China Urges Japan to Honor Commitments on History, Taiwan After Takaichi's Election

Chinese Foreign Ministry: "Hopes for a Positive Policy Toward China"

China has expressed its stance that Japan must honor its political commitments regarding historical and Taiwan-related issues, following the election of Sanae Takaichi, former Minister for Economic Security, as the new president of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, making her the leading candidate for the next Prime Minister.

According to China News Service, a spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded to questions from reporters after Takaichi's election, stating, "We are paying attention to the results of the election, but this is an internal affair of Japan," and conveyed the above position.

The spokesperson continued, "We hope that Japan will adhere to the principles and shared understandings (agreements) of the four major political documents between China and Japan, and uphold its political commitments on significant issues such as history and Taiwan. We also hope that Japan will pursue a positive and rational policy toward China and fully promote the realization of a mutually beneficial strategic relationship."

The four major political documents between China and Japan referenced by China are: the 1972 China-Japan Joint Communique issued at the time of diplomatic normalization, the 1978 China-Japan Treaty of Peace and Friendship, the 1998 Joint Declaration on Building a Partnership of Peace and Friendship for Generations, and the 2008 Joint Statement on Comprehensive Promotion of a Mutually Beneficial Relationship Based on Common Strategic Interests. These documents include principles such as the "One China" policy, mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and opposition to the pursuit of hegemony.

The newly elected president, Sanae Takaichi, is known for her strong conservative stance, to the extent that she is called the "female Abe." Within Chinese political circles, there is speculation that Takaichi, who has demonstrated a clear right-wing orientation, may continue or even strengthen Japan's policy of checking China.