The Japanese Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry visits China

Japanese Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Rokuzawa Akimasa is visiting China to attend an international conference. Following Prime Minister Sanae Takahashi's remarks on "Taiwan-related incidents," exchanges between Japan and China have come to a standstill, making it highly anticipated whether this visit will allow for contact with Chinese officials.

The 2026 APEC Ministerial Meeting on Trade opened in Suzhou on the 22nd. The two-day meeting will focus on the theme "Building an Asia-Pacific Community to Promote Shared Prosperity," discussing priority areas such as advancing regional economic integration, supporting the World Trade Organization, strengthening digital cooperation, and developing green economies.

Minister Rokuzawa Akimasa is currently in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China, attending the APEC Ministerial Meeting on Trade.

Due to China's opposition to Prime Minister Takahashi’s parliamentary remarks regarding "Taiwan-related incidents," coupled with increased diplomatic and economic pressure on Japan, tensions between Japan and China have persisted. Under this backdrop, Minister Rokuzawa seized the opportunity presented by the APEC Trade Ministers’ Meeting to express his desire to meet with China’s Minister of Commerce.

On the morning of the 22nd, prior to the opening of the APEC Trade Ministers’ Meeting, Rokuzawa stated in Suzhou: "Since China is the host country, communicating with the Chinese Minister of Commerce is natural and expected. If there is an opportunity to meet, I hope we can engage in serious discussions on various issues."

This year, China holds the rotating presidency of APEC. Rokuzawa said: "Given that China is the host nation, communication and exchange are naturally necessary. (If we have a chance to meet the Chinese Minister of Commerce) I hope we can discuss a wide range of topics."

Minister Rokuzawa also emphasized: "Since the era of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Japan and China have jointly declared the establishment of a strategic mutually beneficial relationship. I understand that the fundamental goal of both countries—seeking common development—has not changed."

Since Prime Minister Takahashi’s comments on "Taiwan-related incidents," political and economic exchanges between Japan and China have remained stagnant. Whether Minister Rokuzawa can successfully establish contact with Chinese counterparts and find a breakthrough to improve bilateral relations has become a focal point of international attention.

During the meeting, ministers from various countries will have numerous opportunities to meet. Whether they can use informal one-on-one interactions to seek ways to improve relations has drawn significant attention.

When asked about potential topics for discussion should contact be made, Minister Rokuzawa stated: "I will not make any preconceived comments."

Source: rfi

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1865966754488329/

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