China, Japan Foreign Ministers Hold First Meeting Since Taiwan Remarks Row

Motegi told reporters that he and Wang had a chance to exchange greetings and discuss bilateral relations. He reiterated Japan's commitment to maintaining dialogue with China, emphasizing the importance of engagement for regional peace given the roles both nations play.

The diplomatic spat began in November when Takaichi stated that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could constitute a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan, prompting a response from its defense forces in support of the United States. Beijing viewed these comments as interference in its internal affairs, leading to increased pressure on Tokyo, including advisories against travel to Japan and restrictions on exports of certain goods.

During the ASEAN meetings, Wang Yi urged member states to "never allow militarism to stage a comeback" and to "firmly reject unjustified external interference" and oppose "exclusive small groupings," which were seen as veiled criticisms of Japan's defense buildup and the Quad security dialogue involving the U.S., Japan, Australia, and India.

This encounter raises questions about whether it could pave the way for a future meeting between Takaichi and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Shenzhen later in the year.