G7 says China’s activities east of Taiwan threaten regional stability; Beijing rejects statement

G7 foreign ministers meeting in Paris said on Wednesday that China’s activities in the waters east of Taiwan “threaten regional stability, freedom of navigation and the safety of international shipping,” and reaffirmed their opposition to unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion, Reuters reported. China’s foreign ministry said the statement “crudely interferes in China’s internal affairs,” while Taiwan’s presidential office welcomed it.

Taiwan says China has stepped up activity off the island’s east coast since June, including regular coast guard patrols, and believes Beijing is rehearsing a possible maritime blockade. Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for “reunification” with Taiwan and pledged to pursue it peacefully.