Core Viewpoint - The remarks made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan have sparked widespread criticism, particularly for allegedly supporting "Taiwan independence" forces and violating the One China principle [3][5][8]. Group 1: Political Implications - Takaichi's statements are seen as a violation of the four political documents between China and Japan, sending a strong signal of support to "Taiwan independence" advocates, including Lai Ching-te and the Democratic Progressive Party [3][5]. - The comments have been interpreted as positioning Takaichi as a protector of "Taiwan independence," which has raised concerns among various political commentators in Taiwan [3][5]. Group 2: Historical Context - The article highlights Japan's historical responsibilities regarding Taiwan, including past colonial actions that have caused significant harm to the Taiwanese people. Takaichi's lack of reflection on this history is viewed as provocative and damaging to the sentiments of the Chinese people [8]. Group 3: Reactions from Taiwan - Taiwanese commentators have criticized Lai Ching-te for his perceived sycophancy towards Japan, suggesting that the current administration is prioritizing political gain over the interests of the Taiwanese populace [9][11][13]. - There is a call among Taiwanese intellectuals for the public to oppose foreign interference in Taiwan's affairs, emphasizing that Taiwan is an internal matter for China [14][16]. - Former Kuomintang Chairman Hung Hsiu-chu has warned that allowing "Taiwan independence" forces to act freely could lead Taiwan towards conflict, stressing the importance of unity and historical awareness among the Chinese people [18].

Core Viewpoint - The Chinese government strongly opposes Japanese Prime Minister Kishi Nobuo's provocative remarks regarding Taiwan, asserting that Taiwan is an internal matter of China and should not be interfered with by external forces [1][2]. Group 1: Reactions to Provocative Remarks - The spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office emphasized that Japan should immediately cease its interference in China's internal affairs and stop provocative actions [1]. - A recent poll indicated that 91.1% of respondents believe Japan should reflect on its historical responsibilities and respect China's sovereignty [1]. - The spokesperson criticized Kishi's remarks as an attempt to intervene in the Taiwan Strait situation and as a challenge to international justice and post-war order [1]. Group 2: Taiwan's Response and Internal Dynamics - Taiwan's Vice President Lai Ching-te claimed that China is conducting a "composite attack" against Japan and urged China to return to a rules-based international order [2]. - The spokesperson attributed the tension in the Taiwan Strait to the Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) insistence on "Taiwan independence" and collusion with external forces [2]. - Prominent figures in Taiwan, such as Ma Ying-jeou and Hung Hsiu-chu, expressed concern over Kishi's remarks, advocating for cross-strait dialogue without foreign intervention [2]. Group 3: Call for Unity and Historical Awareness - The spokesperson urged Taiwanese compatriots to recognize the dangers of Japan's actions and to unite against "Taiwan independence" and external interference [3]. - There is a call for Taiwanese people to stand on the right side of history and work together with mainland compatriots to oppose separatism and safeguard national unity [3].

Core Points - The report from the RAND Corporation indicates that the actions of the Lai Ching-te administration are provoking strong countermeasures from the mainland, suggesting that the U.S. should not allow Lai's administration to take actions that may escalate tensions across the Taiwan Strait [1] - The spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office, Peng Qing'en, expressed a willingness to create broad space for peaceful reunification, emphasizing maximum sincerity and effort to achieve a peaceful future, while also stating that the use of force remains an option against "Taiwan independence" and external interference [1] Summary by Categories U.S. Involvement - The RAND Corporation report advises the U.S. to urge Lai's administration to avoid actions that could aggravate tensions with the mainland and to encourage a gradual unification approach from the mainland [1] Cross-Strait Relations - The Taiwan Affairs Office emphasizes the importance of peaceful reunification and expresses a commitment to making efforts towards this goal, while also retaining the right to use force if necessary [1]