Takaichi seeks Xi talks as 100 flights axed

Japan Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi says she is considering direct dialogue with President Xi Jinping to clarify Japan’s position as bilateral friction intensifies.

Takaichi says she is "very positive" about direct talks, noting that communication channels remain open at various levels despite the strain in relations.

The diplomatic outreach comes as aviation links between the two countries face significant disruption. Data from Flight Master shows 49 routes between mainland China and Japan have seen all flights cancelled for February. The cancellation rate for flights to Japan rose to 47.2 percent in January, a nearly eight percentage point increase from December.

Major carriers including Air China, China Eastern, and China Southern have extended free refund and rebooking arrangements through October 24 to cover the upcoming summer-autumn travel season.

The aviation slump reflects broader tensions fueled by Takaichi’s recent comments regarding a Taiwan contingency. Beijing recently issued a travel warning advising citizens to avoid Japan during the Spring Festival, citing security concerns, crime targeting Chinese nationals, and earthquake risks.

Meanwhile, an NHK poll shows cabinet support for Takaichi has dropped to 59 percent, down three points from two weeks ago. Takaichi has pledged to resign if the ruling coalition fails to secure a majority in the general election scheduled for February 8.