Ahead of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi vowed to strengthen a “free and open international order” and reinforce “responsible global governance.” Speaking in Tokyo, Takaichi emphasized that Japan aims to build cooperation and trust with global leaders. Her participation comes amid rising tensions with China over Taiwan, after she suggested that the use of force against Taiwan could trigger a military response from Japan. While Takaichi insists relations with Beijing are stable, China has announced there will be no bilateral meeting with President Xi during the summit.