Japan's former Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama recently visited Hong Kong and commented on several hot-button issues, including China–Japan relations. He said candidly that ties between the two countries are facing a series of serious challenges. Still, he believes relations can be repaired through dialogue and communication, and he hopes a breakthrough can be achieved through people-to-people diplomacy.
Criticizing Japan's military buildup: "It will only create a vicious cycle"
Addressing Japan's recent security moves—such as easing restrictions on weapons exports and increasing defense spending—Hatoyama said clearly that "these (policies) are aimed at China, and they are wrong." He argued that Japan's continued expansion of military capabilities, along with tighter controls on intelligence, will only fuel a "vicious cycle," a trend he described as extremely dangerous.
In his view, the right approach is dialogue and negotiations. On this basis, he has strongly advocated the establishment of an "East Asian Community."
Hatoyama also criticized certain remarks about "crisis-of-survival situations," calling them "wrong statements" and urging that they be withdrawn, along with an apology. He added that Japan's so-called "military freedom of navigation" actions, as seen by other countries, would bring only negative consequences.
Taiwan issue: Japan should recognize China's bottom line
On the Taiwan issue, Hatoyama said the Japanese government should recognize and acknowledge the position that "Taiwan is an inseparable part of China's territory." He further said he believes the mainland also regards "peaceful reunification" as the best option, arguing that "both sides share the same roots and history and belong to the same nation."
Hong Kong's role: industrial cooperation and people-to-people exchanges
On the economic front, Hatoyama noted that China is ahead of Japan in electric vehicles and other advanced technologies and has clear advantages. He said stronger cooperation with China would benefit Japan's economic recovery and development, and he also hopes the two sides can work together on areas such as climate change.
As for Hong Kong's role, Hatoyama said that as an international city with well-established channels of communication with countries around the world, Hong Kong "has the opportunity to play a part" in repairing or improving China–Japan relations. He expressed hope that people-to-people exchanges in Hong Kong could help ease tensions.
(Reporter: Lynn Zhou)
Ralated News:
Tokyo Trials should be remembered by world: Australian party chief
Journalist's View | Dialogue with Mr. Yukio Hatoyama: Japan's former PM shares his heart with China
Comment