China Condemns Japan's Free and Open Indo-Pacific Vision

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun condemned Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's "free and open Indo-Pacific" vision during a press briefing in Beijing on July 2, 2026. Guo characterized the initiative as a facade for "division and confrontation" that opposes regional desires for peace and cooperation, asserting that the vision's real agenda contradicts genuine openness and freedom.

The critique follows recent lobbying efforts by Japanese officials who visited Australia, Vietnam, and the Philippines to promote a new version of the strategic vision. Guo argued that stability in the Asia-Pacific relies on safeguarding the postwar international order and the principles of the United Nations Charter.

He urged regional countries to prioritize mutual trust, dialogue, and inclusive cooperation over turbulence to ensure long-term stability in the region.