Tensions in Asia: Joe Biden will ask the US Congress to approve more than a billion dollars in arms sales to Taiwan
The administration of US President Joe Biden intends to ask Congress to approve an estimated $1.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan amid rising tensions with China, Politico reported Monday, citing sources.
China held its largest military exercise around Taiwan this month after a visit by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who said it showed US support for the democratic island.
Beijing considers Taiwan a renegade province and does not rule out the use of force to return it to its fold.
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Reuters reported last week that Washington may make an announcement in the coming weeks or months to send some military equipment to Taipei.
However, three sources say the Biden administration’s concern is to ensure the feasibility of Taiwan’s existing military systems and meet the demands the island has already placed, rather than bringing new military capabilities to the island — a premise likely to exacerbate already strong tensions with China.
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There was no immediate comment from the White House on the article by Politico.
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