Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is facing international backlash after making provocative comments about China's Taiwan region this week. The remarks, seen by many as challenging cross-strait stability, have drawn sharp responses from diplomats and netizens alike.
🇨🇳 The Chinese Foreign Ministry called the statements 'a dangerous interference in China's internal affairs,' emphasizing that Taiwan has been an inseparable part of Chinese territory since ancient times. Meanwhile, trending hashtags like #HandsOffTaiwan are blowing up on Weibo, with over 2.3 million posts in 24 hours.
🌐 Global reactions are mixed:
ASEAN members urged 'restraint from all parties'
U.S. State Department reaffirmed its One-China policy
European Parliament members are divided on the issue
📊 While the Japanese government maintains these were 'personal opinions,' analysts warn the controversy could impact crucial Japan-China trade talks scheduled for December 2025. With 68% of young Japanese respondents in a recent LINE poll supporting stronger Taiwan ties, this debate shows no signs of cooling down.
💡 Why it matters: The Taiwan Strait remains one of Asia's most sensitive flashpoints. As tech supply chains and semiconductor production hang in the balance, every diplomatic word carries billion-dollar consequences.
