Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) nations have once again underscored the critical importance of maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, emphasizing its role in ensuring global security and prosperity.
In a joint statement issued during the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the leaders expressed their strong support for Taiwan’s involvement in international organizations and firmly rejected China’s unilateral actions in the East and South China Seas.
Peace in the Taiwan Strait: A Global Necessity
The G7 leaders, representing Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, the US, and the EU, emphasized that peace in the Taiwan Strait is “indispensable to international security and prosperity.” In their joint statement, they reaffirmed their commitment to the longstanding “one China policy” while highlighting the need for a peaceful resolution to cross-strait tensions.
The Taiwan Strait has long been a focal point of geopolitical tensions, with Taiwan maintaining its self-governed status despite China’s claims over the island. In this context, the G7’s unified stance not only reinforces Taiwan’s importance in the global order but also serves as a message to the international community about the value of peaceful diplomacy.
“We support Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations, including the World Health Assembly and WHO technical meetings, as a member where statehood is not a prerequisite and as an observer or guest where it is,” the G7 statement noted.
This support is critical as Taiwan, despite its advanced healthcare system and crucial contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic, has often been excluded from such global forums due to political pressure from China.
Opposing China’s Militarization in the South China Sea
Another key area of concern expressed by the G7 leaders is China’s assertive actions in the East and South China Seas. The group strongly condemned China’s ongoing militarization and intimidation in these regions, asserting that there is “no legal basis for China’s claims” in the South China Sea.
The region, one of the busiest maritime routes in the world, is a hotspot for territorial disputes, with China asserting sovereignty over vast areas in conflict with the claims of neighboring countries.
The G7 also highlighted the importance of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as the primary legal framework for resolving disputes and managing international maritime activities. This emphasis on UNCLOS underscores the group’s commitment to upholding international law and resisting any attempts to alter the status quo through unilateral actions.
“Peace and stability in the South China Sea are paramount for the region’s economic and security interests,” the G7 stated. They stressed the need for a collective, rules-based approach to navigating these disputes, urging all nations, including China, to adhere to established international laws.
Taiwan’s Response: Strengthening International Cooperation
In response to the G7’s support, Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) expressed gratitude for the international community’s backing, especially as Taiwan continues to face increasing pressure from China.
MOFA issued a statement appreciating the G7’s “unwavering support” for Taiwan’s participation in global institutions and its focus on ensuring peace in the Taiwan Strait.
“MOFA welcomes this statement and appreciates that the G7 continues to publicly express the importance that it attaches to cross-strait peace and stability, as well as its support for Taiwan at international events,” the ministry said.
Taiwan has long sought greater international recognition and participation in global organizations, arguing that its democratic governance and technological advancements make it an essential player in international forums. However, due to China’s influence, Taiwan’s attempts to join organizations such as the United Nations have often been thwarted.
Nevertheless, Taiwan remains committed to working with like-minded countries to protect the rules-based international order and uphold shared values such as democracy, freedom, the rule of law, and human rights. MOFA reaffirmed Taiwan’s readiness to collaborate with G7 nations and other allies to ensure global peace and stability.
“Taiwan will continue to work with G7 members and other like-minded countries to safeguard the rules-based international order; uphold the common values of democracy, freedom, the rule of law, and human rights; and jointly preserve peace, stability, and prosperity in the region and across the globe,” the MOFA statement concluded.
The Global Implications of G7’s Stance
The G7’s strong statement on Taiwan comes at a time of heightened tensions between China and the West. The issue of Taiwan’s sovereignty has been a longstanding point of contention in the region, with the potential to ignite broader conflicts involving major powers.
By reaffirming their commitment to peace in the Taiwan Strait, the G7 is not only sending a message to China but also reinforcing the global community’s dedication to diplomatic resolutions.
Furthermore, the group’s rejection of China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea aligns with broader international efforts to curtail Beijing’s influence in the region. As the South China Sea serves as a critical pathway for international trade, any disruption in the area could have severe repercussions for global commerce and stability.
In this context, the G7’s endorsement of Taiwan’s inclusion in international organizations reflects the growing recognition of Taiwan’s importance to global health, security, and technological advancement. As Taiwan continues to play an active role in these areas, its exclusion from critical global forums becomes increasingly difficult to justify.
Ultimately, the G7’s unified position highlights the need for continued dialogue, cooperation, and adherence to international law to resolve complex geopolitical issues. As the world grapples with evolving challenges, the G7’s call for peace, stability, and the inclusion of all key players in the global order remains as relevant as ever.
