Chinese Foreign Ministry Declares NATO Not Welcome in Asia-Pacific Region

Countries across the Asia-Pacific region have expressed clear opposition to the presence of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), with officials emphasizing that the area does not require an alliance similar to NATO within its borders. This message was underscored during a regular press briefing by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian, who reiterated China's stance on the issue.

Lin delivered his remarks following recent comments made by a European leader at the Shangri-La Dialogue, which attempted to draw parallels between the Taiwan issue and the conflict in Ukraine. The European leader also referenced concerns regarding China's activities in the South China Sea and suggested that NATO may have grounds for involvement in regional affairs. In response, Lin firmly rejected these assertions, stating, "Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory and the Taiwan question falls entirely under China's internal affairs."

The spokesperson went on to clarify that comparisons between the Taiwan situation and the Ukraine crisis are unwarranted, stressing that any efforts to misrepresent or distort the nature of the Taiwan question would be strongly opposed by China. Lin called on all related parties to demonstrate adherence to the one-China principle through tangible actions, and to respect China's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Addressing security in the South China Sea, Lin asserted that the region remains "generally stable," with no impediments to lawful navigation and overflight by international parties. He emphasized that differences and maritime disputes should be resolved peacefully through negotiation and consultation directly among concerned nations, with historical facts as the foundation for discussions.

Lin expressed his belief that external actors should refrain from exacerbating tensions or fostering disputes, instead respecting local efforts to maintain peace and stability. He criticized calls for NATO's increased involvement in Asia-Pacific affairs, noting that as a regional defensive organization, NATO's mandate and geographic scope should not extend beyond its original boundaries as defined by its founding treaty.

Highlighting the Asia-Pacific region's rapid economic growth and record as a "pacesetter for global growth and peaceful development," Lin credited this progress to the spirit of cooperation among local countries. He reaffirmed China's commitment to neighborhood diplomacy based on amity, sincerity, mutual benefit, and inclusiveness, adding that China remains firmly against any form of bloc confrontation or the pursuit of exclusive spheres of influence.

Lin concluded by urging outside parties to abandon Cold War-era thinking and cease making divisive speculations about Asia-Pacific relations. Instead, he called on all actors to contribute positively to the enduring peace, stability, and prosperity of the region.