Gaku Hashimoto, acting chairman of the Japan International Trade Promotion Association, met with Chinese Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Hua Chunying in Beijing [1].
The meeting occurs as diplomatic relations between the two nations have deteriorated following comments made by Prime Minister Takaichi in November 2025 [2].
Hashimoto met with Hua on June 22 [1]. The discussion took place as part of a broader delegation visit to China that ran from June 21 to June 24 [3].
Hashimoto said the meeting was a significant achievement because both parties were able to meet and discuss their respective positions. He said they have found a starting point for exchange [1].
During the talks, Hashimoto addressed security concerns. He said Japan is not aiming to become a military state [1].
Hua Chunying said China's consistent position on the matters discussed [1].
The visit was led by former Speaker of the House Yohei Kono, according to some reports, though Hashimoto conducted the specific meeting with the foreign ministry official [1], [3].
“"Finding a starting point for exchange is a very great achievement."”
This engagement represents a shift toward using non-governmental and trade-focused channels to thaw relations after a period of high political tension. By utilizing the Japan International Trade Promotion Association, both nations are attempting to establish a baseline of communication and 'exchange' without requiring immediate, high-level political concessions from the respective heads of state.
