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European Voices Alarm Over China’s Moves Near Taiwan
East Coast of Taiwan, Taipei,Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Britain, France and Germany step up warnings after China sends coast guard vessels to patrol waters east of Taiwan
Britain, France and Germany have all stepped up their warnings after China sent coast guard vessels to patrol the waters east of Taiwan.
The ships were launched for what Beijing called a “special maritime traffic law‑enforcement operation,” a move that Taipei found very provocative.
Key Points
- China’s Justification
- Patrols are a response to Japan and the Philippines discussing their maritime boundaries.
- Beijing claims those waters fall within its own territory around Taiwan.
- Western Response
- Joint statement from the three countries’ embassies in Taipei.
- Expressed concern about new Chinese activity.
- Warned that actions could endanger regional stability and disrupt freedom of navigation for international shipping.
Rejected any unilateral changes to the status quo, especially by force or coercion.
- Safety and Rights
- All three nations stressed that every ship should be able to sail safely.
Seafarers’ rights must be protected.
- Diplomatic Context
- Britain, France and Germany do not have formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan.
They routinely express worry about Chinese pressure on the island.
- Taiwan’s Position
Maintains it is a sovereign democracy and rejects Beijing’s claims of ownership.
- China’s Silence
- China’s foreign ministry did not reply to a request for comment at the time of reporting.
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