Taipei: Taiwan has said it feels deeply encouraged and supported after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi made strong remarks defending Taiwan’s security if the island faces military pressure from China. Taiwan’s Premier Cho Jung tai said the government and the people were “very moved” by Japan’s stance and see it as a sign of growing friendship and shared democratic values between the two sides.
Prime Minister Takaichi recently told Japanese lawmakers that Tokyo could be prepared to respond if China attempts to use force against Taiwan. Her comments marked one of Japan’s strongest public positions on the Taiwan issue in recent years.
China reacted angrily to the statements. Beijing cancelled flights linked to Japan, blocked Japanese artists from performing in China and publicly warned Japan against what it called interference in internal affairs. China’s foreign ministry accused Japan of reviving military ambitions and warned that any attempt to involve itself in the Taiwan question would face consequences.
The situation has added to rising military tension in East Asia. Intelligence sources say China has deployed more than one hundred naval and coast guard vessels across the region in what is seen as a coordinated show of force. The ships have been spotted near the South China Sea, East China Sea and western Pacific, increasing concern among neighboring countries.
In response to rising pressure Taiwan has announced a major increase in its defense budget worth around forty billion dollars. The government plans to strengthen missile defense systems and expand technology focused on asymmetric warfare. Officials say the investments are meant to protect citizens and maintain peace.
Public reactions in Taiwan have also shifted. Many Taiwanese have shown symbolic support for Japan by choosing to travel there and by welcoming Japanese performers to events in Taiwan. The Taiwanese president even shared a sushi lunch with Japanese diplomats in a public gesture of friendship.
Japan’s comments have already affected markets. Japanese stocks saw a dip as investors worried about the potential for instability in the region and about possible economic measures from China. In China some people with ties to Japan say they feel uncertain about how worsening relations may affect daily life.
Analysts say the latest developments suggest long standing ambiguity around Taiwan’s future is changing. With Japan taking a clearer position and Taiwan publicly acknowledging it tensions between Beijing and its neighbors may increase. Some experts warn that missteps or misunderstandings could raise the risk of confrontation.
For now on both sides of the Taiwan Strait the focus appears to be shifting toward military readiness and diplomatic signaling. Taiwan says it continues to hope for peace but welcomes support from international partners who share its vision of stability and freedom.