China condemned the US decision to ease restrictions on diplomatic relations with Taiwan in the waning days of the Trump administration, saying the island was “the most important” part of its relations with Washington.
“Any move that harms China’s core interests will be met with China’s resolute counter-strike,” said Zhao Lijian, foreign ministry spokesperson, on Monday, although he did not specify any concrete measures.
Mike Pompeo, US secretary of state, said on Saturday that the Trump administration would lift “self-imposed restrictions” that have governed relations between Washington and Taipei. Mr Pompeo said all “contact guidelines” should be considered “null and void”.