Japan Warns Its Citizens In China To Be Alert Amid Taiwan Dispute

JAKARTA - Japan issued a warning to its citizens in China to be careful of the surrounding environment and avoid crowds amid a diplomatic row triggered by Prime Minister (PMN) Sanae Takaichi's comments about Taiwan.

China has also issued warnings for its citizens to avoid a trip to Japan that has affected Tokyo's shares.

The screening of at least two Japanese films will also be postponed in China.

"Pay attention to the environment around you and as much as possible avoid the square where many people gather, or places that are most likely used by many Japanese people," the Japanese Embassy in China said in a statement quoted by AFP, Tuesday, November 18.

Today, a spokesman for the Japanese government, Minuru Kihara, said the warning was issued based on a study by his party.

"Based on a comprehensive assessment of the political situation, including the security situation in the relevant countries or regions, as well as social conditions," said Minuru.

The diplomatic dispute between China and Japan was sparked by PM Takaichi's statement that Japan could intervene in any attack on Taiwan.

PM Takaichi said on November 7 that if China attacks Taiwan it could cause a "sustainability-threatening situation" and trigger a military response from Japan.

Takaichi's statement sparked China's anger.

China does not rule out using military force to confirm its claim to Taiwan, which is 110 kilometers from Japanese territory. The sovereignty claimed by China had been rejected by the Taiwanese Government.