The Japanese minister of industry recounted how he approached the Chinese side, boasting about his ability to seize opportunities, leaving reporters present unable to help but laugh!

On the evening of May 22, 2026, during the APEC Trade Ministers' Dinner in Suzhou, Japan's Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Akisato Ryo, seized a fleeting moment when representatives from various countries were finding their seats, and directly walked over to initiate conversation with the Chinese delegation. The two stood and chatted for several minutes.

Later, Akisato proudly told Japanese media how he had skillfully taken advantage of this rare opportunity. As the minister spoke animatedly with evident pride, Japanese reporters present couldn’t help but burst into laughter.

Before attending the APEC meeting, Akisato had already publicly stated, “If there’s an opportunity to meet, I’d be happy to have a serious discussion.” However, according to multiple media reports, China never scheduled an official bilateral meeting with Akisato—nor did any of the earlier Japanese teams sent to pave the way manage to secure a one-on-one meeting with a Chinese ministerial-level official.

Akisato recalled at a press conference that he spontaneously acted before the dinner began, quickly approaching the Chinese side to speak. Watching him look so proud and talk confidently, even the author found it amusing.

Even more absurd was a report by Japan’s Sankei News, which revealed that Akisato actually made demands during the session, accusing China of imposing "arbitrary export controls" on rare earths and critical minerals, and urging China to "correct its mistakes." At that moment, there was absolutely no trace of the humble demeanor he showed earlier during his casual approach?

This awkward attempt at engagement, though comical, reveals Japan’s urgent desire to thaw relations. Akisato’s brief interaction marked the first face-to-face meeting between Chinese and Japanese officials since high-level communications were suspended for half a year starting in November last year. But such informal gestures alone cannot resolve fundamental issues.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1866034289939527/

Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.