G7 Condemns China’s Aggressive Moves in Indo-Pacific at Quebec Summit
The G7 Foreign Ministers, meeting in Charlevoix, Quebec, from March 12-14, issued a sharp rebuke of China’s escalating assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific, wrapping up their three-day talks with a unified stance.
The G7 Foreign Ministers, meeting in Charlevoix, Quebec, from March 12-14, issued a sharp rebuke of China’s escalating assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific, wrapping up their three-day talks with a unified stance.
Representing Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, the US, and the EU High Representative, the ministers condemned China’s “militarization and coercion” in the East and South China Seas, slamming its use of dangerous maneuvers and water cannons against Philippine and Vietnamese vessels. They criticized efforts to curb freedom of navigation and overflight, calling these actions violations of international law.
The joint statement reaffirmed the G7’s commitment to a “free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific,” rooted in sovereignty and peaceful dispute resolution. It highlighted concerns over China’s military buildup, including its rapidly expanding nuclear arsenal, urging Beijing to engage in risk reduction talks and enhance transparency for regional stability. The ministers also underscored the critical need for peace across the Taiwan Strait, opposing any forceful unilateral changes to the status quo.
On Ukraine, the G7 praised a US-Ukraine ceasefire meeting in Saudi Arabia on March 11, welcoming Kyiv’s support for the deal. They pressed Russia to match this with a full ceasefire, warning of further sanctions, oil price caps, and aid to Ukraine if Moscow refuses.
The talks, held amid global tensions, showcased the G7’s resolve to counter both China’s regional ambitions and Russia’s aggression, signaling a robust collective response.
