Chinese Foreign Minister Emphasizes Taiwan's Status During Talks with Japan

In a recent dialogue with Japanese political leaders, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi asserted the significance of the Taiwan issue in Chinese foreign policy. He highlighted that the four political documents that govern China-Japan relations explicitly address the Taiwan question and must be upheld without deviation. This situation reflects both countries' commitments to maintaining stability in their diplomatic relations.

Further clarification from the Chinese Foreign Ministry came from spokesperson Guo Jiakun, who reiterated that Taiwan is undeniably a part of China's territory. He underscored the Taiwan question as a central concern for China, linking it directly to the political foundation upon which China-Japan relations rest. Guo also noted the historical aspects claiming Japan's responsibility regarding Taiwan, referencing the Cairo Declaration of 1943, which stated Taiwan was unlawfully taken from China and should be returned.

Guo pointed out that Article 8 of the Potsdam Proclamation further endorses this stance, affirming that Japan's acceptance of these terms in 1945 underscores its responsibilities regarding Taiwan. Additionally, the commitments made in the 1972 China-Japan Joint Statement reinforce this obligation, asserting that Japan must adhere to international law and the one-China principle.

He expressed concerns about the potential repercussions of misstatements, such as the claim that "a Taiwan emergency is a Japanese emergency" and the notion that the China-Japan Joint Statement lacks legal weight. Guo warned that such narratives could undermine trust and jeopardize diplomatic relations. He urged Japan to be cautious, honoring its commitments while actively working to enhance the relationship between the two nations.