CHINA condemned Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party for using public funds to purchase military weapons from the United States.
January 13 marks another milestone for Taiwan as millions of citizens participated in the nationwide elections that could reshape democracy in the self-ruled island.
As Taiwanese nationals cast their votes to choose their new leader, China accused the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) of squandering public funds for its own selfish interests by using the people’s hard-earned money to purchase weapons from the United States.
A spokesman of the Chinese Ministry of National Defense condemned the weapon purchases and warned that the act would only push Taiwan to the brink of war.
The official emphasized that the move will not hinder China’s plan for complete reunification with Taiwan.
The spokesman made the remarks on Friday amid reports that Taiwan upgraded at least 140 units of its f-16 viper fighter aircraft and will purchase an additional 66 units of fighter aircraft from the United States by 2026.
Millions of citizens in Taiwan lined up at ballot booths earlier today to cast their votes wherein voters have to choose between the governing DDP, which wants to separate Taiwan away from China’s influence, and the opposition Nationalist Party, which promised to expand trade ties and restart talks with Beijing.
About a week ago, China sanctioned five US arms manufacturers for selling weapons to Taiwan.
The sanctions were announced a few days before the self-ruled island kicked off its general elections on Saturday, January 13.
