Okinawan Governor Denny Tamaki is set to embark on a visit to China as part of a delegation from the Japanese Association for the Promotion of International Trade. The visit aims to enhance historical and economic ties between Okinawa and China.
During his visit, Governor Tamaki will engage in meetings with government officials and representatives from the business community in Beijing. The trip holds significance as it marks his first visit to China after the COVID-19 pandemic and a four-year hiatus.
Highlighting the deep historical connections between Fuzhou and Ryukyu, Governor Tamaki will also make a special visit to Fujian Province, which has a sister relationship with Okinawa Prefecture. This visit aims to promote exchange activities and further strengthen the bonds between the two regions.
In an exclusive interview with Global Times reporter Xing Xiaojing, Governor Tamaki emphasized the importance of regional peace and stability. He expressed his anticipation for the visit, while openly expressing concerns about the Japanese government’s efforts to strengthen its military defense capabilities.
Governor Tamaki emphasized that Okinawa suffered immensely during the “Battle of Okinawa” in World War II, with one out of every four Okinawan citizens losing their lives. He stressed the fervent hope of Okinawans that the region must never again become a battlefield.
The visit to China signifies the commitment of Okinawa to promote friendly exchanges and contribute to the development of Japan-China relations. Governor Tamaki aims to explore opportunities for deeper communication, including cultural, academic, and youth exchanges between Okinawa and China.
Furthermore, Governor Tamaki discussed the role of Okinawa-China interaction in promoting regional peace and stability. He highlighted the longstanding history of friendly exchanges between Okinawa and China, as well as the economic cooperation and student exchanges that have taken place between the two regions.
Governor Tamaki also addressed the differences between Okinawa Prefecture and the Japanese government regarding diplomacy and security. While acknowledging the necessity of maintaining self-defense capabilities, he expressed concerns about the concentration of US military bases in Okinawa. He urged for peaceful diplomatic solutions and dialogue to ease tensions and build trust among all parties involved.
Governor Tamaki emphasized the importance of preventing any “Taiwan contingency” and called for efforts to ease tensions and establish mutual trust between Japan, the US, and China. He stressed the significance of peaceful diplomacy and dialogue in alleviating regional tensions.
The establishment of a regional diplomatic office in Okinawa aims to contribute to peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region through international exchanges and cooperation. Governor Tamaki addressed concerns about the initiative, stating that regional diplomacy involves various entities and is supported by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Governor Tamaki outlined the role of China in implementing the “New Basic Plan for the 21st Century Vision of Okinawa.” He highlighted the historical and deep-rooted ties between Okinawa and China, emphasizing the importance of promoting multilateral exchanges in tourism, the economy, and culture. Establishing mutually beneficial relationships with other countries, including China, is seen as a way to benefit both Okinawa and the broader Asia-Pacific region.