Japanese Warship Crosses Taiwan Strait After 10-Month Gap, Amid China's Extended Intervals

AI Summary (NQ-processed)

Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) destroyer 'Inazuma' transited the Taiwan Strait today, marking the first passage by a JMSDF vessel in about 10 months since then-Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's remarks on 'Taiwan emergency' caused a backlash from China. This move is seen as Japan reaffirming its commitment to freedom of navigation under international law while pursuing dialogue and improved relations with China. The Japanese government carefully chose the timing due to previous remarks sparking Chinese backlash. The vessel will proceed to the South China Sea for joint exercises with the US and Philippines, a move protested by China's Foreign Ministry.