{Japan-China-South Korea Ministerial Meeting Postponed}
Japan-China-South Korea Culture Ministers Meeting Postponed
Table of Contents
BEIJING/SEOUL – November 20, 2023, 17:19:58 (Updated as needed)
Meeting Called Off Amidst Rising Tensions
A scheduled meeting of culture ministers from Japan, China, and South Korea, planned for Monday in Macau, has been postponed, according to Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning’s statement on thursday, November 16, 2023.
Mao Ning attributed the postponement to the deteriorated foundation and atmosphere for trilateral cooperation, specifically citing recent remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding a potential Taiwan contingency. She stated that the necessary conditions for the meeting were no longer present.
Impact on Potential Summit
The dispute between japan and China over Takaichi’s comments has extended to their broader trilateral relationship, casting doubt on the possibility of an early summit among the three East Asian nations in Japan. A source within South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism confirmed that Beijing requested the postponement on Tuesday, November 14, 2023.
Efforts to organize a summit in Japan have been hampered by scheduling conflicts, including a presidential election in South Korea and the recent resignation of Shigeru Ishiba, Takaichi’s predecessor.
Diplomatic Efforts and Lack of Progress
The potential for a prolonged confrontation between Japan and China further diminishes the likelihood of a trilateral summit. Tokyo is reportedly exploring the possibility of Takaichi engaging in discussions with Chinese Premier Li Qiang on the sidelines of the Group of 20 summit in South Africa, scheduled for November 18-19, 2023.
However, Mao Ning indicated that Premier Li has no current plans to hold talks with any Japanese leader.