Although the government cited "humanitarian reasons" in deciding to issue an entry visa to former Taiwanese President Lee Teng-hui, the Foreign Ministry recognizes the decision will have political implications and will certainly serve Tokyo-Beijing ties yet another blow.
To avoid further turbulence in its diplomatic relations with China, which have already been strained through a dispute over a history textbook and curbs on farm imports, the government has taken pains to ensure Lee will not engage in any political activities during his visit.
It has limited his itinerary to a medical checkup by a heart surgeon in Okayama Prefecture. Nevertheless, a senior ministry official said, "China will be furious that Lee has been allowed entry into Japan for whatever reason."