Chinese President Xi Jinping told US President Joe Biden on Thursday that Beijing strongly opposes foreign interference in Taiwan’s affairs and will firmly defend its sovereignty.

“We strongly oppose separatism and foreign interference in Taiwan’s affairs,” the Xinhua news agency quoted Xi Jinping as saying during a phone call with American counterpart.

“The government and people of China have consistently held this position, we will firmly defend the state sovereignty and territorial integrity of our country,” he added.

According to the Chinese leader, the “One China” principle provides the political basis for relations between Beijing and Washington.

Xi Jinping noted that China expected the US to comply with its obligations.

Taiwan has been governed by its local administration since 1949. Beijing regards the island as one of its provinces and this position is supported by most countries, including Russia. Washington cut diplomatic ties with Taipei in 1979 and established relations with China. While accepting the “One China” policy, Washington continues to maintain contact with the Taipei administration and provide weapons to the island.

Source: Agencies