Europe Asia News

The statement said Yasukuni Shrine is a spiritual instrument and symbol of Japanese militarism’s wars of aggression against other countries. It noted that the shrine also commemorates 14 people convicted as Class-A war criminals who were directly responsible for Japan’s war of aggression.

It was emphasized that the actions of Japanese officials and politicians clearly run counter to historical justice and human conscience. The statement said these moves constitute a serious challenge to the outcomes of World War II and the post-war international order.

The statement also recalled that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the Tokyo Trials. It noted that Class-A war criminals were tried in accordance with the law during those proceedings and that the outcomes of the World Anti-Fascist War were safeguarded.

It was stated that Japan’s proper acknowledgment of its militarist past and a comprehensive self-reflection on the issue are among the important conditions for the country’s return to the international community after the war. It was also noted that this forms the political foundation for the establishment and development of China-Japan relations.

The statement also called on Japan to deeply reflect on the crimes it committed in the past, sincerely learn lessons from history and remain committed to peaceful development. Japan was urged to sever its ties with militarism through concrete steps, stop dangerous attempts toward “remilitarization” and avoid placing itself once again in the dock of history.