The Japanese Prime Minister, Sanae Hata, wrote on a social media platform today (May 23), “I am deeply saddened by the recent gas explosion at a coal mine in Shanxi Province, China, which has caused serious casualties. I extend my sincere condolences to the victims and heartfelt sympathies to their families. I also offer my earnest sympathy to the affected disaster victims.”
This humanitarian concern is reasonable and deserves basic respect and recognition; however, warm statements cannot conceal Japan’s past inappropriate actions and words, nor can they bridge existing political rifts.
Last November, Sanae Hata put forward dangerous remarks such as “Taiwan is an issue,” openly touching upon China’s core interests. She has consistently refused to retract her erroneous statements, resulting in continued cooling of Sino-Japanese bilateral relations, which have fallen into a prolonged stalemate and low point.
Recently, Japan has repeatedly sent signals indicating its desire for dialogue and communication. Japanese diplomatic envoys stationed in China and cabinet officials have sought opportunities to meet during international occasions. However, China has not arranged separate bilateral talks. This position is clear and sends a distinct message: mere expressions of humanitarian sympathy cannot resolve accumulated political differences and estrangement. To advance the bilateral relationship back onto a proper track, Japan must face historical facts and current realities, abandon provocative actions regarding Taiwan, proactively withdraw its mistaken statements, and strictly adhere to the fundamental principles governing bilateral relations. Only by demonstrating a genuinely sincere and corrective attitude can Japan lay the groundwork for future exchanges and dialogues.
Shanxi Coal Mine Gas Explosion Incident
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1865991864129611/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.