TOKYO – Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaiichi reiterated on Tuesday the long-standing assertion that the Dokdo/Takeshima islands are an integral part of Japanese territory, pledging to respond "resolutely" to the matter.

Appearing before the House of Representatives (Lower House) Budget Committee, Takaiichi addressed a question posed by ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) member Yasuhiro Takami. Takami stressed that "the reality of South Korea's illegal occupation has not changed even one millimeter" and urged the Prime Minister to take a firm stance.

In her response, Takaiichi emphasized the government's consistent position. "Regarding Takeshima, which belongs to Okinoshima Town, Shimane Prefecture, there is no change to our basic stance that it is clearly inherent Japanese territory, both in light of historical facts and international law," she declared. She further stated that the government would "respond resolutely" based on this fundamental view.

The Prime Minister also committed to intensifying efforts to promote Japan's position both domestically and internationally. "We will strive to disseminate accurate understanding of our country's stance both at home and abroad," she added.

However, Takaiichi remained non-committal on the question of the "Takeshima Day" event, which Takami pressed her on. Takeshima Day is an annual ceremony held on February 22nd by Shimane Prefecture. The local government consistently demands the attendance of a Cabinet minister, but the central government has sent an official at the Vice-Ministerial level (Parliamentary Vice-Minister) for 13 consecutive years, including this year.

Local media outlets speculate that the attendance of a Cabinet-level official could provoke a strong backlash from South Korea.

The Prime Minister’s current cautious approach contrasts with her earlier statements during the LDP leadership election in September. At that time, she asserted a bolder position, stating, "It would originally be appropriate for a Minister to attend the Takeshima Day ceremony with dignity. There is no need to be timid."

Following her appointment as Prime Minister, however, her tone shifted. When questioned last month about Cabinet attendance at the event, she merely replied that the government would "respond appropriately," offering no definitive commitment. The Prime Minister’s firm public re-affirmation of Japan's territorial claim today, while side-stepping the politically sensitive issue of Cabinet attendance at the commemorative day, reflects the delicate balance Tokyo must maintain in its diplomatic relationship with Seoul.

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