Synopsis
The G7 Foreign Ministers condemned China’s aggressive maneuvers in the South China Sea during their three-day meeting in Quebec, Canada, emphasizing the need for a free and secure Indo-Pacific. They expressed support for Ukraine and called for a ceasefire, while raising concerns about China's military activities and its impact on regional stability.Key Takeaways
- G7 criticized China's aggressive actions in the Indo-Pacific.
- Emphasized commitment to freedom and security in the region.
- Strong opposition to militarization and coercion by China.
- Support for ongoing ceasefire efforts in Ukraine.
- Concerns raised over China's military build-up.
Quebec, March 15 (NationPress) The Foreign Ministers of the Group of 7 (G7) nations criticized China's aggressive actions in the South China Sea as they concluded a three-day gathering in Quebec, Canada.
The G7 acknowledged the ongoing initiatives aimed at achieving a ceasefire agreement, particularly after Ukraine expressed support for the proposal put forth by the US. They took a decisive position against China's assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region.
During their meeting in Charlevoix, Quebec, from March 12 to 14, 2025, the G7 Foreign Ministers from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, along with the High Representative of the European Union, convened to address pressing issues.
The Joint Statement from the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting emphasized their commitment to maintaining a free, open, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific based on sovereignty, territorial integrity, peaceful dispute resolutions, fundamental freedoms, and human rights.
They denounced China's militarization and coercive tactics, opposing any unilateral attempts to alter the status quo, especially through force.
"We remain seriously concerned about the situations in the East China Sea and the South China Sea, and continue to strongly oppose unilateral attempts to change the status quo, particularly through force and coercion," the statement noted.
Moreover, they expressed alarm over the rising incidents of perilous maneuvers and water cannons directed at Philippine and Vietnamese vessels, along with efforts to limit freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea, which violate international law.
The G7 Foreign Ministers also highlighted the significance of sustaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. They raised concerns regarding China's military expansion and the rapid growth of Beijing's nuclear arsenal.
"We urged China to partake in strategic risk reduction dialogues and foster stability through transparency," the statement further indicated.
Additionally, they reaffirmed their support for Ukraine throughout their three-day discussions.
The statement acknowledged the ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire, particularly following the March 11 meeting between the US and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia.
It urged Russia to reciprocate by agreeing to a ceasefire on equitable terms and fully implementing it.
"We discussed the potential for additional costs on Russia should a ceasefire not be established, including further sanctions, price caps on oil, and enhanced support for Ukraine among other measures," the statement concluded.
