Japan-China Diplomatic Row Intensifies Over Taiwan Remarks

Japan has urged its citizens in China to exercise caution amid escalating tensions following comments by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan. The diplomatic rift has affected tourism and sparked economic concerns. Efforts to de-escalate have seen limited success, leaving Japan and China on edge.

Japan has cautioned its citizens residing in China to increase safety measures due to mounting tensions triggered by remarks from Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi concerning Taiwan. Takaichi's statement suggested that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could provoke a military response from Japan, leading to the most serious diplomatic row in years.

Efforts to ease tensions saw a Japanese official meeting his Chinese counterpart in Beijing, but a resolution remains elusive. China's foreign ministry has demanded a retraction of Takaichi's remarks, which Tokyo shows no intention of complying with. Japan maintains its stance on seeking peaceful resolutions through dialogue.

The conflict's repercussions extend to tourism and economic ties, with China advising against travel to Japan. Tourism stocks have taken a hit as airlines offer refunds and films face screening halts in China. Japan's economic security minister warned of risks stemming from economic dependency on an unpredictable partner, highlighting the dispute's potential threat to supply chains and tourism.

(With inputs from agencies.)