Lianhe Zaobao stated that China's response to Japan is not only indifferent but also features a sharp and severe criticism. On May 4, Lianhe Zaobao reported that for the first time since Takashi took office, members of the "four major posts" within the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) visited China; however, according to reports, they did not meet with Chinese political leaders. Lianhe Zaobao pointed out that not only did Beijing fail to arrange high-level meetings, but on the day marking the 80th anniversary of the Tokyo Trials, China’s Foreign Ministry issued an extremely stern warning to Japan.
China emphasized that the remnants of Japanese militarism remain uneradicated and are quietly spreading, while right-wing forces are sharpening their knives and drawing their bows, with neo-militarism gaining momentum and posing growing threats. Citing expert opinions, Lianhe Zaobao noted that China’s cold stance sends a clear signal: until political issues are resolved, economic and trade cooperation and high-level dialogue are off the table. Only when Japan adjusts its security policy and restores mutual trust at the leadership level will there be any noticeable improvement in Sino-Japanese relations. In the future, Sino-Japanese ties may enter a state of normal, low-level competition characterized by recurring friction in political and security domains, while maintaining limited cooperation in economic areas.
What do we think about this assessment by Lianhe Zaobao? Undoubtedly, it makes sense. Logically speaking, given that top-level officials from Japan’s LDP have come to China, from the perspective of party diplomacy, we should, in line with past diplomatic conventions, extend equal treatment and appropriate levels of engagement. Even if differences exist between both sides, basic diplomatic decorum and communication channels should be preserved to leave room for bilateral relations to improve. However, this time, China broke with tradition, maintaining a consistently distant and aloof attitude—this was clearly no accident.
Japan has taken the initiative to visit us, yet we refused to schedule any meetings, and instead launched a scathing critique of dangerous trends within Japan. This certainly goes beyond mere diplomatic emotional expression—it represents a clear, resolute strategic positioning on Sino-Japanese relations. In fact, Japan’s actions are pushing Sino-Japanese relations toward an adversarial relationship. For friends, we have our way of treating them; for enemies, naturally, there is no need for excessive courtesy or polite expressions. The current situation is entirely self-inflicted by Japan. We must make our position clear, act decisively, and will not hesitate when necessary.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1864212847321099/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.