China Reaffirms Claims on Diaoyu Dao Amid Rising Tensions With Japan Over Taiwan

China Highlights Sovereignty Over Disputed Islets

China has once again asserted its territorial claims over the Diaoyu Dao, also known as the Senkaku Islands, amid growing tensions with Japan regarding Taiwan. On Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said, “Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands have belonged to China since ancient times. Our sovereignty is supported by clear historical evidence and solid legal foundations.”

Tokyo Controls While Beijing Claims

Although Japan currently controls the islets, China maintains its ownership claims. Lin pointed to historical evidence supporting China’s position, including Japan’s diplomatic archives, historical maps, and writings of prominent historians. He described Japan’s claims as “illegal” and criticized Tokyo for adding three sets of records in its National Museum of Territory and Sovereignty to support its stance.

Takaichi’s Taiwan Remarks Escalate Tensions

The renewed Chinese statement follows Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s comments on November 7. She said that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could constitute a “survival-threatening situation,” potentially allowing Japan to exercise collective self-defense. Beijing strongly criticized her remarks, which reportedly led to mass cancellations of Chinese tourist trips to Japan, a halt in seafood imports, and the postponement of a planned trilateral culture ministers’ meeting with Japan and South Korea.

Takaichi later clarified that her statements were intended to protect Japan’s national interests while maintaining dialogue with China. She emphasized that her response addressed a specific question on emergency measures concerning Taiwan.

China Calls for Retraction and Dialogue

Lin stressed that Japan’s attempts to downplay the situation are unacceptable. He said, “On issues of principle, an evasive attitude will not benefit the Japanese side. We urge Japan to learn lessons from history, reflect on its actions, retract erroneous remarks, and take practical steps to honor its political commitments to China.”
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