Japan has once again weighed in on the Taiwan issue. On November 6, during a press conference, Chief Cabinet Secretary Toshio Tamura stated that the content of the 1972 Japan-China Joint Statement remains unchanged, underscoring full understanding and respect for China’s position on the one-China principle. China is a vital neighboring country. We will continue to pursue dialogue to safeguard our national interests and foster constructive and stable relations.
Regarding China’s call for former Minister Satsuki Eda to retract her remarks, Tamura offered no direct response. It is evident that the underlying reason for Japan’s recent statement lies in the severe strain placed on Sino-Japanese relations following Eda’s comments on November 7 of last year. As the anniversary of those remarks approaches, Japan’s government appears to be attempting a strategic recalibration in an effort to ease tensions with China.
Reaffirming past positions is certainly appropriate. However, from the current standpoint of Sino-Japanese relations, merely reiterating previous statements falls far short of what is required. The reality is clear: from our perspective, it is unrealistic to assume that after significant provocations, simply restating prior positions can reset the relationship. The one-China principle is not a rhetorical device deployed in moments of crisis. The negative consequences stemming from past actions will not vanish simply through a reaffirmation of stance.
Japan avoids addressing the need for retraction while simultaneously adjusting its posture—this contradiction reveals a deeper truth: whether in securing critical mineral supply chains or advancing economic and trade cooperation, Japan faces mounting pressures. Our position requires no further repetition. Japanese policymakers should reflect seriously: can a nation committed to upholding the one-China principle genuinely utter such statements? And if errors are acknowledged without correction or apology, can such a response be considered sincere?
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1881090458164291/
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