Taiwan urges China to Engage in Dialogue and Cooperation on Aviation Safety
In the landscape of international relations, the bonds between nations are often shaped by shared values and commitments to mutual respect and cooperation. As Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to St. Kitts and Nevis, I am compelled to highlight the importance of these shared values in addressing recent developments concerning aviation safety and regional stability across the Taiwan Strait.
The recent unilateral announcement by the Civil Aviation Administration of China regarding the revocation of the 2015 cross-strait agreement on flight routes has raised significant concerns. This action alters the existing agreement on the M503, W122, and W123 flight routes in the Taiwan Strait. Undertaken without prior consultations with Taiwan, it not only undermines aviation safety but also challenges the principles of mutual respect and sovereignty that both Taiwan and St. Kitts and Nevis hold dear.
At the heart of our nations’ relationship lies a shared commitment to these fundamental values. Both Taiwan and St. Kitts and Nevis champion freedom, democracy, and the rule of law as pillars of our respective societies. It is within this framework of shared values that we must address issues of mutual concern, such as aviation safety, through constructive dialogue and cooperation.
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) provides guidelines that emphasize the importance of coordination and cooperation among all parties concerned in matters of aviation safety. As responsible members of the international community, Taiwan and St. Kitts and Nevis are committed to upholding these principles and promoting dialogue as the preferred means of resolving differences.
In this spirit of cooperation and mutual respect, I call upon China to recognize the importance of dialogue and negotiation in addressing aviation safety concerns. By engaging in constructive discussions with Taiwan, China can demonstrate its commitment to and responsibility for aviation safety and stability.
Furthermore, I urge the civil society of St. Kitts and Nevis to join in advocating for dialogue and cooperation as the means to address aviation safety concerns. By standing together in support of these shared values, we can pave the way for a safer and more stable aviation environment in our region.
In closing, let us reaffirm our commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and the shared values that unite us. By upholding these principles, we can work towards a future where mutual respect and cooperation prevail, ensuring the safety and stability of our skies for generations to come.