Press Releases
Japan-China Foreign Ministers’ Telephone Talk
On July 29, commencing at around 12 p.m. for approximately one hour and 30 minutes, Mr. MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, upon the request of the Chinese side, held a telephone talk with H.E. Mr. Wang Yi, State Councilor and Foreign Minister of the People’s Republic of China, regarding the response to the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and other issues. The overview is as follows.
1. The two ministers conveyed their respective condolences regarding the natural disasters that have occurred in each country. Regarding COVID-19, the two ministers confirmed that Japan and China will continue to collaborate through diplomatic and other channels, including sharing information, lessons learned, and insights in a free, transparent and timely manner, and cooperation on international public health measures.
2. The two ministers confirmed that they would coordinate for the resumption of cross-border travel as soon as possible, while taking the policy recently announced by the Government of Japan into consideration.
3. Minister Motegi once again raised maritime security issues, such as the waters surrounding the Senkaku Islands, and strongly requested China’s actions. In addition, Minister Motegi conveyed Japan’s concerns regarding Hong Kong. Furthermore, the two ministers also discussed the South China Sea issue and arms control and disarmament.
4. The two ministers discussed bilateral economic relations including the issue of China’s import restrictions on Japanese food products. The two ministers confirmed to continue close communication, not only regarding pending issues between Japan and China but also the challenges facing the region and the international community.