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Japan’s new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi ignited a diplomatic crisis by calling a Chinese military attack on Taiwan an “existential threat.”

Beijing responded sharply, with a Chinese consul deleting an inflammatory post comparing Japan to an enemy requiring an immediate confrontation.

Takaichi’s military buildup agenda and closer ties with Taiwan signal potentially turbulent relations with China over the contested island’s future.

TOKYO — Japan was involved in a war of words with China on Monday after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said a Chinese attack on Taiwan could constitute “a survival-threatening situation” for Japan requiring the use of force.

Takaichi, who was elected

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