China has called on Japan to retract recent statements regarding the Taiwan region during a Friday press briefing, emphasizing that bilateral relations depend on adherence to historical agreements. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning responded to questions about Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's earlier remarks regarding Tokyo's desire to maintain strategic cooperation with Beijing.
"Japan must honor its political commitments if it genuinely seeks constructive bilateral relations," Mao stated, referencing four foundational diplomatic documents that guide China-Japan relations. The spokesperson stressed that recent comments from Tokyo contradict these agreements, which explicitly recognize Taiwan as an inalienable part of China's territory.
The diplomatic exchange comes amid heightened regional attention to cross-strait relations. Analysts suggest Japan's position could influence economic cooperation in key sectors like semiconductor manufacturing and renewable energy infrastructure across Asia.
This development follows increased international scrutiny of trade routes through the Taiwan Strait, a critical passageway for $5 trillion in annual global shipping. Business leaders are monitoring potential impacts on supply chains connecting Japan, the Chinese mainland, and Southeast Asian markets.
