GLOBAL CONCERN:
The UK, German and French offices reiterated their opposition to unilateral changes to the Taiwan Strait ‘status quo,’ particularly by threat or force
Staff writer, with CNA
The UK, Germany and France’s de facto embassies in Taiwan, as well as the US’ office, yesterday expressed concern over China’s “special maritime law enforcement operations” in waters east of Taiwan, saying that such behavior threatens regional stability.In a joint statement issued by the British Office Taipei, the German Institute Taipei and the French Office in Taipei, the three offices, which represent their respective countries’ interests in Taiwan in the absence of official diplomatic ties, said that they had “noted with concern novel Chinese activity in the waters east of Taiwan.”“These actions threaten regional stability, and the freedom of navigation and safety of international shipping,” the statement said. “We reiterate our opposition to any unilateral change to the status quo, particularly by threat or use of force or coercion. It is fundamental that all navigational rights and freedoms and the safety of seafarers and vessels are guaranteed and respected.”
A China Coast Guard ship is pictured in an undated photograph.
