China has suspended Japanese aquatic product imports, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry. Japan had agreed to provide technical materials to ensure product safety, but it has failed to do so. Without these materials, China cannot allow imports of aquatic products.
Mao Ning, the spokeswoman for the Foreign Ministry, also criticized recent remarks made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi about Taiwan. Mao stated that these remarks sparked strong anger in China. She added that even if Japan resumed exporting aquatic products, there would be no market for them in China due to the current political tensions.
Mao warned that if Japan does not withdraw Takaichi’s comments on Taiwan, China will have to take “severe and resolute countermeasures.” China will hold Japan responsible for any consequences from these actions. Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara stated that Tokyo would not retract Takaichi’s remarks. He argued that the statements align with Japan’s long-standing policy on Taiwan.
Mao stressed that Takaichi’s comments have undermined the foundation of China-Japan relations. They have triggered widespread condemnation in China. Mao urged Japan to retract the remarks, stop provocation, and take steps to correct its mistakes. These actions are crucial to maintaining the political foundation of the bilateral relationship.
Additionally, Mao called on the international community to remain vigilant against militarism. She stressed that all nations must work together to protect the post-war international order and preserve global peace. Mao’s comments followed concerns that Takaichi’s remarks could set the stage for Japan to involve its military in the Taiwan Strait. Analysts see this as a breach of China’s “bottom line.”
Mao reminded everyone that Japan had previously used the pretext of “self-defense” to justify military aggression. She warned that such actions could lead to another tragedy. China’s history shows that military actions were often justified under similar conditions in the past.
Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for China’s Taiwan Affairs Office, condemned Takaichi’s remarks. She said they challenge international justice and the post-war order. Zhu stressed that the Taiwan issue is an internal matter for China and urged Japan to stop interfering. Japan must cease its provocations to avoid further damage to China-Japan relations.
Zhu also appealed to Taiwan’s people, urging them to recognize the dangers of Japan’s actions. She called for unity to resist Taiwan independence and foreign interference. According to Zhu, the tensions in the Taiwan Strait are largely caused by the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) pursuit of independence and its alliance with external forces.
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