(30 Sep 2024)
MOFA Briefing
Spokesperson: Lin Jian
Date: 30 September 2024
Duration: 04 min 28 sec

ASSOCIATED PRESS
Beijing - 30 September 2024

1. Yesterday, the president of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party, Shigeru Ishiba mentioned the attack on a Japanese student in Shenzhen during a media interview, and expressed dissatisfaction with the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ statement that “similar cases have occurred in any country.” He said that this incident must not be ignored and said that the incident would have an impact on bilateral relations. What is your comment on this?

I would reiterate that we regret and feel saddened about this unfortunate incident. This is an individual case and is being investigated in accordance with the law. We hope Japan can look at it calmly and rationally. I would also like to stress again that the Chinese government does not tolerate any illegal and violent behavior. China will, as always, ensure the safety of all foreign citizens in China, and we hope and believe that individual cases will not affect the exchanges and cooperation between China and Japan.

2. Ishiba also mentioned the importance of communication between the heads of state of Japan and China in the NHK program. What is your comment on this?

China and Japan are close neighbors to each other and important economies in Asia and the world. We share extensive common interests and a broad space for cooperation. China is open to dialogue and exchanges at all levels with Japan and hopes Japan will work with us halfway and play a constructive role in the improvement and development of bilateral relations.

3. Shigeru Ishiba will take office as Prime Minister of Japan tomorrow to form a new cabinet. According to reports, he is expected to select close veterans to serve as foreign minister, defense minister and other important positions. Media analysis said that this shows that he attaches great importance to diplomatic and security guarantees and is the first step towards realizing an “Asian NATO.” What’s your response to the arrangement? In addition, he is expected to attend the ASEAN Leaders' Summit to be held in Laos next month. Is China willing to hold a summit with Japan in Laos?

Regarding the first question, relevant personnel appointments are Japan’s internal affairs, and we have no comment on that. We hope Japan will abide by the principles and consensus established in the four political documents between China and Japan, establish an objective and correct understanding of China, pursue a positive and rational approach towards China, stay committed to comprehensively promoting the strategic and mutually beneficial relationship between the two countries, and work with us to jointly promote the sustained, healthy and stable development of China-Japan relations along the right track. As for your second question, I have no information.

4. A few days ago, Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced during his attendance at the United Nations General Assembly that Portugal, Greece, Cyprus, and Slovenia would be granted visa-free treatment. Can you provide further information on the situation?


5. Taiwan’s Defense Ministry said on Sunday it was on heightened alert after detecting multiple waves of missile firing in Inner Mongolia, Gansu, Qinghai and Xinjiang. Do you have any comments?

Taiwan is a province of China, there is no such thing as a Ministry of Defense, and this is not a diplomatic issue.


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