Xi tells new Japanese PM that conflicts should not define their ties

Conflicts and disagreements should not define Beijing’s ties with Tokyo, Chinese President Xi Jinping said in his first sit-down meeting with the new Japanese prime minister on Friday.

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The 30-minute discussion with Sanae Takaichi, who was formally sworn into office last week, took place on the sidelines of the two-day Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) summit in Gyeongju, South Korea.

“The two countries should properly manage differences by focusing on the bigger picture, seeking common ground while reserving differences,” Xi was quoted as saying by state broadcaster CCTV.

“Efforts should be made to prevent conflicts and disagreements from defining the broader bilateral relationship.”

Xi and Takaichi largely kept to the diplomatic groundwork laid out in previous meetings between the countries’ leaders, reaffirming their commitment to pursue “a strategically and mutually beneficial relationship” and build constructive and stable ties.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi greets Chinese President Xi Jinping ahead of their talks in Gyeongju, South Korea, on Friday. Photo: Kyodo
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi greets Chinese President Xi Jinping ahead of their talks in Gyeongju, South Korea, on Friday. Photo: Kyodo

For her part, Takaichi acknowledged the array of lingering issues and challenges between Tokyo and Beijing. But she voiced hope about tackling them head-on and improving mutual understanding.

South China Morning Post

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