China has expressed its discontent with the joint statement issued by the United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea following a trilateral summit held in the United States. The three nations criticized China’s behavior and maritime claims in the Asia-Pacific region, leading to a sharp response from Beijing.
On Monday, August 21, China strongly reacted to the joint statement issued by the United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea following a trilateral summit held at Camp David. In the statement, the leaders of the three countries expressed concern over China’s “dangerous and aggressive behavior” as well as its “illegal maritime claims” in the Asia-Pacific region. They also addressed the Taiwan issue, which triggered an immediate response from Beijing.
The spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Wang Wenbin, strongly criticized the joint statement during a press conference. He accused American, Japanese, and South Korean leaders of “slandering and attacking” China while interfering in its internal affairs. Wang Wenbin also accused the three nations of deliberately trying to sow discord between China and its neighboring countries.
Peking’s response did not stop at words. The Chinese government lodged solemn representations with the relevant parties, expressing its “discontent” and “firm opposition.” This joint statement exacerbated existing tensions between China and its neighbors in the region, highlighting the persistent divergences in foreign policy and security matters.
