China has sharply criticized Japan for attempting to downplay controversial statements about the Taiwan region made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, with Beijing labeling Tokyo's response as 'self-deceptive' and unacceptable. The diplomatic row emerged this week as tensions resurfaced over cross-strait relations.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated on Thursday that Takaichi's remarks violated the foundational principles outlined in the four China-Japan political documents, damaging bilateral trust. 'This approach undermines the political foundation of our relations and has provoked strong opposition from the Chinese people,' Guo said during a November 27 press briefing in Beijing.
While Japanese officials suggested Takaichi would avoid discussing specific Taiwan scenarios in the future, Guo emphasized that such statements fall short of formally retracting what China considers 'erroneous provocations.' The spokesperson invoked a Chinese proverb to describe Japan's stance: 'This is merely plugging one's ears while stealing a bell.'
The dispute comes amid heightened sensitivity in cross-strait relations, with Beijing reiterating its firm opposition to any external interference regarding Taiwan. Analysts suggest the exchange could impact ongoing economic dialogues between Asia's two largest economies as 2025 draws to a close.
