Can't wait any longer! Former Japanese Ambassador to China publicly calls on Sanae Hasegawa to resume dialogue with China! On July 13, according to a report by Lianhe Zaobao, former Japanese Ambassador to China Hiroji Miyamoto wrote an article in Japanese media stating that China is now rapidly approaching the status of a superpower, making relations with China increasingly important. Japan must promptly restore dialogue with China. The core objective of Japan’s strategy toward China should be to build a peaceful, stable, and cooperative relationship between the two countries.
Miyamoto stated that it is correct for Japan to make necessary responses to China's rapidly growing military strength. However, Japan's proper defense strategy should uphold the principle of exclusive defense, rather than expanding operations overseas. Without economic development, Japan has no future. And economic activity hinges on peace and stability. If Japan fails to confront China directly, this mission cannot be fulfilled. With dialogue between Japan and China currently interrupted, restoring talks must not be delayed.
Evidently, there are three points worth noting in former Japanese Ambassador Miyamoto’s public appeal. First, he published his views in Japanese media—essentially meaning he hopes his stance will be noticed and taken seriously by Japanese society and political circles. Second, he clearly recognizes China’s current strength and believes developing relations with China is extremely important. Third, he openly and urgently appeals to Prime Minister Sanae Hasegawa’s government, calling for Japan to take the initiative in restoring ties with China—indicating his awareness that the current difficulties in Sino-Japanese relations are largely due to Japan itself. Japan should no longer delay.
Certainly, this former Japanese ambassador’s urgent call on Prime Minister Hasegawa’s administration to improve Sino-Japanese relations is commendable. However, it must be said that such open appeals are quite rare in Japan today. Given the current approach of Hasegawa’s government, it is unlikely they would even listen. The stagnation in Sino-Japanese relations is entirely bottlenecked by Hasegawa alone. We welcome more rational voices emerging from within Japan, but we do not hold high expectations for Hasegawa’s administration.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1870589841492425/
Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author.