China sanctions five US firms over Taiwan arms sales
China has imposed sanctions on five US defense industry companies in retaliation to a move made by Washington, as stated by a Foreign Ministry spokesperson on Sunday.
The decision was prompted by the US government's decision to facilitate the sale of arms to Taiwan and its subsequent imposition of sanctions on Chinese enterprises and individuals for various reasons.
Beijing condemned the arms sales to Taiwan, labeling them a direct violation of the one-China principle. Wang, a Chinese official, criticized the US for implementing "illegal unilateral sanctions on Chinese entities and individuals under false pretenses," asserting that these actions severely undermine China’s sovereignty and security interests.
The statement emphasized that the US sanctions also disrupt peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and infringe upon the lawful rights and interests of the sanctioned Chinese parties.
In response to what China considers deeply erroneous actions by the US and in compliance with China’s Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law, the country has decided to impose sanctions on five US defense industry companies. These entities include BAE Systems Land and Armament, Alliant Techsystems Operation, AeroVironment, ViaSat, and Data Link Solutions.
The countermeasures involve the freezing of these companies' properties in China, encompassing both movable and immovable assets. Additionally, organizations and individuals within China are prohibited from engaging in transactions or collaborations with these sanctioned entities.