Sanae Takaichi: “There is no such fact.”

We will work to ensure communication on shared challenges, promote dialogue to safeguard our national interests, and build a constructive relationship.

China is an important neighbor, and despite difficulties, we have built up a long-standing relationship over the years.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi played up the strength of the alliance between the two countries.

Takaichi has come under pressure from China to retract remarks she made last year that suggested Japan might mobilize its military in any collective effort to defend Taiwan from an invasion.