Japanese Politicians Continue Criticizing Sanae Takaichi's Erroneous Remarks

Recently, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi made erroneous remarks regarding Taiwan-related issues. On November 26 local time, Japanese politicians continued to criticize Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's erroneous remarks and emphasized the importance of building stable Japan-China relations.

Former Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba: Can Japan Survive Without Japan-China Relations?

Former Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba delivered a speech in Tokyo on the 26th, emphasizing the importance of building stable relations between Japan and China. When discussing the deterioration of Japan-China relations due to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's erroneous remarks, Ishiba asked, "Can our country survive without relations with China?"

Ishiba stated that since the normalization of Japan-China diplomatic relations in 1972, successive Japanese governments have understood and respected China's position that Taiwan is part of China. "This is something that cannot be changed," and Japan has "been handling it with extreme caution." Ishiba mentioned that Japan's economy currently relies heavily on goods imported from China, such as food, rare earths, and pharmaceuticals. He once again called for prioritizing smooth Japan-China relations.

Japanese Diet member Ichiro Ozawa posted ten short messages on social media on the 26th, discussing the necessity for Sanae Takaichi to retract her erroneous remarks. He stated that as Prime Minister, Takaichi bears the heavy responsibility of protecting Japan and the lives and livelihoods of its people. Therefore, she must be cautious in her words and actions, especially regarding the Taiwan issue. Japan and China engage in substantial daily import and export trade of goods. If conflicts escalate, it would have a significant impact on the Japanese economy. Unless Takaichi retracts her statements in the Diet, the situation will be difficult to resolve.