China emphasized the need for tangible steps from Tokyo before engaging in dialogue following Japan’s new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s stated willingness to engage in various discussions with Beijing. This stance effectively rebuffed Takaichi’s earlier remarks in November suggesting Japan’s potential military involvement in a Chinese attack on Taiwan, which had escalated tensions.
Prime Minister Takaichi, following a resounding victory in the election, expressed Japan’s openness to engaging in different dialogues with China. However, China’s foreign ministry responded by emphasizing the importance of mutual respect as a foundation for genuine dialogue.
