China urges Japan’s new PM Takaichi to honor commitments on Taiwan

Beijing on Tuesday urged Japan’s new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to uphold Tokyo’s longstanding political commitments on Taiwan, emphasizing the need for constructive engagement between the two Asian neighbors. The call came hours after Takaichi, leader of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), was elected as the country’s first female prime minister during a parliamentary vote in Tokyo.

China calls for adherence to ‘political foundation’

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Beijing “noted” the outcome of Japan’s leadership race but underlined that it remained Japan’s internal affair. “China and Japan are close neighbors,” Guo stated at a press briefing in Beijing. “We hope Japan will move in the same direction with us and abide by its political commitments related to history and Taiwan.” He also urged the new government in Tokyo to “preserve the political foundation” of bilateral relations and deepen the “strategic relationship of mutual benefit.”

Regional reactions from Seoul and beyond

Takaichi’s rise to power has drawn swift responses across Asia. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung congratulated her and expressed hopes to “further strengthen future-oriented, mutually beneficial cooperation” between Seoul and Tokyo. South Korea’s Foreign Ministry also said it would maintain communication with Japan’s new cabinet “to continue the positive momentum” in their bilateral ties.

India and Malaysia welcome Japan’s first female leader

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Takaichi on social media platform X, describing her election as a significant moment for Japan. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim praised her appointment as “a landmark in Japan’s political life” and a reflection of the country’s democratic evolution. Taiwan’s Vice President William Lai Ching-te also extended his congratulations, calling Japan and Taiwan “close partners sharing common values.”

Takaichi’s first diplomatic steps

Following her election in Japan’s 219th extraordinary parliamentary session, Takaichi is expected to attend the upcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Malaysia later this week — her first foreign engagement as prime minister.