He stressed that China could contribute “by neutrality” as “a permanent member of the United Nations” while having “close relations with Russia,” as he addressed a meeting of foreign ministers of G-7 nations in the resort city of Karuizawa.
Borrell was unable to travel to Japan for the three-day meeting of foreign ministers of Group of Seven nations after testing positive for COVID-19, so he held a press briefing via video link.
European nations “want to deescalate the tension and to preserve the stability,” Borrell said, adding that it would be difficult for Europe to maintain positive economic relations if China were to militarily support Russia.
France and Germany are currently divided over how to respond to China’s increased military pressure on Taiwan. Germany’s foreign minister has spoken out against the possibility of China using military force against Taiwan, while French President Emmanuel Macron has said that Europe should “not get caught up” in a possible conflict in the Taiwan Strait.
In his speech on Sunday, Borrell mentioned that 40% of the E.U.’s trade relies on the Taiwan Strait and said, “Let me be clear that we have an interest in peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.”
The meeting in Karuizawa will last until Tuesday, with participants exchanging views on regional issues, including the Indo-Pacific region where China is expanding its maritime presence, Russia’s invasion in Ukraine, and nuclear disarmament. The outcome will be reflected at the G7 summit meeting in Hiroshima in May with the aim of creating an international order based on the rule of law.
Also on Sunday, Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi held a bilateral meeting with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani.
According to the Japanese Foreign Ministry, the two ministers exchanged views on the situation in East Asia and agreed to continue to coordinate closely in addressing issues related to China and North Korea, including on nuclear and missile-related issues, as well as pertaining to abductions of Japanese citizens.
Japan, Italy, and the U.K. have plans to jointly develop a next-generation fighter jet by 2035.
Source: Nikkei Asia
