China says it will retaliate if moves are made that undermine its interests.
In a radio interview Thursday, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said, “Taiwan has not been a part of China. That was recognized with the work that the Reagan administration did to lay out the policies that the United States has adhered to now for three-and-a-half decades.”
From Beijing, China’s foreign ministry spokesman said Taiwan was an inalienable part of China and that Secretary Pompeo was further damaging Sino-U.S. ties. “We solemnly tell Pompeo and his ilk that any behavior that undermines China’s core interests and interferes with China’s domestic affairs will be met with a resolute counterattack by China,” he said. He did not elaborate.
Taiwan’s foreign ministry spokesperson expressed appreciation for Secretary Pompeo’s support. “The Republic of China on Taiwan is a sovereign, independent country, and not part of the People’s Republic of China. This is a fact and the current situation,” she said.
The United States is bound by law to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself and, officially, only acknowledges the Chinese position that Taiwan is part of it, rather than explicitly recognizing China’s claims.
Officials from Taiwan will travel to Washington for economic talks next week.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For the safety of the officials traveling from Taiwan to Washington next week.
- For U.S. officials determining how to best adhere to the defense agreement with Taiwan.
- For wisdom for those who are monitoring and responding to the increased levels of tension between the U.S. and China.
Sources: Reuters, U.S. News & World Report
