Wu Bangguo, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), met Speaker of Japan's House of Representatives Yohei Kono in Beijing on Monday. The two exchanged in-depth views on promoting friendly cooperation and other issues of common interest.

Wu noted that China and Japan, as important neighboring countries, share traditional exchanges and cultural origins. Since diplomatic relations were normalized over 30 years ago, the two countries have made great progress in exchanges and cooperation in various fields, such as economy, trade and personnel. These advances have brought benefits to both nations.

Sino-Japanese friendship is rooted in the Sino-Japanese Treaty of Peace and Friendship, signed 26 years ago. The treaty also legalized the principles for handling historical and Taiwan issues.

"Current Sino-Japanese relations are attributable to the efforts made by farsighted statesmen, which were not easily achieved and should be cherished," Wu added.

He said that both nations should adhere to those principles while expanding and developing their relations.

China believes in learning from history while looking to the future, said Wu.

He noted that the Taiwan issue is related to Chinese sovereignty and territorial integrity, and affects the feeling of 1.3 billion Chinese people.

China has been concerned about Japan's stance and actions on this issue, Wu said, hoping that Japan will understand the importance of the situation in the Taiwan Straits, observe its own commitments, do more to support China's reunification and not send incorrect signals to Taiwan authorities.

Wu pointed out that China and Japan, both influential countries in Asia, should seize opportunities and increase communication and consultation to enhance regional cooperation and Asia's prosperity.

Parliamentary exchanges play an irreplaceable role in enhancing state-to-state relations and the NPC hopes to further its exchanges with the Japanese Diet in all fields.

Kono agreed with Wu on the importance of the agreements and treaties between the two nations, as well as Wu's stance on the historical and Taiwan issues.

He said that the invasions that resulted from the wrong policy of the Japanese militarists brought disaster to China and other Asian countries. This historical lesson should be remembered forever, stated Kono.

He said that Japan adheres to the one-China policy, and will not support Taiwan independence.

Kono said that he came to China deliver a message of friendship from his country and people. Under current circumstances, a closer relationship between Japan and China benefits the two countries, and is conducive to Asia and the world. Kono added that as China's old friend, he would like to contribute to this relationship.

(Xinhua News Agency September 21, 2004)