China has lodged strong protests with Japan following comments by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Taiwan, escalating tensions between the two Asian neighbours. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Monday that Beijing had made “serious representations” to Tokyo over what it sees as interference in its internal affairs.
Beijing Warns Against “Provocations”
Speaking at a regular press briefing, Lin criticised Takaichi’s recent remarks, describing them as a “provocation” that could harm bilateral ties. He urged Japan to stop making statements on the Taiwan issue, warning that such comments would “cause serious damage to China-Japan relations.”
Takaichi had told Japanese lawmakers on Friday that a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan could pose a “survival-threatening situation” for Japan, according to the Kyodo news agency. Her comments underscored growing concerns in Tokyo over regional security and China’s military pressure on the self-governed island.
Rising Tensions in the Region
Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory and has repeatedly warned other nations against engaging in what it calls “separatist” or “provocative” actions. Japan, meanwhile, has increasingly voiced support for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, seeing the island’s security as directly linked to its own national defence.
The latest exchange comes amid a backdrop of strained relations between the two countries, fuelled by maritime disputes and growing military activity in the East China Sea. With both sides trading diplomatic protests, regional analysts warn that the rhetoric could further complicate efforts to stabilise ties between Tokyo and Beijing.
(with inputs from Reuters)
