Poland, Japan Joint Statement Highlights Taiwan Strait Stability for First Time

Poland has taken a more visible stance on Taiwan in recent months, culminating in a joint statement with Japan that underscores the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

In a recent written reply to pro-Taiwan lawmakers, Poland's Foreign Ministry expressed concern over rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait and opposed any unilateral attempt to change the status quo through force or coercion.

The issue gained further prominence during Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk's meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in Tokyo on May 15. In their joint statement, both sides emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait—marking the first time Japan and Poland have jointly referenced the issue in a formal declaration. Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) welcomed the development the following day.

The development follows a series of recent exchanges between Taiwan and Poland.

Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) led a delegation to Poland in November 2024, and in September he attended the Warsaw Security Forum, where he was seated next to Tusk at the opening ceremony.

In February, Poland's annual foreign policy report highlighted efforts to strengthen strategic partnerships with South Korea and Japan, expand security consultations with Australia and New Zealand, and maintain interest in technological cooperation with Taiwan.

In March, Poland's Foreign Ministry stated in a written response that developments in the Indo-Pacific are of significant importance to the country's security and prosperity. It expressed concern over tensions in the Taiwan Strait and opposed both unilateral attempts to change the status quo through force or coercion and any territorial changes pursued through gray-zone tactics in violation of international law.

Tusk's visit to Japan marked the first meeting between the two countries' leaders in nearly three years. The summit elevated bilateral ties to a "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership."

Beyond bilateral relations, the joint statement stressed the importance of a free and open Indo-Pacific, opposed unilateral changes to the status quo by force or coercion, and encouraged the peaceful resolution of cross-strait differences through constructive dialogue.

Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the statement as a significant development, noting that it was the first time Japan and Poland had jointly highlighted the Taiwan Strait in a formal declaration.

Minister Lin expressed appreciation for both countries' actions in demonstrating concern for cross-strait peace and stability.

MOFA said Taiwan will continue to strengthen its self-defense capabilities and deepen cooperation with like-minded partners, while working to uphold a rules-based international order as a key contributor to Indo-Pacific security and prosperity.

Original Article in Chinese

（Related： Opinion | Taiwan’s Food Waste Could Fuel Carbon Markets—But Only If the Foundations Are Built First ｜ Latest ）