1 billion U.S. dollars (about 1.75 trillion yen). The lawmakers emphasize that these sales and the deepening of military cooperation between Taiwan and the U.S. are essential for strengthening Taiwan's defense capabilities.
The letter clearly states the position that U.S. policy toward Taiwan should not be used as a bargaining chip in negotiations with China. The lawmakers assert that the provision of arms to Taiwan is based on the Taiwan Relations Act, a piece of U.S. domestic legislation, and that there is no need to obtain China's consent.
Amidst rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait, U.S. involvement with Taiwan is also a matter of critical importance to Japan's security. The lawmakers' demand can be seen as a reaffirmation of the U.S. stance to continue military support for Taiwan and to prioritize regional stability.