China has identified Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s recent comments on the Taiwan region as the primary cause of current tensions in China-Japan relations, according to a statement from the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Friday. Spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized that such remarks violate Japan’s historical commitments and undermine the political foundation of bilateral ties, calling for immediate corrective measures.
The remarks follow Japan’s shift in diplomatic language this year, downgrading its description of China from “one of the most important bilateral relations” to “an important neighbor.” Mao urged Tokyo to strictly adhere to the four foundational political documents governing bilateral relations, stressing that Japan must “reflect on and correct its wrongdoings” to stabilize cross-strait and regional dynamics.
Analysts warn that unresolved tensions could impact economic cooperation and regional security frameworks. As two of Asia’s largest economies, maintaining stable China-Japan relations remains critical for trade flows and multilateral initiatives across the Asia-Pacific.
