Sanae Takaichi on China

Sanae Takaichi has established a firm stance regarding the People's Republic of China, articulating a need for Japan to fundamentally overhaul its security posture in response to perceived coercion and growing regional assertiveness. Her position is characterized by a commitment to strengthening defense capabilities and ensuring national security is prioritized over economic dependencies that could be leveraged by Beijing. This outlook has been particularly evident following periods of diplomatic tension, where she has publicly warned against Chinese actions that threaten regional stability and Japanese interests. She advocates for proactive measures to bolster Japan's deterrence capabilities against external threats.

This tough line on China is contextualized by her broader conservative political identity and a desire to solidify the Japan-U.S. alliance as a cornerstone of regional security. Her policy emphasis suggests a pivot away from relying on economic engagement alone to manage the relationship, instead favoring a strategy built on credible defense and international cooperation with like-minded partners. The political support for her platform indicates a domestic appetite for a more assertive stance when dealing with the economic and military pressures emanating from the mainland.