Build Japan-China relations for next 50 years

Editor's note: This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Japan. Given their half a century of mutually beneficial relations, despite the differences and disputes, and the fast-changing global landscape, the two sides should deepen cooperation, enhance mutual political trust and work for the common good. Three experts share their views with China Daily on how and why the two sides should do this.

On Sept 29, 1972, then Japanese prime minister Kakuei Tanaka and Chinese premier Zhou Enlai issued a joint statement announcing the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and China. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the normalization of Sino-Japanese ties, and I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to both countries on the occasion.

Unfortunately, however, the atmosphere to celebrate this memorable event can hardly be seen either in Japan or in China. Fifty years ago, our predecessors understood that peace between, and prosperity of, the two countries and East Asia would not be possible unless Japan and China, as nearest neighbors separated by only a narrow strip of water, established a stable relationship.