Overall Highlights

• Takaichi’s remarks on Taiwan have sparked controversy, seen as a move to gain domestic popularity in Japan.
• China views Taiwan’s independence aspirations as a threat, emphasizing the need for unity and control over the region.
• Taiwan is actively pursuing military advancements and international support to bolster its defense against perceived Chinese aggression.
• The relationship between Taiwan and China remains tense, with differing narratives on sovereignty and governance.
• Cultural exchanges continue, as seen in events like the Fujian cultural heritage fair in Taiwan, despite political tensions.

China Perspective (China Sources)

• Takaichi’s comments on Taiwan are criticized as dangerous and inflammatory, calling for retraction to avoid escalating tensions.
• China’s ex-PLA colonel suggests that while the Taiwan issue is complex, a straightforward resolution exists, hinting at China’s perspective on reunification.
• Editorials emphasize the need for a united stance against perceived foreign interference in Taiwan’s affairs, particularly from Japan and the US.
• Cultural exchanges, such as the Fujian heritage fair, are highlighted as a means to strengthen ties with Taiwan despite political differences.

Taiwan Perspective (Taiwan Sources)

• Taiwan’s DPP government promotes direct democracy and referendums as a means to assert its sovereignty and engage citizens in governance.
• Reports indicate that Beijing is building military bases along the coast, raising security concerns for Taiwan.
• Editorials in Taiwan stress the importance of historical independence and the need for self-determination against Chinese claims.
• Taiwan’s representative to Finland is exploring ‘heavy metal diplomacy’ to strengthen international ties, showcasing Taiwan’s proactive foreign policy.

Sources

This summary is based on 20 articles from the following sources:

1. [en-US] Takaichi’s controversial Taiwan remarks likely deliberate bid to boost domestic popularity: ex-Singapore FM - Global Times (12/1/2025)
2. [en-US] Exclusive | Taiwan issue ‘complicated, but the way out is simple’: ex-PLA colonel Zhou Bo - South China Morning Post (11/30/2025)
3. [en-US] Opinion | Trump’s world view offers Beijing a window of opportunity on Taiwan - South China Morning Post (11/30/2025)
4. [en-US] Takaichi must stop rubbing salt in wounds and retract erroneous, dangerous remarks: China Daily editorial - China Daily - Global Edition (11/30/2025)
5. [en-US] Fujian intangible cultural heritage draws visitors at Kaohsiung travel fair in Taiwan - 新华网 (11/30/2025)
6. [en-US] Why do Chinese no longer feel the need to boycott Japanese products? - South China Morning Post (11/30/2025)
7. [en-US] MAMA Awards in Hong Kong draws public attention over tribute to victims, causes backlash for listing HK, Taiwan as ‘nationalities’ - Global Times (11/30/2025)
8. [en-US] Singapore becomes Plan B for Chinese travellers giving Japan a wide berth - South China Morning Post (11/30/2025)
9. [en-US] Opinion | Why Chinese are cancelling their trips to Japan - South China Morning Post (11/30/2025)
10. [en-US] Taiwan’s plan to acquire drone ‘takeover’ technology sparks security debate - South China Morning Post (11/29/2025)
11. [en-US] Police silence Hong Kong calls for accountability - Taipei Times (11/30/2025)
12. [en-US] DPP encourages ‘direct democracy’ referendums - Taipei Times (11/30/2025)
13. [en-US] Beijing building bases on coast: MAC - Taipei Times (11/29/2025)
14. [en-US] EDITORIAL: Xi, Trump: People set Taiwan’s path - Taipei Times (11/29/2025)
15. [en-US] Taiwan’s history is of independence - Taipei Times (11/29/2025)
16. [en-US] Former US official slams Chinese tantrum - Taipei Times (11/29/2025)
17. [en-US] Chinese baseball league announces Taiwanese picks - Taipei Times (11/29/2025)
18. [en-US] Airlines briefly grounded by Airbus software issues - Taipei Times (11/29/2025)
19. [en-US] Taiwan’s representative to Finland explores heavy metal diplomacy - Focus Taiwan (11/29/2025)
20. [en-US] Experts clarify the significance of 2027 for China - Taipei Times (11/28/2025)