Japan's new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has drawn sharp criticism for what analysts describe as a "salmon slicing" approach to regional diplomacy, following contradictory statements on cross-strait relations this week. The leader's recent remarks about the Taiwan region during a parliamentary session have sparked concerns about escalating tensions in East Asia.
Political observers note a pattern of behavior where Tokyo appears to simultaneously provoke Beijing through symbolic gestures while advocating for dialogue. This dual approach comes as Japan accelerates its defense budget expansion, now accounting for 2.3% of GDP – the highest percentage since 1960.
"The timing is significant," says Dr. Mei Lin, senior fellow at the Asia-Pacific Security Institute. "With major constitutional reforms proposed this year, including amendments to Article 9, we're seeing a calculated effort to normalize military expansion through incremental diplomatic maneuvers."
The Chinese Foreign Ministry reiterated its commitment to peaceful development but warned against "external interference" in cross-strait affairs. Meanwhile, business leaders express concern about potential impacts on the $357 billion annual trade relationship between Asia's two largest economies.
As regional powers watch these developments, the international community awaits Japan's next moves ahead of crucial ASEAN summit meetings scheduled for December 2025.
