The diplomatic row over comments on Taiwan has evolved from a war of words to Beijing advising its citizens against travelling and studying abroad in Japan.

Beijing is flexing its might to show its displeasure with the Japanese leader’s comments about defending Taiwan, but its aggressive approach risks backfiring.

Japan scrambled fighter jets after spotting a suspected Chinese drone near its southernmost island, deepening tensions with Beijing following Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s recent remarks on Taiwan.

A senior Japanese diplomat will head to China on Monday, Japanese media reported, as Tokyo tries to calm an escalating diplomatic spat over Taiwan that is straining relations between the East Asian neighbours.

China has issued sharp warnings, travel alerts and potential countermeasures after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's remarks linking Taiwan to Japan’s security, accusing Tokyo of threatening regional stability and violating political commitments.

Japan ranks low in gender equality among developed nations. The first woman to lead the country is an ultraconservative who cites Margaret Thatcher as a role model. She also loves heavy metal.

Our guest expert looks at her political approach, as well as her personal side. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.

China sent Coast Guard ships near disputed islands and warned travelers and students about safety risks in Japan. The escalation is over comments on Taiwan by Japan’s new prime minister.