German foreign minister criticises China, North Korea over Indo-Pacific tensions

Osaka [Japan], August 20: German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on Tuesday accused China and North Korea of threatening international stability through aggressive actions in the Indo-Pacific.
"The rule is always that borders must not be shifted by force. Neither in Europe, nor in the Indo-Pacific, nor anywhere else in the world," Wadephul said during a visit to the 7th US Fleet and a Japanese naval base in Yokosuka, south of Tokyo.
Wadephul highlighted the vital role strong partnerships play in maintaining peace, security and stability. He described the base as strategically important for preserving stability in the Indo-Pacific and noted that, alongside close G7 partners Japan and the United States, Germany shares concerns over rising tensions in the region. Wadephul warned that China's military build-up and push to become the world's technological leader through big data and artificial intelligence pose a challenge in the region. The minister also sharply criticized North Korea's rhetoric and manoeuvrers which he said are escalating tensions. (DPA)
Source: Qatar Tribune