Japan warns citizens in China as diplomatic fallout over Taiwan deepens – Firstpost

Japan has issued a warning to its citizens living in or visiting China to increase vigilance and avoid crowded places, as tensions between the two countries sharply increased due to the dispute over Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s comments on Taiwan.

The security advisory issued by Japan’s Embassy in China comes as officials have described it as one of the most serious diplomatic flare-ups in years. The warning urged Japanese citizens to be aware of their surroundings, avoid traveling alone, especially with children, and distance themselves from individuals or groups that appear “even the slightest bit suspicious.”

The move to alert citizens comes after worsening relations after Prime Minister Takachi told Japanese lawmakers that a Chinese attack on Taiwan – which he said could threaten Japan’s existence – could trigger a military response. His remarks drew a furious reaction from Beijing, including harsh remarks in Chinese state media and provocative social-media posts by Chinese diplomats.

To calm the situation, Japan sent a senior Foreign Ministry official to Beijing on Tuesday. The envoy is expected to meet with Chinese counterparts to try to defuse the diplomatic firestorm.

Diplomatic friction is dragging down other connections

As the diplomatic rift widens, this setback is becoming harder to ignore.

China has reportedly advised its citizens to avoid traveling to Japan – a potentially serious blow to Tokyo’s economy, as Chinese tourists make up about a quarter of all tourists to Japan. In fact, tourism related stocks have declined in Japan.

Cultural ties are also breaking.

At least two Japanese films—including animated ones Crayon Shin-chan Movie: Super Hot! Scorching Kasukabe Dancer And Cells at work!-Their planned release in mainland China has been suspended. Chinese state broadcaster cctv Called the postponement a “prudent decision”, citing sour sentiments among viewers.

Beyond movies and travel, broader geopolitical stakes are deeply involved.

Taiwan remains at the center of the conflict. Beijing maintains its claim to the island and has not ruled out using military force to assert its sovereignty. Takaichi’s comments have reignited fears of a regional security crisis, especially because Taiwan is just 110 km from Japanese territory, and nearby sea routes are vital for trade.

Adding to tensions, Chinese coast guard ships recently approached disputed East China Sea islands, which are also claimed by Japan. While the United States does not formally recognize Japanese sovereignty over the islands – known as the Senkaku Islands in Tokyo – American officials have renewed their commitment to defend Japan under a bilateral security treaty.

There is also concern among Japan’s business class as the country is heavily dependent on China for critical minerals and supply chains.

“If we trust too much a country that resorts to economic pressure as soon as it upsets something, it creates a risk not only for supply chains but also for tourism,” Kimi Onoda, Japan’s economic security minister, said at a press conference Tuesday.

Meanwhile, leaders of Japan’s major business federations have called for tensions to be reduced through diplomatic talks.

(with inputs from agencies)