FX.co ★ China protests against US military exchanges with Taiwan

China expressed its strong opposition to the United States after the US defense policy bill was signed into law by President Barack Obama. The bill includes plans to conduct military exchanges with Taiwan.

Part of the US $618.7 billion National Defense Authorization Act will be used for expanding military cooperation between the US and Taiwan.

Chinese Foreign Ministry said it had lodged a “stern representation” with the US as Taiwan is Chinese territory, so all relations with the island are internal affairs of China.

"We urge the US side to abide by its promises made to China on the Taiwan issue, stop US-Taiwan military contacts and arms sales to Taiwan, to avoid damaging Sino-US ties and peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait," China's Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

China also expressed opposition after US President-elect Donald Trump talked by telephone with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen.

After being defeated by the Communists in 1949, Chinese nationalist forces fled to Taiwan. Since then, China has been used force to strengthen its power in the island.