Taiwan Condemns China's Forceful Actions in South China Sea Clash

Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has condemned China's use of force during a clash between Philippine and Chinese coast guard vessels near the Second Thomas Shoal on July 20. The ministry expressed strong opposition to military conflict and rising tensions in the South China Sea.

Ministry spokesperson Hsiao Kuang-wei stated that China's coast guard used clubs, injuring Philippine naval personnel. Taiwan condemns this act of violence and urges both sides to exercise restraint and resolve disputes peacefully. The ministry emphasized that unilateral actions to change the status quo through force, coercion, or gray-zone tactics are unacceptable.

Taiwan stressed the importance of freedom of navigation in the South China Sea for regional peace and stability, which is closely watched by the international community. The ministry called on relevant countries to uphold regional peace and stability and maintain the international maritime order based on international law and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Taiwan also pledged to continue cooperating with like-minded countries to safeguard a free and open Indo-Pacific region.