Head of Japan-China Friendship Union: Timing for China Visit Not Yet Ripe, Hopes for Early Trip

(CNA, Tokyo, 14th, Reporter Tai Ya-chen) Hiroshi Moriyama, former Secretary-General of Japan's Liberal Democratic Party and chairman of the cross-party "Japan-China Friendship Parliamentarians' Union," stated on the 13th that he hopes to visit China as soon as possible to improve Japan-China relations, which have been strained by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's remarks concerning a "Taiwan contingency."

According to the Sankei Shimbun, Moriyama pointed out on a Japanese radio program that day that China is Japan's "large neighboring country, and deepening friendly relations is very important." He stated that although the time is not yet right for a visit to China, "if possible, I would like to visit soon."

The Japan-China Friendship Parliamentarians' Union visited Beijing during Golden Week last year but canceled its trip to China this year. Moriyama said, "I have been hoping to find an opportunity to visit, but I have judged that the time is not yet ripe."

Japan-China relations have continued to cool down due to Takaichi's responses in the Diet last year regarding a "Taiwan contingency." In this regard, Moriyama stressed that the Japanese government's basic position on China has not changed.

He stated: "The important thing is to make the Chinese side understand that Japan's basic position on China has not changed because of Prime Minister Takaichi's remarks; she was just reiterating a consistent past position."

Moriyama also pointed out that the most important thing at present is to make the Chinese side understand this point to avoid further deterioration of Japan-China relations. (Editor: Chang Chih-hsuan) 1150514