Janice R. Andrews
The foreign ministers of the Group of Seven (G7) have issued a strong condemnation of China’s “illicit, provocative, and dangerous” maritime activities in the Indo-Pacific. In a statement released after their meeting in Canada on Friday, the ministers voiced serious concerns over China’s expansionist tactics, including territorial claims and military installations in disputed waters.
G7 Opposes China’s Maritime Aggression
The G7, which includes Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United States, and the European Union, collectively rejected any unilateral moves to alter regional stability through force or coercion. The statement specifically called out China’s land reclamation projects and militarization in the South China Sea, as well as the use of water cannons and other aggressive maneuvers against vessels from the Philippines and Vietnam.
“We strongly oppose China’s unlawful, provocative, coercive, and dangerous actions that attempt to change the status quo and threaten regional stability,” the statement declared.
Concerns Over Taiwan and the South China Sea
The G7 ministers also expressed concerns over rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait. They reaffirmed that maintaining peace and stability in the region is crucial to international security and economic prosperity. Furthermore, they denounced China’s growing military capabilities and rapid expansion of its nuclear arsenal, urging Beijing to engage in strategic risk reduction talks.
Additionally, the G7 criticized China’s attempts to extend its jurisdiction through force, in violation of international laws, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The statement referenced the 2016 arbitral tribunal ruling that invalidated China’s “Nine-Dashed Line” claims in the South China Sea, reiterating that Beijing’s maritime claims lack legal grounding.
Trade and Economic Issues
Beyond security matters, the G7 also took issue with China’s economic policies, accusing it of employing non-market practices that create unfair competition and excessive production capacity. They urged China to adopt fair trade practices and warned against export restrictions that could destabilize global supply chains.
Despite these criticisms, the G7 emphasized that their objective is not to hinder China’s economic progress but to ensure adherence to international trade regulations. They called on Beijing to act transparently and refrain from actions that could disrupt the global economy.
Global Security and Diplomatic Discussions
During their discussions in La Malbaie, Quebec, the G7 foreign ministers also addressed various global security concerns. Topics included Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, ongoing conflicts in Sudan and Congo, increasing violence in Haiti, and instability in Venezuela. The ministers reiterated their commitment to promoting international peace and security.
The statement underscored the importance of upholding a rules-based maritime order and safeguarding international trade routes from coercive tactics. The G7 pledged to work closely with allies and partners to enforce international laws and deter aggressive actions in disputed waters.
Awaiting China’s Response
China has yet to issue an official response to the G7’s remarks. However, Beijing has historically dismissed such criticisms as foreign interference in its internal affairs. With tensions in the Indo-Pacific escalating, global leaders remain vigilant about China’s next moves and their potential impact on regional stability.
