Yesterday, China announced restrictive measures against five US defense companies in response to Washington's arms sales to Taipei and US sanctions on Chinese companies and individuals.

These are BAE Systems Land and Armament, Alliant Techsystems Operation, AeroVironment, ViaSat and Data Link Solutions.

According to a statement from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, quoted by some international press, the sanctions will freeze any property the companies have in China, as well as prohibiting Chinese organizations and individuals from doing business with these entities.

China claims that the US measures have undermined the country's sovereignty and security interests, undermined peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and violated the rights and interests of Chinese companies and individuals.

"The Chinese government remains unwavering in its determination to safeguard national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity and to protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies and citizens," the statement said.