The Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed March 14 European Parliament support for the ROC government’s East China Sea peace initiative in the latest “Report on EU-China Relations.”
“This is the first time the European Parliament has formally recognized the peace initiative following EU lawmakers’ backing of the proposal last November,” a MOFA official said. “It is also strong affirmation that both sides cherish peace and enjoy friendly bilateral ties.
“The government wishes to thank the EU for demonstrating its good will and support.”
Approved by the European Parliament the same day, the report stated the EU has taken note of “Taiwan’s initiative with a view to reaching a consensus on a code of conduct for the East China Sea and the establishment of a mechanism allowing all sides to cooperate in the joint exploitation of the region’s natural resources, including capacity for the generation of electricity from renewable sources.”
The report also called for all parties involved to demonstrate restraint, work on ways to ease tensions over the disputed islands, and settle the matter in a cooperative and peaceful spirit in compliance with international law, particularly the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Proposed by President Ma Ying-jeou last August, the initiative calls for all parties to refrain from antagonistic actions; maintain dialogue; observe international law; resolve disputes through peaceful means; and establish a mechanism for the joint development of resources.
In addition, the report showcased improving relations across the strait, stating that the EU welcomes expanded exchanges between Taipei and Beijing and supports Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations. But this was tempered by concerns over mainland China’s missiles aimed at Taiwan and ongoing attempts to internationally isolate the country.
The EU praised the thriving cross-strait economic ties, as well as Taiwan opening up to mainland Chinese tourists, adding that the internationalization of trade and investment is “the best guarantor of Taiwan’s stability.”
“We hope the EU and governments of its 27 members continue to back the ROC’s cross-strait policy and bid for international participation,” the official said. (JSM)
Write to Grace Kuo at mlkuo@mofa.gov.tw