BEIJING - China on Friday criticized Japan for failing to show "sincerity and actions to reflect on its wrongdoings" on the eve of the first anniversary of remarks by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Taiwan that led to a sharp deterioration of bilateral ties.
Saturday will mark one year since Takaichi suggested that an attack on Taiwan, which Beijing claims as part of its territory, could prompt Japan's Self-Defense Forces to act in support of the United States.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said at a press conference that it is regretful that "no progress" has been made and the Japanese authorities are "evading" the issue, insisting that the responsibility "lies entirely with the Japanese side." He once again urged Tokyo to correct its "wrongful remarks."
Later in the day, Takaichi told reporters in Tokyo that her government is committed to promoting a strategic and mutually beneficial relationship with China, which she called "an important neighbor." She expressed willingness to engage in dialogue on common challenges and to build constructive and stable ties while protecting national interests.
Infuriated by her parliamentary comments, China has since unleashed a series of political and economic reprisals against Japan, including advising its citizens against travel to the country, banning imports of Japanese seafood and imposing export restrictions on rare earths used to manufacture various high-tech products.
