China on Taiwan: “We will never compromise or back down” The feeling remains: the commercial US moon landing has failed

China has reiterated its position on dealing with Taiwan in talks with the US. Chinese military officials stressed during their meeting with US military officials in Washington that Beijing would “never compromise or retreat” in this area, China’s Defense Ministry said on Wednesday. They called on Washington to “stop arming Taiwan and oppose any Taiwan independence.”

For its part, the US emphasized the importance of “maintaining open lines of communication between the armed forces,” as the Pentagon said in a statement. In addition, U.S. representatives emphasized “the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.”

China and the United States have clashed in recent years over sensitive issues such as technology, trade and human rights, as well as tensions over Taiwan and competing claims in the South China Sea. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Tuesday that relations with the US have “stabilized” over the past year.

Taiwan votes on Saturday

Beijing views Taiwan as a breakaway province that should be reunited with the mainland – with military force if necessary. The US does not support Taiwan’s independence, but rejects a forceful annexation by China. Washington is the democratic island nation’s main military supporter.

Presidential elections will take place in Taiwan on Saturday. The outcome of the elections is considered crucial for the future relationship between Taipei and an increasingly aggressive Beijing and is therefore eagerly awaited internationally. (sda/afp)