At the conclusion of the G7 leaders’ summit held June 12–13 in Kananaskis, Canada, members issued a robust Chair’s Summary voicing concern over China’s destabilizing activities in the East and South China Seas, and highlighting the critical importance of maintaining peace across the Taiwan Strait.
In response, President Lai Ching‑te and Foreign Minister Lin Chia‑lung publicly welcomed the G7’s stance, describing it as a sign of growing international consensus in upholding regional security. The move is being compared to earlier G7 foreign ministers’ statements in March and April, which similarly defended Taiwan’s status quo.
🧭 Unique Insights & Deep Analysis
1. Strategic Messaging by the G7
The Chair’s Summary’s direct mention of the Taiwan Strait marks a meaningful intensification in Western diplomatic language. While previous statements—like those issued in March and April—had addressed Taiwan cautiously, the Kananaskis document went further, calling on “concerns about China’s destabilizing activities” and emphasizing the indispensability of peace for global security.
2. China’s Response and Wider Implications
Unsurprisingly, Beijing reacted sharply. China’s Foreign Ministry labeled the G7’s remarks as “manipulating China-related issues” and accused the bloc of promoting a “Cold War mentality”. This reflects a deepening ideological divide, with China framing G7 criticism as interference—heightening the diplomatic pressures faced by Taiwan.
3. Taiwan’s Strategic Reassurance Efforts
President Lai’s acknowledgment via X emphasized Taiwan’s readiness to “deepen economic connections” and collaborate with democratic allies—reinforcing the island’s role in the free-and-open Indo-Pacific ecosystem. Foreign Minister Lin mirrored this sentiment by underscoring that the G7 consensus reflects a global shift toward supporting cross‑strait stability.
4. Broader Geopolitical Momentum
Taiwan’s messaging aligns with a global trend: U.S., Japanese, and South Korean leaders recently called for a stable Taiwan Strait during a trilateral meeting in Brussels. Coupled with Kananaskis, this emerging focus signals a coordinated Western response to pressure from Beijing.
5. Domestic Impact & The Policy Response
For Lai, the summit signals a lever to unite domestic cohesion, especially as the ruling coalition faces internal opposition. International endorsement to safeguard the Taiwan Strait bolsters his push for stronger defense readiness and social resilience—part of his broader strategy outlined in March’s national security address.
🔎 FAQs
Why does the G7 discuss Taiwan if it’s not a member?
The G7 frames Taiwan as central to global security. Its stability affects trade routes, semiconductor markets, and regional peace—hence their repeated dialogue regarding the Taiwan Strait.
How did China respond to the G7 statement?
Beijing condemned it as “arrogant,” accusing the G7 of Cold War thinking and meddling in its internal affairs; it reiterated support for reunification under the one-China principle.
What practical impact does this G7 stance have?
The statement strengthens diplomatic backing for Taiwan, potentially paving the way for deeper defense cooperation, barrier-free trade discussions, and heightened international vigilance.
Could this destabilize Taiwan-China relations further?
Beijing may see this as external interference, likely prompting intensification in military exercises. However, the G7’s attention also serves as a deterrent to unilateral action, balancing the threat.
What next steps may Taiwan pursue?
Expect expanded defense partnerships, accelerated national security legislation, and greater participation in global economic and democratic forums. Lai is likely to reference G7 signaling to justify moves like the NT$410 billion special security budget.
