China's Top Diplomat Holds Key Talks with Japanese Trade Association President to Boost Bilateral Economic Relations

China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, held talks in Beijing on Wednesday with Yohei Kono, president of the Japanese Association for the Promotion of International Trade (JAPIT), underscoring the enduring importance of bilateral ties amid a shifting international landscape.

During the meeting, Wang—who serves as a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs—commended Kono's longstanding dedication to fostering friendship between China and Japan. Wang emphasized that robust people-to-people exchanges remain a crucial foundation for trust and cooperation, especially at a time marked by global uncertainty and geopolitical challenges.

Highlighting recent developments, Wang referenced comments by Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who stated that Japan should "draw profound lessons from history" and abstain from any form of aggression. Wang characterized these remarks as significant, noting that the lessons of the past must be heeded to secure a peaceful future for both nations. He further stated, “History cannot be tampered with, and only through genuine reflection can both sides move forward.”

Kono reiterated his commitment to truth and reconciliation, saying, “History should not be forgotten, nor should it be denied,” and added that, although the events of the past are unchangeable, the present offers an opportunity to shape a better tomorrow. He affirmed JAPIT's readiness to play a proactive role in advancing cooperative relations across trade and cultural domains.

This meeting signals a mutual desire to strengthen diplomatic and economic relations, building on shared recognition of historical context while striving for renewed partnership and progress. The exchange is seen as a positive step in reaffirming dialogue and collaboration between the two countries.