Tokyo involvement in Taiwan would amount to aggression against Beijing: UN envoy
South China Morning Post
by Dewey SimFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
China’s UN envoy Fu Cong has issued a strong warning at a UN meeting, stating that any military involvement by Japan in the Taiwan issue would be considered an act of aggression against China. He emphasized that such actions would “constitute an aggression against China” and vowed that Beijing would retaliate resolutely. Fu accused Japan of attempting to justify its potential military intervention under the guise of collective self-defense, which he described as a betrayal of international obligations. He called on all peace-loving nations to remain vigilant and oppose such moves.
The remarks come amid heightened tensions between China and Japan over Taiwan, following Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s comments in November that appeared to support Taiwan’s defensive capabilities. Fu Cong’s statement appears to escalate the rhetoric, framing any Japanese involvement as a direct threat to Chinese sovereignty. He also highlighted the ongoing joint military exercises between the United States and Japan, which China views as an attempt to meddle in the Taiwan issue.
The situation is further complicated by the annual Iron Fist joint military drills between the U.S. and Japan, which Chinese state media has characterized as interference in the region’s affairs. Fu Cong’s comments underscored the potential for regional instability, given the sensitive nature of the Taiwan issue and China’s unwavering stance on its sovereignty over the island.
This development is significant globally, as it highlights the delicate balance of power in Asia and the risks of military escalation. China’s warning serves as a reminder of the high stakes involved in the Taiwan issue, not only for the two countries but also for the international community. The potential for conflict underscores the importance of diplomacy and dialogue in resolving disputes and maintaining peace in the region.
In summary, Fu Cong’s remarks at the UN serve as a stark reminder of the tensions simmering under the surface between China and Japan over Taiwan. His warning signals that any external military intervention, particularly from Japan, would be met
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/19/2026