China’s Xi calls on Japan to protect political foundation of ties

What happened: Xi Jinping sent condolences over the death of former Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda and called on Japan's current leadership to safeguard the political foundation of bilateral ties. Key numbers: Fukuda died on Thursday from heart failure at age 90. Ties deteriorated in November 2025 over remarks by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Why it matters: The message was a rare direct reference by Xi to the relationship since it sank to its worst levels in years, with China advising against travel to Japan and banning exports of items with military use, including some rare earths.

Xi Jinping sent condolences over the death of former Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda and called on Japan's current leadership to safeguard the political foundation of bilateral ties.

The message was a rare direct reference by Xi to the relationship since it sank to its worst levels in years, with China advising against travel to Japan and banning exports of items with military use, including some rare earths.