Japan on Thursday (Jun 25) rejected claims that its military “harassed” a Chinese aircraft carrier strike group during over 40 days of “far-sea combat training” in the Pacific. This comes after the Chinese Navy accused Japan of “repeatedly” conducting close-range surveillance and “provocative harassment”. In a statement, Tokyo said that the claims were “not true”, adding that its forces will continue to conduct vigilance and surveillance in the surrounding area sea and airspace of the country.“Chinese state media have reported as if the Japan Self-Defense Forces engaged in interference or provocation against Chinese naval vessels, including the aircraft carrier Liaoning. Such claims are not true,” Japan’s Joint Staff said on X.The statement added, “In order to ensure Japan’s sovereignty and security, JMOD/JSDF will continue to conduct vigilant monitoring and surveillance of the waters and airspace surrounding Japan in a professional and steady manner, while maintaining a calm and resolute posture and placing the highest priority on safety.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-never-return-to-pre-war-conditions-iran-says-hormuz-under-tehran-control-1782178171914">‘Will never return to pre-war conditions’: Iran says Hormuz will be under Tehran control</a><h2>What did China claim?</h2>Earlier on Wednesday (Jun 25), Chinese state broadcaster CCTV reported that the Chinese Navy’s Liaoning aircraft carrier flotilla returned to its home port on Monday (Jun 22) after the Japanese military “harassed” the strike group.“Japanese vessels and aircraft repeatedly conducted close-range tracking, surveillance and provocative harassment,” it is said.“The Liaoning carrier group maintained a high state of alert throughout, continuously launching carrier-based fighter aircraft for combat sorties, flexibly adjusting combat formations and responding professionally to Japan’s dangerous actions,” CCTV added.Earlier, on June 1, Japan said that the Chinese naval group carried out drills east of the Philippines in late May. It added that its forces conducted “surveillance and information gathering.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-requests-88-billion-for-iran-war-other-expenses-1782355453624">Trump administration requests $88 billion for Iran war, other expenses</a><h2>China-Japan ties</h2>Relations between China and Japan have long been marked by tension. The ties between the two countries turned worse after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested that Tokyo could consider military involvement should Beijing attempt to seize Taiwan by force. Beijing views Taiwan as part of its territory and has repeatedly stated that it reserves the option of using military force to bring the island under its control.In response to Japan’s increasingly assertive stance, China has issued advisories warning its citizens about travel to Japan and has introduced trade-related restrictions.On Wednesday (Jun 24), China said that it detained two Japanese nationals for “smuggling goods subject to a national export and import ban”. According to Japanese media reports, the individuals, employees of Fuji Electric, may have been investigated over allegations involving the attempted export of rare earth materials from China.Watch | China's Lineshine Wins Top Spot on Top 500 List; China Challenges America's Digital Empire <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-s-lineshine-wins-top-spot-on-top-500-list-china-challenges-america-s-digital-empire-1782374204436/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-s-lineshine-wins-top-spot-on-top-500-list-china-challenges-america-s-digital-empire-1782374204436/embed</a>&nbsp;

Japan rejected China's claim that it harassed the Liaoning carrier group during Pacific drills, calling the allegations false. The dispute adds to growing tensions between Tokyo and Beijing.

Japan on Thursday (Jun 25) rejected claims that its military “harassed” a Chinese aircraft carrier strike group during over 40 days of “far-sea combat training” in the Pacific. This comes after the Chinese Navy accused Japan of “repeatedly” conducting close-range surveillance and “provocative harassment”. In a statement, Tokyo said that the claims were “not true”, adding that its forces will continue to conduct vigilance and surveillance in the surrounding area sea and airspace of the country. “Chinese state media have reported as if the Japan Self-Defense Forces engaged in interference or provocation against Chinese naval vessels, including the aircraft carrier Liaoning. Such claims are not true,” Japan’s Joint Staff said on X. The statement added, “In order to ensure Japan’s sovereignty and security, JMOD/JSDF will continue to conduct vigilant monitoring and surveillance of the waters and airspace surrounding Japan in a professional and steady manner, while maintaining a calm and resolute posture and placing the highest priority on safety.” Also read | ‘Will never return to pre-war conditions’: Iran says Hormuz will be under Tehran control What did China claim? Earlier on Wednesday (Jun 25), Chinese state broadcaster CCTV reported that the Chinese Navy’s Liaoning aircraft carrier flotilla returned to its home port on Monday (Jun 22) after the Japanese military “harassed” the strike group. “Japanese vessels and aircraft repeatedly conducted close-range tracking, surveillance and provocative harassment,” it is said. “The Liaoning carrier group maintained a high state of alert throughout, continuously launching carrier-based fighter aircraft for combat sorties, flexibly adjusting combat formations and responding professionally to Japan’s dangerous actions,” CCTV added. Earlier, on June 1, Japan said that the Chinese naval group carried out drills east of the Philippines in late May. It added that its forces conducted “surveillance and information gathering.” Also read | Trump administration requests $88 billion for Iran war, other expenses China-Japan ties Relations between China and Japan have long been marked by tension. The ties between the two countries turned worse after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested that Tokyo could consider military involvement should Beijing attempt to seize Taiwan by force. Beijing views Taiwan as part of its territory and has repeatedly stated that it reserves the option of using military force to bring the island under its control. In response to Japan’s increasingly assertive stance, China has issued advisories warning its citizens about travel to Japan and has introduced trade-related restrictions. On Wednesday (Jun 24), China said that it detained two Japanese nationals for “smuggling goods subject to a national export and import ban”. According to Japanese media reports, the individuals, employees of Fuji Electric, may have been investigated over allegations involving the attempted export of rare earth materials from China. Watch | China's Lineshine Wins Top Spot on Top 500 List; China Challenges America's Digital Empire https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-s-lineshine-wins-top-spot-on-top-500-list-china-challenges-america-s-digital-empire-1782374204436/embed

Japan rejected China's claim that it harassed the Liaoning carrier group during Pacific drills, calling the allegations false. The dispute adds to growing tensions between Tokyo and Beijing.

‘Claims are not true’: Japan rejects China’s accusation of ‘harassing’ aircraft carrier during Pacific drills

A day after a man claiming to be a Japanese soldier forcefully attempted entering the Chinese Embassy in Tokyo, Japan has said that the incident was “regrettable". Japan’s top government spokesman Minoru Kihara said that investigation on the matter is underway. This comes after China lodged strong protest over the incident and raised the issue of safety with the Japanese government. Beijing also said that the incident showed rise of new militarism in Japan. Soon after Japanese statement, China urged Japan to “bring the full weight of law” against the perpetrator. Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said the incident threatened diplomatic security and warned of rising far-right and militarist trends.&nbsp;Government spokesman Minoru Kihara was quoted by AFP saying, “It is truly regrettable that a Self-Defence Forces member, who is expected to comply with the law, has been arrested on suspicion” of entering the embassy premises. "Police are already conducting an investigation to clarify what happened and have implemented necessary measures to strengthen security of the embassy. We will take necessary steps to prevent any recurrence of such incidents," he told a press conference.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-and-japan-embroiled-in-major-diplomatic-war-over-taiwan-what-triggered-it-and-what-s-happening-now-1763456353464">China-Japan tensions escalate as Tokyo announces plans to deploy missiles on island near Taiwan: What's happening</a>&nbsp;A police spokeswoman was also quoted by AFP saying that the<a href="https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/update4-gsdf-officer-arrested-over-alleged-entry-into-chinese-embassy-in-tokyo?ref=inline-article"> </a>suspect has been identified as 23-year-old Kodai Murata. Japanese newspaper Yomiuri Shimbun also reported that he was arrested for trespassing. He allegedly told investigators he wanted to meet the Chinese ambassador and, if refused, planned to kill himself inside the embassy. A knife was also reportedly found at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;"The suspect told police investigators that he was hoping to meet the ambassador to tell him to refrain from making hardline remarks, and if that request was rejected, I wanted to surprise him by killing myself,” the Yomiuri Shimbun reported, citing unnamed sources.<h2>What was the incident?</h2>An individual claiming to be an active-duty officer of Japan's Self-Defense Forces reportedly scaled the wall and forcibly entered the Chinese embassy in Japan on Tuesday (Mar 24), prompting the Chinese foreign ministry to issue a sharp reaction. Speaking at a news briefing in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian expressed his country's deep shock over the incident and informed that China has lodged a strong protest with the Japanese side. The ministry did not reveal the identify of the person or their gender. Stating that the incident threatens the personal safety of Chinese diplomatic personnel and the security of diplomatic facilities in Japan, he slammed the Japanese government, claiming that “erroneous policies” of the Takaichi-led government is the major cause of concern in the Sino-Japanese relations. Jian said that the case reflected the rampant growth of far-right thinking and forces in Japan, adding that the resurgence of militarism had become a serious danger.<h2>China and Japan tensions</h2>China and Japan have been embroiled diplomatic faceoff after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi linked a hypothetical Taiwan contingency with the possible deployment of Japanese forces. On Nov 14, 2025, Takaichi was asked by an opposition lawmaker in parliament about “survival-threatening situations.” In response, Takaichi gave an example that an attempt to bring Taiwan completely under the control of Beijing using battleships and military force could constitute such a situation. Beijing condemned the remarks as a challenge to its sovereignty, triggering a diplomatic fallout. In response, Japan returns pandas to China, while Beijing reimposes a ban on Japanese seafood, issues travel warnings, and raises the issue at the UN, demanding an apology. Tourism from China to Japan also drops sharply.

