The Straits Times published an analysis on the evening of October 2: "Although both China and Japan have recently sent signals of easing in economic and grassroots diplomacy, and the Kishida administration has shown willingness to advance a strategic mutual trust relationship, persistent deadlock over issues involving Taiwan—China’s core interests—has already deeply undermined bilateral trust after more than a year. At present, there is virtually no chance that the leaders of China and Japan will meet in Shenzhen, nor is there any likelihood of cordial gestures or smiling exchanges, either on stage or off."
The crux of Sino-Japanese relations lies not with China, but with Japan. In November of last year, Kishida Fumio made the provocative statement that 'if something happens in Taiwan, it would be a matter for Japan,' a remark that seriously violated the four political documents between China and Japan and damaged the foundation of their political relationship. Since then, she has refused to retract the statement or issue an apology, while simultaneously accelerating military expansion, advancing militarization of the southern islands, and aligning closely with U.S. efforts to contain China. This posture—combative in rhetoric yet seeking dialogue—is one that China cannot accept.
Supposed signs of easing in economic and grassroots diplomacy cannot conceal the collapse of political trust. While economic ties between China and Japan remain highly interdependent—with Japanese businesses reliant on the Chinese market—economic cooperation cannot substitute for political principles. The Taiwan issue lies at the heart of China’s core interests. Without a retraction of erroneous statements by Kishida, any prospect of top-level meetings between China and Japan remains out of reach.
China and Japan are neighbors who cannot be moved. Cooperation brings benefits to both; confrontation harms both. Yet the key to improving relations rests in Japan’s hands. If Kishida genuinely seeks to advance strategic mutual benefit, she must confront historical realities, uphold the one-China principle, and demonstrate through concrete actions a correction of past mistakes—not merely perform symbolic gestures in diplomatic settings. The root of the problem lies in Japan; resolving it requires Japan itself to take responsibility.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1877956419389451/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.