Beijing sanctions 20 US defence firms over Taiwan arms sales package

Beijing on Friday imposed sanctions against 20 US defence firms and 10 industry executives in response to Washington’s massive arms sales package to Taiwan last week.

Beijing’s foreign ministry said that these companies and executives had been sanctioned for their role in arming the island and pledged to continue with “resolute and forceful measures to steadfastly defend national sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity”.

“Anyone who attempts to cross the line and make provocations on the Taiwan question will be met with China’s firm response. Any company or individual who engages in arms sales to Taiwan will pay the price for the wrongdoing,” the ministry said.