Japan called the Chinese Embassy break-in by a Japan Self-Defense Forces member “regrettable” as China lodged a protest and demanded strict action. The suspect allegedly planned suicide inside. The incident adds to rising tensions between Japan and China.

A day after a man claiming to be a Japanese soldier forcefully attempted entering the Chinese Embassy in Tokyo, Japan has said that the incident was “regrettable". Japan’s top government spokesman Minoru Kihara said that investigation on the matter is underway. This comes after China lodged strong protest over the incident and raised the issue of safety with the Japanese government. Beijing also said that the incident showed rise of new militarism in Japan. Soon after Japanese statement, China urged Japan to “bring the full weight of law” against the perpetrator. Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said the incident threatened diplomatic security and warned of rising far-right and militarist trends. Government spokesman Minoru Kihara was quoted by AFP saying, “It is truly regrettable that a Self-Defence Forces member, who is expected to comply with the law, has been arrested on suspicion” of entering the embassy premises. "Police are already conducting an investigation to clarify what happened and have implemented necessary measures to strengthen security of the embassy. We will take necessary steps to prevent any recurrence of such incidents," he told a press conference. Also Read: China-Japan tensions escalate as Tokyo announces plans to deploy missiles on island near Taiwan: What's happening A police spokeswoman was also quoted by AFP saying that the suspect has been identified as 23-year-old Kodai Murata. Japanese newspaper Yomiuri Shimbun also reported that he was arrested for trespassing. He allegedly told investigators he wanted to meet the Chinese ambassador and, if refused, planned to kill himself inside the embassy. A knife was also reportedly found at the scene. "The suspect told police investigators that he was hoping to meet the ambassador to tell him to refrain from making hardline remarks, and if that request was rejected, I wanted to surprise him by killing myself,” the Yomiuri Shimbun reported, citing unnamed sources. What was the incident? An individual claiming to be an active-duty officer of Japan's Self-Defense Forces reportedly scaled the wall and forcibly entered the Chinese embassy in Japan on Tuesday (Mar 24), prompting the Chinese foreign ministry to issue a sharp reaction. Speaking at a news briefing in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian expressed his country's deep shock over the incident and informed that China has lodged a strong protest with the Japanese side. The ministry did not reveal the identify of the person or their gender. Stating that the incident threatens the personal safety of Chinese diplomatic personnel and the security of diplomatic facilities in Japan, he slammed the Japanese government, claiming that “erroneous policies” of the Takaichi-led government is the major cause of concern in the Sino-Japanese relations. Jian said that the case reflected the rampant growth of far-right thinking and forces in Japan, adding that the resurgence of militarism had become a serious danger. China and Japan tensions China and Japan have been embroiled diplomatic faceoff after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi linked a hypothetical Taiwan contingency with the possible deployment of Japanese forces. On Nov 14, 2025, Takaichi was asked by an opposition lawmaker in parliament about “survival-threatening situations.” In response, Takaichi gave an example that an attempt to bring Taiwan completely under the control of Beijing using battleships and military force could constitute such a situation. Beijing condemned the remarks as a challenge to its sovereignty, triggering a diplomatic fallout. In response, Japan returns pandas to China, while Beijing reimposes a ban on Japanese seafood, issues travel warnings, and raises the issue at the UN, demanding an apology. Tourism from China to Japan also drops sharply.

Japan called the Chinese Embassy break-in by a Japan Self-Defense Forces member “regrettable” as China lodged a protest and demanded strict action. The suspect allegedly planned suicide inside. The incident adds to rising tensions between Japan and China.

Japan regrets, China fumes as man who stormed Chinese embassy in Japan ‘planned to kill...'

Japan's cabinet has approved a record-breaking defense budget for the next fiscal year, surpassing ¥9 trillion ($58 billion), representing a 9.4% increase from the previous year's budget. This hike is part of Japan's ongoing five-year strategy to double its annual military spending to 2% of GDP. The budget focuses on enhancing Japan’s defensive capabilities, including the development of advanced strike-back options and the strengthening of coastal defenses through surface-to-ship missiles and unmanned systems.&nbsp;A key component of the plan is the deployment of unmanned drones, both air and sea, under a program called "Shield," expected to roll out by March 2028. Japan has earmarked ¥100 billion for these new assets, aimed at bolstering its surveillance and defensive operations along its coastlines. This surge in military funding coincides with a period of growing tension between Japan and China.&nbsp;&nbsp;Beijing has consistently opposed Japan’s defensive build-up, especially after remarks by Japan’s Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, suggesting Japan might intervene militarily if China were to attack Taiwan. This statement caused a strong backlash from China, leading to a series of diplomatic and economic retaliations. Despite this, Takaichi has stood by her comments, insisting that Japan's defense policies remain unchanged.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/5-killed-21-injured-in-blast-inside-alawite-mosque-in-syria-s-homs-toll-may-go-up-says-official-1766749937610">5 killed, 21 injured in blast inside Alawite mosque in Syria’s Homs city; toll may go up, says official</a>&nbsp;China's criticism has extended beyond conventional military matters to Japan’s space ambitions. Chinese officials recently accused Japan of accelerating the militarization of space, with some of Japan's rocket launches in collaboration with the United States. Japan has launched several rockets this year, including those carrying satellites for GPS and intelligence gathering.&nbsp;In response to Japan’s increasing military assertiveness, China’s defense ministry warned of rising concerns over Japan’s space activities, likening them to a dangerous escalation reminiscent of the prelude to Pearl Harbor. Beijing’s concerns are compounded by Japan's long-standing post-war pacifist constitution, which limits the country's military actions, though a 2015 amendment allows for collective self-defense.&nbsp;The rising tensions between Japan and China are further fueled by the ongoing military modernisation in both nations. Japan sees China as its most significant strategic challenge, particularly given Beijing’s growing focus on Taiwan, which China considers a renegade province. Meanwhile, the United States remains a key ally to Taiwan, providing military support in defiance of China’s threats to annex the island.&nbsp;The confrontation has also escalated with recent incidents, such as Chinese military aircraft locking their radar onto Japanese planes during training exercises near southwestern Japan, which led to official protests from Tokyo.In contrast, China defends its military expansion as reasonable and fully compliant with international law, criticising the United States for its continued support of Taiwan and its role in fostering independence movements within the island.

Japan approves record-high military spending amid escalating China-Japan tensions

Japan's cabinet has approved a record-breaking defense budget for the next fiscal year, surpassing ¥9 trillion ($58 billion), representing a 9.4% increase from the previous year's budget. This hike is part of Japan's ongoing five-year strategy to double its annual military spending to 2% of GDP. The budget focuses on enhancing Japan’s defensive capabilities, including the development of advanced strike-back options and the strengthening of coastal defenses through surface-to-ship missiles and unmanned systems. A key component of the plan is the deployment of unmanned drones, both air and sea, under a program called "Shield," expected to roll out by March 2028. Japan has earmarked ¥100 billion for these new assets, aimed at bolstering its surveillance and defensive operations along its coastlines. This surge in military funding coincides with a period of growing tension between Japan and China. Beijing has consistently opposed Japan’s defensive build-up, especially after remarks by Japan’s Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, suggesting Japan might intervene militarily if China were to attack Taiwan. This statement caused a strong backlash from China, leading to a series of diplomatic and economic retaliations. Despite this, Takaichi has stood by her comments, insisting that Japan's defense policies remain unchanged. Also Read: 5 killed, 21 injured in blast inside Alawite mosque in Syria’s Homs city; toll may go up, says official China's criticism has extended beyond conventional military matters to Japan’s space ambitions. Chinese officials recently accused Japan of accelerating the militarization of space, with some of Japan's rocket launches in collaboration with the United States. Japan has launched several rockets this year, including those carrying satellites for GPS and intelligence gathering. In response to Japan’s increasing military assertiveness, China’s defense ministry warned of rising concerns over Japan’s space activities, likening them to a dangerous escalation reminiscent of the prelude to Pearl Harbor. Beijing’s concerns are compounded by Japan's long-standing post-war pacifist constitution, which limits the country's military actions, though a 2015 amendment allows for collective self-defense. The rising tensions between Japan and China are further fueled by the ongoing military modernisation in both nations. Japan sees China as its most significant strategic challenge, particularly given Beijing’s growing focus on Taiwan, which China considers a renegade province. Meanwhile, the United States remains a key ally to Taiwan, providing military support in defiance of China’s threats to annex the island. The confrontation has also escalated with recent incidents, such as Chinese military aircraft locking their radar onto Japanese planes during training exercises near southwestern Japan, which led to official protests from Tokyo. In contrast, China defends its military expansion as reasonable and fully compliant with international law, criticising the United States for its continued support of Taiwan and its role in fostering independence movements within the island.

