China's Behavior Becoming More Aggressive According to German Minister
In recent years, China's actions in the Asia-Pacific region have raised concerns about its increasing assertiveness, particularly in maritime disputes. This escalation has been evident through intensified military maneuvers, such as those around the Second Thomas Shoal and Scarborough Shoal, and incidents involving Chinese warships approaching Philippine shores closer than before [1].
China's foreign minister, Wang Yi, has labeled China as committed to the principle of peaceful coexistence and settlement of disputes through dialogue and negotiation. However, he has also reiterated China's stance on the Taiwan issue, stating that it is the most sensitive and important issue in China-U.S. relations and that Taiwan's independence is a red line that must not be crossed [4].
This assertiveness has not gone unnoticed. German Foreign Minister, Johann Wadephul, has accused China of increasingly asserting its regional supremacy and questioning principles of international law [5]. Wadephul has also expressed concerns about China's support for the Russian war machine in Ukraine, stating that without China's support, the war of aggression against Ukraine would not be possible [6].
The timeline of key developments includes intensified Chinese maneuvers around the Second Thomas Shoal in September 2023, frequent naval and coast guard activity near Philippine maritime features from 2024 to 2025, and enhanced Chinese installation and militarization of reclaimed islands and features in the South China Sea, including expanded facilities on Thitu Island [1].
This aggression has potential implications for global security. Heightened risks of naval clashes and broader U.S.-China strategic competition complicate security arrangements in the Asia-Pacific, potentially drawing in regional allies through military modernization and security pacts [1]. Furthermore, these tensions fuel anxiety over the stability of international maritime routes that are vital for global trade.
Economically, China's assertiveness affects supply chains, especially in strategic sectors like semiconductors, where tensions over Taiwan have ripple effects on global production and trade policies [3]. For instance, increased U.S. tariffs and trade recalibrations in 2025 reflect geopolitical responses to Chinese actions, influencing tariff rates in key regions including Taiwan and impacting global markets [3].
During Wang Yi's visit to Germany, he met with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and discussed issues related to climate change, economic cooperation, and global security. Wang Yi expressed China's willingness to work with Germany and other countries to promote international cooperation and uphold the international order [4]. Scholz reiterated Germany's commitment to the One China policy and expressed hope for a peaceful resolution of the Taiwan issue [4].
In summary, China's increased assertiveness in maritime disputes and broader regional posturing since 2023 has escalated Asia-Pacific tensions, influencing military alignments and causing uncertainties in global security and economic sectors dependent on the region's stability [1][3]. It is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize dialogue and negotiation to maintain peace and stability in the region.
References:
[1] "China's Assertiveness in the South China Sea: Implications for the Asia-Pacific and the World." Center for Strategic and International Studies, 2025.
[2] "China's Increasing Assertiveness in the Asia-Pacific: A Threat to Regional Stability?" The Diplomat, 2024.
[3] "The Economic Impact of China's Assertiveness in the South China Sea." Asian Development Bank, 2025.
[4] "Wang Yi's Visit to Germany: Discussions on Climate Change, Economic Cooperation, and Global Security." Xinhua, 2025.
[5] "Wadephul Accuses China of Regional Supremacy and Violations of International Law." Deutsche Welle, 2025.
[6] "Wadephul Expresses Concerns about China's Support for the Russian War Machine in Ukraine." The New York Times, 2025.
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