Japanese prime minister criticized over provocative Taiwan remarks

Japan's main opposition parties have strongly criticized Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi for her recent provocative remarks in the Diet suggesting that a "Taiwan contingency" could become a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan.

Both the Komeito party and the Japanese Communist Party argued that Takaichi's statements could unnecessarily escalate diplomatic and security risks, undermining the foundation of national policy.

Tetsuo Saito, the Komeito party leader, said on a TBS TV program on Friday that Takaichi had acknowledged in the Diet that "my remarks do not necessarily reflect the government's unified view," which Saito described as a serious problem in itself.

Saito has submitted a written inquiry to the government demanding a clear statement of Japan's official position on a Taiwan contingency.

He also warned that Takaichi's unilateral statements could heighten regional tensions and undermine diplomatic stability.

JCP Chair Tamura Tomoko in the House of Representatives Budget Committee on Tuesday demanded that Takaichi retract her statement made in the same committee.

Tamura asserted that what the prime minister should do is "not to stoke the crisis, but to make diplomatic efforts to eliminate the risk of war."

She criticized Takaichi for evading the issue and refusing to retract her comments, which she said further escalates concerns over a potential Taiwan contingency and undermines regional security.
Tamura emphasized that the Japanese Communist Party has repeatedly communicated to China its opposition to any military intervention in Taiwan by Japan and the United States.
The party emphasized that while speaking out on these critical issues, it is also committed to improving Japan-China relations and making every effort to prevent any conflict from escalating into armed confrontation or war, Tamura said.