• China and Japan are engaging in high-level dialogue to improve bilateral relations.
• Senior officials from both nations emphasize the importance of public opinion and historical reflection.
• Japanese lawmakers visited China to discuss cooperation and safety concerns.
• Recent incidents have strained public sentiment between the two countries.
• Efforts to ease tensions include addressing historical issues and promoting cultural exchanges.

In a significant attempt to enhance bilateral relations, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with a delegation of Japanese lawmakers in Beijing, emphasizing the need for historical reflection and open dialogue between the two nations. This meeting coincided with remarks made by Li Shulei, head of the Publicity Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party, who stated that China is prepared to foster a more favorable public perception in Japan during a similar session with the delegation. Both discussions highlight a concerted effort to shift the narrative surrounding the often fraught Sino-Japanese relations, particularly in light of recent tensions arising from various incidents.

Li Shulei articulated that the Chinese Communist Party aims to collaborate with Japan's ruling coalition—specifically the Liberal Democratic Party and Komeito—to build healthier public attitudes toward their countries. “The Chinese Communist Party is willing to work with the ruling coalition of Japan to … strengthen political dialogue, promote people-to-people exchanges,” he expressed, pointing to the mutual benefits of cultivating a rational public discourse surrounding bilateral ties, especially given a recent poll revealing that nearly 90% of surveyed individuals in both countries harbor negative sentiments towards one another (SCMP).

This dialogue comes as Japan strives to move beyond its characterization of China as an “unprecedented challenge” and rather emphasize a partnership built on cooperation. Wang Yi indicated that the current moment presents a "crucial timing" for improving relations, allowing both nations to address disputes through conversation and reinforce the notion that they are “cooperative partners and do not pose threats to each other” (SCMP).

As part of their visit, the Japanese delegation expressed a willingness to work closely with China to bring about tangible outcomes in their collaboration and to strengthen the momentum of improving ties. However, lingering issues still need addressing, including concerns surrounding territorial disputes and Japan’s alignment with the US, which may further complicate Sino-Japanese interactions.

In a continued effort to address safety and import restrictions impacting relations, officials from both nations have agreed to discuss the implications of Japan's release of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant. Additionally, recent tragedies involving both Japanese victims in China and Chinese citizens aiding Japan have intensified public anxieties and further strained sentiments. Given these complexities, enhancing cooperative exchanges along with mutual understanding becomes ever more vital as both nations look towards rebuilding their historically challenging relationship.

For ongoing developments, refer to the original articles from SCMP here and here.