Will the Trump-Xi wartime ally nostalgia prompt a Japanese rethink on China ties?

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is reportedly attempting to arrange a phone call with former US President Donald Trump, following the latter's recent nostalgic references to the wartime alliance between the United States and China. Trump's comments, made during his state visit to China's President Xi Jinping at the White House, reignited concerns in Tokyo.

Both leaders repeatedly invoked the shared history as allies against Japan during World War II, a reference that unsettled the Japanese government. Takaichi, despite declining to comment directly on the summit, hastened her address to the United Nations General Assembly to secure a meeting with Trump. Japanese analysts warned that this nostalgic reference could spell trouble for Japan's relationship with China.

Experts cautioned against interpreting Trump's remarks too broadly, noting that they were made in the context of the US-China relationship. Nonetheless, they expressed concern that China might exploit the amicable atmosphere to their advantage. Japanese officials have been working to maintain diplomatic relations with Beijing, with several delegations visiting China to understand their perspectives.

Another delegation, led by former Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, is set to visit China soon. Despite the concerns, analysts believe the single statement is unlikely to significantly weaken the US-Japan alliance. However, the focus is on whether Washington and Beijing will use this shared historical reference to deepen their ties or to further strain relations.