The United States announced a new $1.1 billion arms package for Taiwan on Friday, in a new bid to boost the island's defenses amid rising tensions with Beijing.
The announcement comes a month after House Speaker and third in line of succession Nancy Pelosi paid a visit to Taiwan drawing the ire of mainland China, which launched a show of force that could be a test for a future invasion of the island.
The new package, which needs congressional approval, includes $665 million for an early warning radar system to help Taiwan track incoming missiles and $355 million for 60 advanced Harpoon missiles capable of sinking incoming ships.
A State Department spokesman said the package is "essential to Taiwan's security."
"We urge Beijing to cease its military, diplomatic and economic pressure on Taiwan and instead engage in meaningful dialogue" with Taipei, he added.
The State Department said the United States has made it clear that it continues to recognize only Beijing, which regards the island as its own.
"These proposed sales are business as usual to support Taiwan's continued efforts to modernize its military and maintain a credible defensive capability," the spokesman said.
"The United States will continue to support a peaceful resolution of cross-strait differences in accordance with the wishes and best interests of the people of Taiwan," he added.
