Japan’s newly appointed Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi met Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday at the APEC summit in South Korea, where both leaders agreed to pursue “constructive and stable” bilateral relations. The meeting their first since Takaichi’s election sought to ease anxieties that her hawkish reputation could worsen ties with Beijing.
Diplomatic Balancing Act
Takaichi’s rise as Japan’s first female prime minister raised eyebrows in Beijing, given her past visits to the Yasukuni Shrine, her firm stance on Taiwan’s security, and her calls to strengthen Japan’s defence posture. Yet, at the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to a “strategic and mutually beneficial relationship.”
Xi, according to Chinese state media, emphasized the need to “maintain communication and keep bilateral ties on the right track,” signaling Beijing’s cautious optimism.
Takaichi said she “spoke frankly” with Xi about issues including China’s rare earth export curbs, maritime activity in the East China Sea, and the protection of human rights in Xinjiang and Hong Kong, but also expressed willingness to expand cooperation where possible.
Why It Matters
The meeting could mark a reset moment for two of Asia’s largest economies, whose relationship has long oscillated between economic interdependence and security rivalry. Stable Japan-China ties are vital for regional trade and global supply chain security especially as both nations navigate tensions over Taiwan and the South China Sea.
Japan (PM Sanae Takaichi) – seeking to balance defence expansion with diplomatic stability.
China (President Xi Jinping) – aiming to keep regional tensions contained amid slowing growth.
United States – watching closely as its key ally, Japan, tests the limits of engagement with Beijing.
Regional Economies – reliant on Japan-China cooperation for trade and technological stability.
What’s Next
Takaichi’s tone suggests pragmatism over confrontation, but her domestic political base still favours a tougher China stance. Future flashpoints such as Taiwan or East China Sea disputes will test whether the leaders’ pledge for stability can withstand geopolitical pressures.
With information from Reuters.
