By Anjali Sharma

WASHINGTON – US on Monday has approved a USD 385 million arms sale to Taiwan continuing its efforts to strengthen military relations with the island nation a move that has raised concerns in China, media reported

According to the US Defence Security Cooperation Agency, the sale, which includes spare parts for fighter jets and radar systems, is expected to be delivered starting in 2025.

US Department of State’s approval is to help Taiwan maintain the operational readiness of its F-16 fleet, enabling the island to address both current and future threats, the DSCA said.

Taiwan’s President William Lai Ching-te departed on a trip to the Pacific, with planned stops in Hawaii and Guam, which have angered China.

The People’s Republic of China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has previously opposed U.S. arms sales to the self-ruled democracy, media report added.

Lai’s trip includes visits to Pacific nations such as the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and Palau, marking his first foreign tour since assuming office. In his pre-departure speech, Lai expressed his gratitude to the US for “helping to make this trip a smooth one” and described the journey as “ushering in a new era of values-based democracy.”

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned Lai’s travel to the US, urged the US to handle Taiwan-related matters with caution and support China’s goal of peaceful reunification.

China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said that the US should “handle the Taiwan issue with utmost caution, unequivocally oppose Taiwan independence, and support the peaceful reunification of China,.

US State Department stated there was “no justification for a private, routine, and unofficial transit to be used as a pretext for provocation.”

It cited that this latest arms deal is the 18th announced during U.S. President Joe Biden’s administration, according to Taiwan.

Taiwan has been actively seeking to expand its military ties with the US amid growing pressure from China, which has increased military activity around the island.

US approved a USD 2 billion arms package for Taiwan, which included advanced missile systems and radar.

Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence expressed appreciation for the US support, stating that it would continue to strengthen its defences in response to China’s increasing military pressure. Just hours before Lai’s departure on Saturday, Taiwan’s defence ministry reported the detection of 18 Chinese military aircraft, seven naval vessels, and two balloons near the island.