Why China is mad
He says he thinks that while the sale will help Taiwan upgrade its military capabilities, the more important issue is how the deal underscores the link between the U.S. and Taiwanese militaries.
"What really China was protesting was not just these fighters, but the fact that the United States is so committed to the defense of Taiwan and Taiwan's democracy and Taiwan's system. And I think that riles China more than anything else," said Yu.
Last year, Beijing suspended military exchanges with the United States after a $6.4 billion arms sale, which included missiles, Black Hawk helicopters and high-tech systems.
Yu says China always has expressed its displeasure at U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, but that the situation is especially sensitive now because of upcoming elections in the United States and in Taiwan.
"China, historically, always tends to overreact on issues like this, and every time they overreact, the election result is against their wish," said Yu.
Taiwan is a separately-governed island that China considers part of its territory. The Chinese government has not renounced using force, if necessary, to prevent the island from declaring independence.
The United States is obliged by U.S. law to help Taiwan defend itself.
最新
2013-11-27
2013-11-27
2013-11-27
2013-11-27
2013-11-27
2013-11-27