Takaichi Sanae, Prime Minister of Japan: My response regarding the existential crisis situation does not alter the Japanese Government's established position. It is precisely because there are pending issues and challenges between Japan and China that communication is vital. Japan remains open to various forms of dialogue with China.

At a press conference held by Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae on December 17, Takaichi explained her position with relations with China.

Takaichi said that the Japanese government would persistently explain its position to China and the international community at various levels.

Also on December 17, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry said that the trend of Japanese militarism's resurgence is causing strong vigilance among countries in the region.

According to multiple diplomatic sources, China's Foreign Ministry has asked ambassadors from Southeast Asian nations and others stationed in Beijing to criticize of Japan’s stance.

It also requested that they voice their support for China's position on Taiwan.

Regarding these activities, the spokesperson said that Beijing’s “One China” policy is a widely recognized in the international community including Southeast Asian nations.

At Takaichi’s press conference, she also noted her achievements since taking power, saying that through passing the supplementary budget, the government was able to fulfill its promise to tackle high prices.

Takaichi Sanae, Prime Minister of Japan: We intend to step up the pace even further, steadily fleshing out and implementing the policies we put forward in the LDP leadership election and those outlined in our coalition agreement with the Japan Innovation Party. I believe we have been able to tackle these with considerable speed.

Regarding the election for the House of Representatives, Takaichi said that tax reforms and next year's budget bill are her priority, and that she hasn’t had time to focus on it.