Tokyo, Nov 18 (NationPress) High-ranking officials from Japan and China convened in Beijing on Tuesday as tensions escalated due to comments made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan. These remarks have put a strain on the relationship between the two nations.

According to sources from the Japanese government, Kyodo News reported that Masaaki Kanai, the head of the Japanese Foreign Ministry's Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau, met with Liu Jinsong, his Chinese counterpart, on Tuesday to address bilateral matters.

It is believed that these discussions are aimed at easing the diplomatic tensions affecting tourism, education, and entertainment between the neighboring countries.

These talks came on the heels of a strong protest from Beijing after Prime Minister Takaichi, recognized for her pro-Taiwan stance, indicated during a parliamentary meeting on November 7 that a military action against Taiwan could pose a 'survival-threatening situation' for Japan, suggesting a possible involvement of the Japanese Self-Defense Forces.

In light of these tensions, the Japanese government has decided to issue a safety advisory for its students studying at various educational institutions across China.

Following a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Japan's Education Minister Yohei Matsumoto disclosed this decision during a press briefing.

He stated, 'We have resolved to implement measures to ensure the safety of students, their families, and faculty in China.'

The Japanese Embassy in China has also urged its nationals to maintain heightened vigilance and steer clear of crowded areas amid the ongoing tensions.

In another related development, US Ambassador to Japan George Glass reiterated Washington's commitment to defend Japan following reports about four Chinese Coast Guard vessels entering Japan's territorial waters near the Senkaku Islands.

'It’s time to dispel any uncertainty. In case there is any doubt, the United States remains fully committed to Japan’s defense, which includes the Senkaku Islands. The presence of Chinese coast guard vessels will not alter that commitment. Earlier this year, President Donald Trump reaffirmed America’s stance and our strong opposition to any actions threatening Japan’s long-standing and peaceful administration of the Senkaku Islands,' Glass stated on X on Monday.