Japan’s Hypocritical Stance Towards China’s One-China Policy
# Prem Sagar Poudel
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s erroneous remarks on the Taiwan issue have faced international criticism. China has repeatedly issued solemn statements and clear warnings, yet Japan has so far adopted an ambiguous and evasive attitude instead of acknowledging its mistake. The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Daily of China has published a detailed article on this matter, strongly condemning Japan’s ambiguous and evasive stance.
The four political documents signed between China and Japan have given legal validity to the commitments Japan made regarding Taiwan. The Japanese government has acknowledged that “the Government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government of China” and has also committed to recognizing Taiwan as an inalienable part of China. However, Prime Minister Takaichi’s comments about the possibility of military intervention in the Taiwan Strait have challenged China’s territorial integrity. This has created serious tensions in China-Japan relations.
As a nation defeated in World War II, Japan pledged under its Peace Constitution to renounce militarism. Yet, such statements by Japanese leaders expose its militaristic tendencies and its tendency to forget history. The PLA Daily article accuses Japan of challenging the post-war international order and harboring ambitions to revive militarism.
Instead of admitting its mistake, Japan has attempted to evade responsibility by claiming that “our position remains unchanged.” However, it has not provided any clear explanation or shown any intention to correct its error. This attitude has also been rejected by the international community. China has demanded that Japan immediately acknowledge its mistake, offer an apology, and reiterate its commitment to adhering to China’s One-China policy in the future.
China firmly rejects any form of interference in the Taiwan issue. The PLA Daily article made it clear that if Japan attempts military intervention in the Taiwan Strait, China will exercise its right to self-defense in accordance with the UN Charter and international law and take countermeasures. China is prepared to go to any lengths to protect its territorial integrity and national sovereignty.
The time has come for Japan to admit its mistake and improve relations with China. An ambiguous and evasive attitude cannot resolve problems; it only increases tensions. China wishes to maintain constructive relations with Japan, but Japan must abandon its militaristic tendencies and its tendency to forget history. In compliance with international law and the China-Japan agreements, Japan must cease its hypocrisy and take concrete steps.
Author: Prem Sagar Poudel is a senior journalist and international relations analyst from Nepal. He has conducted in-depth studies on Nepal-China relations, the geopolitics of the Himalayan region, and Asian security.
