TOKYO — Nissan chief executive Hiroto Saikawa criticized the Japanese automaker’s French alliance partner, Renault, on Monday for trying to block changes to strengthen corporate governance following the arrest of former Nissan Chairman Carlos Ghosn.

Nissan received a letter from Renault saying it would abstain in voting on the governance measures at Nissan’s June 25 shareholders’ meeting, Saikawa said, apparently because its views weren’t adequately reflected.

Renault declined to comment.

The exact nature of Renault’s demand was unclear, but the company, which owns 43 percent of Nissan, may have wanted more representation on the committees being set up to strengthen corporate governance.

Saikawa said the proposed changes have already been discussed by Nissan’s board, including members nominated by Renault.

“Nissan finds Renault’s new stance on this matter most regrettable, as such a stance runs counter to the company’s efforts to improve its corporate governance,” he said.

Saikawa’s comments, which reflect differences with Renault, came after he expressed caution last week about a merger offer from Fiat Chrysler to Renault.

Fiat Chrysler withdrew the offer in less than two weeks, noting Renault wasn’t able to quickly persuade Nissan.

Analysts say it would be difficult and costly for Nissan to break away from Renault as the companies, partnering for two decades under Ghosn’s leadership, share auto parts, research and investments.

But they also say Nissan has been hoping to get more say in the alliance because until recently it was more profitable than Renault.