Chi reiterates opposition to US arms sale to Taiwan

Beijing, Dec 16: Chi on Wednesday reiterated its opposition to a potential arms deal between the US and the island tion of Taiwan. “We resolutely oppose any countries that sell weapons, related equipment or technology to Taiwan in any form or (supported by any) ‘excuse’,” said Ma Xiaoguang, spokesperson for the Chinese State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, at a press conference here. Ma added that the mainland Chi’s stance had been consistent, clear and firm on the issue, Xinhua reported. All parties should recognise that harmonious cross-Strait relationship can only be guaranteed through the united opposition of “Taiwan independence”, and adherence to the 1992 consensus which was built around the one-Chi principle, Ma said. “Meanwhile, we also hope that the Taiwanese-side prizes the peaceful development of relations and does more that is conducive to improvement and development of relations,” he said. On Tuesday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hong Lei urged the US to stop the arms sale, as it would interfere in Chi’s domestic affairs and harm Chi-US relations.  (IANS)