WASHINGTON. The US is considering a package of sanctions against China to dissuade Beijing from plans to invade Taiwan, while the EU is under pressure from Taipei to adopt a similar policy from Brussels.

According to press reports, the US and Taiwan want to persuade Europe to restrict China’s access to “sensitive” technologies such as computer circuits and telecommunications equipment. Reacting to news of a possible new package of sanctions, a spokesman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry said, “No country or person should underestimate the determination and will of the Chinese people and government to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity and ensure the reunification of our homeland.”

Taipei and Washington want the EU to restrict Beijing’s access to “sensitive” technology such as computer circuits and telecommunications equipment.

Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping traveled outside of China for the first time in two years yesterday. His tour began in Kazakhstan, and today he will arrive in Uzbekistan to participate in the summit of Asian leaders, which will also be attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin. The meeting in Uzbekistan will give Putin’s recluse an opportunity to negotiate with Xi on issues of mutual interest, such as striking new deals to import Russian natural resources to China.

However, the meeting between Putin and Xi will also be a reminder of the ongoing geopolitical rivalry between the two states, as Beijing tries to infiltrate the former Soviet republics of Central Asia, which Moscow considers its exclusive sphere of influence. In an essay by Xi published in the Uzbek press ahead of his visit, the Chinese President highlighted the historical ties between the two states, presenting Beijing as a generous donor and a reliable and strong regional partner.