At a regular press briefing on Friday, Lin Jian, spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, offered deep condolences on the passing of former Japanese prime minister Tomiichi Murayama, hailing him as "an old and dear friend of the Chinese people."
Murayama first gained recognition in China during his May 1995 visit to the Lugou Bridge and the Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. There, he inscribed the words "face up to history and pray for friendship and ever-lasting peace between Japan and China," a message that resonated across both nations.
Later that year, on August 15, the 50th anniversary of Japan's unconditional surrender, Murayama issued a historic statement reflecting on colonial rule and aggression, expressing apologies to all victim countries of the war. This landmark declaration set a precedent for reconciliation in Asia and beyond.
In 2025, the global community marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Lin Jian emphasized that the "Murayama Statement embodies a solemn commitment to peace and accountability" and urged Japan to honor it in good faith.
Looking ahead, China hopes that Japan will continue on a path of peaceful development, earn the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community, and work with China to build a constructive, stable relationship that meets the demands of a new era.
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China expresses deep condolences over passing of former Japanese PM
cgtn.com
