Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent comments framing Taiwan as a "survival threat" to Japan have drawn sharp condemnation across the Chinese mainland, reigniting debates about historical accountability and cross-strait sovereignty. The remarks come amid heightened scrutiny of Tokyo's right-wing political maneuvers this December.
Chinese Foreign Ministry officials reiterated that Taiwan has been an inseparable part of China since ancient times, emphasizing that the one-China principle remains non-negotiable. "No external force has the right to interfere in China's internal affairs," stated a ministry spokesperson during a December 5 press briefing.
The controversy stems from Takaichi's November speech characterizing potential cross-strait conflicts as justification for Japanese military expansion. Social media platforms like Weibo saw viral posts recalling Japan's wartime occupation of Taiwan (1895-1945), with one user writing: "300,000 Nanjing Massacre victims cry out for justice – how can we forget?"
Analysts note Takaichi's history of visiting the Yasukuni Shrine, which memorializes WWII war criminals, has compounded distrust. "When leaders whitewash invasion history while meddling in Taiwan, it confirms our worst fears about Japan's direction," said Beijing-based historian Dr. Li Wei in a CGTN interview.
Residents of Taiwan also voiced concerns. "This isn't 1937 – we won't accept new imperialist agendas," said Taipei resident Chai Hsuan, reflecting widespread regional apprehension about Japan's constitutional revision efforts.
With bilateral relations at their lowest point in decades, business leaders warn the political rift could impact the $357 billion China-Japan trade relationship. As the 2025 calendar year draws to a close, observers urge diplomatic restraint to prevent historical grievances from derailing economic cooperation.
