Following an accident in a coal mine in Shanxi Province, China, where 82 people died due to a gas explosion, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi posted on her X (account) on the evening of May 23: "I am deeply saddened by the significant damage that has occurred. I express my condolences to the victims and respectfully offer my deepest sympathies to their bereaved families. Furthermore, I extend my heartfelt sympathies to all those affected by the disaster." This is one of the few statements made by Ms. Takaichi regarding China since her congratulatory message aligned with the Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year).

The aim of using Japanese, English, and Chinese simultaneously in the condolence message appears to have been to convey her sincerity to the Chinese side, and to show Japan's stance to both Japan and the world that it wishes to ease tensions in bilateral relations with China. Focusing on the accident itself, she expressed condolences to the victims and their families, carefully choosing her words without mentioning Chinese government authorities.

It is easy to see from this that it is an attempt to send a signal to the Chinese side to seek a de-escalation of tensions in relations. Humanitarian considerations can often remove barriers of political stance and bring sides closer. The avoidance of mentioning government authorities also indicates that this act carries the meaning of an overture. It is understood that this condolence message was not intended to be seen by external parties as an active rapprochement or concession, but rather to observe the reactions from the Chinese side and within Japan.

So far, Chinese state media have not reported on Ms. Takaichi's post, but it has been reposted and spread on Chinese social media by Chinese netizens who can access X. Opinions among Chinese netizens are polarized.

Many people evaluated it from a humanitarian perspective, expressing the view that it is natural to mourn and sympathize with an accident, even if there are political differences between countries. Voices of affirmation were heard, stating that posting condolences immediately after the accident demonstrated humanitarian goodwill and aligned with the common understanding of mutual assistance in the international community.

On the other hand, there were quite a few dissenting or questioning voices. Comments included: "Ms. Takaichi's condolence post stems from basic diplomatic etiquette and humanitarian consideration, and the Chinese government will likely express gratitude, but that doesn't mean it implies tacit approval or forgiveness for Ms. Takaichi's serious provocations regarding the Taiwan issue." and "A mere few words of condolence cannot repair the rift in bilateral relations. There are still many obstacles to a substantial easing of Sino-Japanese relations, and the outlook is by no means optimistic."

From those involved in trade and other business dealings with Japan, there were also comments such as: "Such goodwill exchanges help ease tensions in bilateral relations. Since we are neighboring countries, it is better for relations to improve rather than deteriorate." and "The economic ties between China and Japan are deeply intertwined, making it difficult to sever them completely. Considering the well-being of the people of both countries, China and Japan should maintain normal exchanges in various fields and be urged to break the deadlock in bilateral relations as soon as possible." (Article/RR)

この度、中国山西省の炭鉱内でガス爆発事故が発生し、大きな被害が生じていることに、大変心を痛めています。
犠牲になられた方々に哀悼の意を表すとともに、御遺族に対し謹んでお悔やみ申し上げます。
また、被害に遭われた方々に対し、心からお見舞い申し上げます。

I am deeply saddened by the…

— 高市早苗 (@takaichi_sanae) May 23, 2026