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Beijing warns of action against Washington after Pompeo congratulates Taiwan’s Tsai

  • US secretary of state has warm words for Tsai Ing-wen at her inauguration ceremony
  • China says the comments amount to interference in its internal affairs

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President Tsai Ing-wen is set to serve her second term as the island’s first woman leader. Photo: Handout
The US’ high-profile support for Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen has become a new flashpoint in increasingly hostile US-China relations, with Beijing warning it will take action against Washington.
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In three statements issued on Wednesday, mainland China’s foreign, defence and Taiwan affairs departments lashed out at US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, accusing him of violating the one-China policy and interfering in China’s internal affairs.

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China warns US of ‘strong response’ regarding Taiwan, saying island’s independence is 'dead end'

China warns US of ‘strong response’ regarding Taiwan, saying island’s independence is 'dead end'

He addressed her formally as “president” and his comments were read out at the inauguration ceremony.

“Her re-election by a huge margin shows that she has earned the respect, admiration, and trust of the people on Taiwan,” Pompeo said.

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“Her courage and vision in leading Taiwan’s vibrant democracy is an inspiration to the region and the world.

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