During the ASEAN leaders’ summit in Vientiane, Laos on October 10, newly appointed Japanese Prime Minister Shunichi Suga met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang. Following their meeting, the Japan-based Kyodo News reported on key details from their discussions, highlighting their mutual commitment to advancing a “strategic reciprocal relationship” that aims to expand shared interests between Japan and China, thereby establishing a constructive and stable bilateral relationship. Both leaders agreed to instruct their respective administrative departments to explore concrete outcomes.
While discussing the importance of Japan-China relations, Suga referenced former Prime Minister Kakuei Tanaka, who played a pivotal role in normalizing diplomatic ties between the two countries in 1972. Suga mentioned, “My political mentor, Prime Minister Tanaka, once said that it is vital for the leaders of Japan and China to engage in dialogue for the future,” a statement he reiterated to emphasize the significance of high-level discussions, including those with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
The report indicated Suga’s intention to showcase the importance of Japan-China relations by calling for enhanced dialogue at the highest levels. He voiced serious concerns regarding various Chinese military activities in Japan’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), such as the placement of buoys, incursions by Chinese military aircraft, and naval operations near Japanese territorial waters. Additionally, he stressed the crucial need for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
Suga proposed the resumption of Japanese beef exports and suggested consultations to expand rice exports. They also agreed to seek collaborative progress through the ministerial-level “Japan-China Economic High-Level Dialogue.”
Li responded positively, expressing hope that Japan would adhere to the principles and consensus established in the four political documents that govern Japan-China relations, ensuring the correct direction for bilateral ties. Their conversation lasted for approximately 35 minutes.
Furthermore, Suga urged for the rapid resumption of Japanese seafood imports that were halted due to the handling of wastewater discharge, stating, “A comprehensive advancement of our strategic reciprocal relationship is the current direction for both countries.” Li acknowledged this position, underscoring the importance of maintaining healthy and stable bilateral relations for the benefit of both nations, the region, and the world.
Suga also highlighted growing concerns within the Japanese community in China following the tragic incident involving a Japanese schoolboy in Shenzhen, demanding clarification of the events and assurances for the safety of Japanese residents. He additionally requested the prompt release of Japanese nationals detained in China.
