Japanese trade promotion group led by ex-foreign chief visits China

BEIJING (Kyodo) -- A Japanese trade promotion delegation, headed by former Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, arrived in China on Sunday. The 50-strong group aims to facilitate dialogue and mend diplomatic relations strained by recent tensions. Iwaya emphasized the significance of improving ties through open communication, especially during a challenging period for Sino-Japanese relations.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's November statement regarding potential Japanese defense force intervention in the event of an attack on Taiwan exacerbated the situation. Iwaya expressed his desire to engage in frank discussions with Chinese leaders should the opportunity arise during the visit. He recently assumed his role as the Association for the Promotion of International Trade's leader in July.

The delegation's mission arrives shortly after a summit in Washington between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump. The talks covered various subjects such as trade and artificial intelligence, with Trump acknowledging their shared history as allies during World War II. The Japanese delegation's visit was initially scheduled for June but was delayed due to the passing of former Foreign Minister Yohei Kono, who previously led the trade promotion organization.