China - Taiwan - Q&A - (13 Jun. 2022)

Q: 1) The Chinese defense minister stated that he would “break into a thousand pieces” any attempt by Taiwan to gain independence and that “the Chinese army would not hesitate for a moment to start a war, no matter what the cost.”

2) During his speech at the “Shangri-La Conversation” in Singapore, French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu reaffirmed France’s commitment to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. What is France’s position on this blatant threat?

A: As an Indo-Pacific nation, France is concerned by any prospect of a unilateral challenge to the status quo, especially through the use of force. We reiterate our desire to maintain peaceful relations between the two sides of the Strait and we encourage dialogue to preserve peace and stability in the region.