“Taiwan affects us economically, commercially and technologically,” Borrell writes. “I therefore call on the navies of European member states to patrol the Taiwan Strait to demonstrate Europe’s commitment to freedom of navigation in this absolutely crucial area.”
Borrell said in a keynote speech on Tuesday at the China debate in the European Parliament that Chinese action against Taiwan shouldn’t be rejected on moral grounds alone. “Also because it would be extremely serious for us from an economic point of view, because Taiwan has a strategic role in the production of the most advanced semiconductors”.
“No Followers”
Earlier this month, French President Emmanuel Macron said Europe should not be a “follower” of America in the event of a conflict with China over Taiwan. His comments, which he made after a visit to China, have drawn criticism from several politicians in the US and the EU.
Two weeks ago, China held a three-day military exercise around Taiwan, simulating, among other things, a blockade of the island. China regards Taiwan as a renegade province.