Japan PM Takaichi Signals Constructive China Ties, Softening Taiwan Rhetoric

New Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi pledges a 'constructive and stable relationship' with China, calling it an 'important neighbor'. This marks a notable softening from her November remarks suggesting possible Japanese intervention in a Chinese attack on Taiwan, which had sparked a diplomatic dispute. The shift signals a potential de-escalation in Tokyo-Beijing tensions, though policy continuity remains uncertain.