China calls for correction of Takaichi's comment on Taiwan - NHKニュース

A comment Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae made about Taiwan one year ago has resurfaced. An official in China is again urging her to "correct" what she said.

Takaichi spoke about Taiwan in the Diet on November 7 last year. She said a contingency involving the use of force could be regarded as a situation that threatens Japan's survival.

On Friday, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun said ongoing difficulties in bilateral ties are entirely the responsibility of the Japanese side. He also accused Japan of avoiding the issue for the past year.

Guo said Japan's priority should be to correct the erroneous words and deeds, adopt a correct attitude on historical issues, and form an objective and rational perception of China.

Also on Friday, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Kihara Minoru said the government's position regarding Taiwan remains unchanged from a Japan-China communique signed in 1972.

Relations between the two countries have been strained for the past year. Japan says it will promote a mutually beneficial relationship based on common strategic interests. China continues to criticize Japan.

Still, there are signs Beijing is open to dialogue with Japanese businesses and lawmakers who do not belong to the Takaichi administration.

In September, former Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi visited China as the chair of a friendship organization aimed at promoting trade. Iwaya met separately with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Vice Premier He Lifeng.

Business officials from Japan's Kansai region also plan to visit China in December.

Sources suggest something has shifted regarding China's stance. They also point out that the two governments are still not talking.