TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) on Thursday urged Taiwanese to travel to Japan and buy Japanese products to show support amid China’s punitive measures over a diplomatic spat.

On Wednesday, China reimposed a suspension on imports of Japanese seafood following remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae on Taiwan. Lin said China has repeatedly used “economic and military coercion to bully other countries," per CNA.

The minister said that in the past, China has targeted Taiwan with cognitive warfare and military intimidation and has manipulated trade, investment, and tourism. He added that weaponizing trade in this manner is “uncivilized and undemocratic” and that Taiwan must support Japan at this critical moment.

During the session, Democratic Progressive Party Legislator Wang Ting-yu (王定宇) said Japan’s concern for Taiwan’s security has triggered Chinese cognitive warfare, military intimidation, and now economic sanctions, per CNA. He asked how the Ministry of Foreign Affairs views the situation.

Lin emphasized that China has engaged in cognitive warfare and military intimidation against Taiwan, the Philippines, and Japan. “The problem lies with China. China is the one looking for trouble and excuses,” he said.

He said the US, Japan, the Philippines, and other like-minded countries must work together to manage crises, incidents, and potential threats created by China, while urging the Chinese Communist Party to exercise restraint. Wang pointed out that China previously banned imports of Taiwanese pineapples and that Japan is now the largest export market for the fruit.

DPP Legislator Puma Shen (沈伯洋) asked whether Taiwan would respond in a spirit of mutual assistance similar to what Japan and Taiwan show each other after natural disasters.

Lin responded that he hopes Taiwanese will support Takaichi through actions such as traveling to Japan and buying Japanese products, as a sign of Taiwan–Japan friendship. He added that this aligns with the common interests of Japan, Taiwan, and neighboring countries.

Regarding Takaichi’s remarks, Lin said his ministry supports her Indo-Pacific strategy and policy positions, including those concerning the First Island Chain, the Taiwan Strait, the East China Sea, and the South China Sea.