China Suspends US Military Ties Over Taiwan Arms Deal

Says $6.4B sale will cause 'severe harm'

By Nx Doyle

Posted Jan 30, 2010 3:43 AM CST Posted Jan 30, 2010 3:43 AM CST
Promoted on Newser Jan 30, 2010 5:59 AM CST

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China Suspends US Military Ties Over Taiwan Arms Deal — In this July 20, 2006 photo, a Patriot missile is launched during exercises west of Taipei, Taiwan. The US is planning to sell Taiwan $6.4 billion in arms, including Black Hawk helicopters and Patriot missiles. (AP Photo/File)

China will suspend military exchanges with the US in response to its proposed weapons sale to Taiwan worth $6.4 billion, the BBC reports. "Considering the severe harm and odious effect of US arms sales to Taiwan, the Chinese side has decided to suspend planned mutual military visits," the Chinese defense minister was quoted as saying by China's state news agency Xinhua.

The foreign ministry also said it would impose sanctions on US companies selling weapons to Taiwan, and that the deal would have a "serious negative impact" on US/China relations, already strained by disagreements on trade and internet censorship. Earlier, China summoned US Ambassador Jon Huntsman to warn about the consequences of the deal and press for its immediate cancellation.

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