China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, called for a normalization of strained bilateral relations with Japan during a meeting with former Japanese foreign minister Takeshi Iwaya in Beijing on September 28. The visit comes amid a months-long diplomatic standoff triggered by remarks made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi concerning Taiwan.

Wang emphasized that the current state of the relationship is "severe" and urged Japan to promptly address what Beijing regards as erroneous statements and actions by its leader regarding the Taiwan issue. These remarks refer to Takaichi’s parliamentary comments in November 2025, where she suggested that Japan might support its security ally, the United States, in the event of an attack on Taiwan—a self-governed island claimed by China.

The Chinese foreign ministry highlighted that 2026 marks the 80th anniversary of the International Military Tribunal for the Far East, which prosecuted Japanese war criminals after World War II. Wang stressed the importance of Japan acknowledging its historical actions to avoid hampering future diplomatic progress. Beijing also criticized what it perceives as increasing militarization under Takaichi’s government, describing these developments as a resurgence of "neo-militarism."

Iwaya, who is leading a delegation from Japan’s Association for the Promotion of International Trade, acknowledged the concerning state of Sino-Japanese relations. The approximately 50-member delegation, including Japanese business executives, aims to revive dialogue between the two nations. During their four-day visit, which was delayed from June following the death of former foreign minister Yohei Kono, the group is seeking opportunities to meet with senior Chinese officials. During their previous visit in June 2025, the delegation held talks with Premier Li Qiang.

Wang praised Kono for confronting Japan’s wartime past and reflecting on the suffering caused by Japanese military aggression, noting that his actions earned respect across China and other Asian countries. As chief Cabinet secretary in 1993, Kono had publicly apologized for Japan’s use of “comfort women,” many from the Korean Peninsula, during World War II.

The dialogue between Wang and Iwaya indicates ongoing efforts by both sides to bridge diplomatic gaps, with the Chinese diplomat expressing hope that the trade promotion group will maintain the tradition of friendship and encourage Japan to make constructive choices toward improving bilateral ties.