Xi Jinping calls for stronger China-Japan ties at APEC

Xi Jinping calls for stronger China-Japan ties at APEC as he met with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.

Chinese President Xi Jinping stated on Friday that China-Japan relations are at a pivotal moment of improvement and development, particularly as the international and regional landscapes undergo significant changes and instability.

During a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on the sidelines of the 31st APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, Xi highlighted the importance of the China-Japan relationship, noting that as neighboring nations and key players in Asia and the world, their ties hold significance beyond just bilateral interests.

Xi emphasized China’s willingness to collaborate with Japan in line with the four political documents that define their relationship. This includes reinforcing the shared understanding that both countries should be “partners, not threats,” advancing their mutually beneficial strategic relationship, and striving to build a stable, constructive partnership that aligns with the needs of the current era.

Xi also reiterated that China’s development presents opportunities for the world, particularly for neighboring countries like Japan. He urged Japan to join China in fostering a correct mutual understanding, guiding their bilateral relationship with a strategic and broad perspective, and translating their political consensus into tangible policies and actions.

The Chinese president called on Japan to confront historical issues with a forward-looking approach, properly address key matters such as history and Taiwan, manage differences constructively, and uphold the political foundation of their bilateral ties.

He also suggested that both countries should enhance cultural and local exchanges to strengthen mutual understanding, particularly among the younger generation, which would further solidify people-to-people ties.

Recognizing the deep integration of their economies and supply chains, Xi stressed the importance of mutual benefit and win-win cooperation. He urged both nations to protect the global free trade system and ensure the stability and smoothness of production and supply chains.

Xi concluded by calling for deeper coordination on international and regional affairs, advocating for true multilateralism, promoting open regionalism, and jointly addressing global challenges.