European Embassies in Taipei Voice Concern Over Chinese Activity Near Taiwan

The representative offices of Britain, France and Germany in Taipei issued a joint statement on Wednesday expressing concern over recent Chinese coast guard operations in waters east of Taiwan, warning that the activities could affect regional stability and maritime security.

The coordinated statement marks a rare public intervention by the three European missions on developments surrounding Taiwan and comes amid growing international attention on security issues in the Indo-Pacific region.

“We have 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.

The comments refer to recent patrols conducted by Chinese coast guard vessels off Taiwan’s eastern coast, an area that has generally seen less Chinese maritime activity than the Taiwan Strait. The waters east of Taiwan are strategically important because they provide direct access to the Pacific Ocean and serve as a key route for international shipping.

While the statement did not provide specific details about the patrols, it highlighted concerns that any increase in Chinese operations in the area could heighten tensions and create risks for commercial and civilian maritime traffic.

China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has increased military and maritime activities around the island in recent years. Beijing has regularly deployed warships, coast guard vessels and aircraft near Taiwan, saying such operations are necessary to protect its sovereignty and territorial interests.

Taiwan’s government has repeatedly criticized these activities, arguing that they place pressure on the island and raise the possibility of miscalculation in an already sensitive region. Taiwanese officials have also warned that expanding Chinese operations beyond traditional areas of activity could have broader implications for regional security.

The statement from the British, French and German offices reflects growing concern among European countries over stability in the Indo-Pacific. Several European governments have strengthened their engagement in the region in recent years, emphasizing support for international law, freedom of navigation and the peaceful resolution of disputes.

The European Union has increasingly described peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait as important to global trade and economic security. The region is one of the world’s busiest maritime corridors, carrying a significant share of international commerce.

China has consistently opposed foreign governments commenting on Taiwan-related issues, maintaining that matters concerning the island are internal affairs. Beijing has also criticized what it views as outside interference in cross-strait relations.

The joint statement adds to a series of international expressions of concern over developments around Taiwan, underscoring the growing focus on maritime security and regional stability in East Asia.