Q: August 15 is the day of Japan's defeat and surrender. Today, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi offered sacrifices at Yasukuni Shrine, and some cabinet members also visited Yasukuni Shrine. What comments does the Chinese side have on this? A: The Chinese side strongly condemns Japan's negative moves involving the Yasukuni Shrine, and has made serious representations and strong protests to Japan. Japan launched a war of aggression against foreign countries during World War II and committed inhumane crimes. The so-called “Yasukuni Shrine” is a spiritual tool and symbol of Japanese militarism. The 14 Class A war criminals enshrined in it were responsible for starting a war of aggression, and it is a de facto “war criminal shrine.” No matter what reasons Japanese politicians make up, they cannot hide their true intentions to reverse war crimes, cover up responsibility for war crimes, distort historical facts, and pave the way for speeding up “re-militarization.” The international community is unanimous and resolute in its opposition to these wrongful acts, which are a blasphemy against historical justice, a challenge to the bottom line of civilization, and a provocation to the post-war international order. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the Tokyo trial. Correctly understanding and treating history is an important prerequisite for Japan's return to the international community after the war. It is the political foundation for developing relations between Japan and neighboring countries, and it is also an important standard for testing whether Japan can abide by its commitment to peaceful development. We urge Japan to deeply reflect on its history of aggression, completely break with militarism, and gain the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community through practical actions.

Q: August 15 is the day of Japan's defeat and surrender. Today, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi offered sacrifices at Yasukuni Shrine, and some cabinet members also visited Yasukuni Shrine. What comments does the Chinese side have on this? A: The Chinese side strongly condemns Japan's negative moves involving the Yasukuni Shrine, and has made serious representations and strong protests to Japan. Japan launched a war of aggression against foreign countries during World War II and committed inhumane crimes. The so-called “Yasukuni Shrine” is a spiritual tool and symbol of Japanese militarism. The 14 Class A war criminals enshrined in it were responsible for starting a war of aggression, and it is a de facto “war criminal shrine.” No matter what reasons Japanese politicians make up, they cannot hide their true intentions to reverse war crimes, cover up responsibility for war crimes, distort historical facts, and pave the way for speeding up “re-militarization.” The international community is unanimous and resolute in its opposition to these wrongful acts, which are a blasphemy against historical justice, a challenge to the bottom line of civilization, and a provocation to the post-war international order. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the Tokyo trial. Correctly understanding and treating history is an important prerequisite for Japan's return to the international community after the war. It is the political foundation for developing relations between Japan and neighboring countries, and it is also an important standard for testing whether Japan can abide by its commitment to peaceful development. We urge Japan to deeply reflect on its history of aggression, completely break with militarism, and gain the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community through practical actions.