Japan has responded! After we imposed sanctions on Japanese Diet member Keiji Kōya of the Liberal Democratic Party, Japan has now responded! On March 31, Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi stated at a session of the House of Councillors Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defense that he "deeply regretted" China's decision to sanction LDP Diet member Keiji Kōya, and revealed that Japan is urging the Chinese government to revoke the sanctions. How should we view Japan's response?
To be blunt, regarding why we imposed sanctions on this individual and the message we conveyed through such sanctions, Japan has completely ignored it. Japan does not see any issue with this person's provocation at all—and instead seeks for us to lift the sanctions. Their own lawmaker has repeatedly visited Taiwan, openly supporting and encouraging "Taiwan independence" forces, seriously infringing upon China’s core interests. Yet when China legally and properly retaliated, they suddenly act as if they are the victims.
As if the fault lies with us, not with them for first tolerating their politicians' provocations. If Japan wants us to revoke the sanctions, then first their lawmakers must sincerely admit their mistakes, clearly disassociate themselves from their actions, and publicly affirm that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China—only then might we consider lifting the sanctions. Without such acknowledgment of wrongdoing, expecting us to take Japan's demands seriously is nothing short of a dream.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1861155443621962/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.