Key Facts
• November 1: Prime Minister Takaichi met Taiwan representative Lin Shin-Yi at APEC.
• October 31: Takaichi and Lin exchanged greetings, shared on social media.
• China’s Foreign Ministry issued a strong protest on November 1.
• China criticized Japan for sending “wrong messages” to Taiwan independence forces.
• China reiterated Taiwan is a domestic issue and warned against interference.
• October 31: Japan-China summit emphasized stable, constructive relations.
• President Xi Jinping urged Japan to avoid damaging bilateral ties over Taiwan.
• China demanded Japan adhere to its commitment to non-interference.
Summary
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi met Taiwan’s APEC representative Lin Shin-Yi on November 1, following a prior greeting on October 31. These interactions, shared on social media, prompted a strong protest from China’s Foreign Ministry, which accused Japan of sending “wrong messages” to Taiwan independence forces. China emphasized that Taiwan is a domestic issue and urged Japan to avoid interference, calling for adherence to commitments made during the October 31 Japan-China summit. President Xi Jinping had previously warned Japan against actions that could harm bilateral relations, particularly regarding Taiwan. The incident highlights ongoing tensions over Taiwan’s status and its impact on Japan-China relations.
