The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Thursday called upon Japan to make a definitive break from its militarist history and to commit to a path of peaceful development.
“We urge Japan to see squarely and reflect on the history of aggression and act prudently on historical issues such as the Yasukuni Shrine,” said Mao Ning, spokesperson for the ministry.
Mao’s remarks came in response to reports that Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba had sent a ritual offering to the contentious Yasukuni Shrine during its autumn festival on Thursday.
The Yasukuni Shrine is regarded by many as a potent symbol of Japan’s past militarism. According to Mao, it serves as a “spiritual tool and symbol of Japanese militarists responsible for the war of aggression.” The shrine honors 14 convicted Class-A war criminals who were deemed gravely responsible for war crimes committed during that era.
“Japan should earn the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community with concrete actions,” Mao emphasized.
The issue of the Yasukuni Shrine has long been a point of contention between Japan and its neighbors, who view visits or offerings to the shrine by Japanese officials as a lack of remorse over wartime atrocities.
China’s call reflects ongoing sensitivities in the region regarding historical perceptions and the importance of acknowledging and learning from the past to foster peaceful relations.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
