China urges Japan to stay prudent on historical issues

China urges Japan to stay prudent on historical issues like the Yasukuni Shrine.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Thursday called on Japan to exercise caution regarding historical matters like the Yasukuni Shrine and to distance itself from militarism while maintaining a path of peaceful development.

According to reports, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida made a ritual offering at the Yasukuni Shrine in his capacity as the President of the Liberal Democratic Party. Several cabinet members, including Defense Minister Minoru Kihara and Minister Yoshitaka Shindo, along with other members of the National Diet, also visited the shrine.

Responding to a related question, spokesperson Lin Jian remarked that 79 years ago, Japan accepted the Potsdam Proclamation and surrendered unconditionally.

“The Chinese people, alongside the global community, overcame Japanese militarist aggressors and fascism,” Lin said, emphasizing that it was a pivotal battle between justice and evil, light and darkness, progress and reaction.

He stressed that this significant victory is a historical milestone that the world should continue to remember.

Lin further highlighted that the Yasukuni Shrine, where World War II Class-A war criminals are honored, symbolizes Japan’s militaristic aggression during the war.

He criticized the actions of certain Japanese political leaders regarding the Yasukuni Shrine, noting that it demonstrates a misguided stance on historical issues. Lin added that China has lodged strong protests with Japan and expressed its clear position on the matter.

Reflecting on and addressing the history of aggression is a fundamental requirement for Japan to foster positive relationships and cooperation with its Asian neighbors after World War II, Lin emphasized.

He clarified that China’s insistence on remembering history is not to perpetuate hatred but to use the past as a guide for peace and a brighter future.

Finally, Lin urged Japan to uphold its promises of acknowledging and reflecting on its history of aggression, and to take meaningful steps to gain the trust of its Asian neighbors and the global community.