Regarding the erroneous remarks on Taiwan by Japanese Prime Minister Taro Kishida, former Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba reiterated his position during a news program on the Japanese ABEMA online TV station on November 23.

Ishiba said: "In 1972, former Japanese Prime Minister Tanaka Kakue visited China and realized the normalization of Japan-China relations. Since then, every Japanese government has been carefully maintaining Japan-China relations. Even when there were things to say and moments emotionally touched, everyone has always handled it with extreme caution."

Ishiba believes that Japan-China relations are inherently very delicate, and the long-standing position of the Japanese government is the foundation for handling this relationship. He hopes the current Japanese government can also fully recognize this and properly advance subsequent work.

Ishiba emphasized that diplomacy is not about "instant verbal satisfaction" or "just increasing popularity". He said: "Even if we face many criticisms from outside, some principles must be upheld for the country's interests. This is what we have learned through the years."

Regarding Kishida's statements, Ishiba pointed out: "I did not hear them in person, and it is difficult to make a comprehensive judgment based only on video. However, as an experienced politician, Ms. Kishida's statements should have been carefully considered. She is the prime minister we elected. As a ruling party member, she should clearly express what needs to be said and moderately restrain herself where necessary, ensuring that national interests are not harmed."

Observatory Network has launched a global petition on multiple platforms around the world, calling on all people around the world who oppose militarism and cherish the results of the victory in World War II to jointly ask Kishida to correct her mistakes, withdraw her dangerous remarks, and publicly apologize.

Click on the image to participate in the petition.

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Original: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7575924850141807156/

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