Taiwan Today
Date: December 17, 2015
Washington’s commitment to providing Taipei with defensive weapons in
Perry-class frigates included in a US$1.83 billion arms sale package announced Dec. 16 by the U.S. government are set to strengthen Taiwan’s defensive capabilities. (CNA)
accordance with the Taiwan Relations Act and improving bilateral ties was welcomed Dec. 16 by the ROC Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The US$1.83 billion package, notified earlier the same day by the U.S. government to Congress, comprises two Perry-class frigates, AAV7 amphibious assault vehicles, stinger missiles, and anti-aircraft and anti-ship systems.
It is the fourth such deal between the two sides since President Ma Ying-jeou took office in May 2008, taking the total to more than US$20 billion—the highest following the signing into law of the TRA in 1979.
“This positive state of affairs underscores the high level of mutual trust and exchanges between Taipei and Washington,” a MOFA official said. “As a valued economic and security partner of the U.S. in the Asia-Pacific, we look forward to taking this relationship to the next level while upholding our common interests in this region.” [FULL STORY]
