Key Facts
• Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung visited Japan by July 25, 2025.
• Lin met with Japan’s former Minister of Economic Security Sanae Takaichi.
• Photos of the meeting were shared by Keiji Furuya, head of a bipartisan group.
• China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs lodged a strong protest on July 25, 2025.
• Liu Jinsong, Director-General of the Asian Affairs Department, criticized Japan’s actions.
• China accused Japan of enabling anti-China separatist activities.
• Japan’s Deputy Chief of Mission Koji Yokochi explained Japan’s stance on Taiwan.
• China’s embassy in Tokyo also filed a formal protest with Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Summary
Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung’s recent visit to Japan has sparked diplomatic tensions with China. Lin met with prominent Japanese politicians, including former Minister of Economic Security Sanae Takaichi, during his trip. Photos of the meeting, shared by Keiji Furuya, head of a bipartisan parliamentary group, drew sharp criticism from China. On July 25, 2025, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Japan’s Deputy Chief of Mission Koji Yokochi in Beijing to lodge a formal protest. Liu Jinsong, Director-General of the Asian Affairs Department, accused Japan of allowing Lin’s visit and facilitating anti-China separatist activities. China’s embassy in Tokyo also protested, claiming Japan ignored prior warnings. Japan, however, reiterated its stance on Taiwan through diplomatic channels. The incident underscores ongoing tensions in the region.
