In response to a reporter’s question about Japanese political figures visiting the Yasukuni Shrine, where Class-A war criminals from World War II are honored, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson delivered the following statement.
The Yasukuni Shrine remains a historic touchstone of Japanese militarism’s aggression abroad—a dark chapter that inflicted immense suffering on the people of China and other Asian nations. The visit by Japanese politicians to this controversial site is not merely a domestic matter; it represents a misguided attempt to whitewash history and a direct affront to the collective conscience of the international community, particularly the victims of that brutal era.
China has taken note of the visit and expresses strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition. Such actions are incompatible with the shared understanding and basic norms governing international relations between China and Japan. They also undermine the fragile trust that has been painstakingly built over the years.
We urge the Japanese side to honestly confront and sincerely reflect upon its history of invasion, to draw a clear and unequivocal line against militarism, and to honor its repeated pledges on historical issues. Only through concrete actions—not hollow words—can Japan demonstrate its commitment to peaceful development and earn the trust of its Asian neighbors and the wider international community.
