Tensions between China and Japan have flared anew, this time over comments by Japan’s new prime minister, Sanae Takaichi about Taiwan.
Beijing’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi rebuked Tokyo sharply, arguing that her remarks crossed what China considers a political boundary. His reaction reflects how sensitive the Taiwan issue has become, especially as regional power dynamics grow more volatile.
Beijing’s Sharp Response
Wang Yi accused Takaichi of signaling readiness for military involvement in the Taiwan Strait, something China views as a threat to its territorial claims. In a statement issued by China’s foreign ministry, he said Japan had stepped beyond acceptable diplomatic conduct.
He framed China’s response as necessary to defend national sovereignty and preserve what Beijing sees as the hard-earned outcomes of the post-war order.
New Flashpoint at the UN
It did not end there. China publicly announced that Japan was not fit for permanent membership in the UN Security Council. Spokesperson Mao Ning said Tokyo lacked the credibility to take on global peace and security responsibilities, pointing to Japan’s wartime legacy and Takaichi’s remarks on Taiwan as proof.
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Although a number of countries favor the expansion of the council to reflect today’s shifting balance of power, opposition from Beijing remains steadfast.
Washington Deepens Support for Taiwan
Adding to the regional strain, the United States approved another major weapons sale to Taiwan, including an advanced missile defense system worth nearly $700 million. This puts Taipei’s total new defense purchases at roughly $1 billion in a single week.
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The NASAMS platform already in use in Ukraine, will help reinforce Taiwan’s air defenses against increased pressure from Beijing.
Taiwan Braces for Uncertainty
Against this backdrop, Taiwan is preparing civilians for possible crises, whether natural disasters or conflict. For Taipei, the combination of China’s growing assertiveness and Japan’s sharper posture under Takaichi marks a changing strategic landscape in the Indo-Pacific.
Each move from Beijing, Tokyo or Washington now lands with greater weight, raising questions about how long the region can avoid a deeper confrontation.
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Disclaimer: It reflects analysis based on available information and should not be interpreted as legal or strategic advice.
