On Thursday, the Chinese Foreign Ministry urged Japan to exercise prudence on historical issues, notably the contentious matter of the Yasukuni Shrine. The ministry called on Japan to make a clear break with militarism and maintain its commitment to peaceful development.
The statement came in response to reports that Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida made a “tamagushi” ritual offering at the Yasukuni Shrine in his capacity as the President of the Liberal Democratic Party. Additionally, several cabinet members, including Defense Minister Minoru Kihara and Minister in charge of Regional Revitalization Yoshitaka Shindo, visited the shrine, along with other members of the National Diet.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian highlighted the significance of the date, noting that “79 years ago today, Japan accepted the Potsdam Proclamation and announced unconditional surrender.” He emphasized that the Chinese people, alongside people worldwide, defeated Japanese militarist aggressors and fascism in a decisive battle between “justice and evil, light and darkness, and progress and reaction.”
“This great victory, a historic moment, deserves to be remembered by the world,” Lin stated.
Lin pointed out that the Yasukuni Shrine, which honors World War II Class-A war criminals, serves as a spiritual symbol of the aggressive wars waged by Japanese militarists. He expressed that the actions of certain Japanese political leaders concerning the shrine reveal an erroneous attitude toward historical issues.
“The Chinese side has lodged serious protests with the Japanese side and stated its just position,” Lin said.
He stressed that acknowledging and deeply reflecting on the history of aggression is essential for Japan to establish and develop friendship and cooperation with its Asian neighbors post-World War II.
“We emphasize the need to remember the lessons of history not to continue hatred but to use history as a mirror, uphold peace, and look to the future,” Lin noted.
China urges Japan to honor its commitment to recognizing and reflecting on its history of aggression and to take concrete actions to earn the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