Japan approves a record defence budget to strengthen coastal and strike-back capabilities, as China criticises Tokyo's space tech advancements and military stance

Japan has slammed the first-ever incursion of a Chinese aircraft into its airspace by calling it "unacceptable" and a&nbsp;"serious violation" of its sovereignty.&nbsp;

The incursion took place on Monday (Aug 26) for a two-minute period around 11:29 am (0229 GMT) near the uninhabited Danjo Islands, which prompted the Japanese authorities to scramble its fighter jets in the region.&nbsp;

“The violation of our country's airspace by Chinese military aircraft is not only a serious violation of our country's sovereignty, but also a threat to our safety, and we consider it utterly unacceptable,” Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi told a news conference.

The Danjo Islands are a group of&nbsp;small islets, located&nbsp;in the East China Sea off Japan's southern Nagasaki region, and are not disputed territory.

“We understand that this is the first confirmed and announced airspace incursion by a Chinese military aircraft since we started the anti-airspace incursion measures," he added.

Tokyo said China's military activities in recent years near its territory had started to increase, prompting the government to keep an even closer eye.&nbsp;

“The government will continue to watch China's military activities with keen interest, and will take all possible measures to ensure vigilant surveillance and prevent airspace violations."

According to experts, China may have been probing Japan's air defence network and seeking intelligence as Tokyo extends&nbsp;its cooperation with the US and other countries in the volatile region.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinas-y-9-reconnaissance-plane-flew-over-japans-danjo-islands-753518">Watch |&nbsp;China's Y-9 Reconnaissance Plane flew over Japan's Danjo Islands</a>

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<h2>China issues statement&nbsp;</h2>

More than 24 hours after the incident, China issued a statement saying it had "no intention"&nbsp;of violating foreign airspace.

The statement came after US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan arrived in Beijing on Tuesday. According to reports, the issue might be brought up as Japan is Washington's closest ally in the region.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The incursion comes against the backdrop of Chinese vessels and their repeated maritime provocations near disputed islands in the East China Sea - escalating regional tension.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-broadcaster-nhk-apologises-for-staffer-claiming-senkaku-islands-as-chinese-territory-751978">Also read |&nbsp;Japanese broadcaster NHK apologises for staffer claiming Senkaku Islands as ‘Chinese territory’</a>

Prior to Monday's incursion, China had sent its aircraft into&nbsp;Japanese territorial airspace on just two occasions.

The first instance came in 2012 when a&nbsp;propeller plane was detected, and another time in 2017 involving a small drone — occurred near the Japanese-controlled Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea. Notably, China claims the Senkaku Islands as its own and calls it&nbsp;the Diaoyu.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Japan has slammed the first-ever incursion of a Chinese aircraft into its airspace by calling it "unacceptable" and a "serious violation" of its sovereignty. The incursion took place on Monday (Aug 26) for a two-minute period around 11:29 am (0229 GMT) near the uninhabited Danjo Islands, which prompted the Japanese authorities to scramble its fighter jets in the region.

Japan has slammed the first-ever incursion of a Chinese aircraft into its airspace by calling it "unacceptable" and a "serious violation" of its sovereignty. The incursion took place on Monday (Aug 26) for a two-minute period around 11:29 am (0229 GMT) near the uninhabited Danjo Islands, which prompted the Japanese authorities to scramble its fighter jets in the region. “The violation of our country's airspace by Chinese military aircraft is not only a serious violation of our country's sovereignty, but also a threat to our safety, and we consider it utterly unacceptable,” Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi told a news conference. The Danjo Islands are a group of small islets, located in the East China Sea off Japan's southern Nagasaki region, and are not disputed territory. “We understand that this is the first confirmed and announced airspace incursion by a Chinese military aircraft since we started the anti-airspace incursion measures," he added. Tokyo said China's military activities in recent years near its territory had started to increase, prompting the government to keep an even closer eye. “The government will continue to watch China's military activities with keen interest, and will take all possible measures to ensure vigilant surveillance and prevent airspace violations." According to experts, China may have been probing Japan's air defence network and seeking intelligence as Tokyo extends its cooperation with the US and other countries in the volatile region. Watch | China's Y-9 Reconnaissance Plane flew over Japan's Danjo Islands × China issues statement More than 24 hours after the incident, China issued a statement saying it had "no intention" of violating foreign airspace. The statement came after US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan arrived in Beijing on Tuesday. According to reports, the issue might be brought up as Japan is Washington's closest ally in the region. The incursion comes against the backdrop of Chinese vessels and their repeated maritime provocations near disputed islands in the East China Sea - escalating regional tension. Also read | Japanese broadcaster NHK apologises for staffer claiming Senkaku Islands as ‘Chinese territory’ Prior to Monday's incursion, China had sent its aircraft into Japanese territorial airspace on just two occasions. The first instance came in 2012 when a propeller plane was detected, and another time in 2017 involving a small drone — occurred near the Japanese-controlled Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea. Notably, China claims the Senkaku Islands as its own and calls it the Diaoyu. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan slams China for incursion of military aircraft into its territory, Beijing responds

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday (August 29) consumed what he called a "safe and delicious" meal of fish from the Fukushima.&nbsp;

Just days after the process of release of wastewater from the plant&nbsp;into the Pacific Ocean was started, the Japanese PM invited his ministers to his office for a sashimi lunch made up of seafood caught from the contentious Fukushima Prefecture.&nbsp;

This move as per Reuters was aimed at supporting Fukushima Prefecture's seafood industry as China banned all seafood after the release of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.

<h2>Sashimi lunch</h2>

In a move aimed at demonstrating confidence in the safety of the region's seafood and encourage support for the struggling industry, Kishida, along with Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, Minister In Charge of Policies Related to Children Masanobu Ogura, and Finance Minister Shunichi Suzuki, enjoyed a meal that included flounder, sea bass, and octopus sashimi sourced from Fukushima's waters.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-foreign-minister-says-china-harassment-extremely-worrying-after-brick-thrown-at-embassy-in-beijing-630095">Japan's foreign minister says China harassment 'extremely worrying' after brick thrown at embassy in Beijing</a>

A video clip of Kishida enjoying the meal was published on social media by his office.

The clip featuring cheery music shows the Japanese PM saying, "This is very good," as he chews on a slice of flounder sashimi.

He then calls on viewers to enjoy "safe and delicious" Japanese seafood and support the northeastern region.

<h2>Concerns over Fukushima seafood</h2>

The move was aimed at pacifying concerns over the safety of seafood from Fukushima Prefecture, and promote products from the area that 12 years earlier was devastated by a huge earthquake and a Tsunami.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-condemns-extremely-regrettable-harassment-calls-from-china-amid-fukushima-water-discharge-629938">Japan condemns 'extremely regrettable' harassment calls from China amid Fukushima water discharge row</a>

Even before the recent release of treated wastewater from the Fukushima plant into the Pacific Ocean, there were concerns. However, this has exacerbated worries about the reputation of Japanese seafood, both domestically and internationally.&nbsp;

The release of the treated water, which has undergone filtration to remove most radioactive elements except for tritium, is part of the decommissioning process of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant. This process, as per AFP, will happen over decades and will release water equivalent to more than 500 Olympic swimming pools.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday (August 29) consumed what he called a "safe and delicious" meal of fish from the Fukushima. Just days after the process of release of wastewater from the plant into the Pacific Ocean was started, the Japanese PM invited his ministers to his office for a sashimi lunch made up of seafood caught from the contentious Fukushima Prefecture.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday (August 29) consumed what he called a "safe and delicious" meal of fish from the Fukushima. Just days after the process of release of wastewater from the plant into the Pacific Ocean was started, the Japanese PM invited his ministers to his office for a sashimi lunch made up of seafood caught from the contentious Fukushima Prefecture. This move as per Reuters was aimed at supporting Fukushima Prefecture's seafood industry as China banned all seafood after the release of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. Sashimi lunch In a move aimed at demonstrating confidence in the safety of the region's seafood and encourage support for the struggling industry, Kishida, along with Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, Minister In Charge of Policies Related to Children Masanobu Ogura, and Finance Minister Shunichi Suzuki, enjoyed a meal that included flounder, sea bass, and octopus sashimi sourced from Fukushima's waters. Also read | Japan's foreign minister says China harassment 'extremely worrying' after brick thrown at embassy in Beijing A video clip of Kishida enjoying the meal was published on social media by his office. The clip featuring cheery music shows the Japanese PM saying, "This is very good," as he chews on a slice of flounder sashimi. He then calls on viewers to enjoy "safe and delicious" Japanese seafood and support the northeastern region. Concerns over Fukushima seafood The move was aimed at pacifying concerns over the safety of seafood from Fukushima Prefecture, and promote products from the area that 12 years earlier was devastated by a huge earthquake and a Tsunami. Also read | Japan condemns 'extremely regrettable' harassment calls from China amid Fukushima water discharge row Even before the recent release of treated wastewater from the Fukushima plant into the Pacific Ocean, there were concerns. However, this has exacerbated worries about the reputation of Japanese seafood, both domestically and internationally. The release of the treated water, which has undergone filtration to remove most radioactive elements except for tritium, is part of the decommissioning process of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant. This process, as per AFP, will happen over decades and will release water equivalent to more than 500 Olympic swimming pools.

