Discussions between Cohen and Barak include China weapons sales

US Defense Secretary William Cohen discussed this morning security issues, among which is the anticipated Israeli withdrawal from south Lebanon, with Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak.

This meeting comes within the international support which the Israeli government seeks to carry out this withdrawal.

Among the topics that were discussed is the Israeli weapons sale to China, which raises US anxiety.

China held a transaction for purchasing Israeli jets that provide early warning and advanced radar capabilities.

The USA is trying to persuade Israel to cancel the sales transaction as it affects the balance of military power between China and Taiwan and it may create danger in the situation there.