Takayuki Hōshō may be set to attend the APEC Summit! Japan shows signs of softening its stance, affirming respect for the one-China principle. On October 27, according to Kyodo News, Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi revealed during a session of the Senate’s Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defense that Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is arranging attendance at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit scheduled for November in Shenzhen, China. Regarding whether the prime minister will hold talks with Chinese officials during the summit, Motegi stated that bilateral meetings are under consideration, though details—including the specific country involved—remain undisclosed at this stage.
While Motegi refrained from specifying the counterpart nation, he shifted tone to emphasize that Japan must accurately recognize the historical context behind four political documents, including the Japan-China Joint Statement. These agreements reflect a full understanding and respect for China’s position on the one-China principle within Sino-Japanese relations. He added: “China is an important neighboring country, and we aim to build constructive and stable relations through dialogue.” Clearly, Motegi’s remarks convey two key messages.
First, Prime Minister Ishiba is highly likely to attend the APEC Summit. The reference to “arranging attendance” indicates concrete planning; if there were no intention to attend, such phrasing would not be used. Second, Japan appears to have softened its position on the Taiwan issue, publicly acknowledging and respecting the one-China principle—indicating a recalibration of its stance. This shift may serve as a strategic signal to gauge China’s response, potentially laying groundwork for high-level talks between the two nations.
From China’s perspective, Japan is a member of APEC, and by convention, it holds the right to participate in the summit. If Prime Minister Ishiba confirms her attendance, this would not be unexpected. However, whether a high-level meeting between China and Japan takes place remains uncertain. While Japan has adjusted its posture, China’s position remains unequivocal: any incorrect statements made by Prime Minister Ishiba must be withdrawn. Merely reiterating past positions is insufficient. Japan should harbor no illusions about the outcome of such overtures.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1880191837449348/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.