White House on China-Japan Tensions: "Trump Has Good Relations With Both"

"Japan, a Great Ally of the United States"
"Maintaining a Good Working Relationship with China"

Amid escalating tensions between China and Japan, the United States has stated that it maintains good relations with both countries.

Caroline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary. Photo by AP Yonhap News

At a briefing held on the 11th (local time), Caroline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary, responded to a question regarding the U.S. government's position on the China-Japan conflict by saying, "President Donald Trump has an excellent relationship with Japan's new Prime Minister." She added, "President Trump was very pleased to meet the Prime Minister during his visit to Asia a few months ago, and they have had several conversations since then." She emphasized, "The two countries (the United States and Japan) continue to cooperate. Japan is a great ally of the United States."

Leavitt also addressed U.S.-China relations, stating, "President Trump maintains a good working relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping. He believes this is beneficial for our country." She further added, "President Trump believes that the United States should maintain a good working relationship with China, while at the same time upholding our very strong alliance system." This indicates that while the U.S.-Japan alliance remains strong, the United States intends to pursue pragmatic and smooth relations with China to advance its own interests.

This approach is interpreted as being in line with President Trump's "America First" diplomatic policy. In a situation where China has heightened tensions-such as by targeting Japanese Self-Defense Force fighter jets with radar following remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan-the United States appears to have chosen a more balanced stance rather than unequivocally siding with its ally, Japan.

During the briefing, there was also a question about the fact sheet related to the U.S.-Korea tariff negotiations, specifically regarding the exclusion of rice and beef market openings. Leavitt replied, "I will check with our trade team regarding Korean beef, or the export of (U.S.) beef to Korea, and get back to you." The fact sheet released on the 13th of last month stated, "Korea will work with the United States to discuss non-tariff barriers affecting food and agricultural trade."