One-China principle anchored China’s warning to Japan following a reported visit by a former senior Japanese official to Taiwan. China’s Foreign Ministry said the meeting challenged established diplomatic norms and carried significant regional implications for East Asia’s stability.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun addressed the issue during a regular press briefing held in Beijing on Friday. Guo responded to media reports stating that former Japanese chief cabinet secretary Kato Katsunobu recently traveled to Taiwan and held meetings with local authorities.
According to those reports, Kato met with Taiwan regional leader Lai Ching-te during the visit. Guo rejected references to Lai as a president, emphasizing that Taiwan does not hold sovereign status under international law.
Guo stressed that Taiwan remains a province of China and an inseparable part of Chinese territory. He reiterated that there is only one China globally, reinforcing Beijing’s long-standing diplomatic position and policy framework.
Furthermore, Guo said China firmly opposes any form of official interaction between Taiwan authorities and countries maintaining diplomatic relations with Beijing. He urged Japan to strictly adhere to its commitments and avoid actions undermining political trust.
Guo warned that such engagements risk sending misleading signals to forces advocating Taiwan independence. He added that these signals could heighten cross-strait tensions and negatively affect regional security dynamics.
In addition, Guo called on Japan to withdraw what he described as incorrect Taiwan-related remarks made by senior Japanese leaders. He said addressing those statements represents the most urgent step for stabilizing bilateral political relations.
China and Japan normalized diplomatic relations in 1972, establishing the foundation for their current political framework. Under that agreement, Japan recognized the People’s Republic of China as the sole legal government representing China.
However, recent years have seen increased friction as Taiwan issues intersect with broader regional security and alliance considerations. Japanese political figures have spoken more openly about Taiwan’s strategic importance and regional economic implications.
At the same time, Beijing views such comments as violations of the One-China principle governing diplomatic relations. Guo stressed that this principle remains the political foundation for China’s ties with Japan and other nations.
Analysts note that Taiwan’s leadership has actively pursued greater international engagement amid rising cross-strait pressure. Nevertheless, Beijing continues responding firmly through diplomatic protests and public messaging.
The latest dispute reflects broader geopolitical competition reshaping East Asia’s political and economic environment. Trade, investment flows, and supply chain stability increasingly depend on managing diplomatic sensitivities carefully.
Looking ahead, observers expect China to maintain firm messaging on Taiwan-related issues. Meanwhile, Japan faces ongoing pressure to balance domestic political debate with longstanding diplomatic commitments.
