Japan’s Takaichi Vows to Hold Talks with China

Tokyo, Dec. 17 (Jiji Press)–Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi pledged Wednesday to hold talks with China to improve deteriorating bilateral relations. “We want to continue frank dialogue and comprehensively promote a mutually beneficial relationship (with China) based on common strategic interests,” Takaichi told a press conference after the extraordinary session of parliament closed. The two countries’ relations deteriorated following Takaichi’s parliamentary remarks on Nov. 7 that a possible Taiwan contingency could constitute what Japan calls a survival-threatening situation, allowing the country to exercise its right to collective self-defense. At the press conference, Takaichi emphasized that her remarks were consistent with the government’s position. “What is needed now is to strengthen national power through aggressive fiscal policy,” she also said, adding that the cabinet is due to approve a draft budget for fiscal 2026 on Dec. 26. On financial resources for strengthening the country’s defense capabilities, she said, “We aim to settle the issue without increasing burdens on households.” Takaichi expressed her intention to hold a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at an early date. She also stated that she has “no time to think about” dissolution of the House of Representatives, the all-important lower chamber of parliament, for a general election. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]