At the press conference on March 7, 2025, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi talked about China-Japan relations.

Wang Yi said, last November, leaders of the two countries reached important common understandings on following the four political documents between China and Japan, comprehensively advancing the strategic relationship of mutual benefit, and building a constructive and stable China-Japan relationship fit for the new era. With concerted efforts, bilateral relations have demonstrated a momentum of improvement and growth. We welcome enhanced exchanges, deeper mutually beneficial cooperation, and stronger goodwill between all sectors of our societies. All these are in the long-term interests of both sides. As for the specific concerns of the Japanese side in your question, China will handle them responsibly and properly in accordance with laws and regulations.

Wang Yi said, this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. To remember history, one can better shape the future. To forget history, one may lose his direction going forward. The Japanese militarists committed heinous crimes to the people in China and all over Asia. They brought immense suffering for the Japanese people as well. Guarding against the revival of militarism is a duty Japan must carry out without a moment’s relaxation. This is also the firm resolve of the Chinese and Asian people that will not be challenged. In this test of conscience and integrity, the right choice for Japan is to abide by the principles enshrined in its pacifist constitution and keep to the path of peaceful development.

Wang Yi said, there is a long history of ties between China and Japan. Japan knows best that China is a peace-loving country and a trustworthy neighbor with good intentions. For more than a thousand years, China has meant opportunities, not threats, for Japan. What is the right way of being neighbors and which is the right side of history? Faced with historical transformations, the bright minds in Japan need to think carefully about these questions and follow good advice.