Tokyo:Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has described China as "an important neighbor" during a policy speech to parliament. This comes amid ongoing tensions between the two nations, particularly concerning Taiwan.

According to Anadolu Agency, Takaichi emphasized the longstanding relationship between Japan and China, despite existing challenges. She highlighted the importance of building a "mutually beneficial relationship based on common strategic interests."

The diplomatic relationship between Japan and China has been strained since Takaichi's remarks in November, suggesting potential Japanese intervention if Taiwan were attacked. This statement was met with disapproval from Beijing, which considers Taiwan part of its territory.

Takaichi assured that Japan would continue to assert its positions on various issues, including the East and South China seas, Chinese military activities, coercive measures, the safety of Japanese nationals, and human rights concerns. She stated Japan's commitment to maintaining dialogue on shared challenges and working toward a constructive and stable relationship with China.

Her comments followed a recent visit to Beijing by former Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, who met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Vice Premier He Lifeng. During these meetings, Wang urged Takaichi to correct her remarks on Taiwan and emphasized the need for normalizing bilateral relations. The November remarks by Takaichi characterized a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan as a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan, which might justify Tokyo in exercising collective self-defense.