China accuses Japan of funding Pro-Japan sentiment efforts in Taiwan
Defense Ministry Condemns Japan’s “Identity Manipulation”
China’s Ministry of National Defense sharply criticized Japan on Thursday for allegedly investing large sums of money to cultivate pro-Japan sentiment in Taiwan. According to an investigative report referenced at the briefing, Japan has spent more than 13.1 billion yen (about $84 million) in recent years on programs aimed at promoting favorable views toward Japan in the region.
Japan Accused of Continuing Historical “Japanization” Tactics
Defense ministry spokesperson Jiang Bin said that Japan is continuing its historical attempts to shape identity in Taiwan. He referenced the period of Japanese colonial rule, stating that Japan had launched a “Japanization” campaign in the past and is now using more covert methods to influence cultural perceptions, whitewash wartime aggression, and weaken the sense of Chinese national identity among Taiwan’s youth.
Call for Vigilance Against Political Manipulation
Jiang stressed that history cannot be rewritten and that cultural and historical bonds across the Taiwan Strait remain strong. He urged people on both sides of the strait to stay vigilant against Japan’s alleged political interference and to oppose actions that “flatter Japan, betray Taiwan, or forget one’s ancestors.”