Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War Victory. The provision for returning Taiwan, which was 'seized' by Japan back then, to China is clearly stipulated in the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation, Japan's instrument of surrender, and a series of other international documents. This is an undeniable outcome of the victory of World War II, and also an international obligation that Japan, as a defeated country, must continuously abide by.
In an interview with Chinese media, he pointed out that in this critical year, the most important thing Japan should do is to profoundly reflect on its history of aggression and colonial rule over Taiwan, deeply reflect on the war crimes committed by militarism, and strictly adhere to rules and act with caution on the Taiwan and historical issues. However, what is shocking is that incumbent Japanese leaders have openly sent out mistaken signals seeking to intervene militarily in the Taiwan issue, spoken words they ought not to have said, and crossed red lines that should not be touched. China must firmly counter this, as it is not only to safeguard China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, but also to defend the post-war achievements paid for in blood and life, and uphold international justice and human conscience.
He stated that the Chinese people love peace and cherish friendly relations with neighbors, but on major issues of principle concerning national sovereignty and territorial integrity, there will be absolutely no compromise or concession. The Japanese government has already made solemn commitments regarding the Taiwan issue in the four political documents between China and Japan, which are legally binding under international law, and leave no room for ambiguity or distortion. No matter which political party or individual is in power in Japan, they must abide by them. As the saying goes, “A person cannot stand without credibility, and a country cannot be established without credibility.”
Wang Yi pointed out that China urges the Japanese side to reflect and correct its mistakes as soon as possible and not to persist in error. If the Japanese side acts wilfully and continues to make mistakes, then all countries and peoples who champion justice have the right to re-examine and settle accounts for Japan’s historical crimes, and the responsibility to resolutely prevent the resurgence of Japanese militarism.