In a recent development, Japan's Foreign Ministry has contested a social media post made by the Chinese Embassy. Although the specifics of the post are not immediately disclosed, it appears to have broad implications within the realm of bilateral relations. It is yet unclear when and how this disagreement will be resolved, but this incident is the latest in a history of diplomatic tussles between the two nations.
In Japan, any constituency values the importance of maintaining diplomatic decorum and respectful bilateral relations. Foreign affairs, especially those involving the neighboring China, are closely watched by not only the government but also the public. In this particular case, the interference by the Ministry indicates how significantly the government reacts to controversial statements from other countries' official entities, especially when national honor and public interests may be at stake.
Issues such as these are not unique to Japan. Various diplomatic forces in the U.S. and the EU have similarly engaged in disputes over controversial public statements made by foreign entities. The focus is often on maintaining diplomatic harmony while safeguarding national interests and public sentiment.