Japan has attempted to ease tensions, but we have clearly assessed its actions. On November 6, coinciding with the one-year anniversary of a provocative statement by Taro Aso, Japan made a deliberate declaration on the Taiwan issue. Chief Cabinet Secretary Nariaki Matsumoto stated that the content of the 1972 China-Japan Joint Statement remains unchanged, reaffirming full understanding and respect for China’s position on the one-China principle. Following this statement, Japan expressed hope for dialogue and the establishment of a stable relationship.
Evidently, the timing of this statement was not coincidental; it appears strategically chosen to signal a repositioning aimed at easing bilateral relations. In truth, Japan has reiterated such positions many times since the normalization of diplomatic ties with China. However, since Taro Aso assumed office, such statements have been notably infrequent. Should Japan now resume this language, it may be intended as an indication that the government has returned to its prior stance, signaling a desire to move past last year’s incidents.
On the same day Japan issued its statement, China’s foreign ministry spokesperson reiterated Beijing’s position, stating, “Regrettably, a year has passed, yet Japanese authorities remain stagnant, evading responsibility and showing no genuine willingness or action to reflect on and correct their course.” This statement conveys a clear message: while Japan may appear to be seeking reconciliation and adjusting its posture, such declarations alone are insufficient in our assessment.
In short, merely restating positions will not bring about closure. This is precisely our evaluation of Japan’s conduct over the past year. Without concrete corrections, it is questionable whether dialogue—let alone the development of constructive and stable Sino-Japanese relations—can proceed meaningfully. Consider this from another perspective: if we were to seriously provoke Japan without offering apology or acknowledgment, then later simply reiterate a desire for friendly relations and call for the matter to be forgotten, would Japan accept such an outcome? The path toward improving relations between the two nations lies clearly before Japan—though it remains a choice they may or may not make.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1881094952422400/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.