"Wen Jiabao's speech is well-structured, comprehensive and
balanced. We should not forget the painful events of the past like
the Japanese aggression during World War II. But at the same time,
we also should not forget the good memories in our long history
that have brought our two countries closer.
From the beginning to the very end of his 40-minute speech, Wen
kept referring to the touching stories, including those right after
the invading Japanese troops left Chinese territory, which have
moved the two neighbors forward.
It shows that China has been seeking common ground, while
calling for Japan to face the reality of history and territorial
disputes."
Jin Xide
A researcher at the Institute of Japanese Studies, Chinese
Academy of Social Sciences
"Both in his meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe or
in his speech in the parliament, Wen said Taiwan represents the
core interest of China.
The Taiwan question is unavoidable between China and Japan if
the two want to keep their bilateral relations on the right
track.
Japan should conform to the three communiqus signed between the
two countries, especially the part on Taiwan, to ensure that some
right-wing politicians and Taiwan separatists don't sour the
relations again."
Liu Jiangyong
Professor of International Relations in the Institute of
International Studies, Tsinghua University
"China and Japan both have promised to improve bilateral
relations. Whether the promises can really be realized depends on
mutual trust and concrete action.
The fact that Wen Jiabao has highlighted mutual trust in his
five proposals shows that China is very sincere about establishing
China-Japan strategic relations that are mutually beneficiary.
The visits of Shinzo Abe and Wen have helped create a pleasant
atmosphere in which more specific and sensitive issues will be
discussed.
Wang Shaopu
Deputy head of the Research Institute of Asia and Pacific, under
the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences
(China Daily April 13, 2007)
