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Two pandas become "apples of contention"/ China-Japan relations at high tension

2026-02-17 09:32:00, Kosova & Bota CNA

Two pandas become "apples of contention"/ China-Japan relations at

Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, two giant pandas from China, have returned to China after a stay at Tokyo's Ueno Zoo, leaving Japan without a Chinese panda for the first time in decades. The move comes amid rising tensions between the two countries, after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's statements on defending Taiwan angered China.

In addition to returning the pandas, China has increased economic and diplomatic pressure on Japan, restricting exports of rare earth minerals, restricting Chinese tourism, and canceling Japanese concerts and cultural events. On the military front, there have been drone and warship movements, while tensions over the disputed Senkaku/Diaoyu islands have increased.

Analysts warn that China-Japan relations will not normalize quickly. China seeks to show its strength, especially on the Taiwan issue, while Japan, buoyed by Takaichi's strong electoral victory, aims to strengthen defense and economic policies.

Moreover, the role of the United States could influence regional dynamics, with President Donald Trump's support for Takaichi and his planned visit to Beijing this April. Experts warn that this "diplomatic tango" is likely to continue, with tensions likely to remain at higher levels than before./ CNA





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