Seoul, South Korea—China and Japan have agreed to reinvigorate their high-level economic dialogue, aiming to enhance communication and cooperation between Asia’s two largest economies. The consensus was reached during a meeting between Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on the sidelines of the ninth Trilateral Summit among China, Japan, and South Korea in Seoul.
Premier Li emphasized the deep economic ties between China and Japan, highlighting significant opportunities for collaboration in areas such as technological innovation, digital economy, green development, and exploring third-party markets. “China and Japan should help each other succeed, jointly maintain stable and unimpeded industrial and supply chains, and safeguard the global free trade system,” Li stated.
He underscored China’s willingness to foster friendly exchanges with Japan across various fields and levels, aiming to facilitate people-to-people connections and actively promote youth exchanges to strengthen public support for bilateral cooperation.
On the issue of the Fukushima nuclear-contaminated wastewater release, Li expressed China’s serious concerns, noting its implications for global health and the marine environment. He urged Japan to address international concerns with sincerity and to fulfill its responsibilities and obligations earnestly.
Regarding the Taiwan question, Premier Li reaffirmed China’s position, noting it as a core interest and a red line that should not be crossed. He expressed hope that Japan would honor its commitments and contribute positively to the continuous development of China-Japan relations.
Prime Minister Kishida expressed Japan’s commitment to promoting the sound and long-term development of bilateral relations. He affirmed Japan’s adherence to its stance on the Taiwan question as outlined in the 1972 Japan-China Joint Statement. “Japan stands ready to work with China to implement the important consensus reached by our leaders,” Kishida said, highlighting areas for strengthened cooperation including the green economy, healthcare, third-party markets, and regional cooperation.
The two leaders also discussed global challenges such as climate change, agreeing on the need for joint efforts in tackling such issues. They emphasized the importance of high-level exchanges and facilitating personnel interactions to deepen mutual understanding and trust.
The renewed commitment to dialogue signals a positive step in China-Japan relations, with potential implications for regional stability and economic growth. As both nations navigate complex global dynamics, their cooperation could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of East Asia.
Reference(s):
China, Japan agree to a new round of high-level economic dialogue
cgtn.com
