Japan raises concerns to China over military exercises near Taiwan

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi stressed Japan’s commitment to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, expressing concerns over China’s military exercises near Taiwan and pledging close collaboration with the U.S.

In a diplomatic move underscoring growing tensions in the region, Japan has expressed its concerns to China regarding recent military exercises conducted in the vicinity of Taiwan. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi conveyed Tokyo’s apprehensions during a press conference on Thursday, affirming Japan’s commitment to advocating for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

“We will continue to directly and firmly convey to China the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait,” Hayashi stated, emphasizing Japan’s resolve to collaborate closely with the United States and other allies. He highlighted Japan’s ongoing diplomatic efforts and pledged to monitor developments in cross-strait relations closely.

The statement comes amid heightened scrutiny of China’s military activities near Taiwan, which have raised alarm bells among regional stakeholders. Beijing’s manoeuvres, including live-fire drills and naval patrols, have sparked concerns over the potential for escalating tensions and destabilizing the fragile status quo in the region.

Japan’s intervention underscores the broader geopolitical significance of the Taiwan issue, with Tokyo aligning itself with the United States and other like-minded nations in advocating for the maintenance of peace and security in East Asia.

As tensions simmer, observers are closely watching for any further developments that could exacerbate the situation and trigger a broader regional crisis. Japan’s diplomatic overture to China signals a concerted effort to defuse tensions and uphold the principles of peaceful coexistence in the Asia-Pacific region.