China Halts Arms Control Talks with US Amid Taiwan Tensions

China announced on Wednesday it has suspended crucial arms control and non-proliferation talks with the United States, citing ongoing US arms sales to Taiwan as the primary reason.

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesman Lin Jian criticized the US for continuing to sell weapons to Taiwan—a place Beijing regards as a breakaway province requiring reunification, militarily if necessary.

Lin stated that the US actions had “severely damaged the political atmosphere” for ongoing arms control discussions between the two sides and that the responsibility for the stalled talks lies entirely with Washington.

China expressed willingness to maintain communication but emphasized that it would only proceed if the US respects China’s core interests and creates favorable conditions for dialogue. This suspension follows the resumption of talks last November after a four-year hiatus due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Beyond Taiwan, tensions over trade, the South China Sea, and technology have reportedly influenced China’s decision. Despite Beijing’s protests, the US has continued high-tech arms sales to Taiwan, backed by successive administrations. Washington remains committed to the One China policy while supporting Taiwan's autonomous status.

In recent months, the US has approved significant aid packages for Taiwan, including a USD 95 billion foreign aid package in April and an additional USD 300 million for tactical systems.

(With inputs from agencies.)