China has expressed strong dissatisfaction with recent comments made by G7 foreign ministers, urging the group to cease what it perceives as “inciting confrontation.” The statement was released by the Chinese embassy in Japan following the conclusion of a two-day G7 foreign minister meeting held in Tokyo.
The G7 nations, in a joint statement issued during the meeting’s conclusion, addressed various concerns related to China. Among the key points raised were calls for China to address its non-market policies, refrain from assisting Russia in its conflict with Ukraine, maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and ensure a high level of autonomy for Hong Kong.
In response, the Chinese embassy asserted that China would resolutely counter any perceived smear campaigns from external forces and strongly protested what it views as attempts by other countries to curb China’s actions concerning Taiwan. The sensitive issue of Taiwan remains a focal point, with Beijing considering it a part of its territory while Taiwan rejects this claim.
President Tsai Ing-wen of Taiwan, whose island is democratically governed, expressed her commitment to collaborating with G7 members toward fostering a free and open Indo-Pacific. Criticism on issues related to Taiwan and Hong Kong has long been a source of tension, with Beijing viewing such remarks as interference in its domestic affairs.
The situation in Hong Kong, which returned from British to Chinese rule in 1997 under the “one country, two systems” formula, has drawn attention from Western nations. Concerns have been raised about the protection of democratic principles, freedoms, and autonomy in Hong Kong, especially following the implementation of a national security law in 2020. These ongoing discussions underscore the complexities and sensitivities surrounding China’s interactions with the international community, particularly on issues related to Taiwan and Hong Kong.
