Beijing insists Tokyo must show “concrete actions” by withdrawing PM Takaichi’s comments on potential military intervention in Taiwan before any talks can proceed.
BEIJING: China has rejected Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s offer for dialogue, demanding Tokyo first show “concrete actions”.
Foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian stated that “genuine dialogue should be built on respect for one another” during a regular news briefing.
He insisted Japan must demonstrate sincerity by withdrawing Takaichi’s “erroneous remarks” about Taiwan.
The prime minister had previously suggested Tokyo could intervene militarily if China attacked the self-ruled island.
“Proclaiming dialogue with one’s mouth while engaging in confrontation – no one will accept this kind of dialogue,” Lin said.
The comments refer to statements Takaichi made in November, which have fuelled a months-long diplomatic stand-off.
Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out using force.
A day after winning a landslide election, Takaichi told reporters Japan was “open to various dialogues with China”.
Lin’s response effectively rejects these overtures.
China has repeatedly called for a retraction of the Taiwan remarks.
It has also discouraged its citizens from travelling to Japan and reportedly restricted exports of rare-earth products.
“If Japan truly wants to develop a strategic and mutually beneficial relationship with China, it’s very easy and clear: withdraw Takaichi’s erroneous remarks about Taiwan,” the spokesman added.
