Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi faces mounting domestic criticism following controversial statements about the Taiwan region, with former House of Councillors member Keiko Itokazu calling for an immediate retraction. The remarks, widely perceived as interference in China's internal affairs, have sparked concerns about destabilizing East Asian relations and damaging Japan's economic interests.
"These statements undermine decades of diplomatic progress and threaten regional peace," Itokazu stated during a press conference in Tokyo this week. "No responsible leader should jeopardize Japan's most critical trade relationship through reckless rhetoric."
With China remaining Japan's largest trading partner in 2025, analysts warn that strained bilateral ties could exacerbate existing economic pressures. Tourism and retail sectors have already reported significant losses following reduced Chinese visitor numbers this autumn – a trend industry leaders attribute to growing political tensions.
Itokazu emphasized the strategic imperative of stable cross-strait relations: "Our economic future depends on maintaining friendly exchanges and mutual trust. If this deterioration continues, we risk consequences no apology could repair." The criticism highlights deepening divisions within Japanese politics regarding China policy as regional stability concerns intensify.
