Pearls and Irritations

Japan finds itself at a crucial juncture in its relationship with China, with an opportunity to recalibrate and enhance bilateral ties through a seemingly simple yet impactful diplomatic tool: visa policy.

As reported by Kyodo News on Tuesday, China’s proposal to Japan—granting visa exemptions for diplomatic and official passport holders in exchange for resuming visa-free travel for Japanese citizens—is a nuanced proposition that Tokyo should seriously weigh. This pivotal decision is anchored in four key reasons: capitalising on the recent stabilisation of bilateral ties, appreciating China’s pragmatic approach, recognising China’s stringent control over diplomatic passports, and leveraging China’s growing trend of extending visa-free travels to developed nations.

The thaw in China-Japan relations, particularly following China’s decreasing rhetoric over treated waters discharged from the Fukushima nuclear plant, presents a window of opportunity for diplomatic advancement. The recent shift toward more constructive dialogue, as evidenced by the meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in San Francisco, signifies a renewed focus on building “constructive and stable” bilateral ties. Chinese Minister Liu Jianchao’s Wednesday discussions with Japanese Ambassador Kanasugi Kenji underscore this positive trajectory, advocating for mutual respect and cooperation in diverse fields. With public perceptions in both countries showing signs of strain in recent years, Japan’s acceptance of China’s visa proposal could significantly bolster people-to-people exchanges, symbolising Japan’s dedication to fostering mutual understanding and deepening bonds. This gesture could serve as a cornerstone for a more harmonious and mutually beneficial relationship.

Beijing’s proposal, focusing on diplomatic and official passport holders rather than the entire citizenry, reflects a balanced and pragmatic approach. Recognising the disparities in population and GDP per capita between the two nations, China’s request acknowledges the practical challenges of broader visa-free travel. This measured proposition indicates an acute awareness of the geopolitical realities and Japan’s diplomatic norms. By extending this courtesy to China, Japan would not only reciprocate China’s goodwill but also stay consistent with its existing diplomatic practices of granting visa-free travels to holders of many countries’ diplomatic and official passport holders, reinforcing its image as a nation committed to equitable and respectful international relations.

Japan’s potential concerns about the misuse of diplomatic and official passports are addressed by China’s rigorous control mechanisms. The introduction of biometric e-passports and stringent regulations underscores their reserved use for official purposes only. The comprehensive process involving eligibility checks, documentation submission, and government-coordinated passport issuance ensures these documents are strictly regulated and utilised responsibly. Recent efforts by China to strengthen the discipline surrounding the use of these passports further assuage any fears of their misuse. The expectation that diplomats and officials maintain conduct befitting their status, with prohibitions on engaging in non-official activities, guarantees the responsible use of these travel documents. This comprehensive oversight provides Japan with the assurance needed to proceed with the visa exemptions, knowing they will not lead to unauthorised activities or overstaying.

China’s recent unilateral decision to grant visa-free access to citizens from select European and Southeast Asian nations demonstrates its commitment to global openness and cooperation. Japan, as a key player in Asia, is uniquely positioned to benefit from aligning with this trend. Embracing this visa-free initiative would not only boost Japan’s standing in the international community but also open up new avenues for economic and cultural exchange, fostering closer ties with China and other nations in the region.

In conclusion, Japan’s decision to engage with China’s visa-free proposal represents a pragmatic step in nurturing a more collaborative and dynamic bilateral relationship. It’s a recognition that in the complex tapestry of China-Japan relations, gestures of goodwill and cooperation can have far-reaching and positive implications. For Japan, it’s an opportunity to reaffirm its role as a mature, progressive player in the crucial Northeast Asia, fostering relations that are beneficial not just in the realm of diplomacy, but for the people who stand to gain from these strengthened ties.

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