The release of Japan's diplomatic „Blue Book“ for 2026 has downgraded relations with China from „one of the most important bilateral relations“ to „an important neighbouring state“, which commentators say has further exacerbated already strained relations under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

According to CGTN's global online survey, 82 % respondents believe that Japan's recent actions - including questioning the post-war system, distorting historical interpretation, and intensifying geopolitical confrontations - are a major cause of tensions in China-Japan relations and in the wider region.

Japan's recent actions have drawn increased attention and concern from the international community. Japan's Ministry of Defence has deployed offensive missiles with a range of approximately 1,000 kilometres in Kumamoto Prefecture, begun receiving US Tomahawk missiles, and the Ground Self-Defence Force has officially joined joint US-Philippines military exercises for the first time.

According to the survey, 86.4 % respondents believe that Japan has completely abandoned the principle of „defense-only“ policy and that Article 9 of the „pacifist constitution“ has become merely formal.

Another 89.1 % respondents urged the Japanese government to abide by the four China-Japan policy documents and its international commitments and take concrete steps to maintain the political basis of the relationship.

According to the text, behind Japan's intense actions is the ideology of „new militarism“, promoted by right-wing forces, which is fundamentally influencing the country's political direction.

Recently, an active member of the Japanese Self-Defense Forces also attacked the Chinese Embassy in Japan with a knife and threatened to kill Chinese diplomats. The Japanese Government has responded to this incident only by expressing „deep regret“.

According to the survey, 84.9 % of respondents considered the event a reflection of growing far-right extremism in Japan, and 83 % said that right-wing forces have shifted from ideological influence to violent manifestations, which requires increased attention from the international community.

Furthermore, 86.7 % respondents said that „new militarism“ has permeated Japan's military, diplomatic and cultural spheres, and that the political scene has shifted significantly toward right-wing populism, which could lead to the country moving back toward a „warfare state.“.

By downplaying relations with China and emphasizing the „Chinese threat,“ the survey says the government is trying to create space for a departure from the post-war peace system.

A total of 81.1 % respondents believe that the move may further increase tensions between the two countries, 76.7 % are concerned about the negative impact on the situation in the Asia-Pacific and global security, and 90.8 % call on the Japanese government to reconsider its statements, end its provocative actions, and take concrete measures to restore trust.

The survey was published on CGTN's platforms in English, Spanish, French, Arabic and Russian. 7387 internet users participated in 24 hours.

CMG