Discussions were held between the defense authorities of Japan and China, and in response to the fact that an object presumed to be a Chinese reconnaissance balloon was also confirmed in Japanese airspace, the Japanese side stated that intrusion into Japan's airspace was absolutely unacceptable. I made a request again so that this would not occur again.
The talks were held in Tokyo on the afternoon of the 21st, and were attended by senior defense officials from both Japan and China.
In response to the fact that an object presumed to be a Chinese reconnaissance balloon was also confirmed in Japan's airspace, the Japanese side argued that intrusion into Japanese airspace without permission constitutes an infringement of airspace and is absolutely unacceptable. I made a request again to prevent this kind of situation from happening again.
In addition, in order to prevent accidental clashes between the Self-Defense Forces and the Chinese military, the two sides agreed to continue working together toward the start of operation of a hotline for direct contact between defense authorities around this spring.
In addition, vice-ministerial level consultations between Japan and China were also held, and while the Japanese side conveyed serious concerns over the situation in the East China Sea, including the Senkaku Islands in Okinawa Prefecture, the two sides are working closely toward building a constructive and stable relationship. I have confirmed that I will communicate with
On the 22nd, the governments of Japan and China will hold the "Japan-China Security Dialogue" for the first time in about four years by senior officials of the foreign and defense authorities, and will exchange views on mutual understanding in the area of security and the regional situation.