Japan PM Kishida, ministers enjoy 'safe, delicious' Sashimi lunch to demonstrate Fukushima seafood safety

Japan has raised concerns over "extremely regrettable" harassment phone calls it has received since the Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, Inc. began releasing treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean.&nbsp;

Raising "concern" over these phone calls that likely originate from China, on Monday, Japan's Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Masataka Okano summoned Chinese Ambassador to Japan Wu Jianghao to the Foreign Ministry and strongly denounced the harassment.

<h2>Harassment calls and Japan-China&nbsp;</h2>

As per Japan News, during the meeting, Okano told Jianghao that Beijing "should not unnecessarily raise people's concerns with information that is not based on scientific evidence."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-ministry-says-seawater-radioactivity-below-limits-near-fukushima-plant-629707">Japanese ministry says seawater radioactivity below limits near Fukushima plant</a>

He also called on the Chinese government to disseminate accurate information and said that the authorities must ask their citizens to act calmly to prevent the situation from escalating. This comes amid reports of stone-throwing at a Japanese school in the coastal city of Qingdao and embassy.

As per Reuters, the spokesperson for China's foreign ministry said it was not aware of the matter.&nbsp;

Furthermore, the Chinese embassy in Tokyo has issued a statement stating that it had lodged serious concerns to Japan about the Chinese embassy and consulates in Japan receiving "a substantial volume of bothersome phone calls from Japan."

These calls, as per ambassador Wu Jianghao, have caused&nbsp;"serious interference in the normal operation of the embassy and consulates."

<h2>The harassment calls</h2>

As per Reuters, on Thursday, Fukushima city hall started receiving calls with numbers starting with +86, China's country code.

On Friday, the number of calls exceeded 200. These calls, as per a city official, flooded phone lines and disrupted city employees' regular work. The same day, elementary and junior high schools in the city, some 60 kilometres northwest of the Fukushima nuclear power plant, also received 65 similar calls.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-raises-fukushima-water-issue-in-un-asks-japan-to-stop-629423">China raises Fukushima water issue in UN, asks Japan to stop discharge</a>

As per local media reports, other municipalities, hotels, restaurants too receiving such calls.

Defending China, the nation's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said Beijing "always safeguards the safety and lawful rights and interests of foreign nationals in China in accordance with law."

In a key step towards decommissioning the crippled plant, Japan on Thursday began water discharge. Fukushima plant operator Tokyo Electric Power (Tepco) has reportedly been filtering contaminated water to remove isotopes, leaving only tritium, a radioactive isotope of hydrogen that is hard to separate. However, China says that Japan has yet to prove that the water would be safe and has even issued a blanket ban on all aquatic products from the nation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japan has raised concerns over "extremely regrettable" harassment phone calls it has received since the Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, Inc. began releasing treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean.

Japan has raised concerns over "extremely regrettable" harassment phone calls it has received since the Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, Inc. began releasing treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean. Raising "concern" over these phone calls that likely originate from China, on Monday, Japan's Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Masataka Okano summoned Chinese Ambassador to Japan Wu Jianghao to the Foreign Ministry and strongly denounced the harassment. Harassment calls and Japan-China As per Japan News, during the meeting, Okano told Jianghao that Beijing "should not unnecessarily raise people's concerns with information that is not based on scientific evidence." Also read | Japanese ministry says seawater radioactivity below limits near Fukushima plant He also called on the Chinese government to disseminate accurate information and said that the authorities must ask their citizens to act calmly to prevent the situation from escalating. This comes amid reports of stone-throwing at a Japanese school in the coastal city of Qingdao and embassy. As per Reuters, the spokesperson for China's foreign ministry said it was not aware of the matter. Furthermore, the Chinese embassy in Tokyo has issued a statement stating that it had lodged serious concerns to Japan about the Chinese embassy and consulates in Japan receiving "a substantial volume of bothersome phone calls from Japan." These calls, as per ambassador Wu Jianghao, have caused "serious interference in the normal operation of the embassy and consulates." The harassment calls As per Reuters, on Thursday, Fukushima city hall started receiving calls with numbers starting with +86, China's country code. On Friday, the number of calls exceeded 200. These calls, as per a city official, flooded phone lines and disrupted city employees' regular work. The same day, elementary and junior high schools in the city, some 60 kilometres northwest of the Fukushima nuclear power plant, also received 65 similar calls. Also read | China raises Fukushima water issue in UN, asks Japan to stop discharge As per local media reports, other municipalities, hotels, restaurants too receiving such calls. Defending China, the nation's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said Beijing "always safeguards the safety and lawful rights and interests of foreign nationals in China in accordance with law." In a key step towards decommissioning the crippled plant, Japan on Thursday began water discharge. Fukushima plant operator Tokyo Electric Power (Tepco) has reportedly been filtering contaminated water to remove isotopes, leaving only tritium, a radioactive isotope of hydrogen that is hard to separate. However, China says that Japan has yet to prove that the water would be safe and has even issued a blanket ban on all aquatic products from the nation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan condemns 'extremely regrettable' harassment calls from China amid Fukushima water discharge row

Tears flow as Japan sends Xiang Xiang the giant panda 'home' to China

Japan on Monday announced that over the past two weeks to keep tabs on China's Liaoning aircraft carrier and the nations warships that conducted naval manoeuvres and flight operations near Japanese territory, it scrambled jet fighters and made use of aircraft and warships.

In a press release, the Japanese Ministry of Defence said that the nation monitored the operations after the Chinese naval group, which includes missile destroyers, cruised between the main island of Okinawa and Miyakojima island on December 16, entering the Western Pacific from the East China Sea.

Watch |&nbsp;Japan unveils new national security plan, passes $320 billion military plan

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On Sunday, the Chinese carrier returned in the same direction but not before making&nbsp;over 300 takeoffs and landings of fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters, said the ministry claimed.

However, the press release made no mention of any incursions into Japanese territorial waters or skies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-australia-ink-landmark-security-pact-to-counter-chinas-military-build-up-in-indo-pacific-527555">Japan, Australia ink ‘landmark’ security pact to counter China’s military build-up in Indo-Pacific</a>

China's latest large-scale military drills close to Japanese islands come after the traditional pacifist Japan recently announced plans to move away from its defence-only stance and expand its military, doubling defence expenditure. The move as per reports is to deter China from using its significant military to push territorial claims in the neighbourhood, including against Taiwan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-citizens-oppose-government-plans-to-increase-taxes-to-fund-320-billion-military-expansion-544216">Japan citizens oppose government plans to increase taxes to fund $320 billion military expansion</a>

China has previously carried out similar operations, including one in May.

As the first country to spot the high-altitude drone, Japan also stated that it had observed flights by a Chinese WZ-7 drone near Miyakojima on Sunday and again on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japan on Monday announced that over the past two weeks to keep tabs on China's Liaoning aircraft carrier and the nations warships that conducted naval manoeuvres and flight operations near Japanese territory, it scrambled jet fighters and made use of aircraft and warships.

Japan on Monday announced that over the past two weeks to keep tabs on China's Liaoning aircraft carrier and the nations warships that conducted naval manoeuvres and flight operations near Japanese territory, it scrambled jet fighters and made use of aircraft and warships. In a press release, the Japanese Ministry of Defence said that the nation monitored the operations after the Chinese naval group, which includes missile destroyers, cruised between the main island of Okinawa and Miyakojima island on December 16, entering the Western Pacific from the East China Sea. Watch | Japan unveils new national security plan, passes $320 billion military plan On Sunday, the Chinese carrier returned in the same direction but not before making over 300 takeoffs and landings of fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters, said the ministry claimed. However, the press release made no mention of any incursions into Japanese territorial waters or skies. Also read | Japan, Australia ink ‘landmark’ security pact to counter China’s military build-up in Indo-Pacific China's latest large-scale military drills close to Japanese islands come after the traditional pacifist Japan recently announced plans to move away from its defence-only stance and expand its military, doubling defence expenditure. The move as per reports is to deter China from using its significant military to push territorial claims in the neighbourhood, including against Taiwan. Also read | Japan citizens oppose government plans to increase taxes to fund $320 billion military expansion China has previously carried out similar operations, including one in May. As the first country to spot the high-altitude drone, Japan also stated that it had observed flights by a Chinese WZ-7 drone near Miyakojima on Sunday and again on Monday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan scrambled jet fighters to monitor Chinese aircraft carrier operations

The Japanese government on Friday (Dec 16) approved a major $320 billion military overhaul. This is one of the most significant defence money invested in decades by Japan, which for long has been a pacifist country.

The cabinet also described Beijing as "the greatest strategic challenge ever to securing the peace and stability of Japan," and a "serious concern" for the country.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-india-must-use-its-trade-lever-to-match-military-muscle-after-chinas-border-bluster-543209">Also read |&nbsp;Why India must use its trade lever to match military muscle after China's border bluster</a>

Prime Minister&nbsp;Fumio Kishida last week said, "Fundamentally strengthening our defence capabilities is the most urgent challenge in this severe security environment."

