The Foreign Ministers of the Group of Seven (G7) nations have strongly criticised China’s increasing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly its actions in the South China Sea.
During a three-day meeting in Charlevoix, Quebec, Canada, they condemned Beijing’s militarisation and coercive tactics, calling for a commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region.
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, reaffirmed their support for a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific.
They emphasised the importance of upholding sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peaceful dispute resolution while safeguarding fundamental freedoms and human rights.
In their joint statement, the ministers expressed deep concern over China’s attempts to alter the status quo in the East and South China Seas through force and coercion.
They condemned the increasing use of dangerous manoeuvres and water cannons against Philippine and Vietnamese vessels, as well as Beijing’s restrictions on freedom of navigation and overflight in violation of international law.
The G7 also highlighted the significance of maintaining peace across the Taiwan Strait, warning against any military escalation. They voiced concerns over China’s rapid nuclear build-up and urged Beijing to engage in strategic risk reduction discussions to promote stability and transparency.
Beyond China, the G7 meeting also focused on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The foreign ministers welcomed efforts to achieve a ceasefire, citing a recent meeting in Saudi Arabia between Ukraine and the United States.
They called on Russia to agree to a ceasefire on equal terms and warned of additional sanctions, oil price caps, and further support for Ukraine should Moscow refuse to comply.
The statement underlined the G7’s commitment to countering threats to global security while reinforcing their stance against unilateral attempts to alter the international order through force.
With tensions in the Indo-Pacific escalating, the G7’s strong condemnation of China signals growing concerns among Western allies over Beijing’s expanding influence and military activities.
