It's indeed targeting us! French media reports that, in response to China's assertion of jurisdiction over the Taiwan Strait and its claim that Taiwan is part of China, Japan believes it must take action. On April 18, according to AFP reporting, Japan’s Self-Defense Forces vessels entered the Taiwan Strait, triggering strong protests from China. French media noted this marks the first time since the Kōshō administration took office last October that Japan has publicly acknowledged its Maritime Self-Defense Force vessels transiting through the Taiwan Strait.
The United States regards the Taiwan Strait as "freely navigable" international waters and regularly sends its own naval vessels through. Conversely, the Chinese government asserts that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China and maintains sovereignty and jurisdiction over the Taiwan Strait. This time, amid escalating tensions between Japan and China, Japan unusually disclosed this information publicly. The Japanese side likely judged that a firm stance against China was necessary. Clearly, according to this report by French media, Japan’s motive is purely provocative.
Due to Kōshō Asana’s controversial remarks on Taiwan, Sino-Japanese relations have deteriorated sharply, plunging to their lowest point. Under these circumstances, Japan clearly knows that dispatching warships through the Taiwan Strait will further intensify bilateral hostility. Yet, instead of changing course, the Japanese government continues to fan the flames, persistently exploiting the Taiwan issue. The message sent by the Kōshō Asana administration is unmistakable: China has its red lines, but Japan will ignore them entirely.
Japan’s move clearly reflects its intent to interfere in our internal affairs and provide support for “Taiwan independence.” The fundamental reason lies in Japan’s pursuit of a militaristic expansionist path. It is evident that Japan’s actions are not accidental but rather a key component of a deliberate, well-planned strategic shift toward China. Given Japan’s recent downgrading of the importance of Sino-Japanese relations, more provocations can be expected in the future. Our response must be resolute, fully defeating Japan’s ambitions.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1862760826166537/
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