China Denies Reports of Trump Defending Japanese PM, Claims Contradiction with Xi-Trump Meeting

According to the Central News Agency, Japanese media reported that US President Trump directly countered Chinese President Xi Jinping's criticism of Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi during their summit. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning claimed today that this report is 'inconsistent with the situation as understood by the Chinese side.' She also asserted that China's cessation of heavy rare earth exports to Japan is intended to stop Japan's 'remilitarization' and nuclear ambitions.

According to reports from the Beijing Daily and China News Service, during today's regular press conference, a reporter asked whether the issue of Japan's 'remilitarization' was discussed during the US-China summit, and whether Trump defended Takaichi when she was criticized.

In response, Mao Ning stated that China has already released information regarding the US-China summit, and the content mentioned by the reporter is 'inconsistent with the situation as understood by the Chinese side.' She added that China's stance on China-Japan relations is clear.

In November 2025, Sanae Takaichi's remarks in parliament regarding a 'Taiwan contingency' sparked dissatisfaction in China, and the Chinese Foreign Ministry has consistently urged Japan to withdraw its 'erroneous remarks.'

Another reporter asked if the reported four-month suspension of heavy rare earth and mineral exports to Japan was a response to Takaichi's remarks on Taiwan. Mao Ning suggested consulting the relevant authorities for specific details, but claimed that China prohibits the export of dual-use items to Japanese military users and for military purposes in accordance with laws and regulations, with the goal of stopping Japan's 'remilitarization' and nuclear ambitions.