Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian

In response to Japanese media reports on the three-day autumn festival held at Yasukuni Shrine, which enshrines Class-A war criminals from World War II, starting Friday, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, in his capacity as "Prime Minister of the Cabinet," sent a ritual offering, and on the same day, Japanese Ruling Liberal Democratic Party head Sanae Takaichi also made a monetary offering using her own funds, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated that Yasukuni Shrine is a spiritual tool and symbol of Japan's militarism that waged wars of aggression abroad, enshrining 14 Class-A war criminals who bear serious responsibility for such wars. China firmly opposes Japan's passive actions concerning Yasukuni Shrine and has lodged solemn representations with the Japanese side.

Lin noted that this year marks the 80th Anniversary of the Victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Correctly understanding and confronting history is a crucial prerequisite for Japan's postwar reintegration into the international community, the political foundation for developing relations with neighboring countries, and a key measure of whether Japan can honor its commitment to peaceful development. 

We urge Japan to face and reflect on its history of aggression, act with caution regarding historical issues such as Yasukuni Shrine, completely sever ties with militarism, adhere to the path of peaceful development, and demonstrate through concrete actions its trustworthiness to its Asian neighbors and the international community, said the spokesperson.

Global Times