The relationship between China and Europe will be determined by Beijing’s behavior, including what will happen to Taiwan. This was stated by the head of foreign policy of the European Union, Josep Borrell, in a remote speech at the G7 summit in Japan, reports the Reuters news agency.
Borrell’s remarks highlight two of the central themes that preceded the three-day meeting: the need for a unified approach towards China and concerns for Taiwan.
Growing power
Japan, the only Asian member of the group, is increasingly concerned about the growing power of neighboring China in the region and is focusing on the possibility of military action against Taiwan. “Everything that happens in the Taiwan Strait means a lot to us,” Borrell said, stressing the need to work with China and keep communication open.
‘China’s behavior determines the EU’s approach to the country’
He describes China as a “partner, competitor and systemic rival” and says that of these three relationships the EU approaches “will be determined by China’s behaviour”. The ministers are also likely to discuss their “joint and coordinated” approach to China during their meeting in Japan, according to a senior US State Department official.
“Chinese Overreaction”
Beijing regards Taiwan as Chinese territory and is not afraid to use force to take over the democratically governed island. Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen says only the people of the island can decide their own future.
Recent remarks by French President Emmanuel Macron have highlighted the potential differences between Europe and the United States on China. In interviews following his visit to China this month, Macron warned against getting embroiled in a crisis over Taiwan driven by “American pace and Chinese overreaction”.
This sparked a backlash, and European foreign policy officials on Friday urged Beijing not to use force against Taiwan, taking a tough stance.
Source: BNR
Sharon Rock is an author and journalist who writes for 24 News Globe. She has a passion for learning about different cultures and understanding the complexities of the world. With a talent for explaining complex global issues in an accessible and engaging way, Sharon has become a respected voice in the field of world news journalism.
