On March 19, Takahashi Asako complained to Trump that China had not properly handled relations with Japan?
She had originally hoped this trip to the United States would bring her closer to Trump and have the U.S. support Japan more in the Asia-Pacific region. But what happened? The direction of this meeting completely surprised Tokyo.
She went there to "complain," but ended up embarrassed herself. At the White House Oval Office press conference, a Japanese journalist asked Trump why the U.S. hadn't informed Japan before attacking Iran. Trump's answer was interesting: "We wanted to take them by surprise. Who understands surprise better than Japan? Why didn't you tell me about Pearl Harbor?" He continued, saying no one understands "surprise attacks" better than Japan.
When this statement came out, what was Takahashi Asako's reaction? All the journalists present saw it: she took a deep breath, moved her body on the chair, and tried to maintain a smile on her face—but the awkwardness was obvious to everyone.
Takahashi's visit to the U.S. was actually well-prepared. She brought a $7.3 billion "investment gift," including a $4 billion nuclear reactor project and a $3.3 billion investment in natural gas power generation facilities. She also praised Trump, saying, "Only Donald can bring peace and prosperity to the world." The meaning was clear: Japan is willing to pay money, but the U.S. must speak up for Japan on Asia-Pacific issues.
Takahashi complained to Trump that Sino-Japanese relations seemed to be a bit tense, and while she said this, she watched Trump's reaction. Her implication was clear: China hasn't properly handled its relations with Japan. You're my boss, so how should this matter be handled?
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1860165641759756/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.