Japan has rejected claims that it has changed its stance on Taiwan, pushing back against a recent U.S. intelligence assessment that suggested a shift in policy.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said Japan’s approach to determining an existential threat remains consistent and has not changed.

Response To U.S. Assessment

The comments come after U.S. intelligence agencies said recent remarks by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi indicated a significant change in Japan’s position.

Takaichi had suggested that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could trigger a Japanese military response a statement seen by some analysts as stronger than previous rhetoric.

However, Tokyo insists this does not represent a departure from existing policy.

China Reacts Strongly

China has reacted sharply to Takaichi’s remarks, warning its citizens against travelling to Japan and restricting some exports.

Beijing considers Taiwan its own territory and has consistently opposed any foreign involvement in the issue.

Japan Stands By Its Position

Takaichi has repeatedly said her comments are in line with Japan’s longstanding security framework.

Officials emphasised that decisions on what constitutes an existential threat would continue to be based on comprehensive assessments, as has always been the case.

(with inputs from Reuters)