UK France Germany Embassies in Taipei Issue Joint Statement on Chinese Coast Guard Activity

The de facto British, French and German embassies in Taipei issued a joint statement on Wednesday expressing concern about recent Chinese coast guard patrols off Taiwan's east coast. The statement addressed activities tied to China's Justice Mission 2025 military drills around Taiwan and warned that the Chinese activity threatens regional stability and the safety of international shipping.

The three offices declared that the UK, France and Germany oppose any attempt to change the status quo by force or coercion.

The statement asserted that it is fundamental that all navigational rights and freedoms and the safety of seafarers and vessels are guaranteed and respected. Taiwan Coast Guard patrol vessels were stationed in Keelung during the period covered by the drills. China views democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory.