TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s foreign ministry dismissed China’s protests of the arms sale announced by the Trump administration on Friday.

The ministry accused China of distorting its “one China” principle, obstructing normal Taiwan–US security cooperation.” The ministry reiterated that Taiwan is a sovereign and independent country. China has no right to interfere with other countries on how they choose to engage with Taiwan.

China dispatches military aircraft and vessels frequently throughout the region, carrying out large-scale military actions that have severely undermined regional peace and stability, the foreign ministry said. 

The international community is aware that Beijing is trying to challenge the regional status quo, according to the ministry. Taiwan has remained committed to safeguarding the cross-strait status quo and continuously strengthening its defense capabilities.

Taiwan also works with the US and other like-minded countries to preserve peace and prosperity in the Taiwan Strait and the region, the ministry said.

The NT$10.3 billion (US$330 million) arms deal to Taiwan included non-standard aircraft components and accessories for Taiwan’s air force.