Chinese and Japanese scholars have gathered in Beijing to talk about future China-Japan cooperation. Cao Bing reports from the International Symposium on the Modernization Process of Postwar Japan and the Prospects for Sino-Japanese Cooperation.
Aiming to deepen understanding of Japan’s post-war modernization and explore new avenues for future China-Japan cooperation, about 60 scholars from both countries gathered in Beijing for a high-level dialogue organized by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.
Many believe that despite differences in political systems, the two sides share similarities, correlations and commonalities in terms of historical and cultural values, and the modernization paths of the two countries are of comparative significance and reference value.
Zhao Zhimin, Secretary-General of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, for one, agreed on this point and listed several practical approaches that both sides can make.
ZHAO ZHIMIN Secretary General, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences “First, it is important to establish the right understanding and promote greater improvement and development of China-Japan relations. Second, both countries should work together to face challenges, practicing true multilateralism and open regionalism. Third, share the responsibilities to promote constructing an Asian community with a shared future. Fourth, strengthening exchanges and mutual learning.”
CAO BING Beijing “During the discussion, many have talked about the meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, and many hope the meeting would boost bilateral ties.”
YANG BOJIANG Director, Institute of Japanese Studies Chinese Academy of Social Sciences “In the recent meeting, the two leaders reaffirmed a series of important principles which has given new impetus to China-Japan relations and also provided important political guidance for future development. So, it is clear that China-Japan relations are seeing an opportunity for a positive transformation.”
China’s recent policy change, which resumes visa-free access for short-term Japanese visitors, marks a big step in promoting people-to-people exchanges. Keiji Ide, a former Japanese diplomat, is one among the Japanese guests who travelled to China for the symposium under this policy.
KEIJI IDE Former Japanese Ambassador to Croatia “This time, I was able to come to China without needing a visa, and it was really easy. On the Japanese side, however, it’s still a bit difficult for people from China to travel without a visa. But I think Japan needs to find ways to make the visa process easier. The people of two sides haven’t met in person for a couple of years due to the coronavirus, which also led to misunderstandings. Now, people can meet more easily, ask questions directly, and get answers. I think this is really necessary and beneficial.”
Experts believe challenges remain and it is important for scholars from the two sides to discuss and exchange views, to strengthen cooperation, promote the modernization process in the two countries – not just for the region but also for world peace and development. CB, CGTN, BJ.
