Beijing, October 19 — The Chinese mainland has issued a stern warning to Japan following the passage of a Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer through the Taiwan Strait for the first time. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian emphasized that the Taiwan question concerns China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, serving as the political foundation of China-Japan relations and a red line that must not be crossed.
At a regular press conference on Thursday, Lin Jian responded to inquiries about the Japanese destroyer’s navigation through the Taiwan Strait. “The Chinese military has handled, in accordance with laws and regulations, the entry of a Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force vessel into the Taiwan Strait. China is highly vigilant about Japan’s political intention behind this move and has protested to the Japanese side,” Lin stated.
Referring to the 1972 China-Japan Joint Statement, Lin highlighted Japan’s commitments: “Japan made a clear commitment on this in the 1972 China-Japan Joint Statement, which says, ‘The Government of Japan recognizes the Government of the People’s Republic of China as the sole legal Government of China. The Government of the People’s Republic of China reiterates that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the territory of the People’s Republic of China. The Government of Japan fully understands and respects this position of the Government of the People’s Republic of China, and it firmly maintains its position under Article 8 of the Potsdam Proclamation.'”
The spokesperson urged Japan to honor its commitments and act prudently on the Taiwan question. “We urge Japan to honor its commitment, act prudently on the Taiwan question, and refrain from causing disruption to its relations with China and peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait,” Lin noted.
This development has raised concerns about regional stability and the future of China-Japan relations, highlighting the sensitivity of the Taiwan question in Asia-Pacific affairs.
Reference(s):
China: Taiwan question is the political foundation of China-Japan ties
cgtn.com
