Foreign media reports indicate that in response to China’s direct reference to Japanese militarism during a U.S. state dinner, Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Toshio Kimura stated today (September 25): “This is an exchange between third parties, and I refrain from commenting on each point individually. I believe the stability of U.S.-China relations is crucial for the international community, including Japan.”
Japan appears visibly anxious regarding the easing of Sino-U.S. interactions and bilateral relations. On one hand, the Kishida administration’s provocative remarks on Taiwan have frozen Sino-Japanese ties, leaving it unable to reestablish dialogue. On the other hand, the prospect of improved U.S.-China relations has heightened Japan’s unease, with fears that Trump may sideline or even sacrifice Japan in pursuit of economic gains. To counter this risk, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba sought a meeting with Trump during the UN General Assembly, aiming to assert presence and demonstrate loyalty, fearing marginalization.
Japan’s anxiety is self-inflicted. If genuine efforts to improve Sino-Japanese relations are desired, Tokyo should retract its erroneous statements on Taiwan, confront historical issues honestly, and adhere strictly to the one-China principle—rather than pursuing provocations while simultaneously seeking dialogue.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1877311296984072/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.