BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – DAYS after the Group of Seven (G7) nations voiced concern over Chinese military activity near Taiwan, the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has issued a statement condemning the exercises and reaffirming its support for Taiwan.
In recent weeks, military vessels from the People’s Republic of China have conducted numerous exercises near the self-governing island, sparking alarm among Taiwan's allies—St. Kitts and Nevis included.
In a statement issued through the St. Kitts-Nevis Information Service (SKNIS), the government said it “observes with profound and growing concern the recent escalation of tensions in the Taiwan Strait.”
The statement emphasized the Federation’s unwavering support for the rights of all nations and peoples to pursue self-determination in a peaceful and supportive international environment. The government noted that St. Kitts and Nevis firmly supports the fundamental right of all peoples to explore and assert their freedoms and aspirations within a progressive and "supportive global space, free from coercion and intimidation.”
The G7—comprising Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the European Union’s High Representative—recently described China’s actions as “provocative,” warning that the rising frequency of such drills could destabilize the region and threaten “global security and prosperity.”
In their joint statement, the G7 said: "“G7 members and the larger international community have an interest in the preservation of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. We oppose any unilateral actions to threaten such peace and stability, including by force or coercion"
Echoing these sentiments, the Federation reaffirmed its “strongest support for the people of the Republic of China (Taiwan),” which it described as one of its closest allies.
“We firmly believe that the voices and perspectives of the twenty-three million people of Taiwan deserve to be heard and respected on the global stage," the statement read. "We hold the conviction that all societies, regardless of size or geopolitical influence, should be allowed to advance their development and chart their own course without fear of aggression, intimidation, or the threat of conflict."
St. Kitts and Nevis further underscored the significance of Sustainable Development Goal 16, which promotes peace, justice, and strong institutions, describing it as “the bedrock for global stability, fairness, and prosperity for all.”
The government also expressed deep concern for its nationals currently living, working, or studying in Taiwan.
