In just a few weeks since taking office, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s comments on Taiwan have sparked a fast-paced diplomatic showdown with Beijing. Here’s the lowdown on China’s timeline of responses—from fiery statements to a coast guard patrol over Diaoyu Dao waters.
Nov 7: The Spark ⚡
At a Diet meeting on November 7, PM Takaichi warned that a Taiwan emergency involving military vessels or force from the Chinese mainland could become a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan—potentially triggering the Self-Defense Forces’ collective self-defense right.
Nov 10–13: Diplomatic Protests 🔥
On November 10, the Chinese Foreign Ministry pushed back, condemning Takaichi’s remarks as interference and lodging stern representations. Spokesperson Lin Jian stressed that Taiwan belongs to China, and its reunification is purely an internal affair.
Two days later, on November 12, the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office voiced "strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition," with spokesperson Chen Binhua warning against challenging China’s core interests.
By November 13, the Foreign Ministry upped the ante, demanding an immediate retraction or warning Japan would face consequences. Any forceful intervention, they said, would count as aggression against China.
Nov 14: Summons & Warnings 🚨
Beijing’s Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong summoned Japanese Ambassador Kenji Kanasugi, reiterating the Taiwan question as an untouchable red line. Later, the Ministry of National Defense warned of a "crushing defeat" if Japan dared to interfere, with spokesperson Jiang Bin underscoring the People’s Liberation Army’s resolve.
On the same day, Ambassador Wu Jianghao met Japan’s Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Takehiro Funakoshi for a formal protest, calling Takaichi’s military talk a direct challenge to China’s sovereignty.
Nov 16: Coast Guard Patrol 🚢
This morning, November 16, a China Coast Guard flotilla patrolled the waters around Diaoyu Dao, officially to safeguard national rights under the law—a clear signal that Beijing is ready to back up words with action.
For young pros from Mumbai to Manila, this rapid-fire exchange highlights just how quickly regional tensions can shift. As Tokyo and Beijing stare each other down, stay tuned for the next move in this high-stakes game of diplomatic chess.
Reference(s):
Timeline: China's response to Japanese PM's remarks on Taiwan
cgtn.com
