World

Japan PM vows China dialogue despite tense relations

By AAP Newswire

Feb 10, 2026

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi says she intends to keep channels of dialogue with China open despite strained bilateral relations.

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"It is precisely because there are concerns and challenges between Japan and China that communication is important. Japan is open to various forms of dialogue," Takaichi said during a press conference after her historic election victory.

The 64-year-old is regarded as a hardliner on security and has taken a tough stance towards China.

Shortly after taking office in November, Takaichi clashed with the leadership in Beijing when she said that a Chinese attack on Taiwan would pose an "existential threat" to Japan, which could lead to a military response.

Takaichi advocates closer relations with the United States and said she will visit Washington DC next month, where she plans to meet US President Donald Trump to discuss global challenges.

In Sunday's election, Takaichi's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) became the first party in Japan's post-war history to secure a two-thirds majority in the lower house.

Takaichi also made history by becoming Japan's first female prime minister.