In just over a week, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s comments on Taiwan triggered a wave of strong responses from Beijing. From fiery statements to naval patrols, here’s how events unfolded. 🕒
November 7, 2025: In her first Diet session since taking office, Prime Minister Takaichi warned that a military intervention by the Chinese mainland in Taiwan could become a “survival-threatening situation” for Japan. Under current laws, Japan’s Self-Defense Forces could exercise collective self-defense in such a case. Takaichi later said her comments reflect Tokyo’s longstanding stance and refused to retract them.
November 10, 2025: The Chinese Foreign Ministry issued a firm protest, stating that Taiwan belongs to China and that how to resolve the Taiwan question is an internal affair. Spokesperson Lin Jian made it clear there’s no room for external interference.
November 12, 2025: The State Council Taiwan Affairs Office expressed “strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition.” Spokesperson Chen Binhua warned that any challenge to China’s core interests or reunification efforts would be met with zero tolerance from the Chinese government, people, and military.
November 13, 2025: Beijing doubled down, urging Japan to correct and withdraw the provocative remarks. Lin Jian warned that any use of force in the Taiwan Strait would be seen as aggression and met with resolute counteractions.
November 14, 2025: Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong summoned Japanese Ambassador Kenji Kanasugi to reiterate the Taiwan question as an untouchable red line. He stressed that the question is for Chinese people to decide alone. Later that day, the Ministry of National Defense warned of a “crushing defeat” if Tokyo interfered militarily, with spokesperson Jiang Bin underscoring the People’s Liberation Army’s readiness.
Also on November 14, Chinese Ambassador to Japan Wu Jianghao met Vice-Minister Takehiro Funakoshi to lodge a formal protest, denouncing Tokyo’s call for military intervention as a challenge to China’s core interests and warning of dire consequences.
November 16, 2025: A China Coast Guard fleet patrolled the waters around Diaoyu Dao to “safeguard China’s rights under law,” according to an official statement. This move demonstrates Beijing’s resolve to back up its diplomatic protests with on-the-water presence. 🚢
As tensions rise, all eyes are on whether Tokyo and Beijing can de-escalate or if this standoff marks a new chapter in regional rivalry. Stay tuned for updates! 👀
Reference(s):
Timeline: China's response to Japanese PM's remarks on Taiwan
cgtn.com
