Japan-China Relations: Takaichi and Xi's First Meeting

On October 31, 2025, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Chinese President Xi Jinping held their first formal meeting during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Gyeongju, South Korea. The 30-minute discussion aimed to foster "constructive and stable" ties between Japan and China amidst ongoing tensions related to trade and security.

South China Morning PostJapan's Takaichi and China's Xi Jinping call for stable Japan-China ties in first meetingJapan-China Summit Meeting (Summary) (Diplomatic Relations)Xi, Takaichi vow to improve China-Japan ties in first meetingJapan’s Takaichi, China’s Xi Vow ‘Stable and Constructive’ Ties Amid TensionsReutersCityLabChina Global South Project

During the meeting, Takaichi raised several critical concerns, including China's military activities in the East China Sea, particularly around the disputed Senkaku Islands, and the implications of China's export controls on rare earth elements. Takaichi emphasized the importance of dialogue and cooperation, stating, "We both have an important responsibility to promote peace and prosperity in the region and globally." Xi responded by expressing a willingness to maintain communication to advance bilateral relations.

CityLabJapan’s Takaichi, China’s Xi Vow ‘Stable and Constructive’ Ties Amid TensionsReutersXi, Takaichi vow to improve China-Japan ties in first meetingJapan-China Summit Meeting (Summary) (Diplomatic Relations)Japan's Takaichi and China's Xi Jinping call for stable Japan-China ties in first meeting

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a "strategic and mutually beneficial relationship," while also acknowledging the need to address various pending issues, including the safety of Japanese nationals in China and the resumption of imports of Japanese seafood and beef.

Japan-China Summit Meeting (Summary) (Diplomatic Relations)

Despite the diplomatic overtures, Takaichi's past as a hawkish figure raised concerns in Beijing. Her previous visits to the Yasukuni Shrine, viewed by China as a symbol of Japan's militaristic past, and her suggestion of a "quasi-security alliance" with Taiwan have contributed to skepticism regarding her approach to China. Following the meeting, Takaichi's interactions with Taiwanese officials on social media prompted strong protests from China, which accused her of violating the one-China principle and interfering in China's internal affairs.

ReutersJapan’s Takaichi, China’s Xi Vow ‘Stable and Constructive’ Ties Amid TensionsChina DailyCityLabJapan's Takaichi and China's Xi Jinping call for stable Japan-China ties in first meetingGlobal TimesXi, Takaichi vow to improve China-Japan ties in first meeting

In their discussions, both leaders emphasized the importance of effective crisis management and communication between their respective defense authorities. Takaichi reiterated Japan's serious concerns regarding China's maritime activities and human rights issues in regions such as Hong Kong and Xinjiang. Xi, on the other hand, urged that conflicts should not define the bilateral relationship, advocating for a focus on common ground.

Japan-China Summit Meeting (Summary) (Diplomatic Relations)

The meeting marks a potential turning point in Japan-China relations, with Takaichi's pragmatic approach suggesting a willingness to engage with China while addressing security concerns. However, future interactions will likely be tested by ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding Taiwan and the South China Sea. The effectiveness of their commitment to stability will depend on how both nations navigate these complex issues moving forward.

Japan’s Takaichi, China’s Xi Vow ‘Stable and Constructive’ Ties Amid TensionsCityLabReutersXi, Takaichi vow to improve China-Japan ties in first meetingChina DailyGlobal TimesJapan's Takaichi and China's Xi Jinping call for stable Japan-China ties in first meeting