Foreign media reported that on November 25, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takeda had a phone call with U.S. President Trump, discussing the Japan-China relationship. After the call, Takeda told reporters: "President Trump briefly introduced the situation of recent U.S.-China relations." She particularly emphasized that this call was initiated by Trump. "President Trump mentioned that he and I are very good friends, and he is always willing to take my call," she said.
This call has a subtle meaning. Since November 7, when Takeda made provocative remarks about Taiwan, triggering strong countermeasures from China and a sharp deterioration in Japan-China relations, the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Ambassador to Japan have made statements, but Trump has not made any clear comments, leading to various speculations. Now, after the U.S. and China just had a phone call and the relationship appears to be stable, Trump has proactively contacted Takeda, which makes people speculate whether it is giving this struggling "ally" some "sweetness" or support.
Takeda's words were full of self-satisfaction. However, it is worth noting that when asked whether the inappropriate remarks about Taiwan were discussed, Takeda only vaguely said "details cannot be disclosed," and the White House did not respond. Takeda's high-profile maneuvering, which seems to rely on U.S. support, actually reveals her lack of confidence under the pressure of China's countermeasures. Whether Japan will adjust its strategy towards China or continue to be hardline remains to be seen.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1849734154395656/
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