Taro Kono on China

Security realist (strong)

TL;DR

Taro Kono advocates for strong security posture, demanding China adhere to international norms or face consequences.

Key Points

As Defense Minister in August 2020, he warned China that Japan would respond to any intrusions around the disputed Senkaku Islands.
He stated in September 2020 that China had become a security threat to Japan, moving beyond previous descriptions of 'grave concern'.
In September 2017, he stressed the need for Japan and China to be regarded as partners, not rivals, while committing to uphold the 'Peace Constitution' spirit.

Summary

As Foreign Minister and later as Defense Minister, Taro Kono has articulated a stance on China that emphasizes adherence to international norms while maintaining a firm security posture. He warned the Chinese government that the Self-Defense Force would respond to any intrusions on the disputed Senkaku Islands during his tenure as Defense Minister in August 2020. Furthermore, Kono explicitly stated in September 2020 that China had become a security threat to Japan, a more direct phrasing than his previous expressions of 'grave concern' as Foreign Minister.

His interactions with Chinese officials, such as Foreign Minister Wang Yi in 2018, reflected a desire to return Japan-China relations to a 'right track' through dialogue and proper management of differences, while simultaneously ensuring mutual respect for political foundations. While Kono has been noted for potentially taking a softer diplomatic approach compared to some of his peers, his later comments as Defense Minister indicated a clear-eyed view of China as a national security challenge requiring a strong defense stance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Taro Kono's current stance on China?

Taro Kono has taken a security-conscious approach toward China, explicitly labeling it a security threat in 2020 while serving as Defense Minister. He has also emphasized that Japan must adhere to international norms or face consequences, according to reports on his statements. His approach balances security concerns with a willingness to engage in dialogue and manage bilateral differences.

Did Taro Kono signal a softer approach to China as Foreign Minister?

When he was Foreign Minister, some reports suggested he might take a softer diplomatic approach compared to the sitting Prime Minister, and his appointment was reportedly received favorably by some in China. However, during a meeting in September 2017, he stressed that Japan would stick to its basic principles, including the spirit of the 'Peace Constitution,' while looking to improve relations.

What did Taro Kono say about China's adherence to international rules?

Taro Kono warned China in 2020 to adhere to international norms or 'pay the cost' regarding disputes, as reported by the South China Morning Post. When meeting with Chinese officials in 2018, he affirmed the importance of managing differences and cooperating on global issues, while aiming for sustained, stable development of bilateral relations.