So it is only fair that the Taiwanes get to smile right back and argue that more Taiwanese arms will help cross-strait relations:
The Mainland Affairs Council, the island's decision-making body on its policy with China, also called on Beijing to dismantle the more than 1,000 missiles aimed at the island.
"The arms build-up is necessary for our national defence," the council said in a statement. "Furthermore, it would make Taiwan have more confidence in pursuing negotiations and exchanges with the Chinese mainland."
The council was reacting to remarks earlier in the day by a Taiwan affairs official in Beijing, who in a press conference reiterated China's opposition to any arms sales to the island.
Keep smiling, Taiwan. And keep arming up.
