Japan Rejects China’s Allegations Over PM Sanae Takaichi’s Taiwan Remarks in Strong Letter to UN
Japan has formally rejected China’s criticism of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s recent remarks on Taiwan, calling Beijing’s accusations “inconsistent with the facts, unsubstantiated, and categorically unacceptable.” The response came from Japan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Yamazaki Kazuyuki, in a letter addressed to UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres.
Kazuyuki’s letter was submitted after China sent a second communication to the UN, objecting to Takaichi’s parliamentary statement on November 7. During that address, the Japanese Prime Minister said that an attack on Taiwan could pose an existential threat to Japan, potentially justifying action by Japan’s Self-Defense Forces. The comments sparked strong disapproval from China, which claims Taiwan as its territory and has warned against any foreign interference.
In his latest letter, Kazuyuki stated that China’s allegations mirror those of its November 21 letter, which Japan had already dismissed. He reiterated that Japan’s position remains clearly stated in its earlier communication on November 24, and once again presented Japan’s stance at the instruction of Tokyo.
Kazuyuki emphasized Japan’s post–World War II record of adhering to international law and contributing to global peace. He said Japan has consistently supported a free and open international order grounded in the rule of law and remains committed to international stability and development. He added that Japan continues to see dialogue as the best way to resolve differing opinions.
China’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Fu Cong, had earlier written to Guterres claiming Japan was attempting to expand its military capabilities and “revive militarism.” China accused Japan of misusing Taiwan-related issues to justify its defense policies. The letter warned the international community to remain vigilant against what China described as Japan’s “ambitions.”
Responding to these claims, Kazuyuki stated that Japan’s defense policy remains fundamentally defensive. He stressed that Japan’s right to collective self-defense is strictly limited under domestic law and aligned with the UN Charter. He clarified that PM Takaichi’s remarks were grounded in Japan’s existing defense framework and did not indicate any intention to act without an armed attack, countering China’s claims as erroneous.
As tensions surrounding Taiwan continue to escalate, both nations remain firm in their positions. China has increased military activity around the self-governed island, fueling regional concerns, while Japan continues to stress dialogue and the rule of law.
Our Thoughts
Japan’s firm response to China’s allegations highlights the growing complexity of security and geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. The exchange of letters at the United Nations reflects a deeper struggle over narratives, intentions, and regional influence. China’s increasing military activity around Taiwan continues to raise global concerns, while Japan’s position reflects both strategic caution and a commitment to legal and diplomatic frameworks.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s remarks in parliament underscore Japan’s security considerations in the event of instability in Taiwan. Given Japan’s geographic proximity and its dependence on sea routes through the region, any conflict involving Taiwan would inevitably affect Japanese interests. Tokyo’s clarification that its defence strategy remains strictly defensive shows an intention to counter misinterpretations while reaffirming its long-standing postwar principles.
On the other hand, China’s warnings about Japan’s supposed “militaristic revival” reflect Beijing’s sensitivity to shifts in regional defence dynamics. As Japan strengthens security ties with partners and updates its defence posture, China is likely to continue challenging these moves diplomatically.
The situation around Taiwan is a key test for stability in East Asia. Japan’s insistence on dialogue, legal clarity, and rule-based order will play an important role as regional tensions evolve. The coming months may shape long-term strategic realities in the region.