China-Japan Tensions Escalate Over Taiwan Issue

The article discusses the escalating tensions between China and Japan over Taiwan, triggered by Japan's new Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae's statement that Japan might exercise 'collective self-defence' if force is used against Taiwan. China has responded with fury, and the situation is becoming increasingly volatile. The article highlights the nationalist and hawkish stance of Japan's prime minister and the potential consequences of the escalating tensions between the two nations.

Takaichi Sanae has become Japan's first female prime minister, marking a significant step forward for gender equality in a patriarchal democracy. Despite this progressive milestone, Takaichi is a conservative hardliner who is expected to shift Japan's politics to the right. She is hawkish on security policy, dovish on fiscal policy, and traditionalist on social policy. Her confirmation as prime minister follows her election as head of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).

The article discusses the strained relations between China and Japan, particularly over the Taiwan issue. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's comments suggesting that Japan might intervene if China uses force against Taiwan have infuriated Beijing. The diplomatic row is seen as a culmination of a complex history between the two countries, coupled with recent statements and actions viewed with wariness by both sides. The article highlights the historical context, including China's commemoration of Taiwan's liberation from Japanese occupation and the 80th anniversary of China's victory against Japanese aggression in World War II.

China's ambassador to the UN, Fu Cong, has stated that Japan is 'totally unqualified' to become a permanent member of the UN Security Council due to its 'atrocious behaviour', referencing Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent comments about Taiwan. The comments have sparked a row between China and Japan, with Fu condemning Takaichi's remarks as 'highly dangerous' and 'extremely mistaken'. The debate comes as the UN Security Council discusses reforms to make it more representative, with its fundamental structure remaining unchanged since its establishment after World War II.