China–Japan Row over Taiwan Escalates

Tensions between China and Japan have sharply escalated after new Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s remarks on Taiwan were interpreted in Beijing as signalling possible Japanese military involvement in a Taiwan crisis. The diplomatic confrontation now includes mutual summoning of ambassadors, a Chinese travel advisory, and flight policy changes by major Chinese airlines.

Remarks That Triggered the Dispute

On 7 November, Takaichi told Japan’s parliament that an armed attack on Taiwan could constitute a “survival-threatening situation” for Japan. Such a designation would, in theory, allow Tokyo to exercise its “collective self-defence” rights and potentially deploy forces in support of Taiwan or allied operations. China condemned the comments as “erroneous remarks” and demanded they be retracted, warning of consequences if Tokyo did not change course. Takaichi has refused to retract the statement, though she has indicated she will avoid citing specific scenarios in future.

Summoned Ambassadors and Harsh Rhetoric

Beijing summoned Japanese ambassador Kenji Kanasugi, accusing Tokyo of seriously damaging bilateral ties. In response, Japan summoned Chinese ambassador Wu Jianghao to protest what it called “extremely inappropriate” language by China’s consul general in Osaka, who reportedly posted an online threat to “cut off that dirty neck” before deleting it. Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi labelled the remarks highly inappropriate and urged Beijing to take corrective action.

Travel Advisory and Airline Measures

China’s embassy in Japan issued a travel advisory warning its citizens of “significant risks” to their safety in Japan, citing what it described as provocative statements by Japanese leaders over Taiwan. Soon after, major Chinese carriers, including Air China, China Southern and China Eastern, announced full refunds or free itinerary changes for Japan-bound tickets through the end of the year. Tokyo criticised the Chinese warning as inconsistent with the goal of a “strategic and mutually beneficial relationship” and stressed that Japan’s Taiwan policy remains aligned with the 1972 Japan–China Joint Communiqué.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Sanae Takaichi said a Taiwan attack could be a “survival-threatening situation” for Japan.
• Both China and Japan summoned each other’s ambassadors over the dispute.
• China’s embassy in Japan issued a travel advisory citing safety risks.
• Major Chinese airlines offered refunds or free changes on Japan-bound flights.

Implications for Taiwan and Regional Security

Analysts in the region see Takaichi’s stance as a shift away from Japan’s earlier strategic ambiguity on Taiwan, signalling a greater likelihood of Japanese involvement in any Taiwan contingency. Chinese officials argue that Tokyo is taking “another wrong step” and warn that any attempt to interfere in what Beijing calls its unification agenda will invite a strong response. Takaichi’s conservative record, past visits to Taiwan and overt support for the island are seen in Beijing as evidence of a harder Japanese line, adding another layer of strain to already complex regional security dynamics.