HomeBlogASEAN calls for restraint, warns of 'open conflict' risk as China conducts military exercises around Taiwan
ASEAN calls for restraint, warns of 'open conflict' risk as China conducts military exercises around Taiwan
ASEAN foreign ministers meeting in Phnom Penh (Cambodia) issued a joint statement calling for restraint as China prepares for large-scale military exercises around Taiwan, warning that the situation could escalate into "open conflict."
The tensions around the Taiwan Strait have become a topic of discussion at the 55th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting (AMM) which opened on August 3 in Cambodia.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (5th from the left) taking a photo with foreign ministers from ASEAN countries in Cambodia on August 4 - Photo: REUTERS
"The situation could lead to miscalculation, serious confrontation, open conflict, and unpredictable consequences between major powers," AFP quoted the ASEAN joint statement.
Present in Phnom Penh to participate in meetings with ASEAN, the EU's high representative for foreign affairs, Josep Borrell, also condemned China's response.
"There is no reason to use the visit (by Pelosi to Taiwan) as a pretext for provocative military activities in the Taiwan Strait. Visits by lawmakers from our countries to Taiwan are normal and regular," Borrell said.
Kung Phoak, Cambodian Deputy Foreign Minister and ASEAN spokesperson, called on all parties involved to make efforts to stabilize the situation.
"We hope that the situation in the Taiwan Strait will de-escalate and return to normal," Kung Phoak said.
According to AFP, some ASEAN countries have close relations with China, such as Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos. Some other countries are more vigilant towards Beijing.
Currently, no ASEAN country officially recognizes Taiwan or shows support for Taiwan against China.
