Controversial Remarks Precede China's Upcoming Trips to Japan and Indonesia - Ongoing Critique on China by Wadephul before China's Visits to Japan and Indonesia
In a significant move, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has expressed his concerns about China's increasingly aggressive behaviour in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the Taiwan Strait and the South and East China Seas. Wadephul has criticised China for asserting regional supremacy in ways that undermine international law and threaten both regional security and the global rules-based order.
On trade and security, Wadephul has warned that any escalation in this strategically important area, crucial for global trade routes, would have severe consequences for global security and the world economy. This reflects the concern that China's maritime assertiveness impacts not only Asia but also European and global interests.
Regarding China’s trade practices in the context of Russia’s war on Ukraine, Wadephul has openly accused China of providing essential economic support to Russia, including supplying dual-use goods and being Russia's largest oil and gas customer, thereby enabling the conflict to continue.
These views have influenced Germany’s approach to regional partnerships. Wadephul highlighted Germany’s commitment to supporting Indo-Pacific countries like Japan and Indonesia through security cooperation and sustainable development initiatives. For instance, Germany provides unarmed surveillance drones to the Philippines and Malaysia to strengthen maritime security, and it is engaged in the Just Energy Transition Partnership with Indonesia focused on decarbonization.
Wadephul’s criticisms closely align with concerns from countries like Japan and Indonesia, which face direct security and economic risks due to China’s military assertiveness and trade policies. His stance reinforces Germany’s active role in supporting the stability, resilience, and economic partnerships of Indo-Pacific nations impacted by China’s behaviour.
During his current trip to Japan and Indonesia, Wadephul will meet with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, and several ministers responsible for economic affairs in Tokyo on Monday. He also plans to give a speech at a peace foundation in Tokyo. Wadephul has thanked Japan for its continued support of Ukraine.
The economic development of the world, according to Wadephul, is largely dependent on the security of free sea lanes. Major exporting economies like Germany and Japan, as well as emerging partners in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) such as Indonesia, are affected by the security of free sea lanes. Wadephul emphasizes the importance of free sea lanes for maintaining global trade and security.
Germany shares much with Japan, including values, interests, and significant challenges. Wadephul advocates for an international order based on the strength of law and rules binding on all. This trip to Japan and Indonesia underscores Germany's commitment to strengthening its partnerships with these nations for a more secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
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