China and Japan Forge Stronger Cultural Bonds with 10-Point Agreement
In a significant move to strengthen their bilateral relations, China and Japan have reached a 10-point consensus aimed at enhancing people-to-people and cultural exchanges. The agreement, announced on Wednesday, focuses on collaboration in education, tourism, and sports, marking a new chapter in the relationship between the two East Asian neighbors.
The consensus was achieved during the second meeting of the High-Level Consultation Mechanism on People-to-People and Cultural Exchanges held in Beijing. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, met with Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya to discuss ways to foster closer ties between their nations.
“This agreement reflects our mutual desire to deepen understanding and friendship between our peoples,” said Wang Yi. “By promoting exchanges in education, tourism, and sports, we hope to build a solid foundation for lasting cooperation.”
Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of cultural connections. “Strengthening our people-to-people exchanges is vital for the future of our bilateral relations,” he said. “We look forward to working closely with China to implement these initiatives.”
The 10-point consensus includes plans to facilitate student exchanges, promote tourism between the two countries, and organize joint sporting events. These efforts aim to provide more opportunities for citizens, especially the youth, to engage and learn from each other’s cultures.
Observers see this development as a positive step toward easing historical tensions and building a more collaborative future. By focusing on cultural and educational partnerships, China and Japan are investing in the next generation’s ability to maintain peaceful and productive relations.
The meeting in Beijing highlights the commitment of both governments to prioritize people-centered diplomacy, recognizing that strong interpersonal relationships are key to long-term regional stability and cooperation.
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China, Japan reach 10-point consensus on people-to-people exchanges
cgtn.com
