EU: Chinese military exercises around Taiwan endanger international peace

BRUSSELS, Dec 30 (KUNA) -- The European Union on Tuesday expressed deep concern over Chinaآ’s recent military exercises around the island of Taiwan, stressing that they contribute to increased tensions across the Taiwan Strait and threaten international peace and stability.
EU spokesperson Anitta Hipper said in a press statement that "Chinaآ’s recent military exercise further increases cross-strait tensions and endangers international peace and stability." Hipper added that Peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are of strategic importance for regional and global security and prosperity, reiterating calls to exercise restraint and avoid any actions that may further escalate tensions.
She affirmed that the EU has a direct interest in preserving the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, expressing opposition to any unilateral actions that would alter it, particularly by force or coercion. (end) arn.rk