Chinese diplomat concerned
A Chinese diplomat in France has expressed concern over the recent shift of military focus of the Europe on the Indo-Pacific region, which is reported to be targeted at targetting China. Within an interview with French newspaper L'Opinion, ambassador Lu Shaye said that Europe should seek to work with countries in the Indo-Pacific region.
"We hope that the Indo-Pacific strategy of europe and France can promote cooperation with countries in the region, instead of using it as a technique against China, especially military confrontation," Lu said, as quoted by South China Morning Post. "Unfortunately, up to now we've only seen its military side. France should focus more on monetary and trade cooperation," he said, ANI reports. These remarks come as EU has adopted its Indo-Pacific strategy policy in April that promises to place the EU at loggerheads with China. The Council adopted conclusions on an EU strategy for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, setting out the EU's intention to reinforce its strategic focus, presence, and actions in this region of prime strategic importance for EU interests.
The 10-page document comes as China continues to threaten the security of the region by claiming sovereignty in most parts of the region. The EU's Indo-Pacific Strategy paper makes it clear that Europe is set to deepen its influence in your community. China's rising assertiveness abroad and growing repression in the home is a significant driving force behind Europe's motive in the Indo-Pacific.
Lu's remarks come a couple of days following the release of a joint statement by the Band of Seven (G7), in which they raised serious concern about the problem in the East and South China seas. The G7 leaders also opposed any unilateral attempts to change the status quo and increase tensions.
