China urges Japan to abide by promise on historical issues

The Chinese government is calling on Japanese leaders to maintain the promises made after the end of World War II and maintain regional peace and stability.

The call follows word that Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe plans to alter the wording of the 1995 Murayama statement which acknowledged the "tremendous damage and suffering" inflicted on people across Asia by Japanese imperial forces.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Hua Chunyin says China and the world community are watching the issue closely, waiting to see how the Japanese side will address their country's history of aggression in Asia and beyond.

"I think, the international community will wait to see whether Japan will choose to deny and downplay its former aggression, or whether it will sincerely and deeply reflect on its crimes of aggression and travel light."

Former Prime Minister Tomiichi Murayama issued an apology for Japanese aggression before and during World War II on the 50th anniversary of the end of that conflict.

Murayama addressed the issue again on Sunday, saying the current leader cannot change his historical statement.

"The Murayama Statement showed Japan its direction forward, and made a pledge to the world. People are assured by this pledge. Changing or modifying it is impossible. Other countries would think 'what is Japan thinking? What does it want to do?' It would raise doubts among people. Even though Abe said he would make a new statement, I don't think he would actually change the Murayama Statement from any aspect."

Along with apologizing for the damage done, Murayama also expressed "feelings of deep remorse" for the suffering caused by Japanese forces and issued a "heartfelt apology."

Current Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has said that his upcoming statement to be made on the 70th anniversary of the end of the war will alter wording of the Murayama statement.

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