Rift between Japan and China should be resolved through talks

Japanese Communist Party Executive Committee Chair Shii Kazuo in an interview aired on April 21 on the communication satellite channel Asahi Newstar called for the current rift between Japan and China to be resolved through talks. Shii remarks are as follows:

How to overcome worsening Japan-China relations

Q: What do you think of the Japanese and Chinese governments' responses to the anti-Japan demonstration in China?

Shii: We oppose all forms of violence as a means of expressing opinions. At the same time, it is necessary to take a hard look at issues that have caused the deterioration of Japan-China relations to such an extent. There are a number of issues, but the current rift has been caused by the fact that the Japanese government and some Japanese parliamentarians are glossing over the Japanese war of aggression and colonization of Asian countries. Without redressing this historical mistake, there can be no fundamental resolution of the rift.

However, there is one thing that we want Chinese people to understand. I recently met with Chinese National People's Congress Vice-Chairperson Lu Yongxiang. On this occasion, I set forth three points to be considered by Chinese people along with the responsibility of Japan: First, Japan's past war of aggression should be dealt with separately from Japanese companies' business activities in China; secondly, some Japanese politicians who move to reinvent the history should be distinguished from the Japanese general public; and thirdly, to take a cool and rational attitude, protests or criticism should be expressed in a calm manner without resorting to violence.

NPC Vice-chair Lu replied, 'These proposals are very understandable and the Chinese government along with its people can accept them. The Chinese government will act responsibly to secure foreigners safety in China. I really feel that if we talk over matters rationally, any problem can be solved.'

Q: What about the Japanese government's request for an apology and compensation from the Chinese government?

Shii: There must be a comprehensive settlement. It is China's responsibility to provide safety measures for the Japanese embassy and Japanese nationals as well as Japanese companies operating in China. (Akahata April 22, 2005)

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