TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The European Union (EU) released a statement on Thursday (May 23) saying Chinese military drills around Taiwan increased cross-strait tensions.

Beijing announced on Thursday morning it would be carrying out two days of military drills dubbed “Joint Sword-2024A” in the Taiwan Strait; around northern, southern, and eastern Taiwan; and Kinmen and Matsu.  

The European External Action Service (EEAS) condemned China for increasing tension in the Taiwan Strait. It stressed peace and stability in the region "are of strategic importance for regional and global security and prosperity.”

The EEAS added it has a direct interest in maintaining the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. It opposes any unilateral actions that seek to change the status quo by force or coercion, per CNA.

The EU urged all parties to exercise restraint and avoid actions that further escalate tensions. It said issues should be resolved through dialogue.