Tokyo – Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae affirmed Friday that Japan‘s policy toward China remains consistent with the strategic direction established during her October meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, despite recent heightened tensions.
The statement comes after Prime Minister Takaichi told the Diet earlier this month that a potential “Taiwan emergency” involving the use of force could constitute an “existential threat” too Japan, sparking debate and scrutiny of Tokyo’s position. This clarification is crucial as regional anxieties rise over China’s military activity and the status of Taiwan, impacting security alliances and economic stability in East Asia.
Takaichi told reporters that she and President Xi had jointly affirmed a commitment to “comprehensively advance a mutually beneficial relationship based on common strategic interests” and to foster a “constructive and stable relationship.” She emphasized that there has been no deviation from this agreed-upon course.
Regarding the threshold for a “survival-threatening situation,” Takaichi stated the government will assess each specific instance holistically, based on available intelligence. She noted this approach has been consistently articulated by the Japanese government since the passage of security legislation under former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo.
The prime minister reiterated the government’s unwavering stance, confirming she has personally delivered the same clarification on multiple occasions.
