China's Envoy To Japan Calls For New Era Of Bilateral Ties
China's ambassador to Japan has called on the two countries to develop bilateral ties befitting of a new era.
Ambassador Kong Xuanyou was speaking at a gathering in Tokyo on Friday to mark 50 years since the two sides normalized diplomatic relations. The anniversary took place the day before.
Kong said China and Japan must work together with a strong sense of purpose and responsibility.
The Chinese embassy invited officials who were engaged in the normalization of ties and their relatives, as well as others who have helped promote exchanges ever since.
They included Watanabe Mitsuko. She is the granddaughter of Ohira Masayoshi, who oversaw negotiations between the two countries as Japan's foreign minister 50 years ago.
Watanabe said her grandfather realized the importance of deepening exchanges. She expressed hope that younger generations will ensure the two countries share a positive future.
The event was also attended by representatives of the Matsuyama Ballet Company, which has long promoted cultural exchanges between Japan and China.