China warns Japan over Indo-Pacific strategy

April 29 (Asia Today) -- China expressed opposition Wednesday to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's "free and open Indo-Pacific" initiative, calling it an attempt to promote bloc confrontation.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian made the remarks at a regular briefing in response to reports that Takaichi may present a revised Indo-Pacific strategy during a visit to Vietnam this weekend.

"Exchanges between countries should not target a third party or harm the interests of a third party," Lin said. "Japan uses the slogan of being 'free and open,' but in reality it is stirring up confrontation between camps and creating a small, exclusive group."

Lin said such actions run counter to the shared desire of regional countries and the international community for peace, development and cooperation.

"They will be difficult to win support," he said.

According to Japan's Foreign Ministry, Takaichi is scheduled to visit Hanoi on Friday and meet with To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, and Prime Minister Le Minh Hung.

Diplomatic sources in Beijing said the talks are expected to focus on strengthening the two countries' comprehensive strategic partnership, including in economic security fields such as energy, critical minerals and science and technology.

Takaichi is also expected to deliver a speech outlining Japan's foreign policy direction, including its Indo-Pacific strategy, around the time of the meetings.

-- Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

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Original Korean report: https://www.asiatoday.co.kr/kn/view.php?key=20260429010009593

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This story was originally published April 29, 2026 at 8:20 PM.