FM objects to China-related clauses in US defense bill

China has expressed serious concern and strong objections over a US defense bill for the coming year that contains sections relating to the Diaoyu Islands and arms sales to Taiwan.

The bill passed by the US Senate on Friday clearly states that the Diaoyu Islands issue is covered by the Japan-US Security Treaty, which acknowledges Japanese administration over the islands. Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman, Hua Chunying, said Diaoyu Island and its affiliated islands have been China's inherent territory since ancient times. The Japan-US Security Treaty should not undermine the interests of a third party, including China, nor be involved in the territorial disputes between other countries.

The spokeswoman also said China firmly opposes sales of arms to Taiwan by any country. The two clauses in the 633-billion-dollar Pentagon budget are both written as "sense of Congress," which means they have no binding power over the president.