00:00The U.S. plans to ramp up weapons sales to Taiwan beyond levels seen during President Donald Trump's first term.
00:07The move could ease concerns about Trump's commitment to Taiwan, but would likely worsen already tense U.S.-China relations.
00:17U.S. officials expect the country's arms approvals over the next four years to surpass those during Trump's first term.
00:24They said the U.S. is also urging Taiwan's opposition parties not to block efforts to raise defense spending to 3% of GDP.
00:33The Trump administration approved about $18.3 billion in sales to Taiwan, compared to $8.4 billion under President Biden, according to Reuters' calculations.
00:44However, with the lack of formal diplomatic ties, many in Taiwan worry about Trump's commitment to the island.
00:49On his campaign trail, Trump sparked concern in Taipei by suggesting Taiwan should foot the bill for U.S. protection and accuse the island of taking away American semiconductor jobs.
01:01China has reiterated its opposition to U.S. arms sales on Friday.
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