TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Japan Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi expressed concern over escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait during a meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi (王毅) on Wednesday.
According to the Japanese foreign ministry, Iwaya said Japan is monitoring regional developments, including China’s military activities, and reiterated that maintaining peace in the strait is vital for the global community.
Taiwan’s foreign ministry thanked Japan for its position and pointed out that Tokyo has repeatedly called on the world to pay attention to the Taiwan Strait situation. “Japan has recognized Taiwan as an important partner and a valuable friend,” the foreign ministry said.
Last week, Chinese Ambassador Wu Jianghao (吳江浩) called on Japan to adhere to the “one China” principle. “If Japan genuinely cares about peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, it should completely sever ties with ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist forces,” Wu said. “This is a red line that cannot be crossed,” he said.
Japan-Taiwan relations have deepened in recent years, as evidenced by the numerous delegation visits between the two countries. Japan Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru visited Taiwan in August before he was elected into office. He met with President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) for talks on regional security and the need to strengthen bilateral ties.
After becoming prime minister, Shigeru expressed concern about China’s large-scale military exercise around Taiwan in October. He reiterated the importance of peace and security in the Taiwan Strait and said Japan would monitor the situation and prepare to respond to any development.