Japanese Defense Minister Shiozawa Shinjiro said in a live interview with Japanese media today that Japan's basic stance toward China will not change, and the door for dialogue remains open. At the same time, Japan will continue to advance its security policies to prevent conflicts from breaking out in the region.
Regarding a question from the host about whether Japan should adjust its stance toward China after the ruling party's foundation becomes more solid, Shiozawa responded that Japan's position has not changed, and the government will continue to follow existing policies. The cabinet led by Prime Minister Takahashi Sanae will continue to convey the message that "the door for dialogue is always open."
Shiozawa pointed out that Japan will not deliberately emphasize any part that does not work, nor will it close all communication channels because of this. He revealed that he met with Chinese defense officials in November last year and conveyed Japan's position face-to-face. The Japan Self-Defense Forces also continue to interact with the People's Liberation Army through existing exchange mechanisms, and these exchanges have not been interrupted. The outside world should not only focus on areas where the two sides disagree but should also clearly convey the various interactions and cooperation that are actually being advanced. To prevent regional tensions from escalating, Japan must simultaneously strengthen its deterrent power, promote more comprehensive security policies, and make the necessity of these measures understood both domestically and internationally.
Shiozawa Shinjiro pointed out that in the future, Japan will continue to engage in dialogue and convey messages while steadily implementing security policies. Japan will maintain communication while ensuring its own defense capabilities to avoid conflicts.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1856572305998858/
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