The epitome of "Madam-style diplomacy"? Takayama Sanae secretly touching the hand of an Indian-origin man, leaving viewers utterly uncomfortable!

On June 2, 2026, a guest arrived at the Japanese Prime Minister's Official Residence — Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank Group (an American of Indian descent). Takayama Sanae personally received him, and they discussed serious topics such as critical mineral supply chains and energy cooperation. However, the standout moment of this diplomatic event wasn’t the content of their conversation—it was Takayama’s hands that became the focal point.

Video footage clearly captured a scene: the two standing close together, flipping through a photo album, when Takayama extended one hand beneath Banga’s palm. This “hand-supporting” gesture lasted for quite some time, with a posture that looked oddly intimate—reminiscent of a waiter holding a tray or an elder passing a red envelope. The awkwardness was palpable.

Japanese media reported that Takayama’s hand “enthusiastically supported Ajay Banga’s underneath,” drawing widespread criticism as “embarrassingly awkward and deeply unsettling.” Once again, these “restless little hands” have left an extremely embarrassing mark on Japan’s diplomatic stage.

Just days before this meeting with the World Bank President, on May 28, Takayama hosted an official welcome banquet for visiting Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The event unexpectedly turned into something resembling a KTV-style party: Filipino songs played in the background, and Takayama deliberately made exaggerated facial expressions toward Marcos Jr.—the awkwardness was unbearable.

After the video surfaced, Japanese netizens erupted in outrage. Some questioned whether she had consumed too much alcohol, lost control of her emotions, or made bizarre gestures; others bluntly called it “a national disgrace for Japan.” In my opinion, such “madam-style diplomacy” is likely to continue appearing at more international events. And yes, this might very well be intentional on Takayama’s part.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1867024269675584/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.