EU Expresses concerned by Chinese drills around Taiwan

The European Union expressed concern over China's military exercises around Taiwan, saying the island's status should not be changed by force and that any escalation, incident or use of force there would have huge global repercussions.

The Chinese army conducted exercises for an air and sea blockade of Taiwan today, Monday, on the last day scheduled for its exercises, in addition to the participation of a Chinese aircraft carrier in combat patrols, while Taipei reported another increase in the number of warplanes near the island.

"We are concerned about the intensification of the People's Liberation Army's military activities in the Taiwan Strait and around Taiwan, with incursions into the Taiwan Air Defense Determination Zone and crossing the Middle Line," said Nabila Masrali, spokeswoman for the European Union's External Affairs Commission.

She added Tensions must be resolved through meaningful and frank dialogue. The European Union and its member states will continue to support efforts aimed at maintaining peace and stability in the region.