Japan’s major opposition parties turned up the heat this week on PM Sanae Takaichi, demanding she retract her recent remarks on the Taiwan region to avoid straining relations with the Chinese mainland.😬
On Sunday’s NHK program, Satoshi Honjo, policy chief of the Constitutional Democratic Party, argued that Takaichi showed an inadequate grasp of what a ‘survival-threatening situation’ means under Japanese law, a key legal term. He also noted her comments stray from decades of government consensus since diplomatic ties normalization in 1972.
Taku Yamazoe, policy chief of the Japanese Communist Party, warned these comments could carry serious consequences and conflict with the Japanese Constitution, calling them extremely dangerous. He reminded viewers that the 1972 Sino-Japanese Joint Statement clearly states Tokyo fully understands and respects the Chinese mainland’s view that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the People’s Republic of China. He and others say her stance also clashes with the 2008 bilateral statement affirming both sides pose no threat to each other.
Akiko Oishi, co-representative of the Reiwa Shinsengumi, labeled Takaichi’s remarks groundless and urged the public to stay calm and not be provoked. With rising regional tensions, many see a swift retraction as vital to keep Japan–China ties on steady ground.
What’s next? All eyes are on Diet sessions this month as opposition parties press for an official apology or retraction. Stay tuned for updates!🤔
Reference(s):
Japanese opposition leaders urge Takaichi to retract Taiwan remarks
cgtn.com
