Diplomatic crises often change the stakes for each, and for the Japanese, the consequences of this crisis are multifaceted. Japan’s new prime minister, Takaichi Sanae, was the initial focal point. As the Washington Post editorial board aptly noted,

No end in sight to spat between Japan and China over Taiwan, as neither Tokyo nor Beijing shows signs of backing down.

Takaichi’s remarks on Taiwan fuelled nationalist narratives in both Japan and China, straining bilateral ties.

Taiwan’s policy toward the United States is somewhat fraught at present, given the American government’s refusal to allow Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te to transit in New York and the challenges presented by the tariffs of U.S. President Donald Trump.

Japan must act responsibly, fulfill its commitments and avoid actions that could endanger peace. It must choose dialogue over confrontation, restraint over provocation and respect for historical facts over revisionist impulses. The stability of the region, and the well-being of millions, depend on it.

Chinese officials took issue with Japan’s claim. Wang Xuemeng, a spokesman for the Chinese Navy, said in a statement that the Liaoning was carrying out “routine carrier-based fighter jet flight training” that had been announced in advance.

As tensions between the two neighboring nations grow more tense, Japan accuses China of hostile radar locks on its jets.

Japan’s position on Taiwan remains unchanged, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said on Wednesday, referring to a 1972 commitment that led to the normalisation of ties between Beijing and Tokyo.