Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has drawn sharp criticism from Beijing and domestic opposition groups following her recent comments characterizing potential cross-strait tensions as a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan. This marks the second diplomatic controversy involving Taiwan since her administration took office in late October 2025.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry condemned Takaichi's remarks as "erroneous" and "provocative," emphasizing that Taiwan has been an inseparable part of Chinese territory since ancient times. The State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office reiterated that any attempts to interfere in China's internal affairs or obstruct national reunification would face resolute opposition.
Analysts note Takaichi's comments directly contravene four foundational political agreements between China and Japan, particularly the 1972 Joint Communique where Japan explicitly recognized the one-China principle. Opposition lawmakers in Japan's Diet have labeled the statements "reckless," warning they undermine regional stability and decades of careful diplomatic engagement.
The controversy comes amid heightened sensitivity in East Asian relations, with Beijing recently commemorating the 50th anniversary of normalized China-Japan diplomatic ties. Experts warn that framing Taiwan as a potential military flashpoint could destabilize trade relationships worth $357 billion in bilateral goods exchange recorded this year.
