Status and Recognition
What change has Japan's Justice Ministry announced regarding Taiwanese residents in Japan?
Japan's Justice Ministry has announced that Taiwanese residents can now list Taiwan as their place of origin in family registries, replacing the previous designation as part of China. This significant policy change allows Taiwanese people to assert their regional identity in official Japanese documentation. The new registry policy reflects Japan's acknowledgment of Taiwan's distinct identity, despite Japan's traditional ties with Beijing and China's stance on the One China principle. This move has been welcomed by Taiwan's government and is scheduled to take effect in May.
Watch clip answer (00:12m)How did Taiwan respond to Japan's decision to allow Taiwan to be listed as a place of origin in family registry?
Taiwan's government welcomed Japan's decision to allow Taiwan to be listed as a place of origin in family registry documents. Taiwan's Foreign Ministry spokesman expressed appreciation for the move, stating that it demonstrates respect for the identity of Taiwanese residents living in Japan. This policy change is significant as it acknowledges the distinct Taiwanese identity, which has been a sensitive issue in the region given China's position on Taiwan. The response from Taiwan highlights the importance of recognition and respect for national identity in international relations.
Watch clip answer (00:09m)How did Taiwan respond to Japan's decision to recognize Taiwan as a place of origin in family registries?
Taiwan's government welcomed Japan's decision to recognize Taiwan as a place of origin in family registries. According to the transcript, Taiwan's Foreign Ministry spokesman specifically stated that this move would demonstrate respect for the identity of Taiwanese residents living in Japan. This policy change represents a significant shift, as it allows Taiwanese individuals to officially denote their true regional identity rather than being classified as part of China. The decision is viewed positively by Taiwan as an important step toward acknowledging their distinct identity in Japanese official documentation.
Watch clip answer (00:09m)How has Japan's policy towards Taiwan changed with the new Justice Ministry rules?
Japan has introduced new rules allowing Taiwanese to register their region of origin in family registries, rather than being classified as from China. While Japan still regards Taiwan as a region rather than a country (a policy in place since 1972 when Tokyo normalized relations with Beijing), this change acknowledges Taiwan's distinct regional identity. The policy change was implemented by the Japanese Justice Ministry and represents a significant shift in how Taiwan's status is recognized in official Japanese documentation, despite maintaining the technical position that Taiwan is not a country.
Watch clip answer (00:12m)What is Japan's new policy regarding Taiwan's recognition in family registries?
Japan has implemented a significant policy change allowing people from Taiwan to list the island as their place of origin in Japan's family registry system, rather than being classified under China. This change, effective from May, responds to requests from Taiwanese spouses in Japan who wish to express their regional identity distinctly from mainland China. The decision represents a notable shift in Japan's approach to Taiwan's status, while still operating within the framework of the One China policy. Taiwan's government has welcomed this historic recognition, viewing it as an important acknowledgment of Taiwanese identity, despite warnings from China against such changes.
Watch clip answer (00:12m)How has China responded to Japan's policy allowing Taiwan to be listed as a place of origin in family registries?
China has firmly urged Japan to abide by the One China principle following this policy change. The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson specifically warned Japan against using 'gimmicks' on the Taiwan question and advised against sending any conflicting or wrong signals that might undermine China's position. Beijing considers Taiwan its own territory and strongly opposes any international actions that could confer legitimacy on Taiwan as a separate entity. This response reflects China's consistent stance against what it perceives as challenges to its sovereignty claims over Taiwan, viewing Japan's registry policy change as potentially legitimizing Taiwan's distinct status.
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