Japanese Foreign Minister: "Dokdo is Japanese territory, very regrettable ruling on comfort women"... 8th consecutive year of provocative remarks

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] On the 18th, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi provoked by claiming that Dokdo is Japanese territory during a diplomatic speech held on the occasion of the opening of the regular session of the Japanese Diet. It is known that this is the eighth consecutive year that Japan has provoked by claiming Dokdo as its territory in a diplomatic speech.

On the day of the opening of the Japanese Diet, Foreign Minister Motegi explained the basic direction of foreign policy in his diplomatic speech, stating, "Takeshima is Japan's inherent territory both historically and under international law, and based on this fundamental position, we will respond calmly and resolutely." This marks the eighth consecutive year since 2014 that a Japanese foreign minister has provoked by claiming Dokdo as Japanese territory in a diplomatic speech.

Motegi also said that recent Korea-Japan relations are in a "serious situation" due to issues such as forced labor during the Japanese colonial period and the Japanese military comfort women issue. In particular, regarding the recent ruling by the Seoul Central District Court ordering the Japanese government to compensate the victims of the Japanese military comfort women, he stated, "An abnormal situation that is unthinkable under international law and bilateral relations has occurred, and we deeply regret it." He added, "In a telephone conversation with Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha, we strongly demanded that the Korean government promptly correct this violation of international law."

Motegi defined Korea as an "important neighboring country" and said that cooperation among the U.S., Japan, and Korea is indispensable for regional stability and responding to North Korea. However, regarding the recent situation between the two countries, he consistently took a tone of strong criticism, placing responsibility on Korea.