Japan, China Foreign Chiefs Reaffirm Strategic Ties

Jiji Press

11:27 JST, October 10, 2024

Tokyo (Jiji Press)—Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya and his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, held their first phone talks on Wednesday and reaffirmed the policy of promoting a mutually beneficial strategic relationship between the two countries.

During the talks, Iwaya, who took office last week, said that he will work to allow the people of both countries to feel the benefits of the development of bilateral ties.

According to the Chinese side’s announcement, Wang acknowledged that Japan’s new cabinet is actively signaling its intention to promote bilateral relations in a stable manner.

Meanwhile, Iwaya requested Wang to promptly provide detailed information about the fatal stabbing of a Japanese schoolboy in China in September. They agreed to communicate closely to prevent similar incidents.

Iwaya also expressed serious concern over recent Chinese military activities and demanded explanations.

On Taiwan, Iwaya emphasized that he is closely monitoring developments, including the military situation. Wang urged Japan to adhere to the “One China” principle.

The two ministers also exchanged views on Japan’s release into the sea of tritium-containing treated water from the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant. Iwaya called on China to resume imports of Japanese fishery products soon.