China Condemns U.S. Defense Bill Over Taiwan and 'China Threat' Narrative
Beijing criticizes the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025, signed by President Biden, as undermining China's sovereignty and bilateral relations.
- The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025, signed into law by President Joe Biden, includes record-high defense spending of $895 billion, with $15.5 billion allocated to countering China's influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
- China has strongly opposed the bill, accusing the U.S. of playing up the 'China threat,' advocating for military support to Taiwan, and restricting bilateral economic and technological exchanges.
- Chinese officials, including a spokesperson from the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Foreign Ministry, have urged the U.S. to abandon its 'Cold War mentality' and respect China's sovereignty and core interests, particularly regarding Taiwan.
- The law authorizes up to $300 million in military support for Taiwan, which Beijing views as part of its territory, further escalating tensions between the two nations.
- China has vowed to take firm measures to safeguard its sovereignty and development interests, warning that the bill could destabilize efforts to improve U.S.-China relations.