China warns citizens against Japan travel amid tensions over Taiwan
What's the story
China has issued a travel advisory for its citizens, warning them against visiting Japan. The move comes after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi made controversial remarks about Taiwan. Takaichi had said that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could threaten Japan's survival and may warrant a military response from Tokyo. China's Foreign Ministry called these comments "blatantly provocative," further straining bilateral relations between the two countries.
Advisory details
China issues travel advisory, warns of 'additional risks'
The Chinese Foreign Ministry said Takaichi's remarks have "further damaged the atmosphere for people-to-people exchanges," creating "additional risks to the safety and security of Chinese citizens in Japan." It advised its citizens against traveling to Japan for now. This is China's strongest response yet to Takaichi's comments, indicating Beijing's willingness to use its economic power as a geopolitical tool.
Diplomatic tensions
China-Japan relations deteriorate over Taiwan remarks
The travel advisory comes after both countries summoned each other's ambassadors to protest the incident. China's Consul General in Osaka Xue Jian had earlier commented on Takaichi's remarks, saying "the dirty neck that sticks itself in must be cut off." This was followed by Chinese state media publishing scathing commentaries against Takaichi and social media discussions disparaging her.
Japan's stance
Japan's response to China's travel advisory
In response to China's actions, Tokyo summoned China's ambassador to Japan to protest Xue's "highly inappropriate remarks" and demand Beijing take "appropriate actions," its foreign ministry said. Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi defended Takaichi's comments as being made in an "existential crisis situation." Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara emphasized the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait for global security.
Warning issued
China's Ministry of Defense issues warning to Japan
China's Ministry of Defense separately warned Japan would "suffer a crushing defeat" if it intervened militarily in the Taiwan Strait. Nearly 7.5 million Chinese travelers visited Japan between January and September this year, according to official data cited by Japanese public broadcaster NHK. The travel advisory comes less than two weeks after Takaichi and Chinese leader Xi Jinping agreed to pursue stable ties at an international summit.