UN calls for avoiding escalation of tensions over drills near Taiwan – DW – 05/24/2024

The Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), António Guterres, called on all parties to “refrain from any actions that could escalate tensions” following the start of Chinese military maneuvers around Taiwan, as indicated this Thursday (05/23/2024) its spokesman Stéphane Dujarric.

“On China, we can tell you that we are obviously closely monitoring the evolution of the situation in the Taiwan Strait. We call on all parties to refrain from any actions that could escalate tensions in the region,” Dujarric told the press.

Three days after the new Taiwanese president was inaugurated, China launched a major military exercise apparently to simulate a blockade around the island.

“This is also a severe punishment for Taiwanese separatist forces and a solemn warning against provocations by external forces,” Chinese Navy Col. Li Xi said on Thursday.

The Taiwanese Defense Ministry said it had detected at least 15 Chinese naval ships, 16 Chinese coast guard vessels and more than 40 warplanes around the island. More than 35 Chinese military aircraft were seen crossing the midline of the Taiwan Strait.

Major General Wu I-sheng announced at a press conference late Thursday that China had violated the UN Charter on the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of Taiwan.

“We urge them to immediately stop provocative actions to avoid increasing the risk of military error,” Wu said.

gs (AFP, dpa)