US warns of backlash if EU lifts ban on arms to China

Published on Wednesday 6 April 2005 02:30

THE United States gave the European Union a blunt warning yesterday against lifting a ban on selling arms to China, saying it could expect a reaction from Washington if it went ahead.

The US deputy secretary of state, Robert Zoellick, said Europe sent the "wrong messages" to Beijing even by giving consideration to such a move.

"We certainly don’t want people to be surprised if there’s a counter-reaction," Mr Zoellick said.

"If there ever were a point where there were some conflict or danger, and European equipment helped kill American men and women in conflict, that would not be good for the relationship. It’s better to identify that now."

Europe imposed the embargo in response to the forceful suppression of democracy protests in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square in 1989; but several countries, led by France and Germany, want it lifted to help stimulate overall trade with China.

Washington has vigorously opposed lifting the embargo, citing a potential threat to Taiwan if Beijing acquires hi-tech European weaponry.

Mr Zoellick said some members of Congress would be sure to demand unspecified measures against the EU, especially since Beijing has adopted an anti-secession law granting itself the right to use force to head off any Taiwanese independence bid.

"As Europe becomes a larger player on a global stage, we urge it to consider some of the messages that it sends," Mr Zoellick said.