China's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Fu Cong called on Japan to address its wartime history and uphold commitments regarding Taiwan during a high-level UN General Assembly meeting on Thursday, December 18, 2025. The session marked the inaugural observance of the International Day Against Colonialism in All Its Forms and Manifestations.
Fu emphasized that colonial legacies continue to impact global affairs despite the formal end of colonial occupation. "Japan, as a defeated country in World War II, must do deep soul-searching regarding its historical crimes," he stated, urging Tokyo to "immediately stop provocative actions that cross the line" in cross-strait relations.
The remarks come amid heightened regional tensions, with Beijing stressing the need for Japan to strictly honor its political commitments on the Taiwan question. Analysts note this year's intensified diplomatic focus coincides with the 80th anniversary of WWII's conclusion, reviving discussions about historical accountability in Asia-Pacific relations.
UN delegates from multiple former colonies supported Fu's call for addressing unresolved colonial-era injustices. The assembly concluded with a renewed commitment to eliminate all forms of neocolonial practices in international relations.
