Shigeru Ishiba's election as president of Japan's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) on September 27, 2024, marks a pivotal moment in Japanese politics as he is poised to become the 102nd Japanese prime minister. Major media outlets in Japan are closely monitoring how China will respond to this leadership change, with speculation surrounding the future of China-Japan relations.

Following Ishiba’s election, news reports highlighted China's concerns and reactions, showcasing an evident interest from China in the political developments in Japan. NHK, a prominent Japanese news agency, specifically mentioned that the reaction from China was a focal point in their coverage, illustrating the broader implications of Ishiba's campaign promises, which included forming an "Asian NATO."

During a regular press briefing, a spokesperson from the Chinese Foreign Ministry was asked to comment on Ishiba's election and his campaign proposals, reiterating that Japan's internal decisions are their own affairs. However, the spokesperson did convey that China expects Japan to reflect on historical lessons and to adopt a policy that fosters mutual benefit, emphasizing a constructive path for future relations.

Chinese officials have clearly stated their position on Taiwan, asserting that it is a part of China, and expressing opposition to Japanese political figures visiting the island. This stance reaffirms the sensitivity surrounding Japan's political maneuvers and their potential impact on regional dynamics. Experts believe that while Ishiba has previously made controversial statements regarding China, his experience as a politician could lead him to navigate future relations with greater care and strategic insight.