Amid a period of high tensions, Britain's Defence Secretary warned China must settle its dispute with Taiwan through peaceful communication or a conflict may occur. Speaking at a NATO meeting in Brussels, Mr Wallace said China's incursion into Taiwan's air defence zone was incredibly dangerous. He also stated any military posturing from Beijing was unwise as the West focuses its attention on the Indo-Pacific region.

       Mr Wallace said: "Militarily they are posturing, as we've seen.

       "We think that's unwise.

       "You're in danger of destabilising the region, you're in danger of provoking further conflict in other disputed areas.

       "The difference between mainland China and Taiwan needs to be resolved through peaceful methods."

       Mr Wallace's comments come as a record number of Chinese planes entered Taiwan's air defence zone this month.

       It is estimated up to 150 aircraft entered Taiwan's air defence system.

       Mr Wallace also drew parallels with Hong Kong which came under the "one country, two systems framework" after the UK handed the province over to China in 1997.

       Amid a crackdown on Hong Kong, the Chinese government introduced the security law in order to stop dissent.

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       He said: "I think it's why we were so worried about Hong Kong, because Taiwan was effectively included in the 'one country, two systems'.

       "And if you trash that and you break those commandments, what does that mean for Taiwan?"

       China has long claimed it will reclaim Taiwan which it sees it as a breakaway province from the mainland.

       Taiwan is not officially recognised as an official state but does have diplomatic offices in multiple countries.

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       Taiwan also has a defence agreement with the US who pledged to supply the island with arms to defend itself.

       Josep Borrell, the EU's foreign policy chief, raised concerns over China's military activity in the Taiwan Strait.

       Margrethe Vestager, the European Commission's Executive Vice President, told the EU Parliament: "China has stepped up its pressure on Taiwan and its military presence in the Strait.

       "We have seen repeated incursions of Chinese planes across the median line and in Taiwan’s air defence identification zone.

       "These displays of force may have a direct impact on European security and prosperity.

       "We, Europeans, have an interest in preserving the status quo in the Taiwan Strait.