China Comments on Japan’s New Prime Minister

On Thursday, China’s Foreign Ministry remarked on Japan’s muted reaction to the election of its first female prime minister, the hard-line conservative Sanae Takaichi. They deemed Japan’s response “appropriate,” although they noted that her calls for Taiwan’s support and alignment with Communist Party perspectives might stir some concerns.

Takaichi was sworn in as prime minister earlier this week after a closely contested election for leadership of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Even though the LDP is presently facing unpopularity due to various scandals, it has maintained its grip on power through alliances with smaller ideological parties as well as the lack of a viable left-wing opposition. Takaichi nearly lost her position when Komeito, one of these smaller parties, withdrew from their coalition, but they recently formed a new alliance with the “more hawkish” Japan Restoration Party, which solidified her leadership.

Takaichi has a long history with the LDP and is known for her admiration of Margaret Thatcher, close connections to former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, and support for conservative policies. She aims to strengthen Japan’s defense capabilities, invigorate the economy, and foster closer relations with the United States, with a meeting scheduled with President Donald Trump at the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit.

After Takaichi’s election, Trump issued a statement praising her as a wise and powerful figure, celebrating the milestone for Japan.

In response to her confirmation as prime minister, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun made a rather indifferent statement. He indicated that China considers the election to be an internal matter for Japan, refraining from offering congratulations.

Guo stated, “China is closely monitoring the election results and regards it as Japan’s internal concern.” He expressed hopes for increased cooperation between Japan and China, emphasizing the need to adhere to previously established political principles between the two nations regarding crucial subjects like Taiwan.

During a regular press briefing, Guo reiterated that China had responded appropriately to Japan’s political developments, asserting that the stance on Sino-Japanese relations remains consistent and clear. He encouraged Japan to follow through on mutual commitments related to history and Taiwan.

The Chinese government appears particularly cautious regarding Takaichi’s stance on Taiwan. Taiwan operates as a democratic entity, but the Chinese Communist Party has long insisted it is a part of China’s territory, which complicates diplomatic recognition. Communication with Taiwan’s leadership, particularly regarding defense ties, raises tensions, as seen during Takaichi’s prior conversations with Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen.

Takaichi has also mentioned her intention to continue visiting the controversial Yasukuni Shrine, dedicated to Japanese soldiers, which stirs resentment in China due to its association with Japan’s militaristic past. The shrine memorializes those who fought in World War II, leading to ongoing disputes over its significance.

When asked about her plans for the shrine, Guo emphasized the importance of Japan acknowledging its historical aggressions and making amends in the eyes of its Asian neighbors.