Japanese public figures criticize Takaichi's remarks as harmful to regional stability

A growing number of voices from across Japanese political and academic circles have sharply criticized recent comments by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, warning that her statements could jeopardize regional stability and damage Japan's own interests.

Takaichi has said that the Chinese central government's "use of force on Taiwan" could constitute a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan and implied the possibility of Japan's armed intervention in the Taiwan Strait. Despite multiple representations from China, the Japanese government has refused to retract the remarks.

Ozawa Ichiro, a lawmaker from the Constitutional Democratic Party -- the largest opposition party -- said Takaichi's aggressive rhetoric could trigger a series of negative consequences, including deterioration of China-Japan relations, worsening public sentiment, reduced bilateral trade, and restrictions on people-to-people exchanges.

Tanaka Hitoshi, former deputy minister for foreign affairs, cautioned that matters such as Japan's involvement in the Taiwan Strait situation or revising the country's "three non-nuclear principles" are issues tied to the nation's survival and must not be spoken of lightly. He warned that if Takaichi continues with such reckless behavior, Japan could be led into an irreparable crisis.

"All Japanese experts I know, especially those who understand Japan-China relations well, believe that Takaichi's remarks this time have very serious problems. Takaichi should immediately retract her erroneous comments," said Takamura Noriyuki, vice president of Japan-China Relations Society.

Recalling the 1972 normalization of diplomatic ties between China and Japan, Takamura stressed the importance of honoring the commitments set out by then Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai and then Japanese Prime Minister Kakuei Tanaka.

"It is clearly written that Japan acknowledges 'one China.' 'One China' refers to the Government of the People's Republic of China -- this was explicitly agreed in the document. As for Taiwan, the document states that Taiwan is an inseparable part of the territory of the People's Republic of China -- this is China's position, and the Japanese government respects it. It is clearly recorded in the document on the normalization of China-Japan relations. Therefore, this is the most fundamental basis of Japan-China relations. It is extremely important for both sides to abide by and uphold this foundation," he said.

Japanese public figures criticize Takaichi's remarks as harmful to regional stability

Japanese public figures criticize Takaichi's remarks as harmful to regional stability

Fuzhou, the capital of southeast China's Fujian Province, launched a cross-strait cultural carnival during the May Day holiday, attracting visitors from both sides of the Taiwan Strait to revel in the festivities.

The carnival unfolded at a historical and cultural block in Lianjiang County, Fuzhou, where an array of performances highlighted local culture and the deep ties across the Strait, serving as a rich cultural feast for holidaymakers.

"Strolling through the ancient streets, with the old buildings on both sides and intangible heritage performances all around, it feels like traveling back in time. It also reminds you that people on both sides of the Strait share the same roots and the same cultural lineage," said Zhang Chuanzhen, a Taiwan compatriot.

In addition to stage performances, the block also featured intangible cultural heritage displays, cultural and creative markets, and hands-on craft experience activities. The immersive and interactive setting invited visitors to explore the history, take in the scenery, and savor the culture.

"We are dedicated to allowing everyone to experience the breadth and depth of Chinese culture, and to strengthen the sense of shared cultural identity across the Strait. Going forward, Lianjiang County will continue to innovate forms of cultural exchanges and build a bridge for heart-to-heart communication between compatriots on both sides of the Strait, especially among the younger generations," said Ren Yong, director of the Lianjiang County Cultural Center.

Fujian holds May Day holiday cultural carnival to entertain visitors across Taiwan Strait