China criticises Germany for ‘stirring’ regional tensions in Asia following Wadephul’s Japan comments
China hits back at Germany over Asia remarks, warns against ‘hyping tensions’
China on Monday criticised Germany after Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, during a visit to Japan, accused Beijing of becoming “increasingly aggressive” in the Asia-Pacific and attempting to “unilaterally change borders.”
Wadephul cited China’s actions in the Taiwan Strait and the East and South China Seas, warning that escalation in the region would have “serious consequences” for global security and the economy. In a statement ahead of his Asia tour, he also argued that China’s assertive behaviour undermines international law and has implications for Europe.
Responding in Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning rejected the claims, insisting the situation in the region “remains generally stable” and urging all parties to “resolve issues through dialogue instead of inciting confrontation.” She reiterated that the Taiwan issue is “China’s internal affair.”
During his talks in Tokyo, Wadephul also accused China of enabling Russia’s war in Ukraine by supplying dual-use goods and purchasing energy, saying such support makes Moscow’s aggression possible.
The German foreign minister will continue his tour with stops in Indonesia and Washington, where discussions with U.S., Ukrainian and European leaders are expected to focus on security guarantees for Kyiv and steps toward a negotiated peace.
