Japan and China Exchange Protests Over Taiwan Remarks

Japan and China have exchanged formal protests following remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi concerning Taiwan. During a parliamentary session on November 7, Takaichi suggested that a Chinese military attack on Taiwan could constitute a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan, potentially justifying the activation of Japan's Self-Defense Forces under its 2015 security legislation.

China's Foreign Ministry condemned Takaichi's statement as a "gross interference in China's internal affairs" and a violation of the one-China principle. Spokesperson Lin Jian stated, "It constitutes a gross interference in China’s internal affairs and violates the one-China principle, the principles set forth in the four political documents between China and Japan, and basic norms in international relations."

In response, Xue Jian, China's Consul General in Osaka, posted a comment on social media that was perceived as a threat towards Takaichi. Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara described Xue's remarks as "highly inappropriate" and confirmed that Tokyo had lodged a protest with Beijing.

Takaichi, known for her hawkish stance on China and support for Taiwan, defended her comments as consistent with Japan's traditional position but indicated she would exercise caution in future statements. The incident underscores the ongoing tensions between Japan and China over Taiwan, a self-governed island that Beijing considers part of its territory.

This diplomatic exchange occurs amid broader regional concerns. In September, Japan and the United States conducted one of their largest-ever joint military exercises, focusing on defending remote islands, in a clear show of force amid rising tensions with China over Taiwan.