BEIJING — The government of the People's Republic of China has strongly denounced newly appointed Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi for holding a meeting with a representative from Taiwan during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders' Meeting in Gyeongju, South Korea. Beijing asserted that the move sends a "very bad signal" to pro-independence forces in Taiwan and constitutes a serious violation of bilateral agreements and international norms.

Serious Violations Claimed 

The Chinese Foreign Ministry released a statement on its website on November 1st, condemning the Japanese premier’s actions. A Ministry spokesperson argued that Takaichi's "insistence on meeting with an individual from the Taiwan authorities" during APEC, along with the subsequent "high-profile promotion" of the encounter on social media, "seriously violates the 'One China' principle, the spirit of the four political documents between China and Japan, and the basic norms of international relations."

"The nature and impact are very bad," the spokesperson stated, emphasizing that the action "sends a gravely incorrect signal to 'Taiwan independence' forces." China conveyed its "firm opposition" to Japan, stating it had made "solemn representations and strong protests" through diplomatic channels.

The Foreign Ministry further underscored Japan's historical responsibility toward Taiwan, asserting that Japan "bears a heavy, unforgivable historical crime for its long-term colonial rule over Taiwan, and should therefore be more cautious in its words and actions."

Beijing urged Japan to adhere to the spirit and commitments of the four key political documents—which affirm the "One China" principle and mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity—to "take substantive measures to eliminate the negative impact," cease interference in China's internal affairs, and translate its commitment to a constructive and stable relationship into action.

Premier Takaichi's Action 

On October 31st, Prime Minister Takaichi posted several photos on her X (formerly Twitter) account of meetings with various heads of state during the APEC summit. Included in these was a picture of her greeting Lin Hsin-i, the Senior Advisor to the President's Office of Taiwan, who attended as the island's representative.

Later that day, Takaichi posted a separate photograph showing her shaking hands with Advisor Lin, accompanied by a message expressing her "hope for deeper working-level cooperation between Japan and Taiwan."

Preceded by Strained Summit 

China's swift and strong public criticism follows a first-ever summit between Prime Minister Takaichi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Gyeongju the day before. The 30-minute meeting on October 31st was characterized by both sides broaching sensitive topics and confirming significant differences.

President Xi stated his willingness to promote a "mutually beneficial strategic relationship" but demanded adherence to the four political documents regarding "major issues" such as history and Taiwan. He also referenced the spirit of the "Murayama Statement," the 1995 apology and reflection by then-Prime Minister Tomiichi Murayama on Japan’s past colonial rule and aggression.

In response, Premier Takaichi signaled a commitment to "candid dialogue" to address bilateral "challenges" but proactively raised issues concerning human rights in China, the East China Sea, and the North Korean issue. The public meeting with the Taiwanese representative appears to be a immediate follow-up to the strained discussion, highlighting the deep political chasm between the two nations over the Taiwan issue.

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