Eight nations issue joint statement opposing Taiwan Strait status quo changes

Global Powers Unite Against Unilateral Changes to the Taiwan Strait

Foreign ministers and high-level representatives from Australia, France, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Poland, South Korea, and the United Kingdom released a joint statement following their second high-level gathering at the United Nations General Assembly. The grouping, known as European and Indo-Pacific Regional Partners, dedicated a specific independent section of their declaration to the strategic stability of the Indo-Pacific region.

The coalition explicitly stated their opposition to any unilateral attempts to alter the maritime status quo. Taiwanese Foreign Minister Lin Jia-long responded by expressing high appreciation and gratitude for the international support, noting that the initiative underscores the direct link between European and Indo-Pacific security.

Connecting Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific Security Challenges

The participating nations emphasized that the global strategic environment has grown increasingly fractured since their inaugural meeting in September 2025. According to the text of the declaration, shared cooperation stems from foundational principles including democracy, the rule of law, human rights, and international law.

Referencing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the statement stressed the necessity of halting hostilities and achieving a just and lasting peace based on the United Nations Charter. The partners committed to confronting hybrid threats across all operational domains and safeguarding societal resilience against external interference.

Protecting Critical Maritime Chokepoints and Global Trade

Beyond regional security, the coalition turned its attention to vital international shipping lanes. The declaration asserted that any use of force, threats, illegal fees, or restrictive transit conditions that disrupt major maritime chokepoints—such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait—represents an unacceptable threat to global safety and vulnerable populations.

The partners committed to upholding the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and urged the international community to condemn any actions that interfere with the free flow of commerce through these critical global arteries.

Taiwan Strengthens Defense and Societal Resilience

The agency stated that Taiwan will continue to enhance its self-defense capabilities and total societal resilience.

Taipei pledged to deepen cooperation with like-minded democracies to preserve peace across the Taiwan Strait. The government maintains that international solidarity remains essential for deterring military provocation and maintaining stability in the broader Indo-Pacific theater.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which countries signed the joint statement regarding the Taiwan Strait?

The joint statement was issued by Australia, France, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Poland, South Korea, and the United Kingdom.

When and where was the declaration announced?

The declaration was released on September 22, 2026, following the second ministerial meeting of European and Indo-Pacific Regional Partners during the United Nations General Assembly.

What was Taiwan’s official reaction to the eight-nation statement?

Taiwanese Foreign Minister Lin Jia-long expressed high appreciation and gratitude, while the Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that Taiwan will continue strengthening its self-defense and societal resilience.