BEIJING, Sept. 14 -- "The collusion between Taiwan and the US is nothing but harm to Taiwan and destruction of Taiwan. Their actions are turning Taiwan into a 'landmine island' and an 'ammunition depot', seriously threatening the safety and well-being of Taiwan compatriots," said Senior Colonel Tan Kefei, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense, when responding to the media's questions on Thursday.
According to reports, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities plan to purchase 14 Volcano vehicle-mounted mine-laying systems from the US. Some comments within Taiwan suggest that Taiwan being turned into a landmine island is a foregone conclusion. In addition, there are reports saying that Taiwan recently participated in a military exercise led by the US National Guard. And the 2024 budget proposal of Taiwan's defense department indicates that some of the Tow and Javelin missiles purchased from the US will be delivered next year.
"We strongly oppose any form of official exchanges and military contacts between the US and China's Taiwan region, as well as the US arms sales to Taiwan. We urge the US to adhere to its solemn commitments of not supporting ‘Taiwan independence', cease all forms of military contacts with Taiwan, and stop escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait," said Snr. Col. Tan in response to above reports.
And he added that the DPP authorities, in pursuit of their selfish interests, are not hesitant to use the hard-earned money of Taiwan people to curry favor with the US and create cross-Strait confrontation. Their actions are turning Taiwan into a "landmine island" and an "ammunition depot", seriously harming the safety and well-being of Taiwan compatriots. He reiterated that obstinately relying on the US to seek "independence" will only push Taiwan into the danger of war.
"The Chinese PLA has always been on high alert. It will resolutely thwart any form of 'Taiwan independence' separatist activities and foreign interference attempts, and steadfastly defend China's national sovereignty and territorial integrity," stressed the spokesperson in the end.