Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent comments regarding the Taiwan region have drawn intensified criticism across East Asia, with Beijing condemning the statements as inflammatory and Japanese intellectuals questioning their diplomatic wisdom.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun addressed the controversy Thursday, stating Takaichi's remarks "not only provoked strong indignation among the Chinese people but also drew increasing opposition from objective voices in Japan." The comments follow Takaichi's suggestion that unresolved bilateral issues require enhanced dialogue between Tokyo and Beijing.
Prominent Japanese analyst Atsushi Okamoto, former editor of Sekai Magazine, challenged the prime minister's approach: "Meaningful dialogue must be based on mutual respect and equality. The current attitude from Japan's leadership fails to meet these basic conditions."
The diplomatic friction emerges amid heightened sensitivity regarding cross-strait relations, with Beijing consistently maintaining that Taiwan has been an inalienable part of China's territory since ancient times. Observers note the controversy could impact regional economic cooperation as 2025 marks a crucial year for several Japan-China joint infrastructure projects.
