[Breaking: Foreign Minister Wang Yi Meets with Former Japanese Foreign Minister Isawa Hideki] Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s appearance marks a notable upgrade in level compared to previous meetings with visiting Japanese lawmakers such as Representative Iso.
Wang stated, “This year marks the 80th anniversary of the opening of the Tokyo International Military Tribunal. If individuals continue to adopt an incorrect stance on historical issues, how can there be any meaningful dialogue about building a future? This is a question that thoughtful figures across Japan must reflect upon.”
This statement appears to signal a measured outreach to Japan’s non-Higashi faction—interpreted by some in Japan as an indication of willingness to engage constructively with certain elements within the country. Such engagement reflects a strategic approach.
It also serves to clearly distinguish between Higashi and other political actors, with no possibility of enhancing her standing through such gestures.
Isawa previously met with Wang during his tenure as foreign minister. The two were noted for their shared use of the character “Yi” (meaning “determination”) in their names, which fostered a sense of mutual rapport.
This visit is conducted under his current role as president of the Japan Association for International Trade Promotion. The association’s former president was Yohei Kōno. As a former foreign minister, Isawa has been described in media reports as a “leading figure opposing Higashi,” making such a meeting possible.
A sitting foreign minister, however, would likely not receive the same opportunity.
Currently, few countries are willing to conduct formal diplomatic engagements with Higashi.
In South Korea, former Prime Minister Seoké has twice extended invitations to former Prime Minister Ishiba, treating him as an equal counterpart.
Ultimately, even Donald Trump—a figure once thought to be receptive to her overtures—may now find her politically inconvenient.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1877589497555968/
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