China Urges U.S.-Japan Ties Not to Target Third Parties

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson calls for bilateral relations to promote regional stability, not harm others' interests

Mar. 23, 2026 at 2:16pm

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A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson stated that the development of bilateral relations between the United States and Japan should be conducive to regional peace and stability, rather than target a third party or harm their interests. The spokesperson made the remarks in response to comments made by Japanese media, experts, and the public about Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent visit to Washington.

Why it matters

This statement from China reflects its concerns about the strengthening of the U.S.-Japan alliance and the potential for it to be directed against China's interests in the region. China wants to ensure that the U.S. and Japan do not use their relationship to undermine China's influence or security in the Asia-Pacific.

The details

The Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian, said that China had noticed the critical comments made by Japanese citizens about Prime Minister Takaichi's visit to the U.S. and President Trump's invocation of the Pearl Harbor attack. However, Lin stated that China would not comment on the online criticism from Japanese people. Instead, Lin emphasized that the development of U.S.-Japan ties should promote regional peace and stability, rather than target a third party or harm their interests.

  • On March 23, 2026, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson made these remarks at a regular news briefing.

The players

Lin Jian

A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson who commented on the development of U.S.-Japan relations.

Sanae Takaichi

The Prime Minister of Japan who recently visited Washington, D.C.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States who invoked Japan's surprise attack on Pearl Harbor during Prime Minister Takaichi's visit.

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What they’re saying

“The development of bilateral relations between the United States and Japan should be conducive to regional peace and stability, rather than target a third party or harm their interests.”

— Lin Jian, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson

The takeaway

China is closely watching the strengthening of the U.S.-Japan alliance and wants to ensure that it does not come at the expense of China's regional influence and security interests. Beijing is calling for the bilateral relationship to focus on promoting regional stability rather than targeting third parties like China.