US, UK, France, Germany Condemn China's Actions Near Taiwan

The United States, United Kingdom, France, and Germany have collectively voiced strong concerns regarding China's recent and frequent activities involving coast guard vessels in the waters east of Taiwan. These nations have issued statements highlighting that China's actions pose a threat to regional stability, freedom of navigation, and the safety of international shipping.

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China's actions seriously undermine stability, and its assertion of jurisdiction in waters peacefully managed by Taiwan for over seventy years will only escalate tensions.

The American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) directly stated that China's assertions of jurisdiction in waters peacefully managed by Taiwan for over seventy years are escalating tensions. AIT urged Beijing to cease its military, diplomatic, and economic pressure on Taiwan and to engage in meaningful dialogue with Taiwan's democratically elected government.

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We oppose any unilateral changes to the status quo, especially those made through threats, force, or coercion.

In a joint statement, the British Office, the French Office, and the German Institute in Taiwan noted China's new activities in the waters east of Taiwan with concern. They reaffirmed their opposition to any unilateral changes to the status quo, particularly those achieved through threats, force, or coercion. The statement emphasized the critical importance of safeguarding the rights and freedoms of all navigation, as well as the safety of seafarers and vessels.

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The safety of all navigation rights and freedoms, and of seafarers and vessels, must be guaranteed and respected.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan welcomed these statements, viewing them as a reflection of the international community's shared interest in maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters. The coordinated response from these major Western powers underscores a growing international consensus against actions perceived as destabilizing the region.

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AIT rejects any claim by China that it has the right to interfere with freedom of navigation or overflight, or freedom to lay cables, or other lawful uses of the sea.