In a spirited press briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Beijing on Thursday, spokesperson Lin Jian called on Japan to reflect deeply on history and guard against actions that could harm China's sovereignty. This warning came as Chinese Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Han Jun postponed a planned visit to Japan, an announcement that Japanese media linked to the recent trip by Lin Chia-lung, head of the Taiwan region's foreign affairs authorities.
"I'd refer you to competent authorities on the specific reason of Minister Han Jun postponing his visit to Japan," said Lin Jian, adding that China holds an open attitude toward maintaining engagement at various levels with Japan.
Lin Jian urged Japan to take concrete actions to earnestly abide by the one-China Principle, uphold the political foundation of China-Japan relations, and act on the spirit of the four political documents shaping their strategic relationship of mutual benefit. "Words and deeds must align," she noted.
On Lin Chia-lung's visit, the spokesperson warned that by allowing him a "personal trip," Japan provides a stage for the separatist activities of "Taiwan independence" forces, violating basic norms governing international relations and sending out a severely wrong signal.
As Tokyo and Beijing watch each other's next moves, this diplomatic cross-currents moment highlights the delicate balance in Asia-Pacific relations—a dynamic that global businesses, travelers, and policy watchers alike will be monitoring closely.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
