High-level Japan-China talks seek to advance bilateral cooperation

Addressing the current state of affairs, Moriyama acknowledged the imperfections in Japan-China relations, emphasizing the need for a constructive and stable relationship underpinned by mutual strategic interests.

Hiroshi Moriyama, chairperson of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party’s General Council, met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing on Tuesday. The meeting, held at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, marks a pivotal step towards enhancing relations between the two nations.

Addressing the current state of affairs, Moriyama acknowledged the imperfections in Japan-China relations, emphasizing the need for a constructive and stable relationship underpinned by mutual strategic interests. “Clear progress” in various collaborative efforts was highlighted as crucial to achieving this goal.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi echoed Moriyama’s sentiments, stressing the importance of strengthening bilateral exchanges to foster a positive trajectory in relations between the two East Asian powers.

Moriyama’s visit, the first by a top-three official of the LDP since 2019, is seen as indirect support for Japan’s broader diplomatic efforts aimed at improving ties with China amidst geopolitical challenges.

In addition to his meeting with Wang Yi, Moriyama engaged in discussions with Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), underscoring the intention to revitalize diplomatic interactions between lawmakers of both nations.

Liu Jianchao expressed China’s commitment to resuming meetings of the Japan-China Ruling Party Exchange Council by year-end, a platform crucial for dialogue between senior members of the LDP, Komeito, and the CCP.

Recent diplomatic engagements have seen increased activity, reflecting a mutual desire to strengthen bilateral ties amid evolving regional dynamics. Chinese officials have particularly emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue with Japan, noting its potential to positively impact economic cooperation and investment expectations.