Key Facts
• On December 29, Japan conveyed concern to China over large-scale Chinese military exercises near Taiwan.
• The exercises lasted two days around Taiwan’s vicinity.
• Japan described the drills as actions that raise tensions in the Taiwan Strait.
• The United Kingdom and Germany also urged restraint regarding the situation.
• On December 31, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian rebutted Japan’s concerns, calling Taiwan an inseparable part of China.
• Lin accused Japan and others of ignoring Taiwan independence forces and interfering in China’s internal affairs.
• China issued a formal protest to Japan and other countries over their statements.
• Regarding the postponement of a planned January visit by Japanese business leaders to China, China blamed Japan, urging Prime Minister Takaichi to retract incorrect remarks.
• China emphasized that Taiwan is a purely internal issue and forbids any external interference.
Summary
Japan officially expressed concern on December 29 about China’s two-day large-scale military exercises near Taiwan, citing increased tensions in the Taiwan Strait. The United Kingdom and Germany also called for restraint. In response, on December 31, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian firmly rejected Japan’s position, stating that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China and a purely internal matter. China accused Japan and other countries of condoning interference by ignoring Taiwan independence movements and reversed the narrative by condemning their criticism as unjust. China lodged a formal protest against Japan and others. Additionally, China attributed the postponement of a January Japanese business delegation visit to Japan’s side, urging Prime Minister Takaichi to withdraw erroneous statements to restore normal exchanges. This exchange highlights ongoing diplomatic tensions surrounding Taiwan and regional security concerns.
