Talks on the street are that former president Lee Teng-hui (
On Wednesday, Sankei Shimbun in Tokyo reported that, pursuant to an invitation from the largest student organization on Keio University campus, Lee will give a speech on the topic of "Japanese spirit" on Nov. 24. According to the president of the organization, because Japanese have become extremely lacking in confidence and timid, it is hoped that Lee would be able to directly call on the youngsters of Japan for re-birth of the Japanese spirit.
The students believe that this is strictly a cultural and academic activity, with no political overtones, so the Japanese government should not decline to issue a visa to Lee.
However, when Beijing heard Lee was about to visit Japan, its immediate response was, "[The People's Republic of China] objects to Lee's separatist activities in Japan under false pretenses." But, Lee is merely going to Japan to speak to about 800 college students to help boost the Japanese spirit. What does that have to do with "separatist activities?" It is truly puzzling that Beijing is so fearful of Lee's trip to Japan?
If the Japanese government caved in to Chinese pressure and declined Lee's trip, it would have to pay a severe price, above and beyond a tarnished international image. At home, it will be looked down by its own college kids. As a matter of fact, Prime Minister Koizumi is himself an alumnus of Keio University.
The recent US trip of Taiwan's first lady Wu Shu-chen (
One thing that contributed to the success of Wu's US trip possible was Beijing's attitude. Beijing had obviously learned a valuable lesson. They no longer made a fuss over Wu's visit, and in fact they managed to keep silent throughout. As a result, they had spared themselves from becoming an international laughing stock.
In contrast to the US, Japan's small size is apparent, especially when it comes to dealings with China. Japan seems to have endless apologies to make. If, after 60 years since the end of WWII, Japan must continue to apologize for the past wrongs, and each Japanese prime minister must tip toe to Yasukuni Shrine, how can future leaders encourage its young to be confident? How can they gain respect from them?
Prime Minister Koizumi just visited North Korea last month. He is the first prime minister from Japan with enough courage to make diplomatic breakthrough with North Korea. Hopefully, he will also have the courage to say "no" to Beijing when it comes to the issue of Taiwan.
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