Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong summoned Japan’s Ambassador Kanasugi Kenji on Thursday to deliver a fierce rebuke over Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae’s comments about Taiwan. This confrontation marks the latest surge in tensions between the two countries, following a shocking violent threat from a Chinese official against Japan’s first female prime minister.
On November 7, Prime Minister Takaichi told Japan’s National Diet that a Chinese attack on Taiwan would be a “situation threatening Japan’s survival.” This statement angered China deeply because Japan’s constitution allows the Self-Defense Forces to respond militarily in such cases, and Takaichi supports expanding their role. Past Japanese leaders, including the late Prime Minister Abe Shinzo, have spoken about defending Taiwan but avoided language as strong as “survival-threatening.”
Sun’s meeting with Ambassador Kanasugi was an intense lecture on history and sovereignty. He insisted that Takaichi’s remarks are dangerously wrong and interfere with China’s internal affairs. He called the comments a violation of international law and historic agreements between China and Japan. Sun also reminded Japan of the 80th anniversary of China’s victory over Japan in World War II, warning that anyone challenging China’s goal of reunification will face a “firm response.”
The anger grew hotter after China’s consul-general in Osaka, Xue Jian, threatened on social media to behead Prime Minister Takaichi. His words sparked outrage. Japan condemned his threats, Taiwan’s presidential office called it a breach of diplomatic conduct, and the U.S. Ambassador to Japan criticized China for letting its “mask slip.” Xue later deleted the post, but Chinese officials kept demanding that Japan apologize and retract Takaichi’s statement—with no apology offered for Xue’s violent language.
Chinese state media amplified the fury. The Global Times focused heavily on Sun’s criticisms without mentioning Japan’s reply. Other Chinese outlets and commentators made harsh remarks, with some openly talking about a “battle blade” sharpened to defend China against Japan, and even mocking Takaichi with insults. Some Japanese politicians have called for the expulsion of Xue Jian over his threat.
Meanwhile, Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara urged calm and said the government hopes for peaceful talks on Taiwan. He also asked China to take action against Xue’s extreme comments, though it’s unlikely to ease tensions in Beijing.
China’s Foreign Ministry has warned its citizens against traveling to Japan, citing safety concerns linked to the diplomatic dispute. The situation remains tense, reflecting larger questions about Taiwan’s status and the deep mistrust between China and Japan. With strong words flying and tempers flaring, this diplomatic row shows no sign of cooling down soon.
