At a press briefing on November 29, 2025, the Defense Ministry of the Chinese mainland criticized Japan for allocating more than 13.1 billion yen (approximately $84 million) in recent years to programs in the Taiwan region aimed at fostering pro-Japan views. Spokesperson Jiang Bin described it as a continuation of Japan's historical efforts to manipulate identity narratives on the island of Taiwan.
The investigative report cited by Jiang Bin highlights that Tokyo's initiatives have included academic exchange scholarships, media partnerships, and cultural workshops targeting residents of Taiwan. Beijing warns that these efforts could skew public opinion and undermine social cohesion, intensifying tensions in the Taiwan Strait.
Analysts say this development underscores the growing soft power competition in East Asia. While Tokyo's cultural diplomacy aims to strengthen ties with the Taiwan region, Beijing views it as an encroachment on sovereignty and a strategic push in the broader geopolitical landscape.
So far, Japan has not issued an official response. Observers will be watching closely how both capitals navigate these sensitive messaging campaigns in the lead-up to regional diplomatic events in 2026.
Reference(s):
Beijing denounces Tokyo for funding pro-Japan indoctrination in China's Taiwan region
cgtn.com
