China reiterates opposition to US arms sale to Taiwan

BEIJING - The Chinese mainland's Taiwan affairs office on Wednesday reiterated that it opposed a potential arms deal between the United States' and the island.

"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 State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, at a press conference. Ma added that the mainland's stance had been consistent, clear and firm.

All parties should recognize that the harmonious cross-Straits relationship can only be guaranteed through the united opposition of "Taiwan independence," and adherence to the 1992 consensus, which was built around the one-China principle, Ma said.

"Meanwhile, we also hope 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 China's domestic affairs and harm China-US relations.