China and Japan are two of Asia’s most powerful nations and the region’s biggest trading partners. Yet centuries of intense rivalry mean their economic embrace can never be taken for granted.

The outlook for business diplomacy is uncertain with visits planned for late January by business leaders, now in limbo. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.

Diplomatic crises often change the stakes for each, and for the Japanese, the consequences of this crisis are multifaceted. Japan’s new prime minister, Takaichi Sanae, was the initial focal point. As the Washington Post editorial board aptly noted,

No end in sight to spat between Japan and China over Taiwan, as neither Tokyo nor Beijing shows signs of backing down.

Japan's new leader prime triggered the dispute by saying Japan could intervene in a confrontation between China and Taiwan.

China is turning to a well-used playbook to express its displeasure with Japan over a statement by its prime minister on Taiwan

Takaichi’s remarks on Taiwan fuelled nationalist narratives in both Japan and China, straining bilateral ties.

Tensions between the two countries have soared after Takaichi commented on Taiwan. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.

The advisory urged citizens to pay close attention to their surroundings and make every possible effort to ensure their safety when outside.