China has reiterated its call for Japan to confront historical truths regarding the forced conscription of 'comfort women' during World War II, following renewed tensions over Tokyo's approach to wartime accountability. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated on Wednesday that evidence of imperial Japan's systematic exploitation of women across occupied territories remains "ironclad," rejecting attempts to whitewash this dark chapter.
"Certain forces within Japan continue to deny or distort the facts of forced conscription," Lin said during a regular press briefing, emphasizing that such actions have drawn "strong indignation" from the international community. The comments come amid ongoing diplomatic friction between the two Asian powers over historical interpretation.
Analysts note the timing coincides with heightened scrutiny of Japan's wartime legacy as the region approaches the 90th anniversary of the 1937 Marco Polo Bridge Incident. Beijing maintains that honest reckoning with history remains fundamental to building trust, urging Tokyo to "profoundly repent" through concrete actions rather than symbolic gestures.
The dispute carries contemporary implications, affecting bilateral relations and regional stability. While Japan has previously issued formal apologies, recent political rhetoric and educational reforms have fueled concerns about historical revisionism among survivors and advocacy groups.
