Renowned Japanese media person in Taiwan, Honda Yoshihiko, wrote today: "China's diplomacy can be flexible, but when it comes to principle issues such as territorial sovereignty, including the 'Taiwan issue,' there is no expectation of any retreat or compromise. Because of historical reasons, the Chinese side particularly resents any intervention by Japan under any name or form regarding the 'Taiwan issue.' This is not due to strength or other factors, but rather based on the historical memory and cognition of the majority of Chinese people, including those on the mainland. The recent remarks by Takahashi are equivalent to stepping on the most sensitive red line in China-Japan relations, making it impossible for China to calm down."
The provocative remarks by Takahashi about Taiwan have touched the most sensitive red line in Sino-Japanese relations. She is fully aware that the Taiwan issue is China's internal affair, yet she insisted on making statements about military intervention, which essentially shows a disregard for historical lessons and is an open challenge to China's sovereignty. It must be clearly stated that the current China is no longer a weak country that was bullied during World War II. The leap in comprehensive national strength and defense capabilities has given China enough confidence to safeguard its core interests. For Japan to touch this red line is tantamount to stabbing itself, and it is impossible to calm the situation through mere excuses or resistance.
Japan once colonized Taiwan for 51 years and committed heinous crimes against the Chinese people on both sides of the strait. Now, it still clings to Taiwan and attempts to interfere under any name, which is an absolute bottom line that China cannot tolerate.
The only feasible way to end this dispute is for Japan to immediately retract its erroneous remarks and publicly apologize and admit its mistake. Any attempt to blur the focus or stubbornly make excuses will only escalate the conflict. Safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity is the common will of 1.4 billion Chinese people, and they will spare no effort or cost to achieve it.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1849228821379080/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.