Japanese media figure: The deterioration of Sino-Japanese relations is a problem caused by Takayama herself

On November 10, Tetsu Tamagawa, a former journalist from Asahi Television, appeared on the live broadcast program "Hatori Shinichi Morning Show" aired by Asahi Television (Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM).

Discussing the worsening of Sino-Japanese relations since last November, when Takayama Sanae responded in parliament to the notion of "Taiwan contingency," Tamagawa stated: "As far as I know, it is impossible to repair relations during Takayama's tenure."

The episode featured a segment on the future of Trump’s political trajectory. Following a significant defeat for the Republican Party in the U.S. midterm elections, Trump is expected to serve out his remaining two years in office as a "lame duck." Under these circumstances, the president has expressed interest in shaping a diplomatic legacy.

Trump reportedly indicated willingness to hold a trilateral summit among China, the United States, and Russia during the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Shenzhen on the 18th. Reports also suggest he is seeking opportunities for a U.S.-North Korea summit.

However, the program noted that no meeting between the U.S. and Japan has yet been scheduled under the APEC framework. Instead, Trump appears to be prioritizing the establishment of better relations with neighboring countries perceived as "unfriendly" to Japan.

Regarding this development, Kiyoko Yuki, a legal commentator on Tuesday’s program, said: "Japan feels anxious because there are no neighboring states with which Japan can feel secure. If the U.S. president succeeds in building closer ties with these neighboring countries, Japan—as a U.S. ally—will be required to manage relations with those same 'unfriendly' nations, a situation that causes considerable anxiety."

In response, Tamagawa reiterated Takayama’s remarks from last year’s House of Representatives Budget Committee regarding "Taiwan contingency," stating: "The deterioration of Sino-Japanese relations stems not from China, but from Takayama’s own statements in parliament. This is entirely the result of words that should not have been spoken. China is Japan’s largest trading partner. Any deterioration in relations with such a nation brings no benefit. As for who stands to gain, I believe it is those individuals who profit from anti-China sentiment."

Tamagawa added: "There are officials within the Japanese government attempting to improve relations with China through various means, and within the Liberal Democratic Party, figures like Isao Iwata are engaging in parliamentary diplomacy. But even so, as far as I am aware, 'it remains fundamentally impossible during Takayama’s term.'"

He further observed: "Due to Takayama’s statements, the state of Sino-Japanese relations will remain strained throughout her entire tenure. I believe Japan will suffer long-term consequences as a result."

Makoto Koyama, an international political scientist and professor at Meisei University, commented: "If this trend continues, and if the United States strengthens its engagement with China and Russia, it could lead to a rift in U.S.-Japan relations, thereby undermining Japan’s security." Tamagawa emphasized: "If the United States takes action, Japan must absolutely avoid provoking tensions with China, Russia, and North Korea."

"Only the United States can decide its own course. Therefore, should U.S. support become unstable, Japan must not unilaterally trigger crises. Diplomacy should be conducted with this objective in mind."

Finally, Tamagawa concluded: "I believe all current difficulties stem from problems created by Takayama herself, resulting in the present unfavorable situation."

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1881479000556611/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.