Politics · Singapore Bureau
China urges Japan to correct Taiwan stance, normalise ties
China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi has called on Japan to quickly walk back what he characterised as "erroneous" statements by its leadership on Taiwan, signalling Beijing's expectation that normalising bilateral relations depends on Tokyo's approach to the sensitive issue.
LSN Singapore ·
Wang Yi made the remarks during discussions with a former Japanese minister, underscoring China's continued focus on Japan's public positioning regarding Taiwan—a self-governed island that Beijing claims as its own.
The Chinese foreign minister framed the matter as essential to stabilising ties between the two major Asian economies, which have faced periodic tensions over territorial disputes, historical grievances, and geopolitical competition.
Beijing has repeatedly emphasised that Japan's statements on Taiwan could undermine broader efforts to maintain constructive bilateral relations. The intervention reflects China's sensitivity to international support for Taiwan's autonomy, particularly from regional powers like Japan.
The exchange comes amid broader regional concerns about cross-strait stability and the positioning of key players in the Indo-Pacific. Both China and Japan maintain significant economic and strategic interests across the region, making diplomatic coordination a matter of concern for neighbouring economies including Singapore.