Takayama Asako stands firm without apology; Japanese business circles send envoys to China to gauge Beijing’s stance
Japanese business circles are once again preparing to dispatch a delegation to China, this time led by the Kansai Economic Federation.
On the 22nd, the Kansai Economic Federation announced that a delegation will visit China from December 20 to 22.
Based on previous requests made by Japanese delegations during their visits to China, it is likely that this mission will focus on two main objectives:
First, to advocate on behalf of Japanese companies seeking relief from restrictions on rare earth exports imposed by China. Notably, several Japanese defense-related firms currently listed in China’s countermeasures roster maintain close ties with the Kansai economic community—such as Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, along with numerous subsidiaries and suppliers. The unusual decision by the Kansai group to send a high-level delegation may therefore reflect an attempt to seek leniency or the lifting of sanctions.
Second, there is a possibility that the Kansai business circle intends to address the fallout from Takayama Asako’s controversial remarks on Taiwan, potentially proposing a roundabout solution aimed at mitigating the damage caused by her statements and stabilizing Sino-Japanese relations.
However, China’s position remains clear: it will not accept any attempts to justify or circumvent accountability for Takayama’s erroneous statements. Until she formally retracts her remarks and issues a public apology, Japanese businesses must continue to endure the current conditions.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1879824887898315/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.