Stark UK warning sent to China as exercises in Taiwan risks "escalation" in light of HMS Prince of Wales op

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has responded to Beijing’s recent military drills. Xi Jinping is looking to respond to recent Royal Navy activity, where HMS Prince of Wales led the UK Carrier Strike Group to the Pacific and South China Sea.

As reported in Taiwan News, China carried out an exercise on Tuesday (December 30) that included patrols, blockade manoeuvres, establishing deterrence, and trying to gain control of the surrounding area. China’s Eastern Theatre Command spokesman Shi Yi said this was “a stern warning against ‘Taiwan Independence’ separatist forces.”

Five zones were designated around Taiwan for live fire drills until 6pm, with China’s Maritime Safety Administration later adding two more areas. In response, the FCDO said: “China’s military exercises around Taiwan this week increase cross-strait tensions and the risk of escalation.

“A peaceful Taiwan Strait is critical to global prosperity and the UK economy. We consider the Taiwan issue one to be settled peacefully by the people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait through constructive dialogue, without the threat or use of force or coercion.

“We do not support any unilateral attempts to change the status quo or any activity that risks destabilising it. We continue to call for restraint and the avoidance of any further actions that risk undermining peace and stability.”

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The Eastern Theatre Command previously denounced Royal Navy activity in September where Type 23 frigate HMS Richmond joined the American warship USS Higgins sailed through the Taiwan Strait. It accused the UK and US of “trouble-making and provocation”, adding: “The actions of the United States and Britain send the wrong signals and undermine peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.”

The Chinese Embassy sent a similar barrage when HMS Prince of Wales was docked in Tokyo, with the UK deepening its relationship with Japan. Beijing considers Taiwan to be part of the One China policy, which states the land is part of the nation by law.

The sovereignty of Taiwan and its surrounding islands has been a longstanding geopolitical issue, with many believing in its own independence and identity. The UK does not formally recognise Taiwan as its own state, or have formal diplomatic ties with them, but holds strong relations with them and holds a presence through British Office Taipei.