"Novel Chinese activity" east of Taiwan endangered regional stability, the three European nations said.
Joint Statement
Great Britain, France, and Germany issued a joint statement on Wednesday expressing alarm over Chinese activities east of Taiwan. The de-facto embassies of the three European nations in Taipei said the "novel Chinese activity" endangered regional stability.
Chinese Response
China, which claims Taiwan as a breakaway province, described its earlier maneuvers as a "maritime traffic enforcement and hydrographic survey operation." Chinese state media reported the activities sent a warning to Japan and the Philippines regarding maritime boundary discussions.
Military Activities
On Tuesday, China sailed its newest aircraft carrier through the Taiwan Strait hours after Taiwan began a five-day military exercise to practice response to a potential Chinese attack.
Statements
The joint statement reiterated opposition to any unilateral change to the status quo, particularly by threat or use of force. The offices called for navigational rights and freedom of navigation.
China's Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Background
China has increased pressure on Taiwan by sending military vessels and aircraft near the island almost daily and occasionally organizing live-fire drills. Tensions with Japan have also risen since Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested possible military involvement if China acts against Taiwan.
Taiwan's ongoing drills aim to boost combat readiness, testing rapid deployment capabilities in case of a sudden escalation of Chinese grey-zone warfare, according to Taiwan's Defense Ministry. Earlier this month, Taiwan reported Chinese coast guard ships harassing commercial vessels near Taiwan.