Mainland opposes U.S. Taiwan-related defense act

A Chinese mainland official Tuesday urged the United States not to implement the Taiwan-related clauses of its National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2019.

Ma Xiaoguang, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council [File Photo: gwytb.gov.cn]

"The Taiwan issue concerns China's sovereignty and territorial integrity," said Ma Xiaoguang, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council.

U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday signed the NDAA for Fiscal Year 2019 into law. The act includes clauses such as directing a whole-of-government strategy on China and submitting the assessment and plan on strengthening Taiwan's force readiness. 

"We resolutely oppose any form of official or military contact between the United States and Taiwan, including U.S. arms sales to Taiwan," Ma said.

The spokesperson urged the United States not to implement the Taiwan-related clauses so as to avoid damaging China-U.S. relations and peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

"We also sternly warn the Democratic Progressive Party administration that relying on foreigners to build yourself up will damage the interests of Taiwan residents," Ma said.