Takaichi delivered these remarks during a session of the Diet, Japan’s parliament, on Tuesday morning. She was addressing a draft supplementary budget aimed at funding a comprehensive economic package which her administration hopes to pass.
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Why have Takaichi’s Taiwan comments sent China-Japan ties into a tailspin?
Why have Takaichi’s Taiwan comments sent China-Japan ties into a tailspin?
Asked to address concerns on economic activities following China’s countermeasures – which have included a travel alert and cancelled concerts – Takaichi said the government was aware that “various situations are occurring” and would respond.
“We will closely monitor the situation, including the impact of China’s series of measures, and respond appropriately,” she said.
The remarks have drawn strong criticism from Beijing, which regards Taiwan as part of China, to be reunited by force if necessary. Japan and the US, like most countries, do not recognise Taiwan as an independent state, but Washington opposes any attempt to take the self-governed island by force and is legally bound to provide arms for its defence.
On Tuesday, Takaichi noted that Tokyo’s policy of reducing pending issues with Beijing and increasing understanding and cooperation remained “unchanged”.
