China has confirmed that Premier Li Qiang will not meet with Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi during the upcoming Group of 20 summit in South Africa, as diplomatic tensions over Taiwan continue to escalate. The announcement, made by the Chinese foreign ministry on Monday, underscores the growing strain between the two Asian neighbours following Tokyo’s recent comments on Taiwan.
Foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Takaichi’s remarks had “seriously damaged the political foundation” of Sino-Japanese relations. She urged Japan to withdraw its “wrongful statements” to prevent further deterioration in ties.
Tokyo’s Taiwan Remarks Stir Diplomatic Backlash
Earlier this month, Takaichi told Japan’s parliament that a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan could trigger a military response from Japan if the nation’s survival were threatened. Her remarks marked a rare and direct reference to Japan’s security stance on Taiwan, which China views as part of its territory.
Beijing swiftly condemned the statement, describing it as a provocation that violated Japan’s political commitments under past bilateral agreements. The issue has since fuelled a series of diplomatic protests, with both countries summoning ambassadors and exchanging public criticism.
The fallout also follows earlier tensions involving online remarks by a Chinese diplomat in Osaka and subsequent comments by Japanese officials. The situation has further strained what Beijing calls the “fragile political trust” between the two countries.
Li’s Multinational Diplomatic Schedule
Premier Li Qiang’s absence from bilateral meetings with Japan comes as part of a broader international itinerary. According to China’s foreign ministry, Li will attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Russia from November 17 to 18, followed by a visit to Zambia from November 19 to 20. He will then participate in the G20 summit in South Africa from November 21 to 23.
Despite the lack of direct talks with Japan, China has reiterated its commitment to maintaining regional peace while firmly opposing any statements or actions that, in its view, challenge its sovereignty over Taiwan.
(with inputs from Reuters)
