Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 January 2024
23. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he is concerned about a potential Chinese offensive action against Taiwan; if the Government intends to intervene on this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3300/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraOfficials in my Department follow developments in the Taiwan Strait closely. Military activity in the Strait intensified during 2022 and 2023. Any escalation or confrontation is deeply concerning and has the potential to impact regional and global security, as well as the free flow of trade. I am in regular contact with my EU counterparts on matters of foreign policy significance, including with regard to the tensions in the Taiwan Strait.
My officials also followed the democratic elections in Taiwan, which took place on 13 January.
During my meeting with Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing last November, I underlined the importance of stability in the Taiwan Strait and welcomed increased China-US engagement in this regard, notably the meeting between Presidents Xi and Biden in San Francisco in the margins of the APEC Summit. The Government has made clear that the status quo should not be changed unilaterally by force. We continue to encourage maximum restraint and the maintenance of strong communications channels, including between the US and China. Last year, the European Council also underlined its shared opposition to unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion.
As set out by the Taoiseach following his meeting with the Chinese Premier, Ireland, together with our EU partners, adheres to the One China Policy. This means we do not have diplomatic relations with Taiwan. We recognise the People’s Republic of China as the legal representative of China. However, this does not preclude the development of economic, cultural and people-to-people connections with Taiwan, nor the meaningful participation of Taiwan in relevant multilateral fora.
