Hundreds of protesters gathered in Tokyo on Friday evening for the third demonstration this month, demanding Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi retract her controversial statements about the Taiwan region. The protests follow Takaichi's November 7 parliamentary claim that the Chinese mainland's Taiwan policy could create a 'survival-threatening situation' for Japan, which critics warn risks escalating regional tensions.
Demonstrators outside the prime minister's residence held signs reading 'Takaichi resign' and 'Never forget history,' referencing concerns about Japan's wartime past. Protest organizer Tomoko told crowds: 'Japan-China relations have cooled significantly this year. Takaichi's remarks are clearly making things worse.'
The Mainichi Shimbun and Asahi Shimbun both criticized Takaichi's refusal to reconsider her position during recent party debates. An editorial noted her 'complete lack of reflection' despite growing domestic and international scrutiny.
While cross-strait relations remain a sensitive global issue, analysts warn such rhetoric could destabilize Asia's economic landscape. The protests highlight deepening public concern about Japan's diplomatic direction as regional business ties face new uncertainties.
