Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is seeking contact with U.S. President Donald Trump ahead of his expected meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington on September 24.
According to a source in the Japanese government, Takaichi prefers to meet Trump face to face during her visit to New York for the United Nations General Assembly later this month. The United Nations schedule has the two leaders slated to address the General Assembly on September 22.
Tokyo seeks coordination with Washington on China
The Japanese government is seeking to coordinate with Washington on China because of the potential consequences of a rapprochement between the United States and China. Japan is emphasizing dialogue rather than insisting on a specific format for the meeting.
Japan is concerned that Trump could make concessions to China on issues such as Taiwan to secure economic gains before the U.S. midterm elections in November. A Japanese government source said such a development could affect Tokyo’s security and economic interests.
Phone diplomacy if no face-to-face meeting
If Takaichi cannot meet Trump during her visit to the United States, she is expected to seek a phone call with the U.S. president during the summit period between Washington and Beijing.
Diplomatic relations between Tokyo and Beijing have grown strained under Takaichi’s government. In an assessment to parliament in November, Takaichi said a Chinese attack on Taiwan could prompt Japan to take military action.
Japanese government considers changes
Takaichi could also make changes in the Cabinet and among the ruling party’s leadership as early as September 16.
