Munich: Japanese Foreign Affairs Minister Iwaya Takeshi Saturday said any outcome of the Ukraine-Russia war will impact the Asian region. Takeshi was addressing the Munich Security Conference in Germany, which was also attended by several officials from Asian nations.
According to Anadolu Agency, Takeshi emphasized the broader implications of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on the international order, noting its potential impact on Asia. "The Russian invasion of Ukraine has had a huge impact in terms of international order. We are seeing this collapse. And of course, this will have a huge impact on terms of the situation in Asia," Takeshi remarked.
Takeshi stressed the necessity of establishing a fair and lasting peace in Ukraine, warning against a scenario where Russia emerges victorious. Such an outcome, he argued, would have significant repercussions for both Asian and global security. He further highlighted the situation in Taiwan, urging for peaceful resolution through dialogue between China and Taiwan.
The Japanese diplomat's comments were made in the context of an initiative by US President Donald Trump to end the three-year Russia-Ukraine war through direct negotiations with Moscow. Beijing, which claims Taiwan as a 'breakaway province,' opposes any external interference in its affairs.
The conference saw participation from several high-level Asian officials. South Korean Foreign Affairs Minister Cho Tae-yul spoke about Seoul's diplomatic relations with China and the US, emphasizing the importance of transparency and predictability.
New Zealand Defense Minister Judith Collins drew a parallel between New Zealand's geopolitical position and a 'treasury with a very small lock,' alluding to the country's underwater resources. Collins expressed concerns over the Cook Islands' recent agreement with China, feeling New Zealand was inadequately consulted.
Philippines' top diplomat Enrique Manalo highlighted the importance of maintaining a 'free and safe' environment in the South China Sea, warning of potential tensions without naming specific nations. He accused unnamed countries of imposing domestic laws on the disputed waters, a point countered by former Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Fu Ying, who asserted China's professional conduct in the area.
Singaporean Defense Minister Ng Eng Hen commented on increased maritime activities by European nations, the US, and China in the South China Sea, likening China's actions to building its own "Monroe" doctrine.
Hina Rabbani Khar, former foreign minister of Pakistan, spoke about the security challenges faced by Pakistan due to its border with Afghanistan. She expressed concerns over the security implications of leftover US weapons in Afghanistan and called for a regional coalition to address insecurity issues.
The three-day Munich Security Conference is due to conclude on Sunday.