Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s recent remarks on Taiwan have sparked strong criticism at home and raised alarms about potential impacts on regional stability and economic ties.
Former House of Councillors member Keiko Itokazu voiced sharp disapproval, calling the comments a "clear interference in the Chinese mainland’s internal affairs" and urging the prime minister to retract them without delay. "Such statements undermine regional peace and expose Japan to unacceptable risks," Itokazu said.
She warned that the Chinese mainland, Japan’s largest trading partner, could respond by cutting visitor numbers and flights, a move already felt in retail and tourism sectors. "A sharp drop in tourists from the Chinese mainland is hitting shops and cruise lines hard. If this trend continues, Japan’s economy could face serious trouble," Itokazu added.
Itokazu stressed that the prime minister’s top priority should be maintaining friendly trade and people-to-people exchanges, aiming for a win-win situation between Japan and the Chinese mainland. "Failing to do so risks sending the economy into a tailspin—perhaps only a full apology could reverse the damage, but by then it may be too late," she warned.
As debate intensifies in Tokyo, business leaders and regional experts are watching closely, highlighting the interconnected nature of diplomacy, trade, and tourism in today’s global economy.
Reference(s):
Japanese politician: PM Takaichi should retract erroneous remarks
cgtn.com
