Historical issues concerning Japan's neighbors

BEIJING - Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying on Monday again urged Japan to honor its statement and commitment on historical issues.

Hua made the remarks in response to media reports that Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is likely to visit the Yasukuni Shrine before the end of the year.

Abe has said he regretted not visiting the shrine in person when he first served as prime minister in 2006 to 2007, according to media reports.

About 160 Japanese lawmakers and several Abe's cabinet worshipped at the shrine during its autumn festival regardless of opposition from China and the Republic of Korea(ROK).

China has repeatedly stated its attitude and position on the Yasukuni Shrine. Hua described the shrine as a spiritual vehicle and symbol of Japan's wartime militarism.

The worship of the Yasukuni Shrine by Japanese leaders is about how Japan understands and deals with its history of invasion and colonization, she said.

Whether Japan can correctly understand and reflect on its history of invasion and colonization not only relates to Japan's future development, but also concerns Japan's future relations with its Asian neighbors as well as peace and stability in North East Asia, said Hua.

If Japan does not meditate on its history of aggression, and clings to the spirit of militarism, there can be no future for Japan's relations with its Asian neighbors, she said.

She again urged the Japanese side to honor its statement and commitment on reflecting on historical issues and take concrete actions to win the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community.