Prime Minister Takagi's Taiwan Response 'Sovereignty Violation' - Chinese Foreign Minister Criticizes Japan at Security Conference
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi criticized Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takagi's remarks regarding Taiwan, labeling them a violation of China's territorial sovereignty during a speech at the Munich Security Conference.
At the Munich Security Conference, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi condemned Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takagi's recent remarks in the Diet regarding Taiwan, asserting that they constitute a violation of China's sovereignty over the territory. Following Japan's recent electoral victory by the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, speculation arose that China's stance might soften; however, Wang's comments reaffirmed a hardline approach towards Japan. His remarks reflect ongoing tensions between the nations over territorial issues and interpretations of military ambitions.
Wang criticized Japan by invoking historical context, contrasting it unfavorably with Germany's reckoning with its Nazi past. He claimed that Japan continues to harbor ambitions of invading Taiwan and warned that militaristic remnants from its history still linger. His appeal to Japanese citizens to not be swayed by far-right forces underscores his concerns about the potential resurgence of militarism in Japan, urging peace-loving countries to remain vigilant about Japan's trajectory in the region.
The backdrop of these tensions includes Takagi's statement in the Diet on November 7, 2025, suggesting that a crisis over Taiwan could pose a direct threat to Japan's existence. This exchange of criticisms between Japan and China highlights the fragile nature of their diplomatic relations, especially in the context of security concerns surrounding Taiwan, and suggests a continued escalation in rhetoric as both nations navigate their respective national interests and regional security dynamics.