E-003358/2021
Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Borrell on behalf of the European Commission
(17.8.2021)
The EU has a strong stake in the security, peace and stability of Asia and, accordingly, any deterioration of the security situation and stability in the Taiwan Strait and in the East and South China Sea provides grounds for concern to the EU.
The EU regrets that cross-strait relations remain tense and is worried about China’s increased military activities in the Taiwan Strait. The EU attaches importance to the status quo and supports Taiwan’s system of governance, based on democracy, human rights and the rule of law. It is important to avoid any unilateral actions and words that may further escalate tensions. Maintaining the status quo and peace and stability in the Strait is key. Tensions should be resolved through dialogue.
The EU’s concerns are also shared by our partners and like-minded countries. Recent statements including in the G7 format as well as in the EU-United States and EU-Japan summits stressed the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and encouraged a peaceful resolution of cross-strait issues.
The EU has expressed concerns in its contacts with China, notably in the framework of the consultations on security and defence issues and will continue to do so.
In the framework of the EU’s One China policy, the EU will continue enhancing relations and cooperation with Taiwan and supporting its system of governance. The EU will also continue calling for dialogue and raising the issue of cross-strait relations since stability and peace in the Taiwan Strait are of key importance to all of us.
The EU will also continue discussing with EU Member States developments in the region.
© European Union, 2021 – EP