Chief Executive John Lee on Monday said the "extremely erroneous remarks" by Japan's leader have seriously hurt the feelings of the Chinese people and challenge the post-war international order.

The dispute between Beijing and Tokyo was triggered by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi earlier this month.

She said the Chinese mainland's "use of force on Taiwan" could constitute a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan and implied the possibility of armed intervention in the Taiwan Strait.

Kyodo News reported that the Hong Kong government had suspended official exchanges with the Japanese consulate-general.

Lee did not respond to the report, saying his administration would closely monitor how the situation develops, and relevant arrangements must align with national dignity and the interests of Hong Kong people.

“The Hong Kong SAR government supports the country’s foreign policy towards Japan,” he said.

“The Security Bureau has updated information on its outbound travel alert website, advising travellers and Hong Kong citizens residing in Japan to stay vigilant and pay attention to their personal safety.”

Lee said the recent remarks by the Japanese leader severely damaged the atmosphere of personnel exchanges between China and Japan, while also raising doubts about the effectiveness of these exchanges.

He said the Security Bureau would closely monitor the situation and respond accordingly.