G7 foreign ministers have warned that China’s increasingly assertive activities in waters east of Taiwan threaten regional stability, freedom of navigation and the safety of international shipping. The warning was included in a joint statement following a G7 foreign ministers’ meeting in Paris.
China considers Taiwan part of its territory, while Taiwan rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims. Taiwanese officials say Chinese activity around the island has increased in recent months.
The G7 statement stressed the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and opposed unilateral attempts to change the status quo through force, coercion or threats.
China had not immediately responded to the statement. Taiwan has continued to express concern over increased Chinese military and maritime activity around the island.
