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UPI: U.S.-China relations sour over Taiwan

Published: Nov. 30, 2007 at 11:30 AM

BEIJING, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- A diplomatic row is brewing between China and the United States over the Bush administrations offer to build-up Taiwan's anti-missile artillery.

China canceled a port visit by the USS Kitty Hawk following a refusal by Beijing to deny port access to U.S. minesweeping ships seeking shelter during a storm.

Chinese officials reversed the move against the USS Kitty Hawk on "humanitarian grounds" but said China had "grave concern" about weapons sales to Taiwan, the International Herald Tribune said Friday.

Spokesmen said Bush's meeting with the Dalai Lama affected U.S.-Chinese relations as well.

Top U.S. officials expressed concern recently over China's increased defense spending following announcements to upgrade Taiwan's Patriot missile batteries for nearly $940 million.

Beijing officials contested the move saying it posed a strategic threat to China.

"This is very sensitive to the Chinese side," said one expert in the Tribune. "(The Chinese) recognize that this kind of technology will change the military balance in the Taiwan Strait."

The row comes as the United States attempts to strengthen Chinese relations while maintaining its status as a key ally to its long-time foe, Taiwan.


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