China’s Foreign Ministry on 13 August summoned Yokochi Akira, the chief minister at Japan’s embassy in Beijing, to deliver what it called “serious concerns” over Tokyo’s stance on Taiwan and longstanding history disputes. Director-General for Asian Affairs Liu Jinsong told the envoy that Beijing views recent Japanese comments and actions related to the self-ruled island as interference in China’s internal affairs. Liu also pressed Japan to better protect Chinese nationals after reports of harassment and safety worries inside Japan. According to a statement from Japan’s embassy, Yokochi countered by urging China to ensure the security of Japanese citizens in the mainland, citing a 31 July incident in Suzhou in which a Japanese mother was injured after being struck with a blunt object. He also reiterated Tokyo’s existing positions on historical issues and cross-strait relations. The diplomatic exchange underscores intensifying regional frictions as Beijing steps up pressure over Taiwan while Tokyo deepens security ties with Washington and Taipei. Both governments said they would keep communication channels open, but neither signalled any immediate compromise.