The foreign ministers of the Group of Seven nations have discussed relations with China. They agreed they are opposed to any unilateral attempt to change the status quo by force and reaffirmed the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

The ministerial meeting began on Sunday in the central Japanese town of Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture. Japanese Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshimasa and his counterparts discussed the situation in the Indo-Pacific region, including China, for more than two hours over dinner on the first day.

The ministers shared the view that unity of the G7 members is extremely important.

Hayashi expressed concern over various challenges relating to China.
He noted the country's increasing maritime presence in the East and South China seas, as well as the recent detention in Beijing of a Japanese national working for a pharmaceutical company.

Hayashi underscored the importance of calling on China to act as a responsible member of the international community.

Hayashi also stressed the importance of continuing dialogue with China, working with it on global challenges, and building a constructive and stable relationship with the country. Other participants concurred.

The ministers strongly condemned North Korea's launch of ballistic missiles with an unprecedented frequency and in unprecedented manners.

On the second day on Monday, the ministers are expected to discuss the situation in Ukraine.
They will likely reaffirm the commitment to sanctions against Russia and support for Ukraine.

Strengthening engagement with emerging and developing countries in the Global South will also be on the agenda.