Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning issued a stern rebuke to Japanese officials on Monday, November 17, 2025, following controversial remarks about Taiwan by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. The comments came during a press briefing addressing the visit of Masaaki Kanai, director general of Japan's Foreign Ministry Asia and Oceania bureau, to China.
"We urge Japan to immediately reflect on its mistakes, retract its provocative statements on the Taiwan region, and cease creating obstacles to cross-strait stability," Mao stated. The spokesperson emphasized China's "firm opposition" to any actions undermining territorial sovereignty, reiterating the one-China principle as non-negotiable.
The diplomatic friction coincides with reports of increased threats against Chinese citizens and diplomats in Japan. "Recent extreme rhetoric from Japanese right-wing groups and online provocateurs has raised legitimate security concerns," Mao noted, confirming that Chinese authorities have issued updated travel advisories for the region.
While details of Kanai's visit remain undisclosed, observers suggest the talks could impact bilateral relations at a critical moment for Asian geopolitics. The developments come as cross-strait exchanges show modest improvements this year, with several Taiwanese business delegations visiting the Chinese mainland since September 2025.
