China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, has urged China and Japan to collaborate in promoting stable and lasting bilateral relations to uphold regional and international peace and stability.
Speaking via video at the 20th Beijing-Tokyo Forum on Wednesday, Wang, who is a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs, emphasized the deep historical ties between the two nations that span over 2,000 years.
“A China-Japan relationship with the right development direction is not only of great and positive significance to both countries and their peoples but also to the peace and development of the region and the world,” Wang stated.
He called on both sides to adhere to the original aspirations of their relationship, seek common ground, and coordinate actions to promote stable and lasting ties. Wang highlighted the importance of understanding the correct positioning of bilateral relations, noting that China views Japan as an important cooperative partner.
“We hope Japan can view China’s development objectively and rationally,” he said, encouraging Japan to work with China to enhance their strategic, mutually beneficial relations and uphold the consensus that they should be cooperative partners without posing threats to each other.
Wang stressed the need to maintain the political foundations of their relationship, referencing the four political documents between China and Japan that lay the groundwork for their interactions. “These foundations should not be blurred, retrogressed, or undermined,” he asserted.
He also emphasized promoting an open strategy of mutual benefits, urging both nations to cherish their established cooperation and work together to maintain the stability of the global free trade system and supply chains.
In the face of rising unilateralism and protectionism, Wang called for China and Japan to uphold regional and international peace and stability. He advocated for joint efforts to safeguard Asian unity and cooperation, preventing external forces from fostering confrontation.
Launched in 2005, the Beijing-Tokyo Forum is an annual event held alternately in Beijing and Tokyo. It serves as a high-level platform for interactive exchanges between the two countries. Wang expressed hope that the forum would continue to promote candid dialogue, build consensus, and contribute to the development of China-Japan relations that meet the needs of the new era.
Reference(s):
Wang Yi urges joint work to promote stable, lasting China-Japan ties
cgtn.com
