The decision by the Department of State to approve a proposed arms sale to Taiwan estimated at US$750 million is sincerely appreciated by the government and people, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Aug. 5.
Comprising 40 155mm M109A6 Paladin Medium Self-Propelled Howitzer Systems, related equipment and support services, the sale was made following a request by Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the U.S., the MOFA said.
The sale is the first during the administration of President Joe Biden, the ministry said, adding that it underscores ongoing U.S. government commitment to the Taiwan Relations Act and Six Assurances.
According to the MOFA, the sale underscores the importance attached to Taiwan’s defense needs by the U.S., and will help modernize the armed forces while enhancing the country’s deterrence capacity.
The ministry’s assessment is in line with the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency’s position that the sale will improve Taiwan’s security, as well as assist in maintaining political stability, military balance, economic and progress in the region.
Given China’s ongoing campaign of coercion against Taiwan, the MOFA said, the government remains resolute in its commitment to enhancing defensive capabilities and safeguarding the country’s democratic way of life. No stone will be left unturned in deepening the strategic partnership with the U.S. in order to preserve the cross-strait status quo, the ministry added.
In a tweet on its official Twitter account, the MOFA said “We welcome @StateDept’s approval of a proposed US$750M arms sale to #Taiwan. The decision demonstrates the #US government’s commitment to the #TaiwanRelationsAct & #SixAssurances. It also allows the country to maintain a rock-solid self-defense, & regional peace & stability.”
(SFC-E)
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