--In commemoration of the 35th anniversary of normalization of China-Japan ties
It is of particular significance that we commemorate the 35th anniversary of the normalization of China-Japan diplomatic relations at the time when visits by former Premier of Japan Shinzo Abe, and Premier of China Wen Jiabao, are successfully exchanged; and the ties show a favorable trend.
Looking back at 35 years of history, the main direction of the China-Japan friendship has remained undisturbed despite continuous disputes and abnormal ties in the recent five years. As close neighbors separated by a narrow strip of water, the two nations can not afford not to be friendly with one another for the mutual benefits; and can not turn to confrontation and violence. We must remove barriers immediately, and cherish the hard-won friendship. We need to keep in mind what the late leader Deng Xiaoping told us: the China-Japan friendship overrides any problem between the two countries. The discussions in Japan on how to regard history and war responsibilities correctly also played a role in educating the people on militarist aggression.
The most fruitful parts of the exchange between Chinese and Japanese leaders are that it established the connotations of constructing the China-Japan strategic and mutually beneficial relationship; and laid down the direction of future ties towards peaceful coexistence, friendship from generation to generation, mutual benefit, and cooperation and common prosperity. It shows that relations are marching toward to a higher level, and in line with historical trends.
Strategic mutual benefit requires us to have a commanding view of the entire situation; and takes into consideration not only bilateral ties, but also the needs of Asia and the world. We must set our sights on long-term, fundamental interests; and remain unfettered by transient, trivial gains and losses. We need to pay attention to each other's concerns; refrain from challenging each other's kernel interests; try hard to overcome the hurdles of value; and encourage each other to stick to a road to peaceful development suitable to their respective national conditions.
The advancement of China-Japan ties demands that politics and the economy to work side by side – supporting each other - and motivating friendly cooperation in cultural, education and personnel exchange. Economic and trade ties have become complementary and mutually dependent. If Japan contributed much to the start of China's reform and opening up in the early 1980s with its advanced managerial expertise and financial aid; then today, China's fast-paced economy and huge market potential are helping drag Japan out from depression. Cultural exchange needs to be deepened for it is communication between souls; and therefore, irreplaceable. When there is personnel exchange, young people should have an eye for the future.
The tradition of friendship between the two peoples serves as a good foundation for official ties. While maintaining this favorable trend, we should pay closer attention to friendly cooperation between government departments; and keep open visits and dialogues between top leaders, which are of great significance to a sustained, healthy development in ties. We hope that leaders of both nations will visit each other frequently in order to maintain the favorable China-Japan friendship.
To continuously promote mutual understanding and foster political trust are fundamental needs in the construction of a strategic, mutually beneficial relationship. When there is a lack of mutual political trust, a small problem becomes complicated and a cause for a strong reaction. Therefore, it is extremely important that we observe the three political documents governing Chinese-Japanese ties - the China-Japan Joint Statement, the Peace and Friendship Treaty, and the China-Japan Joint Declaration - and handle relevant questions, such as history and Taiwan, properly. Of course, the two sides need to make arduous efforts before they can truly come to a mutual political trust.
From a regional perspective, both China and Japan shoulder the historical mission of playing a bigger role in pushing forward regional cooperation and rejuvenating Asia. Cooperation mechanisms like 10+3, 10+1 have taken form in recent years; and East Asia survived the Asian financial crisis. However, present challenges require both countries to cooperate; respect ASEAN's leadership role; and give play to their respective advantages so as to be a true driving force. As for Northeast Asia, China and Japan, together with other related countries, should contribute to the resolution of issues concerning regional security, such as the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.
From a global perspective, every country does its part to solve the world's problems, including traditional and non-traditional security threats, energy, environment, climate change, and disease prevention and control. China and Japan, as close neighbors and important members of the international community, should strengthen policy coordination; deepen cooperation; and play a constructive role from their respective stances. No matter how the international situation changes, the two nations should join hands in an effort to maintain peace and promote development.
Due to many reasons including history, the construction of the China-Japan strategic, mutually beneficial relationship is a long-term goal that may suffer setbacks. However, with consistent effort we are certain to push forward the ties in a sound and steady way; and realize a lasting friendship in the long run. Looking into the future, we are optimistic about the prospect of China-Japan relations.
By Yang Zhenya, former Chinese ambassador to Japan; translated by People's Daily Online.</I>
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