Diplomatic Strains: China's Demand for Japan's Retraction

China has demanded Japan retract comments made by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, which suggested that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could be an existential threat to Japan. The diplomatic tension underscores the fragile relations between Tokyo and Beijing, with China's foreign ministry expressing firm opposition.

China reiterated on Tuesday its demand for Japan to retract comments made by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi concerning Taiwan. Over a month ago, Takaichi stated that a Chinese attack on Taiwan, a democratically governed island, could be seen as an existential threat to Japan.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun criticized Japan's approach, accusing Tokyo of 'squeezing toothpaste' and 'burying nails' on critical issues, a move Beijing firmly opposes. These comments were made during a regular press briefing.

Diplomatic ties between Tokyo and Beijing have deteriorated following Takaichi's suggestion that a hypothetical Chinese attack on Taiwan might trigger military intervention from Tokyo, intensifying the strained relations.

(With inputs from agencies.)