A group of Japanese lawmakers visiting Beijing this week to improve strained relations with China experienced a challenging exchange, with one member describing the talks as “heated.” The delegation, which included a member of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and two opposition politicians, sought to foster an environment conducive to normalizing bilateral ties.

Relations between Japan and China have deteriorated notably since November, when Prime Minister Takaichi suggested that Japan might consider military intervention in a potential conflict over Taiwan. China regards Taiwan as part of its territory and responded to her remarks by advising its citizens against travel to Japan and implementing trade restrictions reportedly leading to significant reductions in the supply of essential rare earth minerals to Japanese companies.

Shinichi Isa, a member of the Centrist Reform Alliance included in the delegation, told media in Tokyo on Thursday that despite the goal of creating a more favorable atmosphere for dialogue, there were many intense exchanges. He indicated that Chinese officials, including senior diplomat Lu Kang, emphasized that China’s position would remain unchanged unless Japan adjusted its statements and views regarding Taiwan. “Unless statements and perceptions concerning Taiwan change, China’s stance will not change,” Isa reported Lu Kang saying.

Nonetheless, Isa viewed the delegation’s visit as a positive development, marking progress from a prior period during which no official exchanges took place. Japanese media cited an unnamed source stating that the Chinese side highly valued the opportunity for face-to-face discussions.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian, in a briefing Thursday, affirmed that China would release information about the meeting in due course. He reiterated Beijing’s position that the primary cause of difficulties in bilateral relations stems from what China describes as “erroneous remarks and actions on Taiwan and in the fields of military and security” by Japanese government officials.

Responding to the visit on Friday, Japanese government chief spokesman Minoru Kihara acknowledged ongoing challenges but underscored the importance of keeping diplomatic channels open. “China is an important neighbour, and we will comprehensively promote strategic relationships of mutual interest and build constructive and stable relationships with China,” Kihara said. He added that Japan intends to continue dialogue at various levels and maintain calm, appropriate responses guided by national interests amid the complex relationship.