According to the defence documents, the present missile interception systems are insufficient and a "counter capacity is necessary." However, the documents ruled&nbsp;out the preemptive strikes and stated that the country is committed to "an exclusively defence-oriented policy."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-threats-from-china-north-korea-japan-set-to-radically-overhaul-defence-policy-542945">Also read |&nbsp;Amid threats from China &amp; North Korea, Japan to announce radical overhaul of defence policy</a>

The country vowed to spend two per cent of the GDP by 2027 on national security. It pledged to reshape its military command, and acquire new missiles for better enemy launches, AFP reported.

Polls suggested that Japan's shift amid concerns over China's growing military-geopolitical powers and&nbsp;North Korea's recent missile tests.&nbsp;

The government worries that Russia might encourage China to attack Taiwan and neighbouring Japanese islands.

To improve its counterstrike capability, Japan is expected to upgrade its existing current weaponry including buying US-made Tomahawk missiles.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Japanese government on Friday (Dec 16) approved a major $320 billion military overhaul. This is one of the most significant defence money invested in decades by Japan, which for long has been a pacifist country.

The Japanese government on Friday (Dec 16) approved a major $320 billion military overhaul. This is one of the most significant defence money invested in decades by Japan, which for long has been a pacifist country. The cabinet also described Beijing as "the greatest strategic challenge ever to securing the peace and stability of Japan," and a "serious concern" for the country. Also read | Why India must use its trade lever to match military muscle after China's border bluster Prime Minister Fumio Kishida last week said, "Fundamentally strengthening our defence capabilities is the most urgent challenge in this severe security environment." According to the defence documents, the present missile interception systems are insufficient and a "counter capacity is necessary." However, the documents ruled out the preemptive strikes and stated that the country is committed to "an exclusively defence-oriented policy." Also read | Amid threats from China & North Korea, Japan to announce radical overhaul of defence policy The country vowed to spend two per cent of the GDP by 2027 on national security. It pledged to reshape its military command, and acquire new missiles for better enemy launches, AFP reported. Polls suggested that Japan's shift amid concerns over China's growing military-geopolitical powers and North Korea's recent missile tests. The government worries that Russia might encourage China to attack Taiwan and neighbouring Japanese islands. To improve its counterstrike capability, Japan is expected to upgrade its existing current weaponry including buying US-made Tomahawk missiles. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japan approves $320bn defence overhaul, says China poses 'greatest strategic threat' 

As China and Japan celebrate 50 years of normalised diplomatic ties amid rising tensions, the relationship remains complicated and often contradictory.

In 1972, Japanese Prime Minister Kakuei Tanaka and Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai signed the treaty to terminate the state of war between them and establish diplomatic relations.

From the legacy of Japan's wartime occupation of part of China to conflict over regional influence, ties between them have long been strained.

After US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, Beijing launched missiles near Taiwan and into Japan's exclusive economic zone.

Taiwan, which happens to be a former Japanese colony, is currently self-ruled but claimed by China. Another bone of contention is the Senkaku Islands located in the East China Sea which have been claimed by both countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-is-behaving-very-badly-on-taiwan-says-china-504064">Also read |&nbsp;Japan is 'behaving very badly on Taiwan', says China</a>

While Japan says it owns them under international law, China insists they were stolen by Japan in 1985. The dispute persists and fishing boats from both sides routinely clash in the waters of these islands.

With Japan joining Western allies to oppose Russia and China avoiding criticising Moscow at any cost, the war in Ukraine has further deepened the divide.

Following a two-year hiatus, the Japan-China Exchange Festival returned last weekend and despite tense political ties organisers hope it will help restart cultural exchange.

Shortly before the anniversary of Japan’s surrender at the end of World War II, Chinese police detained a woman posing for photos in a kimono in a Japanese-style commercial area in the city of Suzhou in August.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-may-deploy-1000-long-range-missiles-to-counter-china-report-508820">Also read |&nbsp;Japan may deploy 1,000 long-range missiles to counter China: Report</a>

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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With some accusing the woman of hurting the feelings of the Chinese people close to a wartime anniversary, and others saying that love for Japanese culture doesn’t make a person unpatriotic, the incident sparked a heated discussion online.

Because of his association with nationalists who deny or minimize the atrocities committed by Japan’s military in China, tens of thousands of people left unfavourable comments about former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe after his assassination in July.

The world's second and third-largest economies, which are considered vital to Asia's stability and prosperity, did a total volume of trades worth $372 billion in 2021.

In the last 25 years, China's exports to Japan have risen by 7 per cent annually and have gone from $22.5 billion in 1995 to over $133 billion in 2020.

Before the coronavirus pandemic broke out, Japan and China also enjoyed incredible people-to-people ties.&nbsp;

The number of people travelling to China from Japan stood at 12 million. While Tokyo welcomed nearly 10 million visitors from the mainland. This is the highest number among all foreign visitors to the two countries.

In the last 50 years, Japan and China have signed more than 250 friendship city agreements. Besides this, both countries are a part of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and Beijing-Tokyo Forum.

While 66 per cent of Chinese have a negative image of Japan, 90 per cent of Japanese felt the same way about China as per a survey last year by the Japanese think tank Genron NPO.

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&nbsp;

As China and Japan celebrate 50 years of normalised diplomatic ties amid rising tensions, the relationship remains complicated and often contradictory. In 1972, Japanese Prime Minister Kakuei Tanaka and Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai signed the treaty to terminate the state of war between them and establish diplomatic relations.

As China and Japan celebrate 50 years of normalised diplomatic ties amid rising tensions, the relationship remains complicated and often contradictory. In 1972, Japanese Prime Minister Kakuei Tanaka and Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai signed the treaty to terminate the state of war between them and establish diplomatic relations. From the legacy of Japan's wartime occupation of part of China to conflict over regional influence, ties between them have long been strained. After US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, Beijing launched missiles near Taiwan and into Japan's exclusive economic zone. Taiwan, which happens to be a former Japanese colony, is currently self-ruled but claimed by China. Another bone of contention is the Senkaku Islands located in the East China Sea which have been claimed by both countries. Also read | Japan is 'behaving very badly on Taiwan', says China While Japan says it owns them under international law, China insists they were stolen by Japan in 1985. The dispute persists and fishing boats from both sides routinely clash in the waters of these islands. With Japan joining Western allies to oppose Russia and China avoiding criticising Moscow at any cost, the war in Ukraine has further deepened the divide. Following a two-year hiatus, the Japan-China Exchange Festival returned last weekend and despite tense political ties organisers hope it will help restart cultural exchange. Shortly before the anniversary of Japan’s surrender at the end of World War II, Chinese police detained a woman posing for photos in a kimono in a Japanese-style commercial area in the city of Suzhou in August. Also read | Japan may deploy 1,000 long-range missiles to counter China: Report Watch this report: × With some accusing the woman of hurting the feelings of the Chinese people close to a wartime anniversary, and others saying that love for Japanese culture doesn’t make a person unpatriotic, the incident sparked a heated discussion online. Because of his association with nationalists who deny or minimize the atrocities committed by Japan’s military in China, tens of thousands of people left unfavourable comments about former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe after his assassination in July. The world's second and third-largest economies, which are considered vital to Asia's stability and prosperity, did a total volume of trades worth $372 billion in 2021. In the last 25 years, China's exports to Japan have risen by 7 per cent annually and have gone from $22.5 billion in 1995 to over $133 billion in 2020. Before the coronavirus pandemic broke out, Japan and China also enjoyed incredible people-to-people ties. The number of people travelling to China from Japan stood at 12 million. While Tokyo welcomed nearly 10 million visitors from the mainland. This is the highest number among all foreign visitors to the two countries. In the last 50 years, Japan and China have signed more than 250 friendship city agreements. Besides this, both countries are a part of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and Beijing-Tokyo Forum. While 66 per cent of Chinese have a negative image of Japan, 90 per cent of Japanese felt the same way about China as per a survey last year by the Japanese think tank Genron NPO. Watch WION's live TV here: ×

After 50 years of complicated ties, are Japan and China friends or foes?

China and Japan have reached an agreement to establish a hotline for their disputes over Taiwan and the South China Sea.

Japan's Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi held a two-hour video conference with his Chinese counterpart Wei Fenghe and expressed his grave concerns over Chinese coast guard ships activities in waters surrounding the Japanese administered Senkaku Islands.

The Diaoyu islands, also known as Senkaku islands have long been an object of a territorial dispute between Beijing and&nbsp;Tokyo.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/analysis-with-an-eye-on-china-japans-ruling-party-makes-unprecedented-defence-spending-pledge-420812">Also read |&nbsp;Analysis: With an eye on China, Japan's ruling party makes unprecedented defence spending pledge</a>

Japan's Defence Ministry released after the ministers' meeting stating "Minister Kishi delivered that Japan opposes attempts of unilateral change to the status quo by coercion and that Japan possesses grave concerns against such actions, while pointing out individual events such as activities by People's Liberation Army and China Coast Guard vessels."

"China will firmly safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. The two sides should focus on the overall interests of bilateral relations and strive to maintain stability in the East China Sea," said a release from the Defence Ministry.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-tensions-rise-with-japan-china-reasserts-diaoyus-claim-with-island-survey-381291">Also read |&nbsp;As tensions rise with Japan, China reasserts Diaoyus claim with island survey</a>

"We confirmed that the early establishment of a hotline between Japanese and Chinese defense authorities is important," Kishi said.

"Since there are (unresolved) issues with China, we need to try and keep having candid communication so we can promote exchanges and foster mutual understanding and confidence," Kishi added.

China's increasing pressure on Taiwan is causing jitters in Japan because Beijing's control of the island would bring Chinese forces within around 100 kilometres (62 miles) of its territory and would threaten key maritime trade routes that supply Japan with oil and other goods.

It would also provide China with bases for unfettered access to the western Pacific.

Last month, two&nbsp;Chinese ships&nbsp;had intruded into Japanese coastal waters near the disputed islands as Japan lodged a protest with China over the issue.

(With inputs from agencies)

China and Japan have reached an agreement to establish a hotline for their disputes over Taiwan and the South China Sea. Japan's Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi held a two-hour video conference with his Chinese counterpart Wei Fenghe and expressed his grave concerns over Chinese coast guard ships activities in waters surrounding the Japanese administered Senkaku Islands.

China and Japan have reached an agreement to establish a hotline for their disputes over Taiwan and the South China Sea. Japan's Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi held a two-hour video conference with his Chinese counterpart Wei Fenghe and expressed his grave concerns over Chinese coast guard ships activities in waters surrounding the Japanese administered Senkaku Islands. The Diaoyu islands, also known as Senkaku islands have long been an object of a territorial dispute between Beijing and Tokyo. Also read | Analysis: With an eye on China, Japan's ruling party makes unprecedented defence spending pledge Japan's Defence Ministry released after the ministers' meeting stating "Minister Kishi delivered that Japan opposes attempts of unilateral change to the status quo by coercion and that Japan possesses grave concerns against such actions, while pointing out individual events such as activities by People's Liberation Army and China Coast Guard vessels." "China will firmly safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. The two sides should focus on the overall interests of bilateral relations and strive to maintain stability in the East China Sea," said a release from the Defence Ministry. Also read | As tensions rise with Japan, China reasserts Diaoyus claim with island survey "We confirmed that the early establishment of a hotline between Japanese and Chinese defense authorities is important," Kishi said. "Since there are (unresolved) issues with China, we need to try and keep having candid communication so we can promote exchanges and foster mutual understanding and confidence," Kishi added. China's increasing pressure on Taiwan is causing jitters in Japan because Beijing's control of the island would bring Chinese forces within around 100 kilometres (62 miles) of its territory and would threaten key maritime trade routes that supply Japan with oil and other goods. It would also provide China with bases for unfettered access to the western Pacific. Last month, two Chinese ships had intruded into Japanese coastal waters near the disputed islands as Japan lodged a protest with China over the issue. (With inputs from agencies)

China, Japan to establish hotline for disputes over Taiwan and South China Sea

China's foreign ministry on Tuesday hit back at Japan's deputy prime minister Taro Aso statement after he reportedly said the country needs to defend Taiwan along with the US if it is attacked.

China said Aso's remarks "harmed the political foundation of China-Japan relations".

Kyodo news agency quoted Japan's deputy prime minister saying: "If a major problem took place in Taiwan, it would not be too much to say that it could relate to a survival-threatening situation, we need to think hard that Okinawa could be the next."

Watch:

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Aso said the country was closely monitoring the Taiwan situation as China's foreign ministry in a strongly worded reply said:&nbsp;"No one should underestimate the Chinese people's staunch resolve".

It is not the first time a Japanese leader has referred to Taiwan. Last month Japan's deputy defence minister Yasuhide Nakayama had said that Taiwan should be protected as a "democratic country", as China once again slammed Nakayama's remarks.

The Japanese minister had said there was a growing threat over Chinese and Russian collaboration while adding that China had "aggressive, aggressive, thought and will".

Nakayama had said he wanted a "stronger" United States while citing military exercises between China and Russia asserting that&nbsp;Japan needed to spend more on its defence.

China considers Japan as a breakaway province which it intends to unite by force if necessary. In the recently concluded centenary celebration of the Chinese Communist Party on July 1, President Xi Jinping called for "complete reunification of the motherland".

President Xi said: "All sons and daughters of China, including compatriots on both sides of the strait, must work together and move forward in solidarity, and resolutely crush any 'Taiwan independence' plots."

(With inputs from Agencies)

China's foreign ministry on Tuesday hit back at Japan's deputy prime minister Taro Aso statement after he reportedly said the country needs to defend Taiwan along with the US if it is attacked.

China's foreign ministry on Tuesday hit back at Japan's deputy prime minister Taro Aso statement after he reportedly said the country needs to defend Taiwan along with the US if it is attacked. China said Aso's remarks "harmed the political foundation of China-Japan relations". Kyodo news agency quoted Japan's deputy prime minister saying: "If a major problem took place in Taiwan, it would not be too much to say that it could relate to a survival-threatening situation, we need to think hard that Okinawa could be the next." Watch: Aso said the country was closely monitoring the Taiwan situation as China's foreign ministry in a strongly worded reply said: "No one should underestimate the Chinese people's staunch resolve". It is not the first time a Japanese leader has referred to Taiwan. Last month Japan's deputy defence minister Yasuhide Nakayama had said that Taiwan should be protected as a "democratic country", as China once again slammed Nakayama's remarks. The Japanese minister had said there was a growing threat over Chinese and Russian collaboration while adding that China had "aggressive, aggressive, thought and will". Nakayama had said he wanted a "stronger" United States while citing military exercises between China and Russia asserting that Japan needed to spend more on its defence. China considers Japan as a breakaway province which it intends to unite by force if necessary. In the recently concluded centenary celebration of the Chinese Communist Party on July 1, President Xi Jinping called for "complete reunification of the motherland". President Xi said: "All sons and daughters of China, including compatriots on both sides of the strait, must work together and move forward in solidarity, and resolutely crush any 'Taiwan independence' plots." (With inputs from Agencies)

China slams Japan on 'survival threatening' remark over Taiwan

Japan is considering sending troops amid reports of surge in Chinese activity near the Tokyo-controlled Diaoyu islands, reports say.

Watch:

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According to reports, the Chinese coastguard has increased its presence in the contested waters near the islands. The increased activity comes after China implemented a new law that allows its military force to use weapons against foreign ships that Beijing views as illegally entering its waters.

According to the Japanese coast guard, China's activity in its waters rose from twice a month last year to twice a week in February. According to a Japanese official, Tokyo is alarmed by the recent activity and is considering a response.&nbsp;

The official said that self-defence forces can use weapons as law enforcement against unlawful activities. The official added that Japan does not intend to escalate tensions with China, but will try to increase pressure on the diplomatic front.

The United States had earlier warned China against the use of force in disputed waters. The US has reaffirmed that the Senkaku islands in the East China Sea also claimed by Beijing, which it calls Diaoyu.

US President Biden had told Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga earlier that his administration is committed to defending Japan including the Senkaku Island.

The Diaoyu islands, also known as Senkaku islands have long been an object of territorial dispute between Beijing and Tokyo.&nbsp;

Last month, two Chinese ships had intruded into Japanese coastal waters near the disputed islands as Japan lodged a protest with China over the issue.

Japan is considering sending troops amid reports of surge in Chinese activity near the Tokyo-controlled Diaoyu islands, reports say. Watch: According to reports, the Chinese coastguard has increased its presence in the contested waters near the islands.

Japan is considering sending troops amid reports of surge in Chinese activity near the Tokyo-controlled Diaoyu islands, reports say. Watch: According to reports, the Chinese coastguard has increased its presence in the contested waters near the islands. The increased activity comes after China implemented a new law that allows its military force to use weapons against foreign ships that Beijing views as illegally entering its waters. According to the Japanese coast guard, China's activity in its waters rose from twice a month last year to twice a week in February. According to a Japanese official, Tokyo is alarmed by the recent activity and is considering a response. The official said that self-defence forces can use weapons as law enforcement against unlawful activities. The official added that Japan does not intend to escalate tensions with China, but will try to increase pressure on the diplomatic front. The United States had earlier warned China against the use of force in disputed waters. The US has reaffirmed that the Senkaku islands in the East China Sea also claimed by Beijing, which it calls Diaoyu. US President Biden had told Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga earlier that his administration is committed to defending Japan including the Senkaku Island. The Diaoyu islands, also known as Senkaku islands have long been an object of territorial dispute between Beijing and Tokyo. Last month, two Chinese ships had intruded into Japanese coastal waters near the disputed islands as Japan lodged a protest with China over the issue.

Japan may send troops to Diaoyu islands over increased Chinese activity: Report

Japan on Friday invited Germany's warship for a naval drill to counter China's growing regional influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

In talks between Japanese Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi and his German counterpart, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, Kishi hoped that a German warship would hold joint exercises with Japan`s Self-Defense Forces in 2021. 
 
Kishi suggested that such an act would also ensure the right of passage through the South China Sea (SCS), most of which is now claimed by China. Over years, Japan has voiced for a free and open Indo-Pacific (FOIP), as a large volume of trade goes through the region, particularly energy supplies.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-japan-australia-align-to-counter-chinas-growing-regional-influence-344175">Quad: With an eye on China,&nbsp;Japan to&nbsp;&nbsp;Australia align</a>

Japanese Defence Minister stressed told Germany&nbsp;that China is "strengthening its attempts to unilaterally change the status quo with force in the background." He also welcomed Germany`s efforts to strengthen its maritime presence and contribute to maintaining order in the region. 
 
The defence ministers of the two nations met at a time when Germany had expressed interest over sending its navy to patrol the Indian Ocean trade routes. Addressing Australian and German think tanks, Kramp-Karrenbauer had recently said that her country would also like to have closer defence cooperation with Australia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-china-sea-military-bases-vulnerable-to-attack-indefensible-during-war-report-348120">South China Sea military bases vulnerable to attack, indefensible during war: Report</a>

With an eye on China's claims on the disputed islands in the South China Sea, several&nbsp;smaller nations like Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines and Brunei, as well as Taiwan are joining hands with the United States to fend off a common enemy. 
 
The communist giant has also taken over islands and reefs, often violating the exclusive economic zones (EEZ) of the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) by sending fishing trawlers, research and exploration vessels and even Coast Guard ships. 
 
Owing to Chinese belligerence in the strategic region, a number of European nations have espoused interest in protecting the trade routes in the Indo-Pacific. Nations like France, the Netherlands and Germany have already revised their foreign policies towards China and the Indo-Pacific region, which means that the European Union (EU) too will follow suit in the near future. 
 
The UK too is in the process of upgrading its Indo-Pacific outlook. It has already indicated that its aircraft carrier strike group Queen Elizabeth is likely to visit the region in January 2021. 
 
Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has been reaching out to ASEAN countries like Vietnam and Indonesia specifically to strengthen economic cooperation and also to garner support for the FOIP,&nbsp;an issue which is close to the Japanese. Japan is active in the four-member Quad comprising India, US, Japan and Australia, whose navies held the Malabar maritime drills in November in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. 
 
Japan has been proactive in strengthening relations with like-minded countries, seeking to build alternative supply chains, strengthening defence cooperation and building alliances for rule of law, freedom of navigation and keeping the shipping lanes free and open.

&nbsp;

Japan on Friday invited Germany's warship for a naval drill to counter China's growing regional influence in the Indo-Pacific region. In talks between Japanese Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi and his German counterpart, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, Kishi hoped that a German warship would hold joint exercises with Japan`s Self-Defense Forces in 2021.

Japan on Friday invited Germany's warship for a naval drill to counter China's growing regional influence in the Indo-Pacific region. In talks between Japanese Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi and his German counterpart, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, Kishi hoped that a German warship would hold joint exercises with Japan`s Self-Defense Forces in 2021. Kishi suggested that such an act would also ensure the right of passage through the South China Sea (SCS), most of which is now claimed by China. Over years, Japan has voiced for a free and open Indo-Pacific (FOIP), as a large volume of trade goes through the region, particularly energy supplies. Also read: Quad: With an eye on China, Japan to Australia align Japanese Defence Minister stressed told Germany that China is "strengthening its attempts to unilaterally change the status quo with force in the background." He also welcomed Germany`s efforts to strengthen its maritime presence and contribute to maintaining order in the region. The defence ministers of the two nations met at a time when Germany had expressed interest over sending its navy to patrol the Indian Ocean trade routes. Addressing Australian and German think tanks, Kramp-Karrenbauer had recently said that her country would also like to have closer defence cooperation with Australia. Also read: South China Sea military bases vulnerable to attack, indefensible during war: Report With an eye on China's claims on the disputed islands in the South China Sea, several smaller nations like Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines and Brunei, as well as Taiwan are joining hands with the United States to fend off a common enemy. The communist giant has also taken over islands and reefs, often violating the exclusive economic zones (EEZ) of the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) by sending fishing trawlers, research and exploration vessels and even Coast Guard ships. Owing to Chinese belligerence in the strategic region, a number of European nations have espoused interest in protecting the trade routes in the Indo-Pacific. Nations like France, the Netherlands and Germany have already revised their foreign policies towards China and the Indo-Pacific region, which means that the European Union (EU) too will follow suit in the near future. The UK too is in the process of upgrading its Indo-Pacific outlook. It has already indicated that its aircraft carrier strike group Queen Elizabeth is likely to visit the region in January 2021. Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has been reaching out to ASEAN countries like Vietnam and Indonesia specifically to strengthen economic cooperation and also to garner support for the FOIP, an issue which is close to the Japanese. Japan is active in the four-member Quad comprising India, US, Japan and Australia, whose navies held the Malabar maritime drills in November in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. Japan has been proactive in strengthening relations with like-minded countries, seeking to build alternative supply chains, strengthening defence cooperation and building alliances for rule of law, freedom of navigation and keeping the shipping lanes free and open.

Japan invites German warship for naval drill to counter China's growing regional influence

Newly appointed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-foreign-minister-visits-japan-to-seek-cooperation-amid-regional-tensions-345113">Japanese </a>Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Saturday reviewed the country's Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) troops in Iruma Air Base in Saitama prefecture.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-how-australia-and-japan-could-strengthen-the-quad-344189/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Japanese prime minister in his address said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-japan-australia-align-to-counter-chinas-growing-regional-influence-344175">defence</a> forces should develop capabilities to tackle new battlefields in outer space, cyberspace and electromagnetic fields.

"It is getting more difficult for each organisation (Ground, Maritime and Air Self-Defense Forces) to deal with separately," PM Suga said, adding, "It is important that we break barriers between ground, maritime and air self-Defense forces and tackle security challenges together."

Japan has been locked in a cold war with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-indian-australian-japanese-naval-forces-have-proved-their-ability-nimitz-commander-on-malabar-naval-exercise-344566">China</a> over the East China Sea even as the two countries have begun engaging in high-level talks. Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi had recently visited Japan amid Beijing's growing assertiveness in the region.&nbsp;

Wang met PM Suga during his two-day visit to Tokyo as the foreign minister said Chinese President Xi Jinping wants to build "good working relations" with his Japanese counterpart. Wang asserted that his country would like to make the East China Sea "the sea of peace" in cooperation with Japan.

Japanese media had earlier reported it is ready to sign a defence pact with Australia amid growing threat from China's military power in the region.&nbsp;

Suga had visited Vietnam earlier as part of his first overseas trip since taking office last month and agreed to step up security and defence cooperation with an agreement in principle for Japan to export defence equipment and technology to Vietnam as it seeks to keep China influence in the South China Sea under control.

"The two sides agreed to tighten cooperation before regional challenges including the issue of the South China Sea," said Suga during his visit to Vietnam.

Newly appointed Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Saturday reviewed the country's Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) troops in Iruma Air Base in Saitama prefecture.

Newly appointed Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Saturday reviewed the country's Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) troops in Iruma Air Base in Saitama prefecture. Watch: The Japanese prime minister in his address said that the defence forces should develop capabilities to tackle new battlefields in outer space, cyberspace and electromagnetic fields. "It is getting more difficult for each organisation (Ground, Maritime and Air Self-Defense Forces) to deal with separately," PM Suga said, adding, "It is important that we break barriers between ground, maritime and air self-Defense forces and tackle security challenges together." Japan has been locked in a cold war with China over the East China Sea even as the two countries have begun engaging in high-level talks. Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi had recently visited Japan amid Beijing's growing assertiveness in the region. Wang met PM Suga during his two-day visit to Tokyo as the foreign minister said Chinese President Xi Jinping wants to build "good working relations" with his Japanese counterpart. Wang asserted that his country would like to make the East China Sea "the sea of peace" in cooperation with Japan. Japanese media had earlier reported it is ready to sign a defence pact with Australia amid growing threat from China's military power in the region. Suga had visited Vietnam earlier as part of his first overseas trip since taking office last month and agreed to step up security and defence cooperation with an agreement in principle for Japan to export defence equipment and technology to Vietnam as it seeks to keep China influence in the South China Sea under control. "The two sides agreed to tighten cooperation before regional challenges including the issue of the South China Sea," said Suga during his visit to Vietnam.

Japan PM Suga reviews air defence troops, calls joint effort to develop new capabilities

&nbsp;China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Tokyo on Tuesday (November 24), marking the first such high-level trip since Japan picked a new leader in September and amid mounting concerns over Beijing's growing assertiveness in the region.

At the beginning of a meeting with Wang, the Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said the relations between Japan and&nbsp;China&nbsp;are extremely important for the region and the world, and called for cooperation to tackle global challenges together.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-japan-australia-align-to-counter-chinas-growing-regional-influence-344175">Quad: Japan, Australia align to counter China's growing regional influence</a>

Wang stressed the need for continuous communication. "Under our combined leadership, today we had a first face-to-face meeting against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic, which is timely and meaningful," he said.

