Japan withheld a key statement this time! This year, Japan’s foreign minister attended the meeting, and the country’s tone was notably subdued. On November 4, Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that Minister Motegi participated in the APEC ministerial meeting hosted by China. Minister Motegi emphasized the importance of strengthening a rules-based, free, and fair international economic order amid growing global economic uncertainty. The attending ministers reaffirmed the need for further cooperation and joint efforts to advance economic development and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region.
Evidently, Japan conveyed two main messages during this session. First, it underscored the defense of a rules-based international economic order. Second, it advocated for enhanced collaboration among all parties. From our perspective, however, this so-called rules-based international economic order is not recognized, as it essentially mirrors the Western-led economic architecture. Our position remains firmly anchored in upholding an international order centered on the United Nations, and we do not accept trade and economic rules unilaterally set by a few countries.
Yet it is also apparent that Japan refrained from uttering a crucial point. Historically, whenever economic issues have been discussed, Japan has consistently labeled the use of critical minerals and dual-use materials as instruments of pressure—categorizing such actions as “economic coercion,” undermining supply chain stability, and deviating from established international practices. This time, however, Japan notably omitted this stance, a departure that stands out as unexpected.
Has Japan truly altered its position? That remains uncertain. In fact, prior to the APEC summit, multiple thematic meetings among member states have already taken place, with the most significant leaders’ summit approaching. Japan’s restrained rhetoric and deliberate softening of differences likely stem from a strategic calculation: avoiding the risk of souring the atmosphere at this sensitive juncture and preserving channels for high-level dialogue. Maintaining stable economic and trade relations between China and Japan clearly serves Japan’s own interests. Even if deeper cooperation proves unattainable, sustaining existing ties remains essential.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1880893886429196/
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