Beijing, China — 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, met with representatives from seven Japan-China friendship groups on Sunday. The meeting aimed to enhance bilateral ties amid increasing global uncertainties.
Wang Yi highlighted the importance of cooperation between China and Japan, noting that as close neighbors and two of the world’s largest economies, both countries have a significant responsibility to promote peace and security in Asia.
“In the face of international instability, China is determined to shoulder its responsibilities as a major power,” Wang Yi said. “We are ready to work with other nations to safeguard peace, promote human development, and progress.”
He emphasized the need for China and Japan to reassess the value of their relationship. “We must reaffirm the significance of our friendship, strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation, and consolidate the strength of people-to-people ties,” he remarked, urging for sustained, healthy, and stable development of China-Japan relations.
Wang Yi acknowledged the long-term dedication of the seven friendship groups in advancing bilateral friendship. He encouraged them to continue in the direction of peaceful and friendly cooperation, making new contributions to the fundamental interests of both peoples.
He outlined three key areas for strengthening ties:
Maintaining the political foundation: Strictly observing the China-Japan Joint Statement, properly handling historical issues and the Taiwan question, and resisting any actions that could undermine the foundation of their relationship.
Enhancing dialogue and exchanges: Promoting interactions across various sectors, including government, business, and culture, to deepen mutual understanding.
Cultivating successors for China-Japan friendship: Encouraging the younger generation to actively participate in friendship initiatives, ensuring the legacy of cooperation is carried forward.
The meeting was attended by prominent figures, including Hiroshi Moriyama, chairman of the Japan-China Friendship Parliamentarians’ Union and secretary-general of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party, and Yohei Kono, president of the Japanese Association for the Promotion of International Trade.
Representatives from the friendship groups underlined the critical importance of China-Japan friendship for both nations and their peoples. They pledged to continue fostering exchanges at local and youth levels to further strengthen the bond between the people of China and Japan.
As the world faces new challenges, the commitment of China and Japan to enhance their relationship sends a positive signal for regional stability and development. The focus on youth engagement highlights the importance of the next generation in shaping the future of bilateral ties.