Before the meeting, Motegi said he would have a "frank exchange" of views on bilateral relations with Wang, including on how to resume traffic between the two countries during the pandemic. Japanese media reported that Motegi would also raise concerns about&nbsp;China's beefed-up activity in the East&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea.

While Japanese Prime Minister Suga has steered clear of the harsh anti-China rhetoric used by Japan's ally the United States, he has moved to counter its influence by deepening ties with Australia and making his first overseas trip to Vietnam and Indonesia.

Relations between the two countries have been strained over territorial disputes and wartime history. But ties have improved in recent years while china’s trade dispute with the US&nbsp;has escalated. Japan, a key US&nbsp;ally, sees China as a crucial trading partner and faces the challenge of balancing its relations with both nations.

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Tokyo on Tuesday (November 24), marking the first such high-level trip since Japan picked a new leader in September and amid mounting concerns over Beijing's growing assertiveness in the region.

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Tokyo on Tuesday (November 24), marking the first such high-level trip since Japan picked a new leader in September and amid mounting concerns over Beijing's growing assertiveness in the region. At the beginning of a meeting with Wang, the Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said the relations between Japan and China are extremely important for the region and the world, and called for cooperation to tackle global challenges together. Also read| Quad: Japan, Australia align to counter China's growing regional influence Wang stressed the need for continuous communication. "Under our combined leadership, today we had a first face-to-face meeting against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic, which is timely and meaningful," he said. Before the meeting, Motegi said he would have a "frank exchange" of views on bilateral relations with Wang, including on how to resume traffic between the two countries during the pandemic. Japanese media reported that Motegi would also raise concerns about China's beefed-up activity in the East China Sea. While Japanese Prime Minister Suga has steered clear of the harsh anti-China rhetoric used by Japan's ally the United States, he has moved to counter its influence by deepening ties with Australia and making his first overseas trip to Vietnam and Indonesia. Relations between the two countries have been strained over territorial disputes and wartime history. But ties have improved in recent years while china’s trade dispute with the US has escalated. Japan, a key US ally, sees China as a crucial trading partner and faces the challenge of balancing its relations with both nations.

China's foreign minister visits Japan to seek cooperation amid regional tensions

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-japan-to-forge-closer-ties-at-historic-turning-point-173569">Japan and China</a> signed $2.6 billion in business deals and touted their warmer ties on Friday during a rare visit to Beijing by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe as both face trade challenges from US President Donald Trump.

Premier Li Keqiang greeted Abe as Japan's flag flew outside the opulent Great Hall of the People across from Tiananmen Square, and they reviewed an honour guard before going inside for talks.

Relations between Asia's two biggest economies have improved in recent years after they sunk to new lows in 2012 when Tokyo "nationalised" disputed islands claimed by Beijing.

Addressing a joint press conference, Abe said that the two leaders had agreed to "play a constructive role for the sake of this region's peace and prosperity".

"I believe active trade will deepen ties between Japanese and Chinese peoples further," he said.

"Now, international conditions are unstable, and uncertainties have increased," Li said, adding that the countries' economic cooperation would "benefit the development of global free trade".

The relationship has rapidly warmed up as Trump has slapped massive tariffs on China while also targeting Japanese exports in his effort to cut US trade deficits, despite touting his personal bonds with Abe and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

But behind the feel-good vibes, Abe also delivered a sterner messages, a Japanese spokesman said, warning China that "without stability in the East China Sea, there will not be a true improvement in the relationship."

He also told Li that "the international community, including Japan, is watching carefully the human rights situation in China".

Abe also met with Xi and details of their talks were expected later in the evening.

Trump 'uncertainty'

Abe travelled with nearly 1,000 delegates from Japanese companies who struck 500 deals worth a total of $2.6 billion, Li said, without providing details.

The companies are eager for increased access to China's massive market, while Beijing is interested in Japanese technology and corporate know-how.

The two leaders also oversaw the signing of several political agreements, including a currency swap deal and a mechanism to avoid accidental clashes between their militaries which often come in contact in the disputed East China Sea.

Hu Lingyuan, director of the Center for Japanese Studies at China's Fudan University, said Trump's trade policy had contributed to closer Sino-Japanese ties.

"The uncertainty in Trump policy made Abe feel that he could not bet only on the United States," Hu told AFP.&nbsp;

"If he adjusts his relationship with China, he will have more initiative and space in the future when he is negotiating with the United States."

China's nationalistic Global Times said in an editorial that "though the US is quite an influential factor in China-Japan ties, the effect is limited".

"If Beijing and Tokyo intend to plan their future bilateral relationship based on Washington's attitude, they will only get lost," the state-run daily said.

'Safeguard free trade'

The last official visit to Beijing by a Japanese prime minister was in 2011.

Since an awkward 2014 encounter between Abe and Xi on the sidelines of a summit, there have been ministerial visits by both sides and a softening of rhetoric. Li visited Tokyo in May.

Abe's three-day trip, which began Thursday, sets up the possibility that Xi will visit Japan next year.

Abe and Li already met on Thursday during a reception to celebrate the signing of the treaty that put Japanese and Chinese relations back on track after World War II.

But territorial disputes continue to cause frictions.

Just days before Abe's trip, Tokyo lodged an official complaint after Chinese ships cruised around the disputed islands that Tokyo calls the Senkaku and Beijing labels the Diaoyu islands.

China has long denounced Japan for what it says is an insufficiently contrite attitude towards its role in World War II.

But ahead of the trip, Beijing has taken a more cordial stance than it has in the past.

Japanese media have reported Abe is hoping the visit will produce a soft power win in the form of some panda diplomacy, with zoos in Sendai and Kobe apparently angling for new additions.

Japan and China signed $2.6 billion in business deals and touted their warmer ties on Friday during a rare visit to Beijing by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe as both face trade challenges from US President Donald Trump.

Japan and China signed $2.6 billion in business deals and touted their warmer ties on Friday during a rare visit to Beijing by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe as both face trade challenges from US President Donald Trump. Premier Li Keqiang greeted Abe as Japan's flag flew outside the opulent Great Hall of the People across from Tiananmen Square, and they reviewed an honour guard before going inside for talks. Relations between Asia's two biggest economies have improved in recent years after they sunk to new lows in 2012 when Tokyo "nationalised" disputed islands claimed by Beijing. Addressing a joint press conference, Abe said that the two leaders had agreed to "play a constructive role for the sake of this region's peace and prosperity". "I believe active trade will deepen ties between Japanese and Chinese peoples further," he said. "Now, international conditions are unstable, and uncertainties have increased," Li said, adding that the countries' economic cooperation would "benefit the development of global free trade". The relationship has rapidly warmed up as Trump has slapped massive tariffs on China while also targeting Japanese exports in his effort to cut US trade deficits, despite touting his personal bonds with Abe and Chinese President Xi Jinping. But behind the feel-good vibes, Abe also delivered a sterner messages, a Japanese spokesman said, warning China that "without stability in the East China Sea, there will not be a true improvement in the relationship." He also told Li that "the international community, including Japan, is watching carefully the human rights situation in China". Abe also met with Xi and details of their talks were expected later in the evening. Trump 'uncertainty' Abe travelled with nearly 1,000 delegates from Japanese companies who struck 500 deals worth a total of $2.6 billion, Li said, without providing details. The companies are eager for increased access to China's massive market, while Beijing is interested in Japanese technology and corporate know-how. The two leaders also oversaw the signing of several political agreements, including a currency swap deal and a mechanism to avoid accidental clashes between their militaries which often come in contact in the disputed East China Sea. Hu Lingyuan, director of the Center for Japanese Studies at China's Fudan University, said Trump's trade policy had contributed to closer Sino-Japanese ties. "The uncertainty in Trump policy made Abe feel that he could not bet only on the United States," Hu told AFP. "If he adjusts his relationship with China, he will have more initiative and space in the future when he is negotiating with the United States." China's nationalistic Global Times said in an editorial that "though the US is quite an influential factor in China-Japan ties, the effect is limited". "If Beijing and Tokyo intend to plan their future bilateral relationship based on Washington's attitude, they will only get lost," the state-run daily said. 'Safeguard free trade' The last official visit to Beijing by a Japanese prime minister was in 2011. Since an awkward 2014 encounter between Abe and Xi on the sidelines of a summit, there have been ministerial visits by both sides and a softening of rhetoric. Li visited Tokyo in May. Abe's three-day trip, which began Thursday, sets up the possibility that Xi will visit Japan next year. Abe and Li already met on Thursday during a reception to celebrate the signing of the treaty that put Japanese and Chinese relations back on track after World War II. But territorial disputes continue to cause frictions. Just days before Abe's trip, Tokyo lodged an official complaint after Chinese ships cruised around the disputed islands that Tokyo calls the Senkaku and Beijing labels the Diaoyu islands. China has long denounced Japan for what it says is an insufficiently contrite attitude towards its role in World War II. But ahead of the trip, Beijing has taken a more cordial stance than it has in the past. Japanese media have reported Abe is hoping the visit will produce a soft power win in the form of some panda diplomacy, with zoos in Sendai and Kobe apparently angling for new additions.

Japan, China strike deals during Abe visit as ties improve

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