SOUTH KOREA, Oct 31 (News On Japan) –
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi and Chinese President Xi Jinping stood facet by facet earlier than the cameras on October thirty first at 5 p.m. for a second that drew intense consideration. “Hello, please this way,” stated Xi as the 2 leaders exchanged a handshake lasting roughly 10 seconds in entrance of their nationwide flags. Takaichi’s expression was stiff at first however softened barely right into a faint smile, whereas Xi’s face remained largely unchanged.
Despite referring to China as an “important neighbor,” Takaichi has voiced safety issues relating to Beijing’s actions. Xi, in the meantime, didn’t ship a congratulatory message upon her assumption of workplace. The encounter marked a key milestone in Takaichi’s diplomacy on her eleventh day as prime minister, elevating questions over what was mentioned within the Japan–China summit.
Earlier that morning, the APEC leaders’ assembly was held in Gyeongju, South Korea. Takaichi appeared with a smile, adopted eight minutes later by Xi’s arrival. While Takaichi reviewed paperwork contained in the venue, Xi engaged in mild dialog with different leaders. Footage from the assembly confirmed no trade between the 2, though {a photograph} posted on Takaichi’s social media later depicted each smiling as they checked out one another.
Just every week earlier, in her coverage speech, Takaichi acknowledged that “it is a fact that there are security concerns between Japan and China, including those related to economic security,” however emphasised pursuing a “mutually beneficial strategic relationship” that serves each international locations’ pursuits. Chinese media, which has dubbed her the “female Abe,” mirrored combined opinions amongst Beijing residents. “She’s Japan’s first female prime minister, right? I don’t have much of an impression,” stated one citizen. Another commented, “She seems cool and distinctive. I hope Japan–China relations will improve peacefully.” Others had been much less optimistic: “No good impression at all. She’s too close with the American president—it’s embarrassing. Relations will never improve.”
Both leaders got here to the desk following separate summits with U.S. President Trump, every bringing their very own political calculations. Xi waited first, then Takaichi entered. Their handshake lasted solely about 10 seconds, and no dialog befell. They quickly sat down on the desk and exchanged temporary greetings.
“Japan and China are neighbors separated only by a narrow body of water,” stated Xi. “The constructive and stable development of bilateral relations is in the interest of both countries and the world.” Takaichi responded: “China is an important neighbor for Japan. Both nations bear a significant responsibility for peace and prosperity in the region and the international community. While there are various issues and challenges between us, I hope to reduce them, deepen understanding and cooperation, and achieve tangible results.”
The particulars of the much-anticipated talks stay undisclosed, as Takaichi was scheduled to temporary reporters later within the night.
Source: FNN