Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi reaffirmed her commitment to maintaining dialogue with China, which is currently facing a stalemate in relations.
According to Yonhap News, during a press conference held on July 27 at the Prime Minister's Office in Tokyo, Takaichi stated, "China is an important neighboring country," and emphasized that her administration's policy of promoting a comprehensive strategic reciprocal relationship has remained consistent since she took office.
Takaichi particularly highlighted the importance of dialogue in addressing issues between the two countries. She remarked, "Given the concerns and problems in Japan-China relations, it is crucial to communicate and engage at all levels through various opportunities. We will continue to communicate and respond calmly and appropriately from the perspective of national interests. I look forward to the APEC summit."
These comments are seen as a reference to a potential meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the APEC summit scheduled for November in Shenzhen, China. Following Takaichi's remarks last November suggesting intervention in the event of a Taiwan crisis, tensions between Japan and China have persisted, raising questions about whether the upcoming APEC meeting could serve as a turning point for improving relations.
Since taking office in October last year, Takaichi has cited the revitalization of Japan-South Korea shuttle diplomacy as a key diplomatic achievement. She also reflected on her visit to South Korea in May, where she attended a traditional fireworks display in Andong, the hometown of President Lee Jae-myung. She expressed, "It was the first time I had seen such fireworks. I was very moved."
Meanwhile, Takaichi adopted a cautious stance regarding the recent decline in cabinet approval ratings. A poll conducted by the Yomiuri Shimbun revealed that her cabinet's approval rating dropped by 12 percentage points to approximately 57%, marking the first time it has fallen to the 50% range since her inauguration in October last year.
In response, Takaichi stated, "I will refrain from commenting on the results or factors of the opinion polls," adding, "I will work humbly and seriously for the country and the people without being swayed by the numbers."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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