German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul criticized the “aggressive behavior” of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in the Taiwan Strait, South China Sea, and East China Sea before his visit to Japan and Indonesia on Sunday. He emphasized the need to strengthen internationally binding rules.
According to reports from Reuters and AP, Wadephul made the remarks to reporters at Hamburg Airport as he prepared to board his flight. He praised Japan’s solidarity with Europe on the Ukraine issue and highlighted the importance and economic potential of Japan and Indonesia.
The German Foreign Ministry also issued a statement expressing Wadephul’s concerns about the actions of the CCP.
“The increasingly aggressive behavior of China (CCP) in the Taiwan Strait, East China Sea, and South China Sea also affects our Europe – the fundamental principle of our global coexistence is at stake,” he said.
“We are jointly addressing this issue through our commitment to the international order, which is built on the power of law and rules that are binding on everyone.”
Wadephul plans to meet Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, and several ministers responsible for economic affairs in Tokyo on Monday (August 18). In addition, he is scheduled to deliver a speech at a peace foundation. He will visit Indonesia on Wednesday (August 20).
Explaining the purpose of his trip, Wadephul stated, “Our freedom, prosperity, and security are not determined solely by Europe; they particularly depend on cooperation with strong global partners. As Foreign Minister, these are my objectives.”
Wadephul also emphasized the importance of the Indo-Pacific region for maritime route freedom, global supply chains, and the economic development of the world.
He criticized the CCP for unfair and distorted market trade practices that challenge the economies of Germany and Japan. However, he also criticized the United States’ tariff policies.