China criticised the US State Department’s update to its online fact sheet on America’s relations with Taiwan
Beijing: According to the media report, China has criticized the US Department of State’s modification to its online fact sheet on US ties with Taiwan, accusing the Trump administration of a significant reversal in its stance on the island.
After the State Department removed a statement from its website indicating the US does not support Taiwan independence, China accused the Trump administration of “serious regression” in its stance on the island, according to CNN.
CNN reports that last week, the State Department removed the statement “we do not support Taiwan independence” from its online fact sheet on US ties with Taiwan as part of a “routine” update.
Although Taipei applauded the shift, Beijing responded with one of its harshest criticisms since Donald Trump’s return to the White House.
China warned the US on Monday to “immediately correct its mistakes” over the line’s removal, CNN said, citing the Chinese Foreign Ministry, or face “further serious damage” to China-US ties.
At a routine news conference, ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated, “The US State Department’s revision of the list of facts regarding US-Taiwan relations represents a serious regression in its stance on Taiwan…(and) sends a seriously erroneous message to the separatist forces advocating for Taiwan independence,” CNN reported.
This is another proof that the US is obstinately sticking to the foolish strategy of containing China via Taiwan. We urge the United States to rectify its errors quickly,” Guo said.
The State Department explained the phrasing change as part of a routine update in a statement to CNN. A State Department representative said, “As is routine, the fact sheet was updated to inform the general public about our unofficial relationship with Taiwan.” The statement also affirmed America’s commitment to its “one China policy,” which CNN reports is still included in the new fact sheet.
“The United States is committed to preserving peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait,” the spokesman went on to say, according to CNN. We are against any side making unilateral changes to the current situation.”
