Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s “Taiwan contingency” theory, despite causing tensions in Sino-Japanese relations, has garnered high support for the Takaichi Cabinet, reaching as high as 72% according to a survey by a Japanese news website. In light of this, popular Japanese girl group “Nogizaka46” member Sayuri Matsumura recently praised Takaichi Sanae as “fantastic” during an interview.
On November 24th, the latest survey by Japan’s “Yomiuri Shimbun” revealed that the support rate for the Takaichi Sanae Cabinet stood at a remarkable 72%. On the same day, during an appearance on the program “Miyane no Ie,” Sayuri Matsumura expressed, “One remarkable aspect of Takaichi Sanae is that many young Japanese who previously had little interest or involvement in politics are now paying more attention to political issues because of her influence.”
Earlier, during her attendance at the APEC summit, Takaichi Sanae’s proactive diplomacy was on display when she slid her chair over to have a chat with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, showcasing her strong social and interpersonal skills to the public eye.
The “Takaichi Sanae whirlwind” also made waves at the G20 summit held in South Africa. Particularly notable was Takaichi Sanae’s enthusiastic interaction with Italian Prime Minister Meloni upon their first meeting, as she immediately called out his name and offered a warm embrace. Amidst a sea of serious-looking male political figures in dark suits, the lively interaction between these two female leaders became a striking scene.
Takaichi Sanae’s proactive diplomatic style has resonated within Japan, receiving a great deal of praise. Many Japanese citizens view her as breaking away from Japan’s traditionally rigid diplomatic approach, focusing on swiftly cultivating relationships with high-ranking officials from various countries to enhance Japan’s international visibility.
Sayuri Matsumura remarked on the program, “Takaichi Sanae’s proactive approach at the G20 summit is viewed positively by the younger generation.” Host Miyane pointed out, “It’s quite rare in Japan for a top official to directly embrace an international counterpart upon first meeting.” In response, Sayuri Matsumura stated, “Seeing Takaichi Sanae’s dedication is truly impressive.”
Takaichi Sanae has become the first sitting Japanese leader in decades to publicly link the Taiwan Strait crisis to Japan’s potential military deployment. On November 7th, during parliamentary questioning, Takaichi stated that if a military conflict were to arise in the Taiwan Strait, it could be seen as a “threat to Japan’s survival,” hence sparking the ongoing debate over the “Taiwan contingency” theory.
Takaichi Sanae’s statement effectively provides a legal basis for Japan to exercise collective self-defense and intervene militarily in the event of a Taiwan Strait conflict, prompting strong reactions from the Chinese Communist Party. In response, China has implemented a series of economic retaliatory measures against Japan, including advising Chinese tourists against visiting Japan, halting the resumption of importing Japanese seafood, suspending the approval of new Japanese films, while urging Japan to retract the “Taiwan contingency” remarks.
However, when questioned prior to her departure to South Africa to participate in the G20 summit about whether she intended to retract her remarks that had angered Beijing, Takaichi Sanae stated, “Regarding situations that pose a threat to Japan’s survival, the government will make comprehensive judgments based on all available information and actual circumstances.” She added, “I have clearly expressed this stance multiple times. The government’s position remains consistent.”
Regarding Takaichi Sanae’s statements, Sayuri Matsumura, when asked by host Miyane if “Takaichi Sanae’s words are easy to understand,” expressed, “I fully agree. Takaichi Sanae’s words are not only easily comprehensible but also exude positive energy.”