The UK, France and Germany issue a rare joint statement expressing concern about “novel” Chinese activity east of Taiwan, according to their de facto embassies in Taipei. The statement says the activities, which are not specifically described, could endanger regional stability. In response, China says its deployments earlier in the month are normal “maritime traffic enforcement and hydrographic survey” operations. China also continues to assert that Taiwan is part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to bring the island under its control.
The reporting links the European concerns to Chinese actions that include coast guard patrol activity near the area east of Taiwan. It also references other developments around the same time, including a Chinese aircraft carrier passing through the Taiwan Strait shortly after Taiwan begins a five-day military exercise. Additional context cited by one outlet is that China views discussions between Japan and the Philippines on maritime boundaries as connected to its own claims in regional waters.
Overall, the sources agree the European governments are alarmed by increased Chinese activity near Taiwan, while China frames the actions as routine maritime operations.
