Kathmandu, Dec 2: The US Department of Defense has approved a $385 million arms deal with Taiwan, which includes the sale of F-16 fighter jets and spare parts. The US State Department sanctioned the deal on November 30, drawing strong opposition from China.

China’s Foreign Ministry criticized the sale, calling it a violation of the “one China policy” and an infringement on China’s sovereignty and security interests. It also described the deal as a breach of international law and a potential destabilizing factor for peace in the Taiwan Strait.

The ministry stated, “The arms sale sends the wrong message to separatist forces advocating for Taiwan independence and contradicts US commitments not to support such movements. We strongly oppose this move and urge the US to halt arms sales to Taiwan immediately.”

China also warned of “strong countermeasures” to protect its national sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity.

The Pentagon’s Defense Security Cooperation Agency confirmed the deal, which includes $320 million for spare parts and $65 million for mobile client equipment.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense welcomed the decision, stating, “We anticipate the sale will take effect within a month and will further strengthen the security partnership between Taiwan and the United States.”