The U.S. has approved an $11.15 billion arms sale to Taiwan, according to CNBC. The package includes artillery systems, antitank missiles, and spare parts for helicopters and antiship missiles. Taiwanese President William Lai Ching-te stated that he hopes the new U.S. arms sale package can be approved soon.

In response to the approval, China’s foreign affairs spokesperson Guo Jiakun accused the U.S. of violating the 'one-China principle.' Guo stated that aiding Taiwan's independence through arms sales would harm the U.S. and that attempts to use Taiwan to contain China are doomed to fail.

President Lai Ching-te stated that Taiwan is not 'provoking' China. He noted that China's military is extending into the Western Pacific and its coercion is intensifying. Lai reiterated his desire for talks with China based on 'parity and respect' and vowed to build up Taiwan's self-defense capabilities and seek a high level of combat readiness.

A diplomat stated that Taiwan needs to purchase American weapons for self-defense due to a growing threat from Beijing. The diplomat added that there has been no change in Washington's policy toward Taiwan.