China has expressed strong opposition to Japanese politicians' visits to the Yasukuni Shrine, a site symbolizing Japan's wartime aggression, on the 78th anniversary of Tokyo's World War II surrender. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs lodged formal protests, calling the actions a 'gross challenge to historical justice and human conscience.'
On August 15, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba sent a ritual offering to the shrine, while multiple cabinet ministers and right-wing politicians paid personal visits. The shrine honors 14 Class-A war criminals convicted for atrocities during Japan's invasion of Asia in the 1930s-1940s.
A ministry spokesperson emphasized that the Yasukuni Shrine remains a 'spiritual tool of Japanese militarism,' urging Tokyo to 'face its history of aggression squarely.' The remarks come during the 80th anniversary year of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, a milestone underscoring regional sensitivities.
China reiterated calls for Japan to 'make a clean break with militarism' and demonstrate commitment to peaceful development through concrete actions. The statement highlighted that historical accountability remains central to rebuilding trust with Asian neighbors and the global community.
