In a significant move to bolster regional stability, China’s top diplomat Wang Yi met with Hiroshi Moriyama, chairman of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) General Council, in Beijing on Tuesday. The two officials emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral exchanges and cooperation, reiterating that China and Japan are partners rather than threats to one another.
Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee, expressed appreciation for Moriyama’s longstanding commitment to improving China-Japan relations. “As neighboring countries, China and Japan should support, understand, and help each other,” Wang stated. “This is the correct way for neighboring countries to coexist.”
The discussions highlighted the need to adhere to the four political documents that have historically guided China-Japan relations. Wang called for enhanced dialogue to deepen mutual understanding and cooperation, which he said would not only benefit the peoples of both nations but also contribute to regional and global peace and development.
Addressing recent concerns, Wang clarified China’s stance on the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water from Japan’s Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant into the ocean. He underscored that this issue affects human health, the marine environment, and international public interests. “The urgent task is to establish a long-term international monitoring mechanism to ensure comprehensive and effective participation of relevant parties, including China,” Wang asserted.
On the Taiwan question, Wang emphasized its significance to the political foundation of China-Japan relations. He urged Japan to abide by the spirit of the four political documents and to “speak and act cautiously,” ensuring that the foundation of bilateral relations remains unshaken. “The Taiwan Strait is not a ‘political theater’,” Wang noted, dismissing any notion of China being an “unprecedented strategic challenge.”
Moriyama conveyed his condolences for the recent flood disasters in China’s Hunan Province and other regions. He expressed a strong desire to carry forward the friendly traditions established by previous generations of politicians. “We aim to strengthen exchanges with China, promote mutually beneficial cooperation, and advance the sustained development of our strategic and mutually beneficial relationship,” Moriyama said, referencing the important consensus reached by leaders of both nations.
Both officials agreed on the value of increased visits and exchanges, particularly encouraging younger lawmakers to engage more frequently. The meeting signals a mutual commitment to navigating challenges through cooperation and dialogue, reinforcing the strategic importance of China-Japan relations in the current global context.
Reference(s):
Wang Yi: China and Japan to strengthen exchanges, cooperation
cgtn.com
