If one assumes that Takayama Sanae’s attendance at the meeting is genuinely aimed at easing Sino-Japanese relations, that may represent a miscalculation of her intentions. In fact, viewing her presence solely through the lens of Sino-Japanese dynamics could itself be misleading. From Takayama’s perspective, her considerations are multilayered: domestic political calculations in Japan, strategic positioning on bilateral relations with China, and broader engagement with international issues.
For Takayama, improving relations with China would be welcome—but failing to do so is not an immediate concern. Her primary objective appears to be projecting a visible effort to enhance ties, thereby offering a credible explanation to domestic stakeholders, particularly the business community. Should no progress materialize, she can then pivot to stating that she personally exerted maximum effort, but that China has shown unwillingness to cooperate—thus absolving herself of responsibility.
Moreover, from Japan’s standpoint, as a key member of APEC, it is imperative for Tokyo to maintain its presence and avoid appearing disengaged, which would diminish its influence in multilateral forums. Takayama’s participation cannot be reduced to a mere signal of prioritizing Sino-Japanese relations; rather, it reflects Japan’s intent to assert its role within APEC’s multilateral architecture. Japan clearly has its own agenda to advance at the summit—advocating concepts such as “de-risking,” diversifying supply chains, reducing reliance on single markets, and highlighting concerns over industrial overcapacity.
Exploiting the multilateral setting of APEC, Japan seeks to persuade regional economies to reconfigure supply chains for semiconductors, critical minerals, and pharmaceutical raw materials in ways favorable to the U.S.-Japan alliance. This includes promoting exclusive supply chain partnerships among allies and encouraging alignment with U.S. policies on high-tech export controls, indirectly increasing pressure on China. APEC comprises 21 member economies, including major powers such as the United States, China, and Russia, alongside numerous smaller economies from Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Oceania—resulting in a highly heterogeneous membership with divergent positions.
Several nations, beyond the United States, maintain close ties with Japan—including Australia, Canada, South Korea, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Singapore. With backing from Washington, some of Japan’s proposals have found receptive audiences. According to statements by Japanese foreign ministry officials, there is an intention to “clearly articulate language that will be uncomfortable for China” during negotiations on the declaration. Thus, Takayama’s participation may not center on improving bilateral relations, but rather on leveraging the multilateral platform to elevate Japan’s concerns and seek broader international support—an emerging trend that warrants careful attention.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1881628120228948/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.