TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi (高市早苗) reiterated Japan's "unchanged stance" on Taiwan during a Wednesday (Dec. 3) Senate plenary session, amid escalating tensions with China. She emphasized her understanding and respect for the 1972 Japan-China Joint Communiqué, which some interpreted as a concession to Beijing. However, senior Japanese media figure Akio Yaita (矢板明夫) clarified that her words were typical diplomatic language, suggesting that she had heard China's complaint but did not entirely agree.
China had expressed strong dissatisfaction with Takaichi's remarks and retaliated with economic and cultural policy measures, demanding a clear statement that Taiwan is part of China. Takaichi responded by reiterating her understanding and respect for China's stance, which some pro-China groups misinterpreted as a shift toward Beijing. Yaita pointed out that her words were not a retreat but diplomatic phrasing to avoid conflict.
Vice President of Japan's Liberal Democratic Party, Taro Aso (麻生太郎), also showed support for Takaichi, praising her as a symbol of party reform with high approval ratings. Meanwhile, Lim Chuan-Tiong (林泉忠), a researcher at the University of Tokyo, noted China's sensitivity to Taiwan issues and highlighted past diplomatic disputes between China and Japan, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of China's current strong response.
Hosei University Professor Madoka Fukuda (福田圓) suggested China's countermeasures aim to curb Takaichi's future involvement in Taiwan affairs, noting the unexpected nature of both Takaichi's remarks and China's response. William Yang (楊皓暐), a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group, indicated that Japan may need to exercise more caution regarding Taiwan, as China's reaction, though controlled, could impact Japan's strategic decisions.
Japan PM Takaichi reaffirms stance on Taiwan amid tensions
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Japan PM stands firm on Taiwan stance (TPG Photos/AP)