The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has called on Japan to take concrete steps to clearly distance itself from its militaristic past and to truly embark on a path of lasting peace. The statement was made in connection with the 80th anniversary of the Tokyo and Nuremberg trials.

Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Guo Jiakun, at a regular press conference, stated that the way in which individual countries have dealt with the legacy of World War II varies significantly.

According to him, some countries have been able to openly acknowledge their responsibility, publicly apologize for past crimes, consistently punish fascism, and implement comprehensive civic education programs. At the same time, they have created a legal framework that prohibits Nazi propaganda and punishes the denial of historical crimes. As a result, they have earned the respect of the international community.

China believes that Japan has not yet come to terms with its history.

Guo Jiakun, on the other hand, stated that, according to Beijing, the Japanese government is attempting to downplay the significance of key apologies, such as the Murayama and Koizumi statements, in which Japan acknowledged its colonial aggression and expressed regret for the suffering it caused.

China also criticizes the tolerance shown towards right-wing groups that, according to Beijing, minimize war crimes, question the conclusions of the Tokyo trial, and seek to rewrite history.

The Yasukuni Shrine is also a target of criticism, as it honors individuals convicted of war crimes. According to the Chinese Ministry, it is problematic that Japanese prime ministers and other prominent politicians regularly visit this shrine or send offerings to it.

Dispute over textbooks and the interpretation of history

Beijing also claims that Japan does not objectively and fully describe its aggression in school textbooks. Instead of a thorough reflection on the past, the Chinese side claims that Japan attempts to portray itself as a victim of war and promotes a distorted view of World War II.

According to Guo Jiakun, such an approach undermines the results of the victory over fascism and the post-war international order.

China is calling for a clear stance.

"Distorting history and concealing crimes will not bring leniency or trust," said the spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

According to him, Japan should thoroughly re-evaluate its historical responsibility, clearly distance itself from militarism, and demonstrate its commitment to peaceful development through concrete actions.

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