Is Japan and China Forming Strategic Relations for a Reason?

Leaders Xi Jinping and Fumio Kishida prioritize economic ties in San Francisco talks, addressing challenges like China's seafood ban and export controls.

(C) East Asia Forum

In a diplomatic encounter, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida met in San Francisco, emphasizing shared economic interests amid historical and recent tensions. The leaders acknowledged challenges such as China’s seafood ban and the arrest of a Japanese businessman. Kishida urged Xi to lift the ban and expedite the executive’s release, impacting trade ties.

The talks addressed the Fukushima water discharge issue, with both sides committing to consultations. An agreement on regular discussions about export controls emerged, aiming to prevent retaliatory measures in a global context of restricting sensitive material shipments.

China’s recent export restrictions, Japan’s countermeasures, and concerns over dwindling Malayan tiger habitats drew attention. Amid these discussions, experts speculate China’s move to strengthen ties with Japan may aim to create a rift between Japan and the U.S. in the U.S.-China confrontation.

Kishida, in post-talks comments to the media, revealed that he had strongly urged Xi to lift the seafood ban and sought the swift release of the detained business executive, whose case has negatively impacted trade ties between the two nations.

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Xi responded by suggesting that Japan should take its concerns over the Fukushima water discharge seriously, and both leaders agreed to work towards resolving the issue through consultations. However, the Chinese summary did not mention the case of the Astellas Pharma executive formally arrested last month.

A notable point of agreement emerged during the talks – an initiative to hold regular discussions on export controls. This move is aimed at preventing tit-for-tat measures as countries globally seek to limit shipments of sensitive materials and technologies.

Aside from bilateral talks, Kishida engaged with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, discussing North Korea’s missile tests. A trilateral meeting with Biden showcased attempts to foster regional cooperation. The APEC summit highlights delicate diplomatic maneuvering in addressing both regional complexities and global challenges.