Who the fuck was negotiating for Microsoft in 2000? You don't invite a possible business venture partner over, tell them their shit sucks, then try to sell them your solution. There's a lot of problems with Japanese culture and shit; but anyone with common fucking sense should know not to insult your guest. And yes, that's what they are, you invited them over for a talk, then spat in their face, and tried to sell them your handkerchief to wipe themselves off. I'm glad they fucking laughed at you; I hope their lead council at that meeting sent a Katana to Microsoft's lead council with a note that read "There's only one way to retain your honor."
I'm also willing to say, with how desperate Microsoft is looking to buy up as much as possible, they're looking scared. It's one thing to buy out / starve out the competition, but these optics make it look like you're struggling to survive, and I'm not saying you are, but you look weak, and I wouldn't sell myself to a weak master.