China Rejects Japan PM’s Reaffirmation of Taiwan Stance

China continued to voice its frustration with Japan after new comments from Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi reaffirming Tokyo’s long-held position that it understands and respects Beijing’s view on Taiwan.

At a regular press briefing on Thursday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian questioned Takaichi’s remarks. “Now that Prime Minister Takaichi claims that the Japanese government’s basic position regarding Taiwan remains as stated in the 1972 Sino-Japanese joint statement, can she accurately and fully articulate what was stated in the joint statement?” he